New hybrid volunteers itself in evaluation garden

For hundreds of years, plant explorers have returned home with botanical discoveries that went on to became staples of the home landscape. In more recent times, plant breeders have used a variety of techniques - both old-fashioned and cutting edge - to develop new varieties and hybrids that offered something different and often performed better. In 2010, homeowners will be able to buy a brand new perennial that was discovered simply growing in our own "backyard."

In 2002, Richard Hawke, plant evaluation manager of the Chicago Botanic Garden, spied a new form of betony growing in the garden's evaluation garden. Following seven years of rigorous evaluation, Pink Cotton Candy betony (Stachys officinalis 'Pink Cotton Candy') is being introduced this year by Chicagoland Grows, a plant introduction program dedicated to developing new plants that are well suited to Midwestern conditions.

Pink Cotton Candy is a naturally occurring hybrid that Hawke discovered growing between plants of the original species of wood betony (S. officinalis) and the newer cultivated varieties, Alba and Rosea. Like all three of its possible parents - the mysteries of nature mean Hawke doesn't know for sure - Pink Cotton Candy betony is easy to grow in Zone 4 to 8, and prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun.

What sets this brand new betony apart are its two-toned flowers. Flowers on each 12-inch spike are bright pink on the lower lip and lighter pink on the upper lip of petals. Pink Cotton Candy blooms continuously for eight weeks beginning in late June. Early flowers fade to a lighter shade of pink, adding to the two-toned effect.

Pink Cotton Candy is a sweet new addition to summer-flowering perennials that area gardeners will enjoy discovering for themselves and growing in their backyards.

For your garden in February:Trees and shrubs bull; If trees become covered with ice, let ice on branches melt gradually. Using heavy or sharp objects like shovels risks damaging bark and creating an entry point for diseases or insects.bull; Reduce heavy snow load on evergreens by gently sweeping boughs with a broom, then elevating branches from underneath.bull; Large ornamental trees and shrubs can be pruned this month, weather permitting. If weather is unusually warm, avoid pruning trees that will "bleed," or discharge large amounts of water, such as elms, maples and birches. Prune these trees only when weather is quite cold or in the summer.bull; Fruit trees are best pruned in late February or March. bull; Preserve the largest number of flowers by pruning spring-flowering woody plants immediately after they have finished blooming.bull; Prune damaged or broken limbs immediately.Flowering plantsbull; Some early bulbs like snowdrop, aconite and glory-of-the-snow may bloom this month. bull; During periods of unseasonably warm weather, other later flowering bulbs might sprout prematurely, especially if they are planted with a southern exposure, or close to a house or garage. Subsequent cold weather might damage edges of the foliage, but unless the flower bud has appeared, it will not affect future flowering or health of the bulb.bull; Check garden beds to be sure plants have not heaved out of the ground. Gently press the crowns of perennials back into the ground but avoid compacting soil by stomping heavily around plants.Valentine's Day cut flowersbull; Keep cut flowers fresh by placing them in room-temperature water as soon as possible. bull; Use a sharp knife or pruners to remove one inch from each stem with an angled cut, Cutting on an angle increases the surface area for water intake. bull; Remove all foliage below water level to keep water fresh.bull; Use floral preservative to extend the length of time flowers look fresh. Floral preservatives contain an acid (to neutralize alkaline tap water) and ingredients to discourage bacteria. bull; Cut flowers prefer a cool, humid environment that is out of bright light and away from heating vents. Change water and mist the arrangement daily.bull; Float affected stems in a sink full of warm water if flowers suddenly develop drooping heads, a sign air bubbles could be trapped in stems. Trim another inch on an angle cut and submerge the cut end for at least one-half hour. When the flower heads return to a straightened position, place each stem back in the vase.Indoor plantsbull; Monitor indoor plants for signs of disease and insect problems. Isolate affected plants and treat once the problem is identified. bull; Provide care for amaryllis after they finish blooming. Allow stems to wither before cutting them off the bulb. Keep the pot in a bright, warm spot, out of direct sun, and water as needed. Leaves will continue to grow. When all danger of frost has passed, move the pot outdoors and place in a location protected from afternoon sun. Fertilize the bulb ever other week with a liquid 10-10-10 mix to fuel next season's bloom.bull; Start seeds for spring- or summer-blooming annuals, vegetables and perennials. Follow directions on individual packets to determine whether each one requires bottom heat, light or darkness to germinate. Some seeds might require a short period of chilling before being sown.bull;Denise Corkery is a horticultural writer at the Chicago Botanic Garden.