10 Weekly Tips to Greener Plants. His tips, tricks, and garden hacks are easy to follow in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Tune in and get the most out of your garden. Ken’s weekly garden column is featured nationally. His national podcast and YouTube channel attract millions of gardeners. He also owns Watters Garden Center in Prescott, Arizona, and a digital garden center at Top10Plants.com. Listen to this week’s episode of Top 10 Gardeners and watch your plants thrive.
Episodes
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
🌳Top 10 Flowering Trees of Spring 🌳
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Howdy, garden friends. Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are in the house!
Spring is bursting forth, and what better way to celebrate than with a splash of color in your yard? Here at Watters Garden Center, we love flowering trees and trust me; there's one perfect for every taste.
Craving a bolder statement? Look no further than a Flowering Crabapple, with its vibrant display of red, pink, or white blossoms. And for a touch of the exotic, how about a redbud tree? Their clusters of magenta or lavender flowers are a guaranteed showstopper.
Nothing beats a Flowering Cherry! Their clouds of pink blossoms are simply breathtaking. Imagine the delicate beauty against a backdrop of blue spring skies – pure magic! Plus, they come in a variety of sizes, so there's one for any space.
These are just a taste of the springtime stunners we have available. Come on down to Watters and let our experts help you find the perfect flowering tree to transform your yard into a spring wonderland!
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🌳Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
🌺Growing Better Peony 🌺
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Hey there, fellow plant enthusiasts! Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardner Here.
Have you ever dreamt of those big, beautiful peony blooms gracing your garden? Imagine fluffy blossoms in every shade, from pink and coral to creamy white – they smell amazing, too! Well, dream no more! Peonies are fantastic perennials that, with a little know-how, can thrive for decades.
The secret to success? Sun and spacing! Peonies need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day for those show-stopping flowers (some afternoon shade might be helpful in scorching climates). And when planting, think ahead – peonies like their space. Give them about 3-4 feet between plants to stretch their roots. Remember, peonies like their "knees" exposed – don't bury the crown (that knobby bit with the eyes) deeper than 3 inches. Patience is key: established peonies might take a year or two to really hit their flowering stride, but the wait is absolutely worth it!
For more helpful tips, check out our full guide on "How to Grow Peony" at wattersgardencenter.com.
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Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
🪴How to Help Plants Recover from Frost Damage🪴
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Is frost sneaking up on your plants this spring? Don't despair!
That blackened foliage might look disheartening, but your plants have hidden strength. The key is patience. Resist the urge to immediately snip away those damaged bits. Let your plant recover for a few weeks - you might be surprised by the new growth that emerges! Once that surge is over, you can clean up the old damage.
To give your plant a helping hand, offer a little fertilizer boost. Plants use stored energy to put out their first flush of spring growth. Frost damage means they'll need an extra dose of nutrients to recover. For a supercharged pick-me-up, try Root & Grow. This liquid compost tea is like a vitamin shot for your plants. Just mix a couple of tablespoons into a gallon of water and watch them perk up.
Remember, gardening is about working with nature, not rushing it. With a little time and care, your plants will bounce back from that frosty setback.
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
🪴Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
Monday Apr 01, 2024
🍎 Growing Bountiful Apples in Zone 7🍎
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener!
In the heart of Zone 7, the apple tree is king.
With the right care, these trees can provide an abundance of fruit. Start by choosing a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant in spring and mulch generously. Water deeply, especially during the first few years, and feed with a balanced fertilizer. Prune for shape and health, and thin the fruits to encourage larger apples.
With varieties like Honeycrisp and Gala, your garden will be the envy of the neighborhood. Embrace the joy of growing, and bite into the fruits of your labor.
Link to the Blog Article - "Growing Bountiful Apples in Zone 7"
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🍎 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Sunday Mar 31, 2024
🌳 Interview Aaron Lamb Trees of Corrales 🌳
Sunday Mar 31, 2024
Sunday Mar 31, 2024
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:
- Fastest Growing Plants for a Thick Hedge of Privacy
- Atlas Cedar and Deador Cedar - What’s the Difference
- Bloomers of Early Spring
- How to Grow California Poppy and Their Companion Plants
- Interview with Aaron Lamb from Trees of Corrales
- How to Plant For Fast 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. 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,
Saturday Mar 30, 2024
🪴How to Plant For Fast Growth 🪴
Saturday Mar 30, 2024
Saturday Mar 30, 2024
Plant lovers, it’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here!
Ready to see your garden explode with growth?
Remember, success in the garden isn't just about the plants – it's about the knowledge we share! That's why we at Watters Garden Center believe in growing gardeners, not just gardens. Want the inside scoop for faster results? I've packed years of local expertise into a special guide: "Privacy, Your Secret Garden." It's your go-to for choosing the right plants, spacing them perfectly, and using our favorite fertilizers for maximum growth. Find this free resource (and more!) on our website – just click the "Learn" button at the top. Let's grow together!
https://wattersgardencenter.com/
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https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast,
Friday Mar 29, 2024
🌳 Interview with Aaron Lamb from Trees of Corrales 🌳
Friday Mar 29, 2024
Friday Mar 29, 2024
Hey there, plant enthusiasts. It’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and I just caught the most insightful interview with Aaron Lamb of Trees of Corrales.
He's got a real passion for native plants, especially those with year-round interest – think broadleaf evergreens! He mentioned Arizona Rosewood for its unique beauty, and Manzanitas for their adaptability and water-wise ways.
Want that classic evergreen look with a local twist? He recommends ditching the boxwoods in favor of these native gems. Remember, good drainage is key! Watters Garden Center has a fantastic selection of all sizes – perfect for adding a touch of lasting green to your landscape.
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
🌳 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast,
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
🌸How to Grow California Poppy and Their Companion Plants 🌸
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Howdy, sunshine seekers, it’s Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners!
Got a hankering for that California dreaming' in your garden?
California Poppies bring a burst of sunshine with their cheerful blooms. These low-maintenance beauties thrive in well-drained soil and love a good baking under the sun.
But don't let them steal the spotlight all by themselves! Pair them with vibrant companions like the dazzling Rainbow Ascot Euphorbia, with its firecracker-red blooms, for a true color explosion. Delphiniums, with their stately blue spires, add a touch of elegance, while attracting pollinators galore.
Remember, poppies self-seed readily, so deadheading (removing spent blooms) helps control their spread and encourages even more flowers. Happy planting, friends!
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🌸Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
🌳Bloomers of Early Spring 🌳
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Howdy, fellow plant peeps, it’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener!
Spring's whisper is in the air, and soon our yards will be bursting with color.
But before the tulips and daffodils steal the show, let's not forget the early risers! Purple Leaf Plums, with their vibrant foliage and delicate white or pink blossoms, add a pop of cheer that chases away winter blues. Ornamental Plums, close cousins, come in a rainbow of bloom colors – a feast for the eyes and the buzzing bees! And of course, the Redbud, a native favorite, paints the landscape with rosy-pink magic. These early bloomers are tough cookies, tolerating late frosts beautifully. So keep your eyes peeled, friends, spring's vibrant show is about to begin!
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Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
🌲Atlas Cedar and Deodar Cedar – What’s the Difference 🌲
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Howdy Evergreen Enthusiasts Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners Here!
Let's break down those majestic evergreens: Atlas Cedar or Deodar - Which One's For You?
Atlas Cedars sport blue-green needles for a cool hue, while deodars bring classic green and graceful weeping branches. Both are hardy, but Atlas Cedars handle our mountain weather a touch better. Want that picture-perfect look? Deodars need regular pruning to keep their shape. No matter your choice, remember, bigger is better when picking out your cedar—they're slow growers!
Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.
🌲Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #AtlasCedar, #DeodarCedar. #Evergreen Trees
Monday Mar 25, 2024
🪴Fastest Growing Plants for a Thick Hedge of Privacy🪴
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Monday Mar 25, 2024
🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener Here!
Want a lush privacy screen in a hurry? Look no further than these speedy growers! Red tip photinia bursts with fiery red foliage, while cotoneaster offers a tangle of branches and berries birds adore. For evergreen options, there's always elegant Emerald Green arborvitae. Plant in a sunny spot, provide regular water, and watch your living fence take shape!
And Here is the Link to the Free Privacy Screen eBook I promised
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🪴 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Sunday Mar 24, 2024
Interview with Mike Neenan Schmit Nursery - Flowering Trees of Spring
Sunday Mar 24, 2024
Sunday Mar 24, 2024
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:
- Top 10 Blooming Shrubs of Spring
- When Should a Lawn Start with Water and Food
- When do Spring Blooming Plants need Frost Protection
- Spring Gopher Plant with Garden Companions
- Interview with Mike Neenan Schmit Nursery - Flowering Trees of Spring
- Why Weather Matters when Gardening
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. 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,
Saturday Mar 23, 2024
⛅ Why Weather Matters when Gardening ⛅
Saturday Mar 23, 2024
Saturday Mar 23, 2024
Hey there, plant pals! Ken Lain here, ready to chat about the sometimes unpredictable world of weather and how it affects our gardens.
Don't worry; it's not all sunshine and rain showers (although those are important, too!). Understanding how temperature, wind, and even humidity impact your plants can make all the difference in their success.
Think of it like this: some plants love a good sunbath, while others prefer misty mornings. By knowing your plants' preferences and keeping an eye on the forecast, you can adjust your watering schedule, protect delicate blooms from harsh winds, or even bring potted friends indoors when the temperature dips.
Weather wisdom is a superpower every gardener can have! Stay tuned for more tips on making the most of Mother Nature's moods, and remember, a happy plant is a thriving plant!
Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener
⛅ Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Friday Mar 22, 2024
🌳Interview with Mike Neenan Schmit Nursery - Flowering Trees of Spring 🌳
Friday Mar 22, 2024
Friday Mar 22, 2024
Ever Wondered Which Spring Flowering Tree is Perfect for You?
Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain here, reminding you that a well-chosen tree isn't just a seasonal delight; it's a lifelong companion for your yard.
That's why I'm excited to share an upcoming interview with Mike Neenan from Schmit Nursery! We'll be diving deep into the world of springtime bloomers, helping you pick the perfect variety to transform your outdoor space.
Worried about making the wrong choice? No worries! Mike and I will cover all the bases, from light and soil needs to mature size and flowering habits. Remember, a little planning goes a long way – you deserve a tree that matures into a breathtaking focal point, not an overgrown eyesore.
Stay tuned for the interview, and get ready to handpick the spring flowering tree of your dreams!
To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link
🌳 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener
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Thursday Mar 21, 2024
🌸 Spring Gopher Plant with Garden Companions 🌸
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Spring is a time for growth and new beginnings, and your garden is no exception! As the days lengthen and the warmth returns, it's the perfect time to plant some beautiful companions for your Gopher Plant. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Easter Amaryllis: A classic Easter flower, the Amaryllis adds a touch of elegance and cheer to the spring garden. Its bold blooms come in a variety of colors, and they're sure to brighten up any space. Plus, they're relatively low-maintenance, making them a great choice for busy gardeners.
- Columbine: These delicate, cup-shaped flowers come in a wide range of colors, including pinks, purples, and yellows. They're perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your garden, and they attract hummingbirds and butterflies with their sweet nectar.
- Euphorbia: Also known as the 'Spurge,' the Euphorbia is a versatile plant that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some varieties have colorful foliage, while others produce interesting flowers. They're all deer-resistant, making them a great choice for gardens that are prone to browsing animals.
- Forsythia: A true herald of spring, the Forsythia bursts into bloom with a profusion of bright yellow flowers. It's a low-maintenance shrub that's easy to care for, and it adds a welcome splash of color to the early spring garden.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. When choosing companion plants for your Gopher Plant, consider factors like sunlight requirements, watering needs, and mature size. With a little planning, you can create a beautiful and thriving spring garden that you'll enjoy all season long.
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