Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌱A Better Way to Feed Plants Organically 🌱

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Feeding your plants organically is key to taking full advantage of the growing season.

Fertilize now to boost growth during the monsoons, ensuring vibrant blooms and strong, healthy plants.

Organic fertilizers, rich in natural nutrients like cottonseed meal and bird guano, not only nourish your plants but also enhance soil health by encouraging beneficial organisms. Avoid synthetic fertilizers that can harm your soil and groundwater.

You create a thriving garden environment that supports robust growth and vibrant colors by embracing natural options. Take action now and enjoy the benefits of organic gardening throughout the monsoon season.

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

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

🌱Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips,

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #OrganicGardening, #FertilizeSmart, #HealthySoil, #MonsoonMagic

🌺The Biggest Flowers in the Summer Perennial Garden🌺

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here! June is upon us, and you know what that means? Time for the summer perennial superstars to take center stage!

These beauties aren't just colorful companions in your garden beds, they're powerhouses of blooms that'll keep your yard dazzling all season long. Forget the tiny green blobs you see in spring – these perennials are exploding with life!

Let's talk about some of the biggest and brightest on the block:

• Coneflowers (Echinacea): These Arizona favorites are all about heat tolerance and low maintenance. They come in a stunning range of colors, from the classic purple to fiery orange and sunny apricot varieties like 'Sangrita' and 'Fresco Apricot.' Pinch off the spent blooms to encourage even more flowers throughout the summer.
• Delphinium: While typically known for cooler shades, the 'Red Lark Delphinium' brings a vibrant salmon pink to your garden. This beauty thrives in partial shade and adds a unique touch to shady areas.
• Daylilies: June is prime time for daylilies! These versatile perennials come in a vast array of colors beyond the traditional yellow. Look for stunning burgundy varieties with yellow edges, perfect for sunny spots.
• Agastache (Hyssop): This low-maintenance wonder boasts beautiful orange and pink blooms that attract hummingbirds like crazy. Unlike Russian sage, Agastache doesn't spread aggressively and features a delightful licorice scent that keeps deer and rabbits at bay.
• Hypericum (St. John's Wort): Don't let the complicated name fool you! This sunshine-loving perennial offers cheerful yellow blooms that transform into bright red berries as summer fades. The dark green foliage creates a striking contrast, and the whole plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.

These are just a taste of the incredible summer perennials waiting for you at Watters. So come on down and let's create a blooming masterpiece in your yard together!

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community!

 

🌺Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #SummerGardenTips, #SummerBlooms, #HeatLovingPlants, #SunLovingFlowers, #Perennials, #SummerPerennials, #BloomingBold

🌿The Dirty Little Secret about Vinegar as a Weed Killer 🌿

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Let's talk about vinegar as a weed killer.

Vinegar can be a handy tool for getting rid of small weeds, but there's a catch: vinegar alone might not be strong enough to tackle the whole job. Vinegar can be effective in killing small weeds and young weeds, but it mostly targets the leaves and won't kill the roots. That means those pesky weeds will be back in no time!

Here at Watters, we recommend a safer option: Decimate. This product kills the entire plant, roots and all, and is much more effective in the long run. Plus, it's safer for you, your pets, and the environment.

So, skip the vinegar and head down to Watters for a long-term weed solution to pick up some Decimate. Happy weed-free gardening!

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

 

🌿Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #Weeds, #WeedFreeGarden, #SaferGardening, #Decimate

🌳What Yellowing Leaves Mean for Summer Trees 🌳

Hey there, Watters friends! Ken and Lisa Lain here, and I know some of you might be seeing yellow leaves on your summer trees. Let me tell you, it's not always a sign of fall coming early.

Those pale leaves could be a cry for help from a hungry tree! Sometimes, our summer beauties struggle with iron deficiency, especially if the soil's pH is a little high. But don't worry, there's a simple solution!

Head down to Watters and grab a bag of soil sulfur. It'll help lower that pH and get your tree back on track. Plus, throw in some of our fantastic 7-4-4 All-Purpose Food to really give it a boost.

Within a week or so, you'll see those leaves turning a rich, healthy green, and your tree will be shading you in style all summer long. Remember, happy trees are green trees, so take care of them!

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.

Subscribe now!

 

🌳Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardeners

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #SummerGarden, #TreeCare

🪴Why Plants Grow Faster with Summer Rain 🪴

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! The monsoon season is in full swing here in Northern Arizona, and the difference in plant growth is astonishing. It's not just the rain, but the humidity, shade, and charged atmosphere that make plants go wild.

Summer rain is like a second growing season. It's easier to start plants now than in spring. The warm, moist soil is perfect for trees, shrubs, and fruit trees. The increased humidity also helps existing plants thrive.

This week, I measured over two inches of rain in my gardens! Did you know that the average thundercloud dumps nearly 300,000 gallons of water? That's almost an acre-foot of rain!

Now is the time to take advantage of the monsoon season. Trim back your perennials, clean up your annuals, and fertilize for a second flush of blooms. If you have new plants, give them a boost with humic acid. It activates the soil, attracting beneficial microbes and encouraging strong root growth.

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

🪴Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #monsoonseason, #humicacid

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

Included in this week’s episode:

• How to Force Tomatoes to Set More Fruit
• How to Keep Flowers Blooming Through Summer
• The Easiest Roses Anyone Can Grow
• Summer Flowers that Bloom in Hot Sun
• Top 10 Trees for Summer Shade

• The Most Important Feeding of Summer is Before Independence Day

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,

🎆The Most Important Feeding of Summer is Before Independence Day 🎆

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! As we approach Independence Day, it’s time for the most crucial feeding of the summer.

Your trees, shrubs, and flowers need a nutrient boost to stay healthy and vibrant. Apply an all-purpose plant food to keep them strong, especially if they’re showing signs of stress like leaf damage.

Additionally, humic acid, like our Humic product, can help plants develop deeper, stronger roots. This combination will rejuvenate your garden and ensure lush growth. Aim to fertilize everything in your yard—trees, shrubs, flowers, and roses—by the end of June or the first part of July.

By doing this, you’ll give your garden the best chance to thrive and even encourage a bit of rain. Happy gardening!

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

 

🎆Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #WattersGardenCenterAZ, #kdj, #plantfood, #fertilizer

 

🌳Top 10 Trees for Summer Shade 🌳

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Summer shade can transform your yard into a cool oasis.

Here are the top 10 trees to consider planting for ample shade.

The Maple tree tops our list with its fast growth and vibrant fall color. Sycamores grow quickly and are affordable, making them popular in subdivisions, but they can be messy. A better choice for fall color and neatness is the Arizona Ash or its cousins, the Modesto Ash and Raywood Ash. Golden Locust and Purple Robe Locust are excellent choices, offering unique beauty and dense shade.

When selecting, walk through our garden center to pick the tree best suited for your yard's unique needs. Avoid trees that shed leaves over extended periods and instead opt for those that drop their leaves all at once for easier cleanup. Embrace the journey of finding the perfect tree for your backyard haven.

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

 

🌳Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #trees, #shadetrees, #BackyardGardening, #TreeCare

🌺Summer Flowers That Bloom in Hot Sun 🌺

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here! If you want your garden to burst with color despite the scorching summer sun.

We've got just the tips for you. Choose plants that love the heat, like Lantanas. These beauties thrive in containers, offering vibrant pinks and yellows that brighten any space. Plus, they come in both annual and perennial varieties, so you can enjoy them year after year.

Another fantastic choice is Pentas, which not only blooms brilliantly but also attracts butterflies. For a touch of fragrance, consider Daphne and Gardenias. Though they prefer a bit of shade, they fill your garden with delightful scents.

For stunning, long-lasting blooms, plant these heat-loving flowers and watch your garden thrive even in the hottest summer months.

 

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community

 

🌺Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #SummerGardenTips, #SummerBlooms, #HeatLovingPlants, #SunLovingFlowers

🌹The Easiest Roses Anyone Can Grow🌹

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Let’s talk about the easiest roses anyone can grow.

Choose ever-blooming varieties for constant blooms. Unlike old-school roses that bloom once and disappear, these modern beauties offer wave after wave of flowers throughout the season.

In our garden, we love the Easy Elegance series and Grace ‘n Grits. These varieties resist mildew and pests, making them almost carefree. Just prune all your roses in March and fertilize with a systemic rose fertilizer. That’s it! The plants take care of the rest, rewarding you with spectacular blooms.

Remember, it's not your fault if your roses aren't re-blooming. You might have been sold an outdated variety. Upgrade to modern, repeat-blooming roses, and your garden will look like a Rosarian's paradise.

 

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

🌹Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #EasyRoses, #RoseGardening, #BloomingRoses

🌼How to Keep Flowers Blooming Through Summer 🌼

Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here! Today, we’re diving into how to keep your flowers blooming vibrantly all summer long.

The secret lies in proper watering. Start by adjusting your pressure regulator to 20-30 pounds per square inch—this ensures a smooth flow without overwhelming your plants.

I recently had a faulty valve in my backyard that was wreaking havoc on my beloved Chitalpa trees. After replacing it, the transformation was incredible! The flowers are now more vibrant than ever because they’re getting the right amount of water. Remember, your plants will show you when something’s off -trust their signals and adjust accordingly.

Check your irrigation system regularly, ensuring all valves and pressure settings are accurate. This simple step can make a world of difference. Happy gardening!

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.

Subscribe now!

🌼Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #FlowerBloomingTips, #SummerGardening, #WateringWisdom

🍅How to Force Tomatoes to Set More Fruit 🍅

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Want to force your tomatoes to set more fruit and enjoy a juicier, sweeter harvest?

Here's the secret: calcium. Adding calcium to your garden can enhance the flavor of your tomatoes, as well as cucumbers and eggplants. It’s a simple way to boost your garden's productivity. Remember, calcium can only help your plants – it cannot hurt. When applying calcium or any spray, aim for the morning hours. The temperatures are cooler, the wind is calmer, and the humidity is just right for your garden.

Whether you are combating pests with neem oil or tackling grasshoppers with a stronger spray, morning is the best time for action. This approach not only benefits the plants but also makes your gardening experience more pleasant. Embrace these tips and watch your garden thrive!

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!

🍅Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #TomatoTips, #GardeningHacks, #HomegrownHarvest, #TomatoGardening, #HealthyPlants

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

Included in this week’s episode:

• Top 10 Vines that Cover Fast
• Top 10 Screening Plants for Windy Locations
• Growing Better Beans & Peas in the Garden
• Top 10 Shrubs for Summer Sizzling Fragrance
• Top 10 Trees for Fast Shade in the Backyard
• Garden Alert

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,

🐛Garden Alert 🐛

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Garden Alert! Summer is here, and so are the bugs.

Your plants are growing fast, but if you notice curled leaves, missing parts, or deformities, it's likely due to insects. Aphids and other pests can wreak havoc on your garden.

To combat this, use a Hudson sprayer with an indoor/outdoor setting. Pour the product full strength into the container, set it to the lowest setting, and let the water mix it automatically. Any leftover product can be poured back into the bottle for future use.

Remember, good tools make gardening easier.

Also, fertilize everything in your yard by the end of the month. This timing takes advantage of the heat and draws in moisture from upcoming monsoons, promoting healthy new growth.

Stay vigilant and keep your garden thriving!

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

🐛Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #insects

🌳Top 10 Trees for Fast Shade in the Backyard 🌳

Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardener here! Planting shade trees like birch and aspen can transform your backyard into a cool, inviting retreat.

These trees are more drought-hardy than you think! Once established, give them a deep soak once a week; this is perfect for aspens too. Overwatering can suffocate roots, causing rot, so avoid watering every day.

Healthy trees have vibrant, white roots, a sign they are active and taking in nutrients efficiently. This is the best time to plant shade trees, with a wide selection available. Whether you choose an instant tree or a smaller one, there’s plenty of growth season left.

 

Happy planting!

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

🌳Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #trees, #shadetrees, #BackyardGardening, #TreeCare