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
13 hours ago
13 hours ago
Hey there, Garden Gang. It’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener!
It's prime time to get those veggies growing, folks!
Don't let a little lingering frost scare you off. Most plants are tougher than you think. Herbs, strawberries, all the cabbage-y cousins – they thrive in this weather.
Get 'em in the ground now, and with those perfect May temps, they'll take off! This is also your green light for flowers, trees, anything your heart desires. Give those veggies a little extra 7-4-4 Plant Food love for a bumper crop.
Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!
🥕Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Vegetables, #vegetablegarden, #growyourownfood, #homegrown
2 days ago
2 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:
- 8 Stunning Plants for the Native Landscape
- How to Grow Tree Roses in Containers
- 3 Types of Yucca for Every Garden Style
- Updated Container Style with Spring Flowers
- An Interview with Douglas Forst from Armstrong Growers
- What I Love Most about Gardening
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,
3 days ago
🌱What I Love Most about Gardening 🌱
3 days ago
3 days ago
Folks, ever get that feeling – the sun on your face, soil in your hands, and a whole world of green just waiting to bloom? That's the magic of gardening, and it's what keeps me coming back for more.
Whether you're planting your first petunia or tending a rose bush that's been in the family for years, there's always something new to learn. That's why I love sharing tips and tricks – so you can lose yourself in your garden just like I do.
Need a hand choosing the right fertilizer? Want to know the secret to keeping those tomato plants thriving? Or maybe you're just itching to try something new, like a hummingbird garden or a pollinator patch. Well, that's where I come in. With my years of experience and genuine love for gardening, I've got the answers. I'm here to help you make your gardens the best they can be. After all, a little time spent digging in the dirt can work wonders for the soul.
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #gardeningtherapy, #greenthumb, #plantlove, #backyardgarden
4 days ago
4 days ago
Douglas Forst, with 26 years of experience at Armstrong Growers, shares his passion for the industry.
For him, it’s not just a job; it’s a joyful daily interaction with living, breathing plants. The thrill of discovering new varieties each year keeps him engaged.
As the trucks roll in every Wednesday, laden with flowers, vegetables, and herbs, it's a perennial excitement that never fades.
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🥕Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips,#MountainGardenerPodcast, #ArmstrongGrowers
4 days ago
🌱What I Love Most about Gardening 🌱
4 days ago
4 days ago
Folks, ever get that feeling – the sun on your face, soil in your hands, and a whole world of green just waiting to bloom? That's the magic of gardening, and it's what keeps me coming back for more.
Whether you're planting your first petunia or tending a rose bush that's been in the family for years, there's always something new to learn. That's why I love sharing tips and tricks – so you can lose yourself in your garden just like I do.
Need a hand choosing the right fertilizer? Want to know the secret to keeping those tomato plants thriving? Or maybe you're just itching to try something new, like a hummingbird garden or a pollinator patch. Well, that's where I come in. With my years of experience and genuine love for gardening, I've got the answers. I'm here to help you make your gardens the best they can be. After all, a little time spent digging in the dirt can work wonders for the soul.
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #gardeningtherapy, #greenthumb, #plantlove, #backyardgarden
5 days ago
5 days ago
Forget those skimpy containers with sad little plants spaced far apart! Pack your pots full of flowers, foliage to foliage, for a lush, full look that explodes with color. Forget spacing recommendations – you want it overflowing for an instant "wow" factor. Need to fill a gap? Squeeze in a six-pack of blooms for a burst of color. Your container will look like it's been growing there forever, bursting with life and vibrancy.
The secret? Think of your container as a miniature garden. Layer in different textures and heights for interest. Upright thrillers, trailing spillers, and colorful fillers all packed together create a stunning display.
Come to Watters Garden Center—we've got all the gorgeous spring flowers you need to create a container masterpiece! Our selection will have you itching to get your hands dirty and transform your outdoor space.
Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!
🌺Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #containergardening, #springflowers
6 days ago
6 days ago
Want to add some desert drama to your garden? Yuccas are the way to go!
These tough beauties come in all shapes and sizes. Try the upright "Softly Yucca" for a spiky accent or the giant "Artichoke Agave" for a bold statement piece.
Best part? Yuccas love our sunshine and hardly need any water once established. Get 'em started on a drip system, then let them thrive on their own. A touch of fertilizer brings out those gorgeous blooms.
Come find your perfect Yucca here at Watters Garden Center!
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #yucca, #lowwatergardening, #desertplants
7 days ago
🌹How to Grow Tree Roses in Containers 🌹
7 days ago
7 days ago
Want gorgeous tree roses without the fuss? Growing them in containers is the way to go!
It's easier than you think and perfect for patios or spots where you want a big splash of color. Choose a roomy pot with drainage holes, and use a rich, well-draining potting mix. Keep your rose consistently watered – especially in the summer heat.
To protect your roses during winter chills, water deeply before any hard freezes – hydrated plants have a natural "antifreeze" that helps them fight the cold.
Come to Watters Garden Center and find the perfect tree rose to be the star of your patio paradise. We've got a huge selection to choose from!
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
Subscribe now!
https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🌹Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #roses, #treeroses, #containergardening
Monday Apr 29, 2024
🪴8 Stunning Plants for the Native Landscape🪴
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Want a garden buzzing with life? Native plants are the key! They're like magnets for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Get ready for a front-row seat to nature's show, and let me introduce you to some of the stars...
- Bear Grass: Add spiky texture with this evergreen superstar. Creamy white blooms in summer are a delightful surprise!
- California Poppy: A burst of sunshine! These vibrant orange flowers are a classic for a reason. Easy and cheerful.
- Desert Marigold: This tough little daisy brings non-stop yellow blooms. Perfect for hot, sunny spots.
- Cotoneaster: Cotoneaster delivers with lush foliage and bright red berries (a bird favorite!).
- Desert Willow: Love those bell-shaped flowers? 'Sweet Katie' is the way to go - no messy bean pods for this graceful tree!
Tune in to hear the rest of the list
Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!
🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #nativeplants, #arizonagardening, #mountainlife, #pollinatorgarden, #droughttolerant
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
John Murphy Talks with Ken Lain about Rock the Garden
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
Sunday Apr 28, 2024
John Murphy Talks with Ken Lain about Rock the Garden
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:
- Top 10 Native Plants to Grow in Arizona
- Best Gardenia for Mountain Garden
- Native Desert Willow and the Best Variety for Your Yard
- Best Lavenders for Fragrance and Beauty
- John Murphy Talks with Ken Lain about Rock the Garden
- Best Time to Shop a Garden Center 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 27, 2024
🌹Best Time to Shop a Garden Center in Spring 🌹
Saturday Apr 27, 2024
Saturday Apr 27, 2024
Hey there Garden Gang. It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and I've got some inside tips for your spring garden center adventures! Want to be the first to snag the best plants and score amazing deals? It's all about timing.
Early birds get the prime picks! Nurseries burst with fresh stock on weekdays, usually before the weekend crowds arrive. Hit the garden center mid-week, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the season's newest gems.
Now, let's talk online shopping. Our website at Watters Garden Center isn't just about buying plants. It's your secret weapon! Browse for specific plants, see how they actually grow here in Arizona, and even read up on their care needs. Sometimes, you'll even spot new arrivals online before they hit the shelves.
So, there you have it – insider tips for a successful spring at the garden center. Get out there, find those perfect plants, and let's make this season a blooming success!
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
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🌹Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Spring
Friday Apr 26, 2024
🌱John Murphy Talks with Ken Lain about Rock the Garden 🌱
Friday Apr 26, 2024
Friday Apr 26, 2024
John is passionate about feeding people.
His nonprofit, the "Make 100 Healthy Foundation", evolved into the Prescott Food Forest and the Gardeners of Destiny Training program.
They empower people to grow their own food for health and sustainability.
With over 500 members, they cultivate a fellowship of gardeners, sharing produce with local pantries.
John’s mission? To make our community healthier, one harvest at a time.
Learn More - https://www.prescottfoodforest.com/
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #prescottfoodforest.com
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
🌿Best Lavenders for Fragrance and Beauty 🌿
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Hey there, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and today we're diving into the world of lavender! If you love that classic fragrance and those beautiful purple spikes, get ready for some surprises. There's a whole range of lavenders out there, and some are a far cry from the traditional look.
Let's talk about varieties like 'Princess' and 'Ghostly Princess'. Princess lavender boasts an amazing pink bloom with a hint of violet – a real standout! And Ghostly Princess? That one's got silvery-white blooms, perfect for adding a touch of moonlight to your garden. Imagine lining a walkway with those! Both of these are evergreen, so you get that gorgeous color all year round.
These lavenders love the sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in a pot or directly in the ground, and you'll find pollinators can't resist their sweet scent.
Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!
🌿Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Lavender, #fragrantgarden, #pollinatorgarden
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
🌳Native Desert Willow and the Best Variety for Your Yard 🌳
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Hey there Plant Posse, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener.
Let's talk about desert willows – those beauties that light up our roadsides with pink blooms. Now, the native variety is fantastic: drought-tolerant, loved by pollinators, and critters leave it alone. But there's that one thing... those pesky bean pods. They signal the plant to stop blooming and focus on seed production.
Well, plant breeders have been busy! New desert willow varieties, like 'Timeless Beauty' or 'Bubba', keep those flowers coming because they don't make as many bean pods. So, when you're at the nursery, keep this in mind: 'Desert Willow' on its own means it's the native kind. Any other name attached means you've got one of those fancy, long-blooming ones!
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, #desertwillow, #nativeplants, #droughttolerantgardening
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
🌺Best Gardenia for Mountain Gardens🌺
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Hey there, it's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners with the scoop on the Best Gardenias for Mountain Gardens.
Want those sweet, heady blooms right in your backyard? Gardenias are a bit finicky up here, but with the right variety and spot, you'll be in fragrant paradise.
The secret? Think like a hummingbird. They love those big, white flowers, so we want to put gardenias where you'll enjoy them too – near a patio or deck where you relax in the evenings.
Location is key for gardenias. They crave morning sun but wilt in that hot afternoon blast. East-facing spots are ideal, or maybe a west side with shade until mid-afternoon. North-facing works too, but you might get fewer flowers. Steer clear of full southern exposure unless you enjoy lots of leaves and not much bloom.
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
🌺Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast,