10 Weekly Tips to Greener Plants. His tips, tricks, and garden hacks are easy to follow in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Tune in and get the most out of your garden. Ken’s weekly garden column is featured nationally. His national podcast and YouTube channel attract millions of gardeners. He also owns Watters Garden Center in Prescott, Arizona, and a digital garden center at Top10Plants.com. Listen to this week’s episode of Top 10 Gardeners and watch your plants thrive.
Episodes
15 hours ago
🪴5 Reasons to Update Your Landscape🪴
15 hours ago
15 hours ago
Hey there, Landscape Lovers. It's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here to chat about the five reasons why updating your landscape might be the best decision you make this season.
First off, let's talk about those tired old plants that are begging for a refresh. If they're looking past their prime and downright ugly, it might be time to bid them farewell.
Next up, if your greenery has outgrown its space and is starting to take over, it's time to rein it in. After all, we want our gardens to be cozy retreats, not jungles.
Now, here's a reason close to my heart: making your landscape your own. Don't be afraid to put your stamp on it and let your personality shine through.
And let's not forget about curb appeal. A fresh, well-maintained landscape can do wonders for your home's exterior and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
But perhaps the most important reason of all? Just because you want to. Gardening is all about joy and creativity, so don't hold back when it comes to transforming your outdoor space.
So, whether it's rejuvenating old favorites or adding some new flair, remember: change is good. And as I always say, a little refresh goes a long way in keeping your garden vibrant and inviting year after year.
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🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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2 days ago
🍅Insider Secrets to Big Juicy Tomatoes🍅
2 days ago
2 days ago
Hey there, Fellow Tomato Lovers, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here to spill the beans on insider secrets to growing big, juicy tomatoes that'll have your neighbors green with envy.
Now, we all know that tomatoes are the crown jewel of the garden, but getting them to reach their full potential takes a little know-how. You see, it's not just about throwing some manure their way (although that helps!). To truly thrive, tomatoes need a balanced diet, just like we do.
That's where my fruit and vegetable food comes in. It's specially formulated to give your tomatoes everything they crave: six percent nitrogen, four percent phosphorus, four percent potash, and a generous seven percent calcium. And let me tell you, calcium is the secret sauce here. It's what gives your tomatoes that burst of flavor and prevents dreaded blossom end rot.
Now, if you've ever had a tomato with a black spot or watched your peppers shrivel up before they even had a chance, chances are, you're dealing with a calcium deficiency. But fear not, my friends, because I've got just the solution for you: Watters Fruit and Vegetable Food 6-4-4-7. It's tailor-made for our gardens here in the central highlands of Arizona, where calcium is in short supply.
So, if you're ready to take your tomato game to the next level, give them the love and nutrients they deserve. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
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🍅Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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3 days ago
3 days ago
Hey there, Green Team. It's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, coming to you with some insights on why evergreen oaks might be turning yellow in the spring. It's a common question, and we’re here to shed some light on it.
You see, those yellow leaves might seem concerning, but fear not! It's all part of the natural cycle. As soon as one leaf sheds, another takes its place. So, if you spot some yellowing, rest assured it's just your oak tree doing its thing.
Now, if you're keen to bring out that beautiful blue hue in your native oaks, here's a tip: give them a good fertilizing. Opt for a 7-4-4, all-purpose plant food, and watch those leaves transform into a stunning Arizona blue. And hey, if you really want to make them pop, consider adding some aluminum sulfate into the mix. Trust me, your oaks will thank you for it.
Remember, gardening is a journey, and each question leads us to new discoveries. So, embrace the process, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more queries. Happy gardening, folks!
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
🌳Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #ArizonaBlue, #FertilizingAdvice, #EvergreenOaks
4 days ago
4 days ago
Hey there, Green Thumb Squad. It's Ken Lain, the top-ten Gardener, ready to help you cultivate the garden of your dreams! Are you looking to ace your veggie and herb game this year?
First, let's talk about plant protectors. These babies are like cozy blankets for your precious plants. When those late spring snows sneak up on us, don't fret. Pop a plant protector over them, and they'll be snug as a bug. Plus, they work double duty by warming up that soil, giving your plants the perfect environment to thrive.
Now, about those warm-weather-loving summer plants itching to get growing. The trick? Warm up that soil! Even if the days feel balmy, the soil might still be chilly. That's where our handy plant protectors come in. They'll heat up that soil in no time, encouraging speedy root growth and early harvests.
And speaking of early harvests, want to be the envy of the neighborhood with your ripe tomatoes? Start your plants off strong with warm soil, thanks to those trusty plant protectors. Who needs a greenhouse when you've got this gardening hack up your sleeve?
Now, it's insider tip time! Every Wednesday afternoon, Waters Garden Center gets a fresh batch of flowers, veggies, and herbs. Want first dibs? Swing by Wednesday afternoon, head straight to the loading dock, and you'll get the first pick.
So, gear up, gardeners! With a little know-how and some trusty tools, like plant protectors, your garden will thrive in no time. Happy gardening!
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🌿 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Herbs, #Vegetables, #PlantProtection, #GreenThumbMagic, #WarmSoilHappyPlants
5 days ago
Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life
5 days ago
5 days ago
Welcome to 'The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!
In this episode, we're exploring the wonders of gardening in Arizona's unique mountain regions. Whether you're just starting to cultivate your green thumb or you're a seasoned gardening veteran, we've got insights and tips that will enrich your gardening journey. Join us as we delve into the specifics of mountain gardening, from selecting the right plants to mastering care techniques suited for our distinctive climate. So grab your favorite brew, settle in, and let's embark on an adventure of growth and discovery right in your own backyard. Let's grow together!
Included in this week’s episode:
- Insider Tips to Growing Herbs with Flavor
- How to Use Ladybugs and Praying Mantis in the Gardens
- Flowers for Landscapes that Grow Wild
- Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens
- Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life
- Garden Research Beyond a Google Search for Better Plants
Ken and Lisa are eager to hear from you! They'll be answering listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country, so don't hesitate to share your queries and experiences.
Ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug? They're brimming with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're excited to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your gardening game! Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. It's available on all your favorite podcast platforms.
Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast,
6 days ago
6 days ago
Hey there, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener. So, you want to find the perfect plants for your garden? Good for you! Google's a start, but let's dive deeper for the best results. Here's why a little extra research pays off:
- Know your zone: Your USDA Hardiness Zone is the key to picking plants that will thrive. It's based on your average winter lows.
- Light matters: Full sun, part shade, total shade... these aren't just suggestions! Match the plant's needs to what your garden offers.
- Space invaders: Know the mature size of a plant. A cute little shrub can turn into a monster that swallows your flower bed.
- Water wise: Choose plants with similar watering needs. Grouping them together saves time and prevents over or underwatering issues.
Watters Garden Center has a ton of resources beyond Google. Visit their website https://shop.wattersgardencenter.com/ for detailed plant descriptions, care guides, and even local advice. Get the right plants, in the right spots, and your garden will be a joy!
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #GardenResearch #KnowYourZone #PlantSmart
7 days ago
Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life
7 days ago
7 days ago
In a heartfelt interview, Ken Lain talks with Ken Feld, COO of Tags4Life, about his life-saving innovation. Feld shares his personal battle with cancer and how it led to the creation of Tags4Life, a tool that aids first responders in emergencies by providing instant access to medical information. It’s a story of resilience and how a crisis can spark a revolution in healthcare.
To learn more or support Tags4Life’s mission, check out their website
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Thursday Apr 11, 2024
🌺Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens 🌺
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Hey there, it’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, bringing you the Top 10 Bloomers of Spring to brighten your gardens. As the snow melts and the days grow longer, nature awakens with a symphony of colors.
The spring amaryllis leads the parade with its bold trumpets, heralding the new season. The fruit cocktail tree is not far behind, a marvel with its medley of blossoms promising a bounty of flavors.
The KV plum tree’s delicate flowers whisper of sweet harvests to come, while the redbud tree stands in regal splendor, its purplish-pink blooms a feast for the eyes. These spring champions are not just a spectacle but a reminder of the earth’s renewal and the joy of gardening.
So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get planting. With these bloomers, your garden will be a canvas of color and life!
For more on these and other spring favorites, visit Watters Garden Center. Let’s make this spring unforgettable with blooms that tell the story of rebirth and beauty.
Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!
🌺Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
🌺Flowers for Landscapes that Grow Wild🌺
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Hey there, Plant Pals! It’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here to inspire you with the untamed beauty of wild landscapes.
Imagine a garden where echinacea’s stand tall, their purple crowns waving in the wind, attracting fluttering butterflies. Picture fields of poppies, their delicate petals, a vivid splash of color, and wildflowers weaving through your garden, creating a tapestry of nature’s spontaneity.
These hardy plants thrive with minimal care, embodying the spirit of the wild. They’re perfect for adding a touch of wilderness to your landscape, inviting a diverse array of wildlife, and offering a burst of color that changes with the seasons. So, let’s embrace the wild side of gardening together, creating spaces that are not just visually stunning but also a haven for the local fauna. With these blooms, your garden will become a living painting, ever-changing and always enchanting.
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
🌺Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
🐞How to Use Ladybugs and Praying Mantis in the Gardens🐞
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Hey there, it’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, bringing you the secret to a thriving garden: ladybugs and praying mantises, nature’s pest controllers. These beneficial insects are vital for a healthy garden ecosystem. Ladybugs are voracious aphid eaters, while praying mantises handle larger pests. To attract them, plant vibrant flowers and provide water sources. Avoid pesticides to keep these helpful critters safe. Embrace the balance of nature and watch your garden flourish with life.
For a detailed guide on integrating these garden allies, visit Watters Garden Center. Discover the joy of gardening with nature’s own pest control and be part of a community that values sustainable practices. Let’s nurture our gardens and our planet together.
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
🐞Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
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Monday Apr 08, 2024
🌿Insider Tips to Growing Herbs with Flavor🌿
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Hey there, fellow herb enthusiasts! Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardner Here.
Arizona’s climate is a paradise for herb enthusiasts, offering the perfect blend of sunshine and cool evenings.
At Watters Garden Center, we’re passionate about helping you cultivate a garden that’s not just a source of fresh flavors but also a place of beauty and tranquility. Rosemary, our top seller, is a versatile herb that excels in the kitchen and as an ornamental plant. Its blooms are a sight to behold, and its aroma, when used in cooking, especially grilling, is unmatched. Imagine the satisfaction of harvesting your own herbs, grown in containers or the earth, knowing they’re the finest our region can produce.
We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from selecting the right herbs to providing the care they need to thrive. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together, transforming your garden into a haven of taste and serenity.
Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!
🌿 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Sunday Apr 07, 2024
The Importance of Spring Blooming Trees in the Landscape
Sunday Apr 07, 2024
Sunday Apr 07, 2024
Welcome to 'The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!
In this episode, we're exploring the wonders of gardening in Arizona's unique mountain regions. Whether you're just starting to cultivate your green thumb or you're a seasoned gardening veteran, we've got insights and tips that will enrich your gardening journey. Join us as we delve into the specifics of mountain gardening, from selecting the right plants to mastering care techniques suited for our distinctive climate. So grab your favorite brew, settle in, and let's embark on an adventure of growth and discovery right in your own backyard. Let's grow together!
Included in this week’s episode:
- Growing Bountiful Apples in Zone 7
- How to Help Plants Recover from Frost Damage
- Growing Better Peony
- Top 10 Flowering Trees of Spring
- The Importance of Spring Blooming Trees in the Landscape
- When do Lilacs Bloom in Spring
Ken and Lisa are eager to hear from you! They'll be answering listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country, so don't hesitate to share your queries and experiences.
Ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug? They're brimming with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're excited to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your gardening game! Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. It's available on all your favorite podcast platforms.
Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast,
Saturday Apr 06, 2024
🌱When do Lilacs Bloom in Spring 🌱
Saturday Apr 06, 2024
Saturday Apr 06, 2024
Howdy, fellow plant friends! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and I’m thinking Lilacs.
Ever dream of bringing the sweet scent of lilacs to your Northern Arizona garden? These classic beauties are a symbol of spring, but with our unique climate, timing is key!
Here's the thing: lilacs need a good chill period to set buds and bloom abundantly. In Northern Arizona, that chill can come anywhere from late February to mid-April, depending on your specific location, the weather, and elevation. So, patience, my friends!
While you wait, there are ways to increase your chances of success. Choose a variety known for tolerating warmer climates, like the Bloomerang® series. Plant your lilac in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and water it deeply but infrequently once established.
For more detailed info on growing lilacs in Northern Arizona, head over to Watters Garden Center or check out our online resources at https://wattersgardencenter.com/.
Remember, gardening is a journey, and with a little patience and the right care, your lilacs will soon become a cherished part of your spring symphony!
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Friday Apr 05, 2024
🌳The Importance of Spring Blooming Trees in the Landscape🌳
Friday Apr 05, 2024
Friday Apr 05, 2024
Howdy, garden enthusiasts. Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardner here!
Spring has arrived, and with it comes a burst of color that can transform your yard. But flowering trees aren't just pretty faces – they're superstars of the landscape! Let me tell you why.
First, they're early birds. Before most other plants wake up, flowering trees, like purple leaf plum and flowering cherry, paint the scene with vibrant blooms. They herald the arrival of spring, lifting our spirits with their cheerful display.
But their beauty goes beyond aesthetics. These early bloomers are a beacon for busy bees, providing crucial nectar and pollen just as they emerge from winter. They jumpstart the whole ecosystem, making them vital players in the garden dance.
Flowering trees also add vertical interest. They break up the monotony of flat landscapes, creating layers and depth. Imagine a graceful Redbud against a backdrop of evergreens – a stunning contrast that adds year-round appeal.
Thinking about planting a veggie patch? Some flowering trees, like Crabapples, do double duty. Their beautiful blossoms attract pollinators that will then help your fruits and vegetables set more abundant yields. It's a win-win for you and your garden!
So, when you're planning your spring landscape, consider the magic of flowering trees. They're not just decorative – they're ecological superstars that bring beauty, life, and dimension to your yard.
For more info on specific flowering trees that thrive in our region, visit us at Watters Garden Center or check out our guide at https://shop.wattersgardencenter.com/!
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
🌳 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Thursday Apr 04, 2024
🌳Top 10 Flowering Trees of Spring 🌳
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Howdy, garden friends. Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are in the house!
Spring is bursting forth, and what better way to celebrate than with a splash of color in your yard? Here at Watters Garden Center, we love flowering trees and trust me; there's one perfect for every taste.
Craving a bolder statement? Look no further than a Flowering Crabapple, with its vibrant display of red, pink, or white blossoms. And for a touch of the exotic, how about a redbud tree? Their clusters of magenta or lavender flowers are a guaranteed showstopper.
Nothing beats a Flowering Cherry! Their clouds of pink blossoms are simply breathtaking. Imagine the delicate beauty against a backdrop of blue spring skies – pure magic! Plus, they come in a variety of sizes, so there's one for any space.
These are just a taste of the springtime stunners we have available. Come on down to Watters and let our experts help you find the perfect flowering tree to transform your yard into a spring wonderland!
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🌳Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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