Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🌿Best Lavenders for Fragrance and Beauty 🌿

Hey there, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and today we're diving into the world of lavender! If you love that classic fragrance and those beautiful purple spikes, get ready for some surprises. There's a whole range of lavenders out there, and some are a far cry from the traditional look.

Let's talk about varieties like 'Princess' and 'Ghostly Princess'. Princess lavender boasts an amazing pink bloom with a hint of violet – a real standout! And Ghostly Princess? That one's got silvery-white blooms, perfect for adding a touch of moonlight to your garden. Imagine lining a walkway with those! Both of these are evergreen, so you get that gorgeous color all year round.

These lavenders love the sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in a pot or directly in the ground, and you'll find pollinators can't resist their sweet scent.

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🌳Native Desert Willow and the Best Variety for Your Yard 🌳

Hey there Plant Posse, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener.

Let's talk about desert willows – those beauties that light up our roadsides with pink blooms. Now, the native variety is fantastic: drought-tolerant, loved by pollinators, and critters leave it alone. But there's that one thing... those pesky bean pods. They signal the plant to stop blooming and focus on seed production.

Well, plant breeders have been busy! New desert willow varieties, like 'Timeless Beauty' or 'Bubba', keep those flowers coming because they don't make as many bean pods. So, when you're at the nursery, keep this in mind: 'Desert Willow' on its own means it's the native kind. Any other name attached means you've got one of those fancy, long-blooming ones!

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🌺Best Gardenia for Mountain Gardens🌺

Hey there, it's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners with the scoop on the Best Gardenias for Mountain Gardens.

Want those sweet, heady blooms right in your backyard? Gardenias are a bit finicky up here, but with the right variety and spot, you'll be in fragrant paradise.

The secret? Think like a hummingbird. They love those big, white flowers, so we want to put gardenias where you'll enjoy them too – near a patio or deck where you relax in the evenings.

Location is key for gardenias. They crave morning sun but wilt in that hot afternoon blast. East-facing spots are ideal, or maybe a west side with shade until mid-afternoon. North-facing works too, but you might get fewer flowers. Steer clear of full southern exposure unless you enjoy lots of leaves and not much bloom.

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🌿Top 10 Native Plants to Grow in Arizona 🌿

Hey there Fellow Plant Pals, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener with your Top 10 Native Plants to Grow in AZ.

Ready to bring the desert beauty right to your backyard? Choosing native plants means they're already adapted to our climate, so they'll thrive with less fuss. Let's start with some real standouts – yuccas and agaves.

Now, you might crave those giant saguaros, but they're tricky up here. Instead, go for agaves like the Artichoke Agave – that "Century Plant" with the dramatic bloom. It won't take 100 years like the name says, probably more like 20 in your garden!

For a splash of color, nothing beats Red Yucca. We've got them in three sizes: giant ones that tower over you, standard hip-height, and the dwarf "Brake Light" Yucca perfect for containers. Those red flowers really pop!

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Interview with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Growers

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:

• Growing Better Veggies and Herbs this Year
• Why Evergreen Oaks Turn Yellow in Spring
• Insider Secrets to Big Juicy Tomatoes
• 5 Reasons to Update Your Landscape
• Interview with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Growers
• When can Roses be Planted in Spring

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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🌹When can Roses be Planted in Spring🌹

Hey there, Petal People. It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, welcoming you to the rose season! As the petals unfurl and the colors burst forth, it's time to dive into the world of roses. Every color, every shape, every size, every fragrance - there's a rose for everyone. If you're considering adding these beauties to your garden, now's the perfect moment.

Spring is the prime time for planting roses. Before you, we have a splendid array of options - shrub roses, carpet roses, climbing roses, and the delicate Lady Bank roses. It's a time of anticipation and excitement as we embrace the rose season.

Stay tuned on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube as we showcase our exquisite rose collection. I'll be sharing my personal favorites and offering tips for nurturing these stunning blooms. Join us as we celebrate the joy of gardening and the beauty of roses in full bloom.

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Interview with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Growers

Hey there, Flora Force. It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, and today, we're diving headfirst into the wonderful world of flowering trees and vibrant perennials.

Join me as I chat with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Growers about some of our favorite blossoming beauties that are sure to steal the spotlight in your garden.

From the delicate blooms of redbuds to the charming allure of crabapples, and the majestic magnolias that never fail to impress, we'll explore the incredible variety of flowering trees that can turn your outdoor space into a floral paradise.

But that's not all! We'll also shine a spotlight on top-performing perennials like coneflowers and euphorbias, as well as the timeless fragrance of classic lilacs. With expert tips and insider secrets, you'll learn how to cultivate a garden bursting with spectacular color and fragrance all season long.

So grab your gardening gloves and join us on this journey to make your own garden bloom with beauty and charm. Let's paint the town floral!

 

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🪴5 Reasons to Update Your Landscape🪴

Hey there, Landscape Lovers. It's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here to chat about the five reasons why updating your landscape might be the best decision you make this season.

First off, let's talk about those tired old plants that are begging for a refresh. If they're looking past their prime and downright ugly, it might be time to bid them farewell.

Next up, if your greenery has outgrown its space and is starting to take over, it's time to rein it in. After all, we want our gardens to be cozy retreats, not jungles.

Now, here's a reason close to my heart: making your landscape your own. Don't be afraid to put your stamp on it and let your personality shine through.

And let's not forget about curb appeal. A fresh, well-maintained landscape can do wonders for your home's exterior and leave a lasting impression on visitors.

But perhaps the most important reason of all? Just because you want to. Gardening is all about joy and creativity, so don't hold back when it comes to transforming your outdoor space.

So, whether it's rejuvenating old favorites or adding some new flair, remember: change is good. And as I always say, a little refresh goes a long way in keeping your garden vibrant and inviting year after year.

 

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🍅Insider Secrets to Big Juicy Tomatoes🍅

Hey there, Fellow Tomato Lovers, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here to spill the beans on insider secrets to growing big, juicy tomatoes that'll have your neighbors green with envy.

Now, we all know that tomatoes are the crown jewel of the garden, but getting them to reach their full potential takes a little know-how. You see, it's not just about throwing some manure their way (although that helps!). To truly thrive, tomatoes need a balanced diet, just like we do.

That's where my fruit and vegetable food comes in. It's specially formulated to give your tomatoes everything they crave: six percent nitrogen, four percent phosphorus, four percent potash, and a generous seven percent calcium. And let me tell you, calcium is the secret sauce here. It's what gives your tomatoes that burst of flavor and prevents dreaded blossom end rot.

Now, if you've ever had a tomato with a black spot or watched your peppers shrivel up before they even had a chance, chances are, you're dealing with a calcium deficiency. But fear not, my friends, because I've got just the solution for you: Watters Fruit and Vegetable Food 6-4-4-7. It's tailor-made for our gardens here in the central highlands of Arizona, where calcium is in short supply.

So, if you're ready to take your tomato game to the next level, give them the love and nutrients they deserve. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

 

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🌳Why Evergreen Oaks Turn Yellow in Spring🌳

Hey there, Green Team. It's Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, coming to you with some insights on why evergreen oaks might be turning yellow in the spring. It's a common question, and we’re here to shed some light on it.

You see, those yellow leaves might seem concerning, but fear not! It's all part of the natural cycle. As soon as one leaf sheds, another takes its place. So, if you spot some yellowing, rest assured it's just your oak tree doing its thing.

Now, if you're keen to bring out that beautiful blue hue in your native oaks, here's a tip: give them a good fertilizing. Opt for a 7-4-4, all-purpose plant food, and watch those leaves transform into a stunning Arizona blue. And hey, if you really want to make them pop, consider adding some aluminum sulfate into the mix. Trust me, your oaks will thank you for it.

Remember, gardening is a journey, and each question leads us to new discoveries. So, embrace the process, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more queries. Happy gardening, folks!

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🥦Growing Better Veggies and Herbs this Year 🌿

Hey there, Green Thumb Squad. It's Ken Lain, the top-ten Gardener, ready to help you cultivate the garden of your dreams! Are you looking to ace your veggie and herb game this year? 

First, let's talk about plant protectors. These babies are like cozy blankets for your precious plants. When those late spring snows sneak up on us, don't fret. Pop a plant protector over them, and they'll be snug as a bug. Plus, they work double duty by warming up that soil, giving your plants the perfect environment to thrive.

Now, about those warm-weather-loving summer plants itching to get growing. The trick? Warm up that soil! Even if the days feel balmy, the soil might still be chilly. That's where our handy plant protectors come in. They'll heat up that soil in no time, encouraging speedy root growth and early harvests.

And speaking of early harvests, want to be the envy of the neighborhood with your ripe tomatoes? Start your plants off strong with warm soil, thanks to those trusty plant protectors. Who needs a greenhouse when you've got this gardening hack up your sleeve?

Now, it's insider tip time! Every Wednesday afternoon, Waters Garden Center gets a fresh batch of flowers, veggies, and herbs. Want first dibs? Swing by Wednesday afternoon, head straight to the loading dock, and you'll get the first pick.

So, gear up, gardeners! With a little know-how and some trusty tools, like plant protectors, your garden will thrive in no time. Happy gardening!

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Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life

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:

• Insider Tips to Growing Herbs with Flavor
• How to Use Ladybugs and Praying Mantis in the Gardens
• Flowers for Landscapes that Grow Wild

• Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens
• Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life
• Garden Research Beyond a Google Search for Better Plants

 

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!

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🌱Garden Research Beyond a Google Search for Better Plants🌱

Hey there, it's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener. So, you want to find the perfect plants for your garden? Good for you! Google's a start, but let's dive deeper for the best results. Here's why a little extra research pays off:

• Know your zone: Your USDA Hardiness Zone is the key to picking plants that will thrive. It's based on your average winter lows.
• Light matters: Full sun, part shade, total shade... these aren't just suggestions! Match the plant's needs to what your garden offers.
• Space invaders: Know the mature size of a plant. A cute little shrub can turn into a monster that swallows your flower bed.
• Water wise: Choose plants with similar watering needs. Grouping them together saves time and prevents over or underwatering issues.

Watters Garden Center has a ton of resources beyond Google. Visit their website https://shop.wattersgardencenter.com/ for detailed plant descriptions, care guides, and even local advice. Get the right plants, in the right spots, and your garden will be a joy!

 

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Interview with Ken Feld from Tag4Life

In a heartfelt interview, Ken Lain talks with Ken Feld, COO of Tags4Life, about his life-saving innovation. Feld shares his personal battle with cancer and how it led to the creation of Tags4Life, a tool that aids first responders in emergencies by providing instant access to medical information. It’s a story of resilience and how a crisis can spark a revolution in healthcare.

To learn more or support Tags4Life’s mission, check out their website 

 

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🌺Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens 🌺

Hey there, it’s Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, bringing you the Top 10 Bloomers of Spring to brighten your gardens. As the snow melts and the days grow longer, nature awakens with a symphony of colors.

The spring amaryllis leads the parade with its bold trumpets, heralding the new season. The fruit cocktail tree is not far behind, a marvel with its medley of blossoms promising a bounty of flavors.

The KV plum tree’s delicate flowers whisper of sweet harvests to come, while the redbud tree stands in regal splendor, its purplish-pink blooms a feast for the eyes. These spring champions are not just a spectacle but a reminder of the earth’s renewal and the joy of gardening.

So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get planting. With these bloomers, your garden will be a canvas of color and life!

 

For more on these and other spring favorites, visit Watters Garden Center. Let’s make this spring unforgettable with blooms that tell the story of rebirth and beauty. 

 

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