Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌲Dealing with Burlap when Planting a Large Evergreen Pine Tree

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

 

Planting a large evergreen pine can be a bit intimidating, especially when you see that burlap and twine around the root ball. But don't worry, it's easier than you think!

 

That burlap is there to protect the roots during transport and planting. Leave it on! The roots will grow right through it. Just be sure to cut any twine at the top of the root ball to prevent girdling as the tree grows. Then, backfill your planting hole with a mixture of native soil and Watters Premium Mulch for a happy, healthy tree

 

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🌺When to Transplant and Repot Your Houseplants

Hey indoor gardeners, Ken Lain here! Is your houseplant bursting at the seams? Knowing when to repot is key to keeping your leafy friends happy and healthy.

Here are a few telltale signs it's time for a bigger home:

• Root Bound: Check those drainage holes! If roots are poking out, it's time to move on up.
• Slow Growth: Has your plant's growth slowed or stalled? It might be root bound and craving more space.
• Soil Drying Quickly: If the soil dries out super fast, the roots may have filled the pot, leaving little room for water retention.

Spring is the ideal time to repot, but you can transplant throughout the year if needed. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one and use a quality potting mix. With a little TLC, your houseplants will thrive in their new digs!

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 – 53 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

This week, we're digging into essential winter gardening tips to keep your landscape thriving and prepare for a vibrant spring. We'll explore the power of peony pruning, unlock the secrets of planting success even in cold weather, and discover how to properly stake trees for faster growth. Plus, we'll venture indoors to explore the world of houseplants and how they can enhance your home during the winter months. Let's get started!

Included in this week’s episode:

• Dig In! Winter Landscape Planting for a Stunning Landscape
• Peony Pruning Power Hour
• Unlocking the Earth Planting Success
• Beyond The Power of Houseplants
• Winter Pruning A Guide for Your Backyard
• How to Stake a Tree for Faster Growth

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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🌳How to Stake a Tree for Faster Growth

Hey there, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here. Did you know that staking your newly planted trees can actually help them grow faster?

 

It's true! Staking provides support, especially during windy winter months, allowing the tree to focus its energy on root development instead of trying to stay upright.

 

Whether you're planting a deciduous tree or an evergreen, like the beautiful Arizona Cypress or the stately Blue Atlas Cedar, staking is essential for strong, healthy growth. Use sturdy stakes and tie the tree loosely, allowing for some movement in the wind. This encourages trunk strength while preventing damage to the roots.

 

With proper staking, your trees will establish themselves quickly and thrive in their new home. Happy planting!

 🌳Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🧥Winter Pruning: A Guide for Your Backyard

Hey there, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here. While you might think winter is a time for rest, it's actually the perfect opportunity to give your garden some TLC.

 

Pruning deciduous trees and shrubs during dormancy sets the stage for healthy growth and abundant blooms come spring.

 

Think of it like a haircut for your plants! By removing dead or crossing branches, you encourage better air circulation and allow sunlight to reach the inner branches. This helps prevent diseases and promotes stronger growth. Plus, winter pruning allows you to shape your plants and maintain their desired size.

 

So grab your pruners and let's get those gardens in shape for a spectacular spring!

 

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🪴 Beyond The Power of Houseplants

Hey plant lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Houseplants bring life and beauty to our homes, especially during the winter months.

But before you add to your indoor jungle, consider these key factors:

• Light: Choose plants that thrive in your space's light conditions. Low-light options include ZZ plants, Snake Plants, and Chinese Evergreens.
• Ease of Care: Start with low-maintenance plants if you're new to houseplant care.
• Good Information: Get expert advice from your local garden center to ensure you choose the right plants and provide the proper care.

And remember the power of new beginnings! Just like a fresh start in the new year, new houseplants can revitalize your home and bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

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🌱Unlocking the Earth – Planting Success

Hey there, fellow dirt diggers! Ken Lain here, and while winter might seem like the off-season, it's actually a great time to plant trees and shrubs in the Central Highlands.

 

But our rocky soil can make digging a challenge. So, let's discuss some secrets to planting success, even when the ground is hard.

 

Forget about digging from the outer edge inwards. Instead, imagine the spokes of a bicycle wheel. Position your shovel blade along those spokes, facing outwards, and dig around the perimeter of your planting hole. This creates a wider, more accessible space for your plant's roots to spread.

 

And remember, amend that hard soil with some Watters Premium Mulch to improve drainage and encourage healthy growth. With a little know-how and the right tools, you can unlock the earth and create a thriving garden, even in winter.

 

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🌼Q and A - Peony Pruning Power Hour

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your gardening questions! This week, we're tackling peony care, proper winter watering, and prepping raised beds for spring planting.

 

Peonies are tough, cold-hardy perennials that need a good trim in late winter. Cut them back to the ground, taking care not to damage any emerging shoots. And remember to keep those peonies hydrated throughout the winter, even when dormant.

 

For raised beds, refresh the soil with compost and Watters Premium Mulch. And here's an insider tip: add a layer of Watters Potting Soil for an extra boost of nutrients and improved drainage. Your plants will thank you!

 

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🧤Secrets to Landscape Planting in Winter

Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here, and even though it's winter in the Central Highlands, it's still a great time to plant!

 

Trees, shrubs, and evergreens planted now can establish strong roots before the spring growth spurt.

 

The secret to successful winter planting? Water, water, water! 💧 Hydrate the planting hole thoroughly before you even put the plant in the ground. This prevents the surrounding soil from wicking away moisture from your new addition. Then, water regularly throughout the winter, especially during dry spells.

 

With some extra care, your winter plantings will reward you with vibrant growth and beauty come springtime. Happy planting!

 

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🌼Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter

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:

• The Difference Between Winter and Summer Plant Food
• How Early Can Fruit Trees be Pruned
• Does it Hurt Trees to Cut Exposed Roots Out of the Garden
• Lisa’s Year End Garden Review, the Good, The Bad and the Ugly
• Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter
• Deal with Indoor Bugs Safely

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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🐛Deal with Indoor Bugs Safely

Hey there, fellow bug battlers! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to tackle those tiny terrors buzzing around your house! No need to panic, these indoor invaders can be dealt with naturally and safely, without resorting to chemical warfare.

First, remember, most indoor bugs are loners, not legionnaires. It's usually just a fly-by, not a full-blown invasion. So, before you whip out the bug spray, take a deep breath and assess the situation.

Now, about those sneaky critters:

• Fungus gnats: Those annoying little buzzy things hovering around your houseplants? Yep, it's probably the gnat gang. They love moist soil, so let your plants dry out a bit between waterings. And check out those handy yellow sticky traps – these gnats can't resist their sunny invitation!
• Fruit flies: Got a bowl of sweet, summery fruit attracting tiny fruit flies? Cover it with a breathable cloth, or pop it in the fridge. Remember, these guys are all about the fermented fun, so clean up any spills, and don't leave ripe fruit sitting around like a bug buffet.
• Spiders: Now, these eight-legged friends aren't necessarily bad! They help keep other bug populations in check. But if you're not a fan, try gentle relocation (think a glass and a piece of paper, not a squish!).

Here's the golden rule, folks: don't panic, be proactive! Keep your house clean, eliminate food and water sources, and use natural alternatives like sticky traps and diatomaceous earth (a fancy way of saying crushed rock that's deadly to bugs but safe for us).

Remember, a healthy home equals a happy home, for you and your tiny (sometimes unwanted) roommates. So, keep it clean, keep it natural, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're living in harmony with the not-so-creepy crawlies!

Happy bug-battling, y'all! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, I'm always here to help you keep your home buzzing with joy (and not those pesky invaders)!

 

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🌺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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