Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

💖Gifts any Garden Valentine Loves

Hey Houseplant Lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and at Watters Garden Center, we believe the best gifts are the ones that grow.

 

Surprise your gardening sweetheart with a present that blooms and thrives, long after the chocolates have been eaten. We have a delightful selection of indoor and outdoor plants perfect for the occasion. For a touch of the tropics, consider an Anthurium, the vibrant, heart-shaped blooms of which can last for months. Or, choose a Bromeliad with its striking, exotic flower that can bloom for up to a year! These low-maintenance beauties are ideal for any gardener. We also have a colorful array of African Violets, perfect for adding a touch of charm to any indoor space.

 

If your Valentine has a passion for roses, our selection of premium, dormant A-grade roses is unmatched. These aren't your typical grocery store roses; they boast robust root systems and strong, healthy canes, guaranteeing a vigorous start and abundant blooms come spring. We carry sought-after varieties like the multi-colored Joseph's Coat, the incredibly fragrant Double Delight, and Ken's personal favorite, the pristine white Sugar Moon. These exceptional roses will provide years of beauty and fragrance.

 

Come explore our Valentine's Day collection at Watters and find the perfect gift that expresses your love and celebrates their green thumb.

 

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💖Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardeners

 

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🌾A Guide to Beautiful Ornamental Grasses

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Beautiful ornamental grasses add so much texture and movement to our gardens, but did you know they benefit from a little "extra love," too?

 

Just like us, they appreciate a good meal! Manure is a fantastic organic fertilizer packed with nutrients that grasses absolutely love. It improves soil structure, helps retain water, and promotes vigorous growth.

 

We recommend using aged or composted manure at Watters to avoid burning your precious plants. In early spring, apply a thin layer around the base of grasses like Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') or Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), being careful not to let it touch the leaves.

 

Water thoroughly afterwards, and repeat this nourishing process again in the fall. Don't forget to cut back your grasses in autumn to remove dead foliage and encourage fresh growth. Regular watering, especially during our hot Arizona summers, is also essential. With these simple tips, your ornamental grasses will thrive, creating a stunning landscape you can enjoy year-round.

 

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🍑Peaches - Does it Take More than One to Fruit

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your questions about growing luscious peaches in the Central Highlands.

 

Good news! You can plant fruit trees right now, and most peach varieties are self-pollinating, meaning you only need one tree to produce fruit.

 

However, planting two different varieties nearby can increase fruit set and give you a more abundant harvest.

 

For those wondering about cherries, look for self-fruitful varieties like Lapins and Stella. But remember, even self-pollinating trees benefit from having a partner, so consider planting two if you have the space.

 

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🍀February Gardening: Preparing for a Bountiful Spring

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain The Top 10 Gardener here! February is the time to get your hands dirty and your garden ready! Spring planting is just around the corner, and a little prep now makes all the difference. Don't wait for perfect weather; seize those sunny days and get your soil in shape. I've been busy in my own garden, and I'm sharing what works for me, hoping it works for you too.

 

First things first: soil preparation. Think of it as building a cozy bed for your plants. You want to enrich it with plenty of organic matter. I use a 50/50 blend of composted mulch and manure. We take the extra step to deodorize our manure here at Watters Garden Center, so no stinky surprises in your car! Spread a two-to-three-inch layer over your raised beds or garden plot and turn it in one shovel's depth. While you're at it, remove any leftover roots and debris from last year – they can harbor disease and rob your new plants of nutrients.

 

Now, for my secret weapon: a blend of fruit and vegetable food (6-4-4-7 formula, high in calcium!), gypsum, and sulfur. The calcium helps with bigger, more flavorful fruits and vegetables and prevents blossom end rot. Gypsum also helps with that. And the sulfur? It's key for us here in Northern Arizona. Our water is very alkaline, so we need to lower the pH of the soil, and sulfur does just that. Don't add lime – you'll just make the problem worse! Mix everything in, let it settle for a few weeks, and you'll be ready to plant your early spring crops like potatoes, garlic, onions, cauliflower, lettuce, and broccoli come March.

 

Get a head start now, and you'll be harvesting long before the "yardiners" even think about planting!

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 25 – 04 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

This week, we're focused on getting a jump start on your spring garden! We'll explore how to prepare your garden beds in January, discover the magic of manure for ornamental grasses, and learn the secrets to winter sowing wildflowers. Plus, we'll venture indoors to explore the world of houseplants and how they can enhance your sleep and well-being. Let's get growing!

Included in this week’s episode:

•  How to Prepare Garden in January for Spring
•  When Can Spring Planting Begin
• Ornamental Grass Beautified by Manure
• Houseplants for a Better Nights Rest
• Why January is the Month to Plant Wildflowers
• Garden Seed and Houseplants of January

Ken and Lisa will also answer listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country.

Get ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug! They're bursting with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're ready to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this chance to level up your gardening game! Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. You'll find it on all your favorite podcast platforms.

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🌱Garden Seed and Houseplants of January

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! January is a great time to start thinking about your spring garden, and that means stocking up on fresh seeds!

 

Here at Watters, we've got a wide variety of seeds for all your favorite flowers and vegetables.

 

When choosing seeds, be sure to check the date to ensure they're fresh and haven't expired. Our seed packets are clearly labeled with the testing date, so you can be confident you're getting the best quality. We also offer a variety of seed mixes, including our popular Arizona native mix, perfect for attracting pollinators and adding local beauty to your landscape.

 

And don't forget about houseplants! They're a great way to brighten up your home during the winter months. We have a fantastic selection of houseplants in all shapes and sizes, perfect for any room in your home.

 

🌱Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌻Why January is the Month to Plant Wildflowers

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! This weekend at Watters Garden Center, we're diving into the wonderful world of wildflowers! We will explore why January is the best time to sow these beauties.

 

It might seem counterintuitive, but those tiny wildflower seeds actually benefit from winter's chill. The freeze-thaw cycle helps to break down their tough outer shells, improving germination come spring. Plus, planting now gives them a head start on the growing season and reduces competition from weeds.

 

When choosing wildflower seeds, opt for a perennial mix that's specifically designed for our mountain climate. Avoid those cheap annual mixes that look pretty but won't return year after year. To prepare your soil, simply scrape it open with a stiff rake and remove any debris. Then, mix your seeds with some Watters Premium Mulch for easier spreading and to protect them from hungry birds.

 

With a little patience and care, you'll be rewarded with a vibrant and ever-changing wildflower display that brings joy to your garden and supports pollinators.

 

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🌺Houseplants for a Better Nights Rest

Hey Houseplant Lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! We all spend a lot of time in our bedrooms, so why not create a space that's both beautiful and conducive to a good night's sleep?

 

Houseplants can help! Not only do they add a touch of nature and clean the air, but studies have shown they can also improve sleep quality.

 

Plants like Aloe Vera, Dracaena, and English Ivy are known for their air-purifying properties. Peace Lilies are great for removing toxins, and Spider Plants are super easy to care for. Even the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig can contribute to a healthier bedroom environment.

 

When choosing plants, consider the light conditions in your room and your own caregiving style. And don't forget to use a moisture meter to ensure you're watering correctly. With a little planning, you can create a bedroom oasis that promotes relaxation and restful sleep.

 

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🌾Ornamental Grass Beautified by Manure

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Today, I'm sharing a little secret that will transform your ornamental grasses: the power of manure!

 

Manure is a rich, organic fertilizer packed with nutrients that grasses love. It helps to improve soil structure, increase water retention, and promote healthy growth. For best results, use aged or composted manure to avoid burning your plants. Apply a thin layer around the base of your grasses in the spring, being careful not to let it touch the leaves. Water thoroughly and repeat the process in the fall.

 

In addition to fertilizing, remember to cut back your grasses in the fall to remove dead leaves and encourage new growth. Water regularly, especially during hot weather, and mow as needed to maintain a neat appearance.

 

By following these tips and giving your ornamental grasses a little extra love, you can create a beautiful and healthy garden that adds texture, movement, and curb appeal to your home.

 

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🌷When Can Spring Planting Begin

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your gardening questions!

 

Folks are already itching to get planting, and the big question I keep hearing is, "When can I start my spring garden?" Well, here in Northern Arizona, we need to be mindful of those late frosts. Mother's Day is a good rule of thumb for planting those summer-loving veggies like tomatoes and peppers. 🌶️

 

But don't despair! There's plenty you can plant before then. Think cool-season favorites like broccoli, cauliflower, and those cheerful pansies. Watters just got our first shipment of pansies in, and they're raring to go!

 

And guess what? Our fruit trees arrive next week! So if you're dreaming of fresh peaches and apples, now's the time to get those trees in the ground. 🍎🍑

 

Don't forget about those early spring bloomers like lilacs – they'll add beauty and fragrance to your garden while you wait for those warm summer days.

 

If you're new to mountain gardening, or just need a refresher, stop by Watters! We'll help you choose the right plants for your garden and answer all your questions. Happy planting!

 

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🌱How to Prepare the Garden in January for Spring Planting

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain The Top 10 Gardener here! It's January in Northern Arizona, and while the snow might be falling, a true gardener knows it's time to start thinking spring!

 

The first step? Soil preparation. Clear out any remaining debris from last year's garden and mix in a 2-3 inch layer of composted mulch and manure. At Watters, we compost our manure extra-long so you can skip the stink and get straight to the good stuff.

 

To really give your garden a boost, mix in Watters Fruit & Vegetable Food, gypsum, and sulfur. The Fruit & Vegetable Food is packed with calcium for bigger, tastier yields (think tomatoes and cucumbers!) and helps prevent blossom end rot. Gypsum provides extra support for your veggies, and the sulfur helps balance the pH of our naturally alkaline soil.

 

Let that amended soil rest for a few weeks, allowing the snow and rain to work their magic. By March, you'll have the perfect foundation for planting potatoes, garlic, onions, and all those early spring vegetables! Don't forget to stop by Watters Garden Center – our early spring pansies are here, and the fruit trees arrive this week!

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 25 – 03 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

This week, we're exploring various topics to help you create a thriving and fulfilling garden. We'll delve into the mysteries of plant dormancy, discover solutions for view-blocking plants, and unveil the perfect companion plants for January, featuring the Winter Gem Boxwood. Plus, we'll share tips for designing your landscape and explore the joy and happiness of gardening.

Included in this week’s episode:

•  What Happens When Plants are Dormant
• Dealing with Plants that Block a View
• Winter Gem Boxwood Combination Plant of January
• Fun Fruit Trees for a Better Spring Harvest
• 8 1/2 Steps for Better DIY Landscapes
• Why Gardening Makes Me Happy

Ken and Lisa will also answer listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country.

Get ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug! They're bursting with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're ready to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this chance to level up your gardening game! Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. You'll find it on all your favorite podcast platforms.

 

Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!

 

🎙️Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardeners

 

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😊Why Gardening Makes Me Happy

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here, your friendly neighborhood gardener! After a busy holiday season, I'm back in the garden, and it feels great!

 

There's something truly fulfilling about getting my hands dirty, planting new life, and connecting with nature.

 

Whether I'm pruning, planting, or simply enjoying the fresh air and birdsong, gardening brings me joy and a sense of peace. It's a chance to nurture and care for something outside of myself, and watch it grow and thrive.

 

Gardening also keeps me active and engaged, both physically and mentally. It's a constant learning process, with new challenges and discoveries everywhere. And there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of harvesting fresh produce or enjoying the beauty of a blooming flower that I've nurtured from seed.

 

So, if you're looking for a way to boost your mood, reduce stress, and connect with the natural world, I encourage you to try gardening. It's a rewarding journey that brings happiness and fulfillment, one seed at a time.

 

😊Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌾8 1/2 Steps for Better DIY Landscapes

Hey DIYers, Ken Lain here, ready to empower you to create the landscape of your dreams! Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing your garden.

 

I've got some tips to help you design a truly stunning landscape.

 

First, remember to include plants that shine in every season. Think vibrant spring bloomers like Forsythia and Lilacs, followed by summer showstoppers like Crape Myrtles and Roses.

 

Don't forget the fiery hues of fall with Maples and Aspens, and the year-round beauty of evergreens.

 

Create depth and visual interest by layering your flowers. Place taller plants like Snapdragons at the back and shorter ones like Pansies in the front. Combine the long-lasting beauty of perennials with the vibrant, non-stop blooms of annuals like Petunias and Geraniums.

 

And don't forget about foliage! Add interesting textures with plants like Nandina or Euonymus for year-round appeal. Remember to choose plants suited to our mountain climate and consider the intense sun at our higher elevation.

 

Finally, aim for a balanced mix of plants and non-living elements like patios and fences. Visit TopPlants.com to research plants and learn how they grow in our unique climate.

 

With a little planning and these simple tips, you can create a landscape that brings you joy for years to come. Happy gardening!

 

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🍎Fun Fruit Trees for a Better Spring Harvest

Hey fruit tree fans, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to start thinking about planting fruit trees.

 

At Watters Garden Center, we're getting ready for our first truckload of the season, and I'm excited to share some of the unique varieties we'll be offering.

 

This year, we're featuring combination fruit trees, also known as cocktail trees. These innovative trees offer multiple varieties of fruit on a single tree, perfect for small spaces and diverse harvests. Imagine enjoying apples, pears, and plums all from the same tree!

 

We'll also have a fantastic selection of dwarf fruit trees, including peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These compact trees are ideal for patios, containers, and small gardens.

 

And don't forget about our fruit salad combo, a unique tree that features a mix of pitted fruits like peaches, plums, and nectarines, all ripening at different times for a continuous harvest.

 

So, if you're dreaming of fresh, homegrown fruit, visit Watters Garden Center soon and choose your favorite varieties. Happy planting!

 

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🍎Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardeners

 

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