The cone of shame
Potter is our dog, and he just celebrated a birthday.
He attacked his day like any other day. He devoured his morning bowl of food as though eating it was a competition; and, then he proceeded to stare at us, longingly, like he had somehow been short changed. It’s pretty much the same routine at every meal.
After accepting that seconds weren’t in his future, he proceeded to find a place to take a well-earned nap. Let’s face it, eating takes a lot out of you!
He has a tough life.
This year was number fourteen for Potter. Do the whole dog-years thing, and it would be fair to say he’s old. I guess those naps are well deserved.
We get questions about his name for time to time. That story is pretty simple.
Our kids were in grade school when he joined the family. At that time in their life, Harry Potter pretty much outweighed everything else in their lives. (Do the math.)
Somehow, the name always suited him, although he clearly has no super powers.
He’s been a steady presence in our home ever since. I’m not so sure the kids aren’t more excited to see him than us when they come home to visit.
Okay, who am I kidding... I know they’re more excited to see Potter!
He’s an integral part of the family. I’m sure anyone with a pet understands. That’s why he had us all scared this past winter.
We woke up one February morning to find him just not quite himself. It was obvious he just didn’t feel well. Eventually, he ended up at the vet’s office.
Several weeks later, we were road-tripping to Manhattan, headed for surgery at the Kansas State Veterinary Complex. Other than driving by the building during our college days, that was our first experience with the Vet Clinic. We couldn’t have been more pleased. They took great care of Potter and took all the time with us that we needed. They were amazing!
Cameron Rees, General Manager
And the best news, after a few days with them, a couple of weeks recuperating post-surgery and sporting the “cone of shame,” he was back to his old self. He’s just as ornery as ever!
Life at the Rees home is back to normal.
Out at the garden center, things are still hopping. Recent rains have been welcome and will prove to be a big help keeping the spring planting season going.
We’re still restocking on a regular basis. If we can help you with anything, come on out!
—Cameron
What’s New?
flame thrower redbud
If you like color, this one’s for you!
This relatively new introduction has taken the foliage color of redbud up to a whole new level.
Leaves emerge a deep blood red in color, gradually transitioning through purple, burnt orange, bronze and eventually gold. The result—a tree canopy covered in a stunning combination of colors.
Spring blooms are a great show as well with lavender-pink flowers emerging before the leaves. It matures in the 15-20’ range, both in height and spread.
skinner Buck$ start Soon!
Just a reminder... our summer Skinner Buck$ redemption period starts Monday, June 12.
Start digging out those Bucks!
How do Skinner Buck$ Work?
For each $20 you spend at Skinner’s, you’ll earn a dollar in Skinner Buck$. Our exclusive store currency allows you to make money while spending money.
Skinner Buck$ can be generously used during three different redemption periods each year, and redeemed for up to 50% of your purchase.
Skinner Buck$ are not applicable for gift card purchases, but may be used in addition to gift cards for payment.
watch for bagworms!
It’s that time of year again... bagworms.
This is generally about the time they start hatching; and as soon as they do, they start feeding... aggressively!
They’ll be small at first, about a quarter inch or less, so you’ve got to look closely, and they’ll be hiding inside a tiny little bag. Watch for subtle changes in the way things look and slight movement when things ought to be still. When something catches your eye, go in for a closer inspection.
And if you find something, address it quickly!
The good news is, bagworms are relatively easy to deal with. There are many products that provide good control, including some highly effective organic options. Fertilome Spinosad is one of the best, but we have others and can explain your choices if you have questions.
Be on the lookout!
fertilize planter
Misty Brown, Lath House Manager
Most of you have your porch pots already potted or are getting ready to. There are a couple things to remember while potting and going into the summer.
If you haven’t potted your planters up make sure you are using a good POTTING SOIL! You can’t use DIRT from your yard or anywhere from the ground. You want to use potting soil so that you have adequate drainage—which is key to having a successful container.
The next thing, and this is what so many people miss, is that you need to feed your flowers to keep them looking healthy and blooming, especially through the summer months. We alternate Ferti-lome Blooming & Rooting and All Purpose 20-20-20. This is a water-soluble plant food that you dissolve in water and pour onto your plants, once a week is a sufficient amount for most plants. Geraniums and petunias are high nitrogen feeders, so to keep them blooming throughout the summer fertilize them twice a week. If you need help getting a planter put together, we are always here to help!
