Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🎥 An Interview with Garden Coach Christina Salwitz 🎥

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Christina Salwitz, the personal garden coach from Seattle, now coaching our Watters Garden Center team in Prescott, Arizona.

Christina’s expertise in merchandising, colors, flowers, and container gardening transforms our store and inspires our gardening community.

From childhood, Christina had a keen eye for design and evolved into a sought-after garden coach, merging her fashion and interior design skills with horticulture.

Her unique approach to container gardens—cramscaping and breaking traditional rules—creates lush, vibrant displays that showcase the beauty of combining heights, colors, and textures. Christina’s passion for teaching and innovative methods truly elevate our gardening game.

Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with practical tips and creative ideas to enhance your garden!

 

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🌲 Slim Sentinels - The Elegance of Narrow Trees 🌲

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here! Ready to share some tree-spiration for those tight spaces in your yard.

We all have those awkward spots where a wide-spreading tree just won't fit. That's where slender trees come in! These vertical beauties add height, texture, and interest without taking up too much space.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• Slender Silhouette Sweet Gum: This beauty offers stunning orange fall foliage and a narrow, upright growth habit.
• Spirit Oak: With its classic oak-like leaves and vibrant red fall color, this tree is both elegant and hardy.
• Blue Arrow Juniper: This evergreen boasts a cool blue-grey hue and a slender, columnar shape, perfect for tight spaces.
• Columnar Blue Spruce: If you love the look of blue spruce but lack the space, this narrow variety is the answer!
• Googly Eyes Scotch Pine: This unique pine stays slender and adds a touch of whimsy with its twisted branches.

Remember, these trees are a hot commodity, so don't wait! Head over to Watters Garden Center and let our experts help you find the perfect slender sentinel for your landscape.

 

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🌳 Successfully Planting BIG Trees for Fast Growth 🌳

Hey there, green thumbs! Ken Lain here, ready to share some tree-planting wisdom for a lush and thriving landscape.

Planting big trees now is a smart move – they establish faster and can transform your yard in no time! But remember, success lies in the details.

Here are my tried-and-true tips:

1. Bigger is Better: Opt for larger trees with established root balls. They're more resilient and adapt faster to their new home.
2. Wide, Not Deep: Dig a hole three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep. This encourages strong, lateral root growth.
3. Amend Your Soil: Remove debris, then mix your native soil with premium compost for a nutrient-rich boost that supports healthy roots.
4. Feed Your Trees: Sprinkle a handful of 7-4-4 all-purpose plant food around the base of the tree for sustained nourishment.
5. Water and Stake: Water thoroughly with Root & Grow to prevent transplant shock. Stake larger trees for stability.

Remember, we're here to help! Pick up a free Watters Water Guide for detailed instructions and watering schedules. Let's create a beautiful oasis together!

 

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🪴 Shady Shrubs for Shady Gardens🪴

Are you tired of struggling with dim corners and gloomy spots? Ken and Lisa Lain are here, ready to brighten your shady yard with gorgeous shrubs.

Shade doesn't have to be dull! Embrace the cool tranquility with shrubs like the evergreen Daphne, boasting fragrant blooms, and Hydrangeas, offering stunning flowers in various shades.

Explore the elegant foliage of Hostas, which thrive in the shade and add texture and interest. And don't forget Camellias, with their glossy leaves and exquisite winter blooms.

For a unique touch, consider the graceful Heuchera or Coral Bells, a perennial that loves the shade and rewards you with tall, fragrant white flowers.

Remember, the key to successful shade gardening is choosing the right plants. Visit Watters Garden Center for expert advice and a wide selection of shade-loving beauties!

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🌳 Sustainable Landscapes - Native Trees That Thrive on Their Own 🌳

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Summer's in full swing, and Arizona's native plants are stealing the show!

The Desert Willow, a stunning tree found throughout the state, is blooming right now. It's a hardy beauty that thrives with little care once established. We've even developed new varieties that bloom longer than ever! For a non-flowering native, check out the Arizona Cypress. It's perfect for privacy screens and windbreaks.

Thinking about adding some trees to your landscape this season? Consider planting Aspen, a surprising native that thrives at higher elevations. Or try Arizona Ash, a tough tree with striking fall colors. We also recommend Honey Locust, a thornless variety known for its delicate leaves and shade-providing canopy.

And don't forget about our iconic pine trees! While Ponderosa Pines are stunning, Austrian Pines might be a better choice for most landscapes due to their fuller shape. Both are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them perfect for Arizona's climate.

Ready to bring some of these beauties into your own backyard? Visit Watters Garden Center for expert advice and a wide selection of native plants. You'll find everything you need to create a thriving, water-wise landscape that's perfectly suited for the Arizona environment.

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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.

Learn how to grow better berries in your landscape, ensuring a bountiful harvest with our easy-to-follow advice. Get a sneak peek into the future of gardening with exciting plants and innovative products set to revolutionize gardens in 2025 and beyond. Discover the newest impossible-to-kill perennials that promise beauty and resilience in any garden. Join us at Watters Garden Center for free garden classes, where learning is fun and every gardener, from novice to expert, can grow their green thumb.

Included in this week’s episode:

• Beating the Heat - Strategies to Protect Plants from Extreme Weather

• How to Grow Better Berries in the Landscape
• The Future of Gardening - Exciting Plants and Products for 2025 and Beyond
• Impossible to Kill Perennials New for the Gardens
• Garden Classes Free for the Learning at Watters Garden Center

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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🌳Garden Classes Free for the Learning at Watters Garden Center 🌳

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, I've got to tell you, there's nothing quite like the pride of watching your plants flourish, just like a proud parent. If you're eager to grow your green thumb this summer, join us for our FREE garden classes every Saturday at 9:30 AM.

Saturday, August 5th: Beat the heat with our guide to the best shade trees for Arizona.

Saturday, August 12th: Keep your garden pest-free with our bug control tips.

Saturday, August 17^th: Evergreens are the anchor of any landscape, providing color and privacy year-round

And that's just the start! For a full list of classes, visit our website or find us on Facebook. Let's learn and grow together!

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🌺Bulletproof Botanicals - The Most Resilient Plants for Any Garden🌺

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! your go-to resource for all things gardening in our beautiful Arizona climate. If you're new to the area or just looking for reliable plants that thrive with minimal effort, you've come to the right place.

Our region offers a unique opportunity to grow both hardy, cold-tolerant plants and those that love a little more warmth. Here are some bulletproof botanicals that are sure to flourish in your garden:

Flowering Trees:

• Redbud: Native to the area, this vibrant tree boasts heart-shaped leaves and bright pink blooms in spring.
• Mimosa: A favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies, this umbrella-shaped tree graces us with fragrant blooms right now.

Flowering Shrubs:

• Butterfly Bush: Available in a range of sizes and colors, this adaptable shrub thrives in our sunny, arid climate.
• Potentilla: This low-maintenance shrub produces an abundance of cheerful yellow flowers and is resistant to pests and animals.

Shade Trees:

• Ash, Locust, or Maple: These reliable trees offer ample shade and are well-suited to our climate.

Privacy Screens:

• Arizona Cypress: A fast-growing native evergreen that creates a dense, natural screen.
• Austrian Pine: This pine variety holds its foliage down to the ground, providing a thick and lush barrier.

Vines:

• Honeysuckle: A fragrant and vigorous vine that attracts pollinators and adds charm to any structure.
• Virginia Creeper: A native vine that thrives in our climate and adds a touch of wild beauty to your landscape.

Groundcovers:

• Blue Chip Juniper: A low-growing evergreen with silvery-blue foliage that adds texture and interest.
• Coral Beauty Cotoneaster: This low-maintenance shrub boasts vibrant red berries in the fall and winter.

These are just a few of the many bulletproof plants that thrive in our region. Visit our website or stop by the garden center for our complete list of top 10 plants in each category. We're always here to help you turn your brown thumb green!

 

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🌹Impossible to Kill Perennials New for the Gardens🌹

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are here! Just got in some new, impossible-to-kill varieties that are sure to thrive in our Arizona heat.

Check out the compact and colorful Neptune Catmint, the dwarf and ever-blooming Gold Star Black-Eyed Susan, or the heat-loving and well-behaved Mango and Orange Popsicle Red Hot Pokers.

Want something to really catch your eye? The Sunny Days Ruby Coneflower is a showstopper with its double pom-pom pink flowers, while the Baja Burgundy offers a deeper red hue. And don't forget the reliable Gaillardia Sun Rita, blooming through fall with cheerful yellow and red flowers.

For those low-maintenance areas, our new sedums are a must-have. Autumn Charm, with its variegated white and green foliage, or the dramatic Dark Magic with its deep purple leaves, are sure to add interest to your garden.

Remember, now is the ideal time to plant these perennials. With warm soil and ample moisture, they'll establish strong roots and reward you with beauty for years to come. Stop by Watters Garden Center and let's find the perfect perennials for your garden!

 

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🌼The Future of Gardening - Exciting Plants and Products for 2025 and Beyond🌼

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! The Future of Gardening is HERE! I just returned from the Cultivate trade show, and wow, the future of gardening is brighter (and maybe even glow-in-the-dark!) than ever.

Imagine petunias that light up the night like fireflies, thanks to a little genetic magic. Picture drones the size of your car, tending fields with pinpoint accuracy. Get ready for robots that plant, trim, and harvest your favorite flowers, all without lifting a finger.

This is the future of gardening, and it's happening NOW. And the best part? You can be a part of it right here at Watters Garden Center. We're always on the lookout for the latest and greatest plants and products, so you can be sure your garden is always ahead of the curve.

Get ready for glow-in-the-dark petunias, easier-care flowers, and even more garden magic in the years to come. Your gardening adventure is just beginning!

 

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🍓How to Grow Better Berries in the Landscape🍓

Hey there, Watters friends! Ken and Lisa Lain are here! We're ready to help you grow the tastiest berries in your backyard.

 

Imagine juicy raspberries, plump blueberries, and sweet strawberries bursting with flavor... Now, let's make it a reality!

 

First, choose the right berry varieties for our mountain climate. We love thornless options like Apache Thornless Blackberry and Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry – they're easy to pick and perfect for pies!

 

Plant them in full sun with well-draining soil, and water regularly for plump, juicy berries. Don't forget a layer of mulch to keep the soil cool and moist.

 

For raspberries and blackberries, consider trellising to keep the canes organized and maximize your harvest.

Remember, a little care goes a long way with berries. With the right varieties and a bit of TLC, you'll be enjoying the sweet rewards all season long!

 

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.

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🌡️Beating the Heat - Strategies to Protect Plants from Extreme Weather🌡️

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! The Arizona summer sun can be intense, but don't let it stress out your plants.

First things first, water early in the morning before the heat sets in. Your plants will thank you for a refreshing drink before the day gets too hot.

Next, add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants to keep the soil cool and prevent moisture loss.

For an extra boost, consider using Wilt Stop, a clear coating that acts like sunscreen for your plants, preventing them from losing too much moisture.

Finally, mix AquaBoost crystals into the soil of your container plants and raised beds. These crystals hold onto moisture and release it slowly to keep your plants hydrated throughout the day.

By following these simple tips, you can help your plants beat the heat and thrive all summer long!

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

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners. Transform your yard with our Top 10 Shrubs for summer, providing vibrant hues and elegance all season long. Beat the heat with the best shade trees for Verde Valley, like majestic Oaks and fast-growing Maples. Tackle erosion with top groundcovers such as Vinca and Creeping Thyme, while creating a stunning, water-wise garden with xeriscape plants like Agave and Lavender. Enhance your privacy with lush screens and hedges, including Arborvitae and Boxwood. Join us for a FREE garden class at Watters Garden Center to learn from expert gardeners and discover the secrets to a thriving garden.

Included in this week’s episode:

• Spectacular Summer Top 10 Shrubs for a Stunning Yard
• Top Shade Trees for Verde Valley
• Erosion Control Heroes - Best Groundcovers for Soil Stability
• Xeriscape Landscapes for Stunning Beauty
• Ultimate Privacy_ Best Screens and Hedges for Seclusion
• Attend a FREE Garden Class at Watters Garden Center

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!

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

 

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🌻Garden Class Insights: Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden with Sunflowers and More 🌻

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, Birds, birds, birds, birds, I love and garden for the birds.

I've noticed one plant they really enjoy, especially the smaller finches and sparrows. They really, really like my sunflowers. Interestingly, they're not after the flowers, but the foliage! I don't know if it's the roughage or what, but they love my SunBelievable sunflowers. These beauties can produce a thousand flowers in one season because they're sterile and focus on blooming instead of seeding. The small birds adore the foliage, and it's a joy to watch them flit around.

For hummingbirds, try Autumn Sage. Trim it back, fertilize with Flower Power, and watch it bloom in glorious colors. In my yard, the blue and red varieties are a hit.

Lantana is another winner. They thrive in the summer heat, attracting birds and butterflies. And don't forget the Silk Tassel tree. Its pink flowers and umbrella shape make it a perfect addition for bird activity.

Come by and talk to us about your garden needs. Happy planting!

 

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🌲Ultimate Privacy_ Best Screens and Hedges for Seclusion🌲

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Ever feel like your backyard's a bit too open? Like you're waving to the neighbors while grilling burgers? Well, let's create your own secret garden!

Big & Fast Evergreens:

These guys are your tall, thick privacy champs. Think upright evergreens like Deodar Cedar or Arizona Cypress. They shoot up fast, reaching 15+ feet in no time. Now, these are for larger spaces, but they offer serious seclusion in a hurry!

Large Evergreen Hedges:

For head-high privacy, Red-Tipped Photinia's popular, but I'm a fan of the low-maintenance duo: Red Clusterberry Cotoneaster and Silverberry (Elaeagnus). They're thick, hardy, and won't give you any fuss.

 

Pro Tip: Pick the right plant for your space. Overplanting can be just as bad as underplanting. Come by the garden center, we'll help you get the math right!

 

Let's make your backyard your sanctuary. Now get out there and grow some privacy!

 

To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link

 

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