Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌺Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter

Hey there, houseplant enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, here, ready to ditch the winter blues and breathe some fresh life into your indoor jungle! Winter winds may howl outside, but inside, we'll be creating cozy green havens with these top 10 houseplant heroes.

 

Here are just a few of the 10 we will cover during this segment:

1. Peace Lily: This elegant beauty loves low light and moist soil, making it perfect for those shady corners. Bonus: it purifies the air, removing nasty toxins like a leafy superhero!
2. Snake Plant: Tough as nails and stylish to boot, the snake plant thrives on neglect. Water it occasionally, forget it in the corner, and watch its dramatic, upright leaves add instant oomph to your space.
3. Spider Plant: This cheerful friend sends out baby spiderettes like confetti, making it easy to propagate and share the planty love. Hang it in a basket or let it cascade from a shelf for a touch of whimsical greenery.

Remember, folks, these are just a starting point! Explore, experiment, and find the houseplants that speak to your soul. With a little love and care, you can create a thriving indoor oasis that'll banish the winter blues and fill your home with fresh air and vibrant life.

Happy houseplant living, y'all! And don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. I'm always here to help you grow your indoor jungle!

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📅Lisa’s Year End Garden Review, the Good, The Bad and the Ugly

Hey there, Green Thumb Gang! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to sip some hot cocoa and reminisce about the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious moments of our 2024 garden journey! Buckle up, it's gonna be a wild ride down memory lane!

January: Remember that brutal cold snap? Your pansies turned into popsicles, and the birds looked like feathery snowballs. But hey, it gave us an excuse to snuggle indoors with seed catalogs and dream of spring blooms!

February: Love was in the air (and the greenhouse)! We sowed seeds with hopeful hearts, watching tiny sprouts peek through the soil like baby chicks hatching. And who can forget the Valentine's Day massacre when Cupid's arrow struck my prized rose bush, leaving it thorny and heartbroken?

March: Spring sprang into action! Daffodils danced in the breeze, bees buzzed with newfound purpose, and we all got a little mud up to our elbows. Remember the Great Slug Massacre of '24? We fought those slimy fiends with vengeance, protecting our tender lettuce like knights guarding a queen's salad.

April: Easter egg hunts and blooming cherries painted the world in pastels. Butterflies fluttered like confetti, and the first whiff of tomato leaves was like a summer serenade. And let's not forget the epic battle with the neighborhood squirrel who declared war on my bird feeder!

May: Flowers overflowed like confetti at a party, veggies sprouted like popcorn kernels, and the sun finally felt like a friend, not a foe. Remember the time we planted an entire row of potatoes upside down? We may have laughed then, but those spuds still haunt my dreams!

June: Sunburns blossomed alongside our sunflowers, fireflies twinkled like tiny stars, and the scent of barbecue mingled with honeysuckle. And who can forget the Great Basil Bonanza? We made pesto galore, infusing everything from pizza to ice cream with that vibrant green goodness.

July: Fourth of July fireworks rivaled the zinnias in our gardens, kids splashed in sprinklers, and the heat had us all seeking shade like lizards on a rock. Remember the night the possum raided my compost bin? Let's just say his uninvited waltz left a lasting (and smelly) impression.

August: Dog days arrived, but so did juicy peaches and plump tomatoes. We canned, we pickled, we ate our weight in watermelon, and grumbled about the endless weeding. And who can forget the Great Zucchini Apocalypse? Those prolific squash threatened to take over the entire neighborhood!

September: Crisp mornings hinted at autumn, leaves started their slow-motion ballet, and the harvest moon cast an ethereal glow on our pumpkin patches. Remember the Grapes for Good fundraiser? We stomped and laughed our way to a record haul, raising funds for a worthy cause while getting deliciously sticky.

October: Halloween costumes and crunchy leaves painted the landscape in orange and black. Pumpkins grinned from porches, and bonfires crackled with cozy magic. Remember the time my scarecrow mysteriously came to life (okay, maybe it was just the wind, but it sure scared the bejeebers out of me!)

November: Thanksgiving feasts and falling snow reminded us of nature's bounty. We raked leaves into golden mountains, planted garlic for next spring's bounty, and snuggled indoors with hot cocoa, dreaming of summer days. Remember the epic snowball fight with the neighbors? I may still have a welt shaped like a snowman, but the memories are priceless!

December: Finally, we're here, cuddled up by the fire, reflecting on the year gone by. It was a bumpy, messy, glorious ride, full of triumphs and disasters, laughter and tears. But one thing's for sure: every weed pulled, every bloom admired, every tomato devoured made us closer to our gardens, and closer to each other.

So here's to 2024, the year we laughed in the face of slugs, danced with butterflies, and learned that even the ugliest weeds can teach us something beautiful. May the next year be even greener, bountiful, and full of garden adventures!

Happy growing, y'all! And don't forget to share your own garden memories in the comments below!

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🌲Does it Hurt Trees to Cut Exposed Roots Out of the Garden

Hey there, plant power enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to tackle a question that pops up like a weed after a spring rain: should you yank those exposed tree roots peeking out of your garden?

Let's face it, those gnarly beauties can be trip hazards, space invaders, and moisture thieves. But before you whip out the pruning shears, hold on! Cutting a major root is like chopping off a main artery to your tree. Think of it as severing a lifeline of water and nutrients.

Now, there are times when a little trim is okay. Imagine a stray branch growing horizontally – a root that's more nuisance than lifeline. If it's less than 2 inches thick and not near the trunk, a careful snip might be alright. But always err on the side of caution!

Here's the lowdown:

• Big cuts, big trouble: Hacking off major roots can weaken the tree, stunt its growth, and even make it susceptible to disease. Think of it as leaving an open wound for bugs and bad vibes to enter.
• Small snips, sometimes okay: If a smaller root (think pencil, not baseball bat) is causing real problems, like tripping you up or hogging all the moisture, a carefully measured cut might be tolerated. But remember, this is like taking a tiny nibble, not a full-blown burger bite.
• Consult the tree whisperer: Before you even think about shears, ask a professional arborist for advice. They have the wisdom to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action, saving you (and your tree) heartache.

Remember, folks, trees are our backyard buddies, living giants sharing our space. Treat them with respect, even the rooty ones. And when in doubt, remember the golden rule: when it comes to major root cuts, less is always more!

 

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🌳How Early Can Fruit Trees Be Pruned

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, ready to answer a question that's bloomin' in many minds: how early can we prune those fruit trees?

I know, I know, your fingers are itching to get out there with those shears, but hold your horses – there's a sweet spot for pruning that'll set your trees up for a banner year.

It all comes down to their slumber party, folks. We want them snoozing soundly, leaves tucked in, dreaming of juicy fruits, not startled awake by a rogue snip in the late fall. Why? Well, think of it like this: early pruning gives those sneaky bugs and diseases a cozy winter home in the open wounds. Not ideal!

But fear not, spring's not as far away as a robin's whistle. Once they've cast off their leafy blankets and we've had a couple of chilly nights to thin out the bug brigade, it's game on! That's your golden pruning window, usually around late January to early February.

So, grab your tools, my friends, and let's get snippin'! Here's the lowdown:

• Start with the deadwood: Clear out any branches that are toast, diseased, or broken. Think of it as decluttering your tree's bedroom.
• Shape for light and air: Open up the center, let the sun dance through the leaves. Imagine making a leafy chandelier with your cuts.
• Focus on structure: Create strong branches that can bear the weight of those bountiful fruits next year. Think of building a sturdy treehouse for your feathered friends.

And remember, pruning's like a haircut – less is more! Don't go overboard, let the tree keep some energy for spring.

Once you're done, give your beauties a dormant oil spray to send those pesky bugs packing. Think of it as tucking them back into their dreams with a bug-repellent blanket.

So, there you have it, folks! Get out there, prune with confidence, and watch your fruit trees wake up to a season of luscious blooms and bountiful harvests.

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🌱The Difference Between Winter and Summer Plant Food

Hey there, fellow dirt dabblers! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to dig into the secret of seasonal plant snacks and why choosing the right winter food matters.

Just like we swap out light sweaters for toasty parkas come winter, our green friends crave different munchies depending on the weather's mood. But here's the thing: plants can't pick up the winter food in summer and summer foods in winter. It's like serving chili on a July scorcher – not helpful!

Think of summer: sun-soaked growth spurts, leaves reaching for the sky like kids on swings. To fuel this green frenzy, we reach for "balanced" fertilizers with equal parts nitrogen (leafy greens), phosphorus (strong roots), and potassium (fruity delights). Tomatoes, peppers, even your trusty petunias, all crave this summer smorgasbord.

But come winter, Mother Nature throws a chilly blanket over the garden. Growth slows down, plants tuck themselves in for a nap. Now, overdosing on that summer feast would be like shoving pizza down a sleepy sloth's throat. Not cool!

Instead, we switch to "low-nitrogen" blends. Less leaf-building, more root-strengthening, like a protein shake for hibernation. Pansies, kale, maybe even some hardy herbs, they all appreciate this wintery wellness shot.

Remember, folks, it's not just the numbers on the bag that matter, it's the timing. Think of yourself. You wouldn't scarf down a bowl of chili on a July scorcher, would you? So listen to your plants, adjust their snacks to the season, and watch them thrive year-round.

And here's a bonus tip: If you're using synthetic fertilizers, be mindful of the type. Nitrates like ammonium nitrate are summer champs, while sulfates like ammonium sulfate are winter heroes. Don't get them mixed up – you wouldn't serve ice cream in a blizzard, would you?

For organic friends, it's a different story. Bone meal, blood meal, feather meal – these classics fuel big flowers and bright colors over a longer period, no matter the season. They're like all-natural, slow-release food for your plants.

So, grab your trowels, folks, and let's set the stage for a blooming fantastic spring! Prune, fertilize strategically, and give your plants the right munchies for the season. They'll thank you with a vibrant, healthy garden come springtime.

Happy winter gardening, y'all! And don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. I'm always here to help you grow!

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 52 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

From vibrant fall foliage and its impact on gardens to the practical use of wildflowers for site restoration, we explore a range of gardening topics. We'll delve into the benefits of coffee grounds for plant health, creative container gardening with pottery, and the enduring beauty of evergreens, including the fascinating history of evergreen holly. Join us as we uncover tips and insights for every season.

 

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Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Included in this week’s episode:

• Are Autumn Leaves Good or Bad for the Garden in Fall
• Wildflowers To Revegetate Construction Site
• Using Coffee Grounds for a Healthy Garden
• Using Garden Pottery as Containers
• Winter Evergreens for Outdoor Cheer
• The Story Behind the History of Evergreen Holly

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 are excited to share it 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.

 

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🔔The Story Behind the History of Evergreen Holly

Hey there, fellow gardeners! I'm Ken Lain, the Top 10 gardener, and I'm here to share the fascinating history of Holly, one of my favorite holiday plants.

 

Holly has a long and rich history, dating back to the ancient Celts and Druids. They saw holly as a symbol of everlife and protection, and they would decorate their homes with holly branches during the winter solstice to ward off evil spirits.

 

The Romans also adopted the tradition of using holly during the winter solstice, and they believed that holly was a symbol of good luck and abundance. When Christianity spread to Europe, the meaning of holly was further enriched. The prickly leaves were said to represent the crown of thorns that Jesus wore, and the red berries were said to represent his blood.

 

Today, holly is a beloved Christmas decoration, and it is often used in wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces. It is also a popular plant to grow in gardens, as it is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of climates.

 

If you're looking for a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season, consider adding a holly plant to your home. You'll be bringing a piece of history into your home, and you'll be enjoying the beauty and symbolism of this wonderful plant for years to come.

 

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🌲 Winter Evergreens for Outdoor Cheer

Hey there mountain garden friends, Ken Lain here! As the deciduous trees shed their leaves and the landscape turns bare, it's time for evergreens to take center stage. These winter wonders bring life, color, and texture to your garden, creating a vibrant oasis even on the coldest days.

 

From the classic Colorado Spruce with its perfect Christmas tree shape to the majestic Deodar Cedar and the native Arizona Cypress, there's an evergreen to suit every style and space. And don't forget about those versatile junipers! Choose female varieties like Spartan or Wichita Blue for beautiful berries and allergy-free enjoyment.

 

Whether you're looking to create a privacy screen, add a focal point, or simply enjoy the beauty of greenery in winter, explore the world of evergreens and discover the magic they bring to your garden.

 

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🪴 Using Garden Pottery as Containers

Hey gardeners, Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here!

 

With winter upon us, you might think gardening has taken a backseat. But here in the Central Highlands, we know that even the coldest months offer opportunities to add beauty and interest to our outdoor spaces. One of my favorite ways to do this is by incorporating pottery.

 

Pottery brings color, texture, and personality to your garden, especially when many plants are dormant. Use it to define spaces, create focal points, and add a touch of artistry to your landscape.

 

At Watters Garden Center, we've just received our first shipment of stunning new pottery for spring. From vibrant colors to unique designs, there's something to suit every taste and style. And because we know how challenging it can be to dig in our rocky soil, we specialize in high-quality pottery perfect for container gardening.

 

So, whether you're looking to create a cozy patio retreat or add a touch of elegance to your entryway, explore the world of garden pottery and discover the endless possibilities!

 

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🪴Using Coffee Grounds for a Healthy Garden

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here. And let's clear up some confusion about coffee grounds in the garden. While they won't magically solve all your plant problems, they can be a helpful addition to your soil-building arsenal. ☕

Coffee grounds act as a top dressing, similar to leaves or pine needles. They help insulate the soil, suppress weeds, and attract beneficial earthworms. Plus, they're slightly acidic, which can help balance the pH of our alkaline Arizona soils.

But don't expect coffee grounds to act like a fertilizer. They don't provide a significant boost of nutrients to your plants. Instead, add them to your compost pile to speed up decomposition or use them as a soil amendment to improve texture and water retention.

So, enjoy your morning coffee, and then share the grounds with your garden!

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🌿Wildflowers To Revegetate Construction Site

Hey garden friends, Ken and Lisa Lain the Top 10 Gardeners here to answer your gardening questions. This week, we're tackling a common challenge for those with new homes in the Central Highlands: re-vegetating a construction site. 🚧

If you want to restore a bare patch with native grasses and wildflowers, we've got you covered. Our Arizona wildflower and grass mix is perfect for creating a natural, low-maintenance landscape.

Spread the seed anytime between now and January, add a layer of Watters Premium Mulch to keep the birds away, and water regularly. You'll soon have a beautiful, thriving meadow that attracts pollinators and adds vibrant color to your property.

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🍂 Are Autumn Leaves Good or Bad for the Garden in Fall

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! As we transition from fall to winter, many of you are busy raking leaves. But did you know those leaves can actually be beneficial to your garden? 🍂

 

Leaves are like garden gold! They decompose quickly, creating a nutrient-rich compost that improves soil health and attracts beneficial organisms like earthworms and mycorrhizal fungi. Use them as mulch around your plants to insulate the soil, prevent weeds, and add valuable organic matter.

 

But don't let leaves pile up too thickly, especially on top of other plants. A layer of 2-3 inches is ideal. Too many leaves can smother plants and create a haven for pests and diseases.

 

And speaking of leaves, those pine needles can also be beneficial in moderation. They provide insulation and suppress weeds, but avoid excessive buildup.

 

So, rake those leaves, spread them around your garden, and let nature work its magic!

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 51 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken and Lisa Lain here! This week, we're diving into a variety of topics to help you navigate the winter gardening season. Lisa Waters Lane joins us to answer your burning garden questions, from growing cumquats to transplanting trees. We'll also debunk the myth of plant spikes and explore the fascinating history and care of the Christmas Cactus. Plus, I'll share expert tips on planting evergreens in cold weather so you can create a vibrant landscape even when the temperatures drop. Let's get started!

 

Learn how to snag those hard-to-find specialty plants before they even hit the shelves by becoming a Garden Club Member!

 

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Included in this week’s episode:

• Lisa Answers Your Garden Questions
• Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work
• Garden Trivia and History of Christmas Cactus
• Better Technique for Planting Winter Evergreens When it Cold Outside

 

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 are excited to share it 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/

 

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🌲Spruce Trees from Small to Tall🌲

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener Here. We're highlighting our wide variety of spruce trees, perfect for adding year-round beauty and texture to your landscape.

From towering giants like the majestic Colorado Blue Spruce to compact dwarfs ideal for smaller spaces or rock gardens, we have the perfect spruce for every need. Come explore our selection and find your perfect tree! Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right spruce for your specific needs and provide expert advice on planting and care. Don't miss out on these fantastic evergreens!

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🌲Better Technique for Planting Winter Evergreens When it Cold Outside

Hey, mountain gardeners, Ken Lain here. Even though winter's chill is in the air, it's still a fantastic time to plant evergreens. Whether you're dreaming of a lush privacy screen or simply adding a festive touch to your landscape, planting now offers some unique advantages. 

 

The secret to success is proper planting technique. This allows your evergreens to establish strong roots while they're dormant, ready to burst forth with new growth come spring. When digging your planting hole, make it the same depth as the root ball, but three times as wide. This encourages those roots to spread out and explore their new home.

 

Don't forget to amend the native soil with some Watters Premium Mulch. This will improve drainage, attract beneficial organisms, and help your evergreen thrive. And before you even place the tree in the hole, give the soil a good soaking. This prevents the surrounding soil from wicking away moisture from your new evergreen.

 

Finally, protect your evergreen from heavy snow loads by staking it securely. This is especially important for fast-growing varieties like Arizona cypress and Deodar cedar. With these simple steps, you can create an evergreen oasis that will bring you joy for years to come. Happy planting!

 

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