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The purpose of this book is to offer the reader the chance to explore, experience, and discover the public and private gardens and nurseries in Iowa. I have had the good fortune to visit many of these over the last ten years and must say that the horticultural entities of this state will prove amazing for those who have yet to embark on a quest to see them. Some of my favorite gardens and nurseries in the world lie between the waters of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, and it is my goal to share them with you in a succinctly written guide that leads you on adventures much like I've had.
On the East Coast, so the story goes, newcomers are asked where they come from; on the West Coast they are asked what they do for a living; in Iowa people ask them, "How's your garden doing?" Maybe this is not a true story, but it does epitomize the importance of gardening for Iowans, blessed as they are with the rich glacial soil so hospitable to corn and soybeans. Rural and urban Iowans alike start planning next summer's garden in midwinter, when their plots are still snow-covered and deep-frozen; by state fair time their trees, shrubs, vegetables--including the ubiquitous zucchini--and flowers are thriving. Veronica Fowler's month-by-month guide to gardening in Iowa is a concise, valuable resource for all novice and experienced gardeners. Beginning in January, Fowler presents a monthly checklist to allow gardeners to prioritize seasonal tasks. Her winter chapters focus on garden design, cold-weather gardening, and starting plants from seeds; in spring she moves into soil preparation, shopping for plants, wildflower and rose cultivation, and lawn care basics; summer brings landscaping, flowers for cutting, and organic gardening; and fall involves cold frames, winter-harvest vegetables, forcing bulbs and perennials, trees and shrubs, and ground covers and vines best suited for Iowa's climate as well as information on mail-order suppliers, gardens to visit, where to go for help, and garden club memberships. Tips from some of the more than two thousand members of the Federated Garden Clubs of Iowa round out this plentiful harvest of useful advice. On a day in February when the wind chill is, well, chilling and the forecast calls for more of the same, the arrival of the first garden catalog of the season brings warmth to any gardener. Veronica Fowler's accessible, information-packed book will become part of every gardener's life both indoors and out.
Iowa offers a diverse array of opportunities and challenges in the realm of gardening owing to its varied terrain, fertile soil, and culturally diverse climate. Iowa, located in the central region of the United States Midwest, undergoes four distinct seasons, characterized by frigid winters, balmy summers, and abundant annual precipitation. This climate diversity makes Iowa an oasis for cultivators of all skill levels, as it fosters the growth of a vast array of plants. This introductory guide to gardening in Iowa will cover the fundamental elements of gardening in the state, encompassing soil properties, climate considerations, preferred plant selections, and gardening advice specific to Iowa's environment. Climate and Season for Growth: The climate of Iowa is characterized as humid continental, characterized by warm summers and frigid winters. The average annual temperature in the state ranges from well below freezing in the winter to excessively highs in the 80s°F (approximately 30°C) during the summer. From late April to early October, the growing season generally extends, thereby granting sufficient time for the cultivation of an extensive range of cereals and ornamental plants. Iowa's fertile soil is considered a key asset for horticulture purposes, largely attributable to the state's extensive agricultural heritage and glacial history. The soil in the state is predominantly categorized as Mollisols, which are distinguished by their substantial organic matter content and profound, dark color. Due to their exceptional drainage and nutrient retention capabilities, these soils are highly suitable for horticultural pursuits. Nevertheless, soil composition can differ throughout the state, as certain areas are characterized by denser clay soils, whereas others are comprised of lighter loam or alluvial soils. Favorite Plants and Crops: Iowa gardeners are presented with an extensive assortment of plant alternatives, encompassing ornamental flowers and shrubbery as well as vegetables and fruits. In Iowa, well-liked crops that thrive in the region's climate comprise an assortment of leafy greens, tomatoes, sweet maize, peppers, beans, and squash. Furthermore, ornamental grasses, daylilies, coneflowers, and hostas are perennials that thrive in Iowa's climate and provide gardens with seasonal appeal. Iowa's gardening devotees are in for a rewarding experience due to the state's favorable climate, fertile soil, and wide variety of plant options. Gardeners can foster prosperous landscapes and savor the fruits of their labors throughout the growing season by acquiring knowledge of Iowa's distinctive gardening conditions and applying suitable methodologies.
Recreate the wild beauty and thriving ecology of meadows, prairies, woodlands, and streamsides in your own garden. In New Naturalism, horticulturist and modern plantsman Kelly D. Norris shares his inspiring, ecologically sound vision for home gardens created with stylish yet naturalistic plantings that mimic the wild spaces we covet—far from the contrived, formal, high-maintenance plantings of the past. Through a basic introduction to plant biology and ecology, you’ll learn how to design and grow a lush, thriving home garden by harnessing the power of plant layers and palettes defined by nature, not humans. The next generation of home landscapes don’t consist of plants in a row, pruned to perfection and reliant on pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides to survive. Instead, today’s stunning landscapes convey nature’s inherent beauty. These gardens are imbued with romance and emotion, yet they have so much more to offer than their gorgeous aesthetics. Naturalistic garden designs, such as those featured in this groundbreaking new book, contribute to positive environmental change by increasing biodiversity, providing a refuge for wildlife, and reconnecting humans to nature. In the pages of New Naturalism you’ll find: Planting recipes for building meadows, prairies, and other grassland-inspired open plantings even in compact, urban settings Nature-inspired ways to upgrade existing foundation plantings, shrub beds, and flower borders to a wilder aesthetic while still managing the space Inspiration for taking sidewalk and driveway plantings and turning them into visually soft, welcoming spaces for humans and wildlife alike Ideas for turning shady landscapes into canopied retreats that celebrate nature Creative ways to make an ecologically vibrant garden in even the smallest of spaces New Naturalism approaches the planting beds around our homes as ecological systems. If properly designed and planted, these areas can support positive environmental change, increase plant and animal diversity, and create a more resilient space that’s less reliant on artificial inputs. And they do it all while looking beautiful and improving property values.
Tired of the same old tourist traps? Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for something different, let Iowa Off the Beaten Path show you the Hawkeye State you never knew existed. Sample the history—and delectable dishes—of Dubuque with the Victorian House Tour and Progressive Dinner. Visit the World’s Smallest Church, a stone chapel built on a country road near Festina in 1885 and containing four tiny pews. Or enjoy the rebirth of the Iowa wine industry with a trip along the Iowa Wine Trail. So if you’ve “been there, done that” one too many times, get off the main road and venture Off the Beaten Path.
UPDATED AND EXPANDED FOR 2025-2026! Iowa...a state filled with exciting adventures, heartwarming culture, and unforgettable experiences! Embark on a year-long journey through the diverse landscape and rich culture of the Hawkeye State with "Iowa's Best: 365 Unique Adventures - The Essential Guide to Unforgettable Experiences in the Hawkeye State (2025-2026 Edition)". From the rolling farmland to vibrant cityscapes, Iowa has a unique adventure waiting for you every day of the year. This meticulously curated guide invites you to explore Iowa like never before. Immerse yourself in essential experiences, delve into cultural treasures, find fun for the whole family, discover urban hotspots, bask in natural beauty, relish culinary delights, and indulge in a variety of activities that make Iowa truly special. Organized into distinct categories such as "Nature and Wildlife Adventures," "Outdoor Adventures," "Seasonal Adventures," "Culinary Adventures," and "Adventures at Quirky Roadside Attractions," this guide ensures that you have a trove of activities to choose from based on your interest. Also included are invaluable chapters on "Travel Basics," "Accommodation Suggestions," "Transportation," "Local Cuisine," and "Additional Resources," providing practical information to help you plan your journey more effectively. Each activity is presented with a detailed description, necessary information, insider tips, and reasons why it will make your Iowa trip memorable. No two adventures are the same - you're assured a unique experience each day, whether it's exploring a historic landmark, taking part in a local festival, or relaxing in a nature retreat. "Iowa's Best: 365 Unique Adventures" is not just a travel guide, it's your companion in discovering the hidden gems and local favorites that encapsulate Iowa's charm and spirit. Join us on this journey through the heartland of America and create your own unforgettable experiences in Iowa. So whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or a family on vacation, make the most of your Iowa adventure with this essential guide. Explore, experience, and enjoy Iowa in 365 unique ways!