Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

𖣂 Pruning for Recovery - Repairing Broken Tree Branches

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Spring is just around the corner, and it's the perfect time to assess any damage your trees may have suffered during the winter. Those heavy snows can wreak havoc on branches, so let's talk about pruning for recovery.

 

If you find broken or damaged branches, it's important to prune them cleanly. Make your cut at the branch collar, the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. This encourages faster healing and prevents decay. For larger branches, use a three-step cut to avoid tearing the bark.

 

Don't worry about under-pruning – it's better to be conservative. You can always remove more later if needed. And remember to fertilize those pruned trees to encourage vigorous new growth. With a little TLC, your trees will recover quickly and return to their majestic selves in no time.

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 25 – 06 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 and prepare for a successful spring. We'll explore the effects of

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📝Insider Garden Happenings at Top 10 Gardener

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken Lain here! Want the inside scoop on what's happening at Watters Garden Center? Spring has sprung, and we're buzzing with excitement as new plants arrive daily!

 

This week, we welcomed a fresh batch of Lenten Roses (Hellebores), those delightful winter bloomers that add a touch of magic to your garden. We also received our first shipment of lilacs, bursting with fragrant buds and promising a colorful spring.

 

And for those of you with smaller gardens, we've expanded our selection of cocktail trees – fruit trees grafted with multiple varieties for a diverse harvest in limited space. These are flying off the shelves, so don't miss out!

 

Want to learn more? Join us for our FREE garden classes every Saturday at 9:30 AM. This week, we have a special class for newcomers on February 17th. See you there!

 

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👨‍🌾Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring

Fellow Prescott gardeners! It's that time of year when we start dreaming of spring blooms and planning our gardens. I'm excited to share some tips tailored specifically for our Prescott area gardeners.

 

Zone-Specific Gardening

We're in zone 7, which means we can expect temperatures to dip below freezing. This affects what we can grow and when. It's crucial to choose plants that are hardy enough to withstand our winters.

 

Our Unique Climate

Besides the zone, our altitude, dry climate, and wind play a role in how plants thrive here. It's why some plants that do well in other parts of Arizona might struggle here. Understanding these factors will help you make informed choices about what to plant.

 

Helpful Resources

If you're looking for more detailed information, here are a few resources:

 

WattersGardenCenter.com

https://wattersgardencenter.com/gardening-for-newcomers-to-mountain-landscapes/

 

https://wattersgardencenter.com/preparing-for-spring-essential-february-garden-tasks/

 

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🌺February Plant of the Month Hellebore

Hey Houseplant Lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! February may be a chilly month, but it's also a time of anticipation for spring's arrival. And what better way to celebrate than with the enchanting Hellebore, our featured Plant of the Month?

 

Hellebores, also known as Lenten Roses, are winter-blooming marvels that bring a touch of magic to the garden when most other plants are dormant. Their delicate, bell-shaped flowers come in a wide array of colors, from deep purples and burgundies to soft pinks, yellows, and even white.

  

These hardy perennials are incredibly versatile. They thrive in shady spots and add a touch of elegance to borders, containers, and even woodland gardens. They're also deer-resistant, making them a welcome addition to gardens frequented by hungry wildlife.

  

At Watters Garden Center, we have a stunning selection of Hellebores in bloom right now, including the Ice N' Roses series with its unique variegated foliage. Stop by and discover the beauty and resilience of these winter wonders!

 

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🪻Best Companion Plants Best Planted in February

Ah, February, the month of anticipation! It's the perfect time to start thinking about spring blooms and adding some early color to your garden. Three standout plants that are both beautiful and resilient are hellebores, lily of the valley, and peonies.

 

Hellebores, also known as Lenten roses, are a favorite of mine. Their delicate, bell-shaped flowers come in a variety of colors, from deep purple to bright yellow. They're tough and adaptable, making them perfect for adding a touch of spring cheer to your garden.

 

Lily of the valley is another early bloomer that's sure to brighten your day. Its fragrant, bell-shaped flowers are a welcome sight in the spring. These plants are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in partial shade.

 

Peonies are a must-have for any spring garden. Their large, showy blooms come in a rainbow of colors, from deep pink to bright white. Peonies are long-lived and will return year after year, providing you with years of enjoyment.

 

All three of these plants are available at your local garden center in February. They're sure to add beauty and joy to your spring garden.

 

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🍑Are New Fruit Tree Plantings in Danger from Winter Snows

Hey there, gardening friends! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here to answer your questions about gardening in the Central Highlands.

 

Ah, the joys and challenges of winter gardening! You're right, it's definitely a busy time for us gardeners, even with the snow. Remember when we talked about the importance of staking trees? It's especially crucial during these snowy months to prevent them from leaning and potentially damaging the roots.

 

Don't worry about those fruit trees! A light dusting of snow can be beneficial, providing insulation and protecting them from extreme temperatures. However, heavy snowfall can be a concern, so it's a good idea to shake off excess snow to prevent breakage. And if you're worried about ice buildup, keep an eye on your plants and gently remove any ice that forms.

 

Those beautiful ornamental grasses can take a beating in winter weather. It's perfectly fine to cut them back now, and they'll bounce back in the spring. Just be sure to cut them back to a manageable height and fertilize them to encourage new growth.

 

Speaking of pruning, we touched on that earlier, too! Remember, it's best to prune roses and other fruit trees in the dormant season before they start to bud out in spring. This will help prevent them from being damaged by late frosts.

 

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❄️The Good, Bad and Ugly Reasons to Love Snow in the Gardens

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Today, we're tackling the good, the bad, and the ugly of snow in the garden. While it may seem like a nuisance at times, snow plays a vital role in the health of your plants.

 

The good news is that snow acts as a natural reservoir, slowly melting and releasing moisture into the soil, which is especially beneficial during dry winter months. It also acts as a blanket, protecting plants from harsh winter temperatures and frost. As a bonus, snow can help to kill insect eggs and larvae, reducing pest pressure come spring.

 

However, heavy snow can damage plants, especially young trees and shrubs. It's essential to shake off excess snow to prevent breakage. Ice buildup can also be harmful, so gently remove it from delicate leaves and stems if necessary. And finally, the ugly side of snow: it can create a moist environment that encourages mold growth. Keep an eye on your plants and remove any moldy debris.

 

Overall, the benefits of snow in the garden outweigh the drawbacks. By taking a few precautions, like shaking off heavy snow and monitoring mold, you can ensure that your plants emerge from winter healthy and ready to thrive.

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 25 – 05 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

From prepping your soil for a bountiful spring to selecting the perfect ornamental grasses and even finding unique gifts for your garden-loving Valentine, February at Watters Garden Center is all about getting ready for a vibrant growing season. We'll explore the world of fruit trees, including whether peaches need a partner to produce, and share expert tips on attracting more wildflowers to your garden. Plus, our free Saturday garden classes are designed to boost your spring gardening game with practical, hands-on advice. Join us as we dig into these topics and more, empowering you to create the garden of your dreams!

Included in this week’s episode:

• February Gardening: Preparing for a Bountiful Spring
• Peaches - Does it Take More than One to Fruit
• A Guide to Beautiful Ornamental Grasses
• Gifts any Garden Valentine Loves
• Get More Wildflowers – Plant Now
• Garden Classes will up your Spring Gardening Game

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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📝Garden Classes will up your Spring Gardening Game

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Spring is in the air, and so is the excitement for gardening!

 

Our Saturday garden classes at Watters Garden Center are in full swing, offering practical advice for every gardener. This week, we'll cover mountain fruit trees, discussing proven varieties and techniques for maximizing your harvest. Then, join us for "Gardening for Newcomers," a comprehensive overview of our local climate, soil types, and essential gardening practices. We'll wrap up the month with a class on early-blooming evergreens. These free classes fill up fast, so bring a chair and join the fun!

Check out wattersgardencenter.com/events/ for the full schedule. It's time to get those hands dirty and watch your garden thrive!

 

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🌿Get More Wildflowers – Plant Now

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! It might seem counterintuitive, but those tiny wildflower seeds actually benefit from winter's chill.

 

The freeze-thaw cycle helps break down their tough outer shells, leading to better germination come spring. Plus, planting now gives them a head start on the growing season and reduces competition from weeds.

 

When choosing wildflower seeds, opt for a perennial mix specifically designed for our mountain climate. Avoid those cheap annual mixes – they won't return year after year. To prepare your soil, scrape it open with a stiff rake and remove any debris. Then, mix your seeds with Watters Premium Mulch for easier spreading and to protect them from hungry birds.

 

With a little patience and care, you'll have a vibrant wildflower display that brings joy to your garden and supports pollinators.

 

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💖Gifts any Garden Valentine Loves

Hey Houseplant Lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and at Watters Garden Center, we believe the best gifts are the ones that grow.

 

Surprise your gardening sweetheart with a present that blooms and thrives, long after the chocolates have been eaten. We have a delightful selection of indoor and outdoor plants perfect for the occasion. For a touch of the tropics, consider an Anthurium, the vibrant, heart-shaped blooms of which can last for months. Or, choose a Bromeliad with its striking, exotic flower that can bloom for up to a year! These low-maintenance beauties are ideal for any gardener. We also have a colorful array of African Violets, perfect for adding a touch of charm to any indoor space.

 

If your Valentine has a passion for roses, our selection of premium, dormant A-grade roses is unmatched. These aren't your typical grocery store roses; they boast robust root systems and strong, healthy canes, guaranteeing a vigorous start and abundant blooms come spring. We carry sought-after varieties like the multi-colored Joseph's Coat, the incredibly fragrant Double Delight, and Ken's personal favorite, the pristine white Sugar Moon. These exceptional roses will provide years of beauty and fragrance.

 

Come explore our Valentine's Day collection at Watters and find the perfect gift that expresses your love and celebrates their green thumb.

 

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🌾A Guide to Beautiful Ornamental Grasses

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Beautiful ornamental grasses add so much texture and movement to our gardens, but did you know they benefit from a little "extra love," too?

 

Just like us, they appreciate a good meal! Manure is a fantastic organic fertilizer packed with nutrients that grasses absolutely love. It improves soil structure, helps retain water, and promotes vigorous growth.

 

We recommend using aged or composted manure at Watters to avoid burning your precious plants. In early spring, apply a thin layer around the base of grasses like Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') or Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), being careful not to let it touch the leaves.

 

Water thoroughly afterwards, and repeat this nourishing process again in the fall. Don't forget to cut back your grasses in autumn to remove dead foliage and encourage fresh growth. Regular watering, especially during our hot Arizona summers, is also essential. With these simple tips, your ornamental grasses will thrive, creating a stunning landscape you can enjoy year-round.

 

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🍑Peaches - Does it Take More than One to Fruit

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your questions about growing luscious peaches in the Central Highlands.

 

Good news! You can plant fruit trees right now, and most peach varieties are self-pollinating, meaning you only need one tree to produce fruit.

 

However, planting two different varieties nearby can increase fruit set and give you a more abundant harvest.

 

For those wondering about cherries, look for self-fruitful varieties like Lapins and Stella. But remember, even self-pollinating trees benefit from having a partner, so consider planting two if you have the space.

 

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🍀February Gardening: Preparing for a Bountiful Spring

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain The Top 10 Gardener here! February is the time to get your hands dirty and your garden ready! Spring planting is just around the corner, and a little prep now makes all the difference. Don't wait for perfect weather; seize those sunny days and get your soil in shape. I've been busy in my own garden, and I'm sharing what works for me, hoping it works for you too.

 

First things first: soil preparation. Think of it as building a cozy bed for your plants. You want to enrich it with plenty of organic matter. I use a 50/50 blend of composted mulch and manure. We take the extra step to deodorize our manure here at Watters Garden Center, so no stinky surprises in your car! Spread a two-to-three-inch layer over your raised beds or garden plot and turn it in one shovel's depth. While you're at it, remove any leftover roots and debris from last year – they can harbor disease and rob your new plants of nutrients.

 

Now, for my secret weapon: a blend of fruit and vegetable food (6-4-4-7 formula, high in calcium!), gypsum, and sulfur. The calcium helps with bigger, more flavorful fruits and vegetables and prevents blossom end rot. Gypsum also helps with that. And the sulfur? It's key for us here in Northern Arizona. Our water is very alkaline, so we need to lower the pH of the soil, and sulfur does just that. Don't add lime – you'll just make the problem worse! Mix everything in, let it settle for a few weeks, and you'll be ready to plant your early spring crops like potatoes, garlic, onions, cauliflower, lettuce, and broccoli come March.

 

Get a head start now, and you'll be harvesting long before the "yardiners" even think about planting!

 

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