Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌳 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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🌳 Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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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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🌺Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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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/

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #SummerShrubs, #VerdeValleyShade, #ErosionControl, #XeriscapeBeauty, #PrivacyHedges, #WattersGardenClass

🌻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

 

🌲Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌵Xeriscape Landscapes for Stunning Beauty🌵

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are here! With minimal water usage, you can transform your garden into a stunning xeriscape landscape.

 

Embrace the beauty of drought-tolerant plants that thrive in the summer heat. Lantana, with its vibrant colors, loves the sun and provides a splash of summer joy. Crape Myrtles, blooming brilliantly, are heat lovers that add charm to any garden. Pentas, available in white, red, lavender, and pink, attract butterflies with their long-lasting blooms. Portulaca, with its double flowers, thrives in rock gardens and containers, showing off bright colors all season. Ice plants, with their perennial hardiness, and Portulaca, with annual vibrancy, offer beautiful options for your xeriscape garden.

Enhance your landscape with these resilient plants and enjoy a low-maintenance, water-wise garden. Remember to mulch and deep water to keep your plants healthy.

For personalized advice, visit us at Watters Garden Center and let us help you create the perfect xeriscape garden.

 

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🌱Erosion Control Heroes - Best Groundcovers for Soil Stability🌱

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! It's time to turn to nature's best groundcovers for soil stability.

Cotoneaster, with its sprawling varieties like Coral Beauty and Cranberry, is perfect for covering large areas quickly. Its robust root system holds the soil, while its white spring flowers and red berries add beauty.

Pair it with Creeping Rosemary, especially the Huntington Carpet variety, for a drought-resistant, evergreen solution.

Don't overlook Junipers like Calgary Carpet, which are hardy and non-allergenic. Trumpet Vine, with its vibrant red flowers, can climb or spread, adding a splash of color and attracting hummingbirds. Lastly, Hall's Honeysuckle, with its aggressive roots and efficient water use, is ideal for both ground cover and climbing.

Need help designing your garden? Snap a picture, measure your space, and our team at Watters Garden Center will guide you in spacing and plant selection. Let’s transform your landscape into a thriving, erosion-resistant oasis!

 

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🌳 Top Shade Trees for the Verde Valley 🌳

Hey there, Watters friends! Ken and Lisa Lain here, Looking for a fast-growing shade tree?

Go for a hybrid elm like Frontier, Alley, or Princeton. These beauties thrive at all elevations, resist bugs and diseases, and grow quickly.

Want more options? Locusts (honey, golden, purple robe) handle heat and wind like champs.  Ash trees (Raywood, Arizona, Modesto) offer stunning shade. And don't forget native sycamores!

Remember, monsoons are here, making it the perfect time to plant. Visit Watters Garden Center to see these trees in person and get expert advice.

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.

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🌺Spectacular Summer - Top 10 Shrubs for a Stunning Yard 🌺

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Summer is the perfect time to revamp your garden with vibrant, hardy shrubs that thrive in the heat.

If you are looking to create a stunning yard, here are my top 10 shrub picks for a spectacular summer display.

Start with Merlot Euphorbia, a perennial with deep purple foliage that pairs beautifully with its golden cousin, Rainbow Ascot Euphorbia. For fragrant blooms, consider English Lavender, which attracts hummingbirds and butterflies while repelling pests like rabbits and javelinas. Other excellent choices include the show-stopping Crape Myrtle, the versatile Rose of Sharon, and the drought-tolerant Blue Mist Spirea. Tune in for the entire list.

Each of these shrubs not only adds color and texture to your garden but also requires minimal maintenance, making them ideal for the everyday gardener.

Plant them in well-draining soil, ensure they get plenty of sunlight, and watch your garden come to life this summer!

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🌺Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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