Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🍁The Best Flowers of the Year are Planted in Autumn🍁

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here. Autumn in northern Arizona is when the landscape truly shines. After the windy spring and scorching summer, fall's cooler temperatures and gentle rains create the perfect growing conditions. This is when perennials – those plants that return year after year – put down strong roots, setting the stage for abundant blooms next spring.

Perennials for Years of Enjoyment

Perennials are a wise investment, offering long-lasting beauty with minimal upkeep. Think of peonies, with their massive, fragrant blooms; echinacea, attracting pollinators with their vibrant colors; and wildflowers like blanket flowers (gaillardia), adding a touch of untamed beauty to your garden.

Autumn Showstoppers

Fall perennials rival annuals in terms of color and impact. With its tropical-looking blooms, the newly arrived hibiscus will transport you to warmer climes. Crocosmia, with its fluorescent orange flowers, is a hummingbird magnet. And don't forget the new coral bells (heuchera) with their striking black foliage, providing a dramatic backdrop for any brightly colored flowers.

Container Gardens and Fall Crops

Fall is also the ideal time to refresh your container gardens. Fill them with colorful mums, cheerful pansies, and even cool-season vegetables like broccoli, lettuce, and cauliflower.

Remember: Garden Mums vs. Greenhouse Mums

When choosing mums, look for hardy garden mums that can withstand the cold and return year after year. On the other hand, greenhouse mums are not hardy and are best enjoyed indoors.

Visit Watters Garden Center!

See all the vibrant colors and textures of fall at Watters Garden Center. We've got a vast selection of perennials, annuals, fall crops, and mums to help you create a stunning autumn landscape.

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🎙️Welcome to 'The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here! It's time to quench your summer-parched plants and prepare for autumn's bounty! From planting fall vegetables to showcasing the year's brightest flowers, your garden has plenty to do. We'll also dive into practical tips to protect plants from pesky javelinas and common ailments like leaf spot. Let's get started!

Included in this week’s episode:

• H2-Whoa! A Guide to Quenching Your Garden’s Summer Thirst
• What is the Best Time to Plant Fall Vegetables
• The Brightest Flowers of the Year are in the Autumn Garden
• The Brightest Perennial Flowers of Autumn
•  Javelina Proof Your Garden

• Stopping Leaf Spot on Purple Leaf Plums

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.

 

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🌳Stopping Leaf Spot on Purple Leaf Plums 🌳

Hey there, plant pals! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with some fall foliage wisdom from Watters Garden Center.

Those recent showers can bring unwanted guests to your trees – leaf spot!

Here's what to look for:

• Tiny Holes: Think "shotgun blast" through the leaves. This is bacteria munching on sugar in the foliage. Don't panic! Young trees might show it more, but as they mature, they build resistance.
• Blackened Tips: This is more serious than just holes. It can spread down the leaves and stems. Watch out for this on plums, apples, and aspens.

What to Do?

• Monitor, Don't Panic: Usually, leaf spot won't kill your tree. In most cases, you can simply keep an eye on it.
• Healthy Habits: Healthy trees can fight off invaders better. Make sure your plum tree is getting enough water and nutrients.
• Treatment Options: If the leaf spot is severe, we have effective sprays at Watters.

Remember: Autumn's falling leaves are nature's way of cleaning house. Don't worry if leaf spot leads to earlier coloring.

Need Help? We're plant doctors at Watters! Bring a picture or sample of your affected leaves, and we'll diagnose the problem and recommend solutions.

Let's keep your plum tree (and all your other trees!) happy and healthy this fall!

 

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🐗Javelina Proof Your Garden 🐗

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Those pesky javelinas are back, wreaking havoc in our gardens! But don't worry, I've got some tricks up my sleeve to keep your plants safe.

 

First, understand that javelinas are opportunistic feeders. They love bulbs like tulips (think candy!), veggies, and anything easy to dig up.

 

The best defense is a good fence, especially around your veggie patch.  But for those open areas, here are some plants they tend to avoid:

 

Herbs: Rosemary, lavender, oregano - their strong scents deter javelinas.

 

Grasses: Ornamental grasses like pampas grass and native grasses are usually left alone.

 

Tough Shrubs: Manzanita, lilacs, and the vibrant Red Hot Poker are all javelina-resistant.

 

Groundcovers: Try Vinca or Mexican primrose for a colorful, low-maintenance option.

 

Remember, some experimentation might be needed. Try planting a "test victim" to see if the javelinas leave it alone before committing to a larger planting.

 

And don't forget, fall is a fantastic planting season! Get those javelina-proof plants in the ground now and enjoy a beautiful, pest-free garden!

 

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🌺The Brightest Perennial Flowers of Autumn 🌺

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Fall's Here at Watters: A Burst of Color for Your Yard!

Don't let the "end of season" fool you! Arizona's cooler weather makes fall prime planting time. Here's why you should head to Watters now:

• Blooming Beauties: The perennial house is overflowing with gorgeous flowers! From the striking new white bleeding heart to the vibrant neon orange echinacea (Sombrero Flamenca), there's something for every sunny or shady spot.
• Long-lasting Color: These perennials will come back year after year, adding reliable beauty to your garden. Plus, letting the echinacea go to seed attracts birds for a winter feast.
• Deer-resistant Delights: Many of these plants, like echinacea and agastache, are naturally deer and rabbit resistant, saving you frustration.
• Pollinator Paradise: Attract hummingbirds and butterflies with the stunning blooms of echinacea, agastache (Blue Boa is a showstopper!), and crocosmia (coming soon!).

Not sure where to start? Watters has plenty of resources to help!

• Ken's Social Media: Follow Watters on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for gardening tips and videos, including a deep dive into agastache varieties.
• Expert Help: Feeling overwhelmed? Watters offers in-store consultations and a personal shopping service to guide you through the process.

Fall is a time for renewal in the garden. Let Watters be your partner in creating a vibrant, wildlife-friendly space you'll love!

 

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 🌺Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners

 

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🌻The Brightest Flowers of the Year are in the Autumn Garden 🌻

Fall Has Arrived at Watters Garden Center: A Burst of Color for Your Garden!

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain from Top 10 Gardener here, with exciting news from Watters Garden Center! Our "monster monsoon sale" is in the final week, making way for the dazzling stars of the fall season and deep discounts on the sale items.

Forget the summer blooms, it's time for the brightest flowers of the year! We've got a stunning selection just waiting to transform your garden. Here's a sneak peek:

• Autumn Joy Sedum: This succulent beauty (think soft, knee-high cactus) boasts vibrant pink flowers. New this year: a purple foliage variety with red or pink flowers! It's the perfect "Autumn Joy" for your yard.
• Crocosmia: This fiery wonder bursts with intense yellow, orange, and red blooms. Plant these bulbs now for a showstopping display until late fall.
• Garden Mums: Ditch the grocery store versions! Watters has a dazzling selection of garden mums specifically bred for Arizona's climate. Choose from single colors, multi-colored baskets, or buds just starting to open for a long-lasting display.

Fall isn't just about mums! We also have a vibrant selection of Echinacea in red, yellow, and even a solar yellow that practically glows! Plus, many more gorgeous perennials and bulbs to discover.

Remember: Now's the prime time to plant these beauties for a head-turning fall garden. They'll thrive in the cooler weather and reward you with color until November.

Don't wait! Head over to Watters Garden Center and let's create a fall paradise together.

 

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🥦What is the Best Time To Plant Fall Vegetables 🥦

Ken and Lisa Lain the top 10 Gardeners here. Fall is the perfect time to revitalize your garden with cool-season veggies!

Timing is Everything:

• Plant Now: Don't wait! As soon as your summer crops start to fade, replace them with fall favorites like broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, and spinach.
• Warm Soil, Fast Growth: The soil is still warm, so your fall vegetables will establish quickly and reward you with a bountiful harvest before winter.

Insider Tip:

• Winter Flowers: Pansies and violas are also available now! Add a splash of color to your winter garden by planting them alongside your fall vegetables.

Don't Miss Out:

• Visit Watters: Head to Watters Garden Center to find a wide selection of fall vegetable seedlings and winter flowers. Get planting and enjoy the fresh flavors of fall!

 

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🚿H2-Whoa! A Guide to Quenching Your Garden’s Summer Thirst 🚿

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here. Summer's heat can leave your garden parched, but don’t let those drooping leaves discourage you!

Water Wisely

• Morning Glory: Water in the morning so your plants have time to dry out before evening, preventing diseases.
• Wilting Wonders: Some plants, like tomatoes, wilt as a way to cope with heat. If they perk up in the evening, they’re likely okay.
• Thirsty Roots: Annuals need more frequent watering than perennials, while trees and shrubs need a deep soak once a week. Containers and vegetable gardens need consistent moisture.

Yellow Alert

• Chlorosis Clues: Yellowing leaves could mean your soil pH is too high, locking out essential nutrients. Soil sulfur can help lower the pH and restore your plants' vibrant green color.

Fall Fertilizing

• Holiday Schedule: Fertilize four times a year - around Halloween, New Year's, Easter, and Fourth of July. This helps your plants thrive despite our challenging soil and water conditions.

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🎙️Welcome to 'The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners. Beat the heat and keep your garden thriving with our expert tips on protecting plants from extreme weather.

Get ready to transform your garden into an autumn oasis! This episode covers everything from late-summer pruning tips for vibrant winter landscapes to choosing the perfect privacy trees. We'll share savvy savings strategies at the garden center and reveal the best fall plants for long-lasting color and blooms. Plus, we'll tackle those pesky tomato hornworms and explore the fascinating gardening world alongside javelina and other backyard wildlife. Let's dive in and make your garden the envy of the neighborhood!

Included in this week’s episode:

• Late summer Pruning for Winter Long Beauty
• What’s Better as a Privacy Screen Arizona Cypress or Deodar Cedar
• How to Save Money at a Garden Center
• Best Fall Plants for Autumn Long Flowers, Color and Blooms
•  Gardening with Javelina and other Back Yard Animals
• Preventing Green Tomato Worms in the Gardens

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, #kedj, #FallGardening, #PrivacyTrees, #BudgetLandscaping, #AutumnBlooms, #WildlifeGardening

🐛 Preventing Green Tomato Worms in the Gardens 🐛

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here! The beautiful hummingbird moth you're seeing flitting about is more than just a pretty pollinator.

 

The tomato hornworm's offspring can wreak havoc on your garden, devouring foliage and even fruits! But don't fret; there's an easy organic solution: BT. This naturally occurring bacteria disrupts the caterpillar's digestion, effectively stopping them in their tracks.

 

Remember, early detection is key! Watch for the first signs of damage and spray your plants with BT as soon as you spot hungry caterpillars. Your tomatoes, peppers, and other garden favorites will thank you!

 

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🦌 Gardening with Javelina and Other Backyard Animals 🦌

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! If you're gardening in the Southwest, you're likely familiar with javelina – those wild, pig-like animals that can wreak havoc on your backyard oasis.  But don't despair!  There are ways to protect your plants while still enjoying a beautiful garden.

 

Javelina are natural foragers, rooting for grubs and tasty roots. Unfortunately, your prized vegetables and flowers often become part of their buffet.  While they can eat almost anything, some plants are naturally resistant.

 

Consider planting Cotoneaster or Juniper.  These shrubs have a strong scent that javelina dislike.  Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina) is another excellent choice. It's low-maintenance and has a white sap that deters these critters.

 

Many flowering shrubs, like Smokebush, Crape Myrtle, and Rose of Sharon, are also left alone.  And if you love spring blooms, Forsythia, flowering quince, and lilacs are generally safe bets.

 

Remember, though, there's no foolproof vegetable that javelina won't eat.  If you want to grow your own food, consider fencing off a dedicated area or growing in raised beds on your deck.

 

Remember, gardening in javelina country requires a bit of strategy.  But with the right plants and some smart precautions, you can still enjoy a thriving garden.

 

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🌺 Best Fall Plants for Autumn Long Flowers, Color and Blooms 🌺

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Fall is a magical time in the garden, and here in the mountains, we have the unique opportunity to enjoy blooms and vibrant colors right through November! Now is the perfect time to add some autumn stars to your landscape.

 

For stunning fall foliage, consider planting ornamental trees like Maples, Aspens, or Raywood Ash. Vines like Virginia Creeper and Trumpet Vine add a splash of color as they climb. Shrubs like Burning Bush, Nandina, and Oregon Grape Holly bring fiery reds, oranges, and yellows to your garden. Even native plants like Prickly Pear can surprise you with colorful pads in the cooler months.

 

Don't forget about mums and asters! These classic fall bloomers add cheerful pops of color and thrive in our climate. Mums, especially, are surprisingly hardy perennials here, returning year after year with proper care.

 

Remember, fall planting gives your new additions a head start, allowing them to establish strong roots before winter dormancy. So, don't wait! Embrace the beauty of autumn and plant now for a vibrant fall garden.

 

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💲How to Save Money at a Garden Center💲

Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardener here late summer/early fall is a fantastic time to save money on your landscaping dreams!

 

Like ours here at Watters, garden centers are transitioning from summer to fall/winter plants, creating an opportunity for savvy gardeners. We need to make room for the new arrivals – think Christmas trees, holiday plants, and all things festive. This means we're clearing out the remaining summer plants – perennials, shrubs, trees – at fantastic prices. It's like our own version of a monster monsoon sale!

 

These plants are in their prime, ready to thrive in your garden. We are simply making way for the next wave of seasonal beauties. It's a win-win: you snag incredible deals on healthy plants, and we make room for our exciting new arrivals. So, if you've been dreaming of a lush landscape, now's the time to act. Take advantage of the season's shift and create the garden you've always wanted!

 

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🌲 What’s Better as a Privacy Screen, Arizona Cypress or Deodar Cedar 🌲

Ken and Lisa Lain the top 10 Gardeners here. When it comes to creating a privacy screen in our mountain landscape, Arizona Cypress and Deodar Cedar are both excellent options, but the best choice for you depends on what you value most.

 

Arizona Cypress is a native tree that is a natural fit for our high desert climate. It's tough as nails, thriving in hot, dry conditions with minimal water once established. Its dense, columnar growth habit makes it a perfect natural fence, blocking unwanted views while adding a touch of Southwestern charm. Plus, supporting native plants benefits local wildlife and ecosystems.

 

On the other hand, if you're in a hurry for privacy, Deodar Cedar is your speedster. This fast-growing evergreen creates a lush, green wall in a fraction of the time. Its graceful, drooping branches add a touch of elegance, and the soft needles provide a textural contrast to Arizona's rugged landscape.

 

Both trees will eventually reach a substantial size, offering ample screening. Consider the mature height and width when planning your planting.

 

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Do you prioritize a native, low-maintenance option or a fast-growing, elegant screen? Either way, you'll enjoy a secluded oasis in your own backyard.

 

Visit Watters Garden Center to see these beauties in person and get expert advice tailored to your specific needs. Happy planting!

 

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🌳 Late Summer Pruning for Winter Long Beauty 🌳

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, is here; we're embracing the late summer bloom!

It's a fantastic time to prune and prepare your garden for winter. After the summer rains, plants like Autumn Sage and Russian Sage are thriving, showcasing vibrant colors that rival the spring blooms.

Now's the time to prune back overgrown hedges, evergreens, and vines. This encourages fresh growth before winter, ensuring a well-manicured look throughout the colder months. Don't forget your fruit trees! After harvesting, a light prune helps maintain their size and shape.

Remember, timely pruning and care now will reward you with a stunning garden, even in the depths of winter. Happy gardening!

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