Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌱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.

 

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

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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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🌺Garden Trivia and History of Christmas Cactus🌺

Hey gardeners, Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here! to share some fascinating facts about the Christmas Cactus! Did you know it's actually a cactus? Native to the mountains of Brazil, this holiday favorite thrives in cool, humid environments.

 

We'll uncover the legends behind its festive name, from a prayer answered in the Brazilian jungle to a Christmas miracle in a Bolivian village. Plus, learn about the three types of Christmas Cactus – Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter – and how to care for them so they bring you joy for years to come.

 

Join us for a journey through garden trivia and history, and discover the magic of the Christmas Cactus!

 

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🪴 Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work🪴

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here.  It's time to fertilize those evergreens, but with so many options on the market, you might be wondering what really works. Let's talk about those plant spikes. You know, the ones you hammer into the ground and supposedly feed your plants for a year?

In my experience, they're not all they're cracked up to be. It's nearly impossible to get the spikes in the right spot for the roots to absorb the nutrients. Plus, you often need multiple spikes per plant, which can get expensive.

Instead, I recommend using a good quality granular fertilizer, especially for trees and shrubs. Our 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food is an excellent organic option that provides slow-release feeding for healthy growth and vibrant color.

So skip the spikes and give your plants the nourishment they deserve with a granular fertilizer. Your garden will thank you!

 

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🌳Lisa’s Questions and Answers🌳

Hey garden friends, Ken and Lisa Lain the Top 10 Gardeners here, ready to tackle your gardening questions! This week, we're covering everything from growing cumquats in Prescott (spoiler alert: it's tricky!) to watering newly planted pines and transplanting trees. 

 

Plus, we'll share a cautionary tale about deciduous plants and why you shouldn't assume they're dead just because they've lost their leaves. 🍂 Remember, when in doubt, take a picture and bring it to your local garden experts for advice. We're always happy to help you keep your garden thriving!

 

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USDA Garden Zones

Hey there, fellow gardeners! I'm Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener  and owner of Watters Garden Center in Prescott, Arizona. If you're like me, you're always looking for ways to make your garden thrive. And if you're new to gardening in Prescott, you might be wondering what zone you're in and how to choose the right plants for your climate.

Zone 7: We're in zone 7, which means we get some pretty cold winters, but also some warm summers. This zone is great for a variety of plants, both annuals and perennials.

Choosing the Right Plants: When choosing plants for your garden, be sure to look for varieties that are hardy in zone 7 or colder. You can find a list of plants that are suitable for your zone at the Watters Garden Center website.

Tips for Success:

• Water: Arizona is a dry climate, so it's important to water your plants regularly.
• Mulch: Mulch helps to keep your plants moist and regulate the soil temperature.
• Fertilize: Fertilize your plants according to the instructions on the fertilizer label.
• Protect from Frost: In the winter, protect your plants from frost by covering them with blankets or sheets.

 

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