Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

Unbox a Garden - Explore the Wonder of Fruit Cocktail Trees

Hey plant people, Ken Lain here, Top 10 Gardener, with a garden surprise – Fruit Cocktail Trees! Imagine a single tree bursting with varieties of peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots – a tastebud party in your backyard!

Unbox a mini-orchard: These space-saving wonders combine multiple fruits on one tree, thanks to the magic of grafting. Think of it as a delicious bouquet, all in one convenient package!

Pick your perfect mix: From classic combos to exotic options, Watters has a variety to tickle your taste buds. Whether you crave juicy peaches or tangy plums, there's a tree waiting to call your garden home.

Planting made easy: These low-maintenance marvels are perfect for even beginner gardeners. Follow a few simple steps – sunshine, well-drained soil, and gentle watering – and you're on your way to homegrown goodness.

Harvest happiness: Imagine the joy of picking fresh fruit right from your own tree! Share the bounty with friends and family, or savor the sweetness yourself. Remember, gardening is about creating memories, and Fruit Cocktail Trees offer a delicious adventure for the whole family.

Ready to unbox a garden and unlock a world of fruity flavor? Head over to WattersGardenCenter 1815 Iron Springs Rd in Prescott

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

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #FruitTrees, #FruitCocktailTrees, #GrowYourOwn, #BackyardOrchard

🍎Unlocking Nature’s Bounty - Grow Perfect Fruit Trees🍒

Howdy, plant pals! Ken Lain here, Top 10 Gardener, ready to turn your backyard into a fruit-filled paradise! Growing your own juicy treats is easier than you think, so grab your shovel, and let's get diggin'.

Sunshine is Key: Fruit trees crave sunlight, so pick a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours a day. Imagine them basking like happy lizards, soaking up the sun's goodness. South-facing is ideal, but east or west works, too – most trees are adaptable.

Soil Savvy: Happy roots, happy fruit! Amend your soil with compost or organic matter for fluffy drainage. Think of it as a comfy bed for thirsty roots to explore. Clay soil? No worries, just mix in some sand to create the perfect haven.

Pick Your Perfect Pair: Remember, some trees need a buddy for pollination. Research varieties that bloom at the same time and plant accordingly. Think of them as BFFs, helping each other out for a bountiful harvest.

Planting Power: When it's time to dig, bigger isn't always better. Dig a hole just deep enough for the root ball, avoiding burying the graft union (the knob where trunk meets roots). Gentle care is key!

Water Wisely: Deep watering less often is the way to go. Encourage those roots to grow deep for stability and nourishment. Imagine them reaching down like thirsty miners seeking treasure.

With these tips and a little TLC, your fruit tree will be on its way to thriving. Remember, gardening is a journey, not a race. So put on your gloves, get dirty, and watch your backyard transform into a delicious oasis. 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, #FruitTrees, #GrowYourOwnFood, #BackyardHarvest

🌸Blooms Ahead! Unleash the Power of Spring-Planted Fiber Roses🌸

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken Lain, Top 10 Gardener, here with a rosy revelation! Spring is the perfect time to plant fiber-pot roses, and Watters has a blooming bounty waiting for you!

Think classic Don Juan for a timeless crimson touch, or Ginger Snap for a vibrant burst of orange sunshine. Do you prefer deep, dramatic hues? Drop Dead Red or Te Ching will steal the show.

But remember, these new and exclusive varieties are limited edition! Once they're gone, they're gone until next spring. Don't wait – snag yours now and be the envy of your neighborhood with a show-stopping display come summer.

Bonus tip: Planting in spring gives your roses a head start, allowing them to establish strong roots before the summer heat.

Head over to WattersGardenCenter.com to see the full selection and bring the power of roses to your garden! Remember, the early bird gets the rose!

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

🌸Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Roses, #FiberPotRoses, #SpringPlanting. #BloomingBeauty 

 

 

Mastering the Green Carpet - A Guide to Growing Calgary Carpet Juniper

Hey plant pals, Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a ground cover gem: the Calgary Carpet Juniper! This low-maintenance beauty adds year-round charm and saves you water, too. Let's unravel its secrets!

Sun-loving soul: Plant your Calgary Carpet in a sunny spot – they bask like happy lizards! South-facing is ideal, but east or west works too. Remember, more sunshine, happier juniper!

Drainage drama: Soggy feet are a no-go! Plant in well-draining soil. Think fluffy, not soggy. Amend clay soil with compost or sand for happy roots.

Watering wisdom: Deep soak less often is key. Imagine roots reaching deep like thirsty miners. Once established, water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Size matters: Want a miniature mountain landscape? Prune lightly to maintain desired size. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!

Bonus tip: Calgary Carpet shines in rock gardens, alongside paths, or cascading over walls. Let your creativity bloom!

For more juicy details, head over to WattersGardenCenter.com! Happy planting!

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, #CalgaryCarpetJuniper, #GroundCoverLove, #WaterWiseGardening

A Space to Thrive - Guidelines for Planting Fruit Trees

Hey garden gurus! Ken Lain, Top 10 Gardener, here, reminding you that size matters when it comes to fruit trees. Want that juicy Bartlett pear but worried about a 30-foot titan? No worries! Grafting lets us shrink them down!

By choosing different rootstocks, we can create semi-dwarf trees, 20-25% shorter and easier to manage. No more ladder gymnastics to reach those pears! 🪜

For truly tiny trees, genetic dwarfs are your friends. These cuties fit perfectly in containers or add charm to flower beds. Remember, the fruit stays the same size – just the tree shrinks!

So, dream big, but choose wisely! Standard, semi-dwarf, or genetic dwarf? The choice is yours! Happy planting!

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener. Subscribe now!

🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #FruitTrees #GrowYourOwn, #RightSizeRightSpot

🌳Pruning for Recovery & Repairing Broken Tree Branches🌳

Hey friends, Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener! Storms happen, and sometimes our beloved trees take a hit. But don't despair! With a little know-how, you can help your tree thrive again. Pruning for recovery and repairing broken branches isn’t rocket science, but it does require a touch of care and the right techniques.

Here's the skinny: first, safety! Wear gloves and grab sharp, clean pruners. Next, assess the damage. For smaller, clean breaks, a prune just above the branch collar (that bump where it meets the main branch) encourages healthy growth. Bigger splits? Consult a pro. Remember, clean cuts heal faster, so aim for a diagonal slice, folks.

And hey, even if your tree looks rough, don't give up! With proper care, nature's resilience can amaze you. So grab your pruners, channel your inner green thumb, and give your tree a helping hand. Happy gardening!

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates

🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Pruning, #TreeRepair

 

Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring

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:

• The Good, Bad and Ugly Reasons to Love Snow in the Gardens
• Are New Fruit Tree Planting in Danger from Winter Snows
• Best Companion Plants Best Planted in February
• February Plant of the Month Hellebore
• Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring
• Insider Garden Happenings at Top 10 Gardener

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.

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

🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #BackyardBliss, #GrowGreen, #PlantMagic

 

 

 

🌱 Insider Garden Happenings at Top 10 Gardener 🌱

Welcome to the vibrant world of gardening, where soil meets sunshine, and every leaf whispers secrets of growth. I’m Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, your friendly green-thumb guide, and together, we’ll explore the magic that unfolds right in your own backyard.

Why listen to me? Because I’ve got dirt under my fingernails, and my heart blooms with passion for all things botanical. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just dipping your toes into the compost, I’m here to demystify the green universe.

🍐 Peaches and Pear Wisdom 🌿 Imagine this: a peach tree over here, its branches heavy with promise. And then, just when it’s done showing off, another peach variety steps up, saying, “Hey, it’s my turn!” That’s the secret to stress-free harvests. By staggering ripening times, you won’t find yourself buried under five bushels of pears, wondering how to preserve them all.

🌳 Fruit Cocktail Trees 🌳 Last year, we introduced a game-changer: fruit cocktail trees. Picture this—multiple fruits on one tree! Apricots, plums, peaches—they’re all mingling, sharing branches like old friends. We sold out faster than a hummingbird sips nectar. But guess what? They’re back, fresh off the delivery truck. Now’s your chance to snag these fruity gems.

🌞 Don’t Wait, Cultivate! 🌞 Remember, gardening isn’t about waiting—it’s about doing. So grab your trowel, put on your sun hat, and let’s plant memories. Whether you’re a seasoned sage or a budding sprout, our garden classes are your passport to horticultural enlightenment. This Saturday, it’s all about fruit trees. Next week? Gardening for newcomers. Trust me, it’s worth the drive.

🌼 Your Backyard Adventure Awaits 🌼 So join me, Ken Lain, as we dig deep, laugh at weeds, and celebrate every blossom. Let’s turn soil into stories, and roots into resilience. And hey, if you ever spot me over the garden fence, wave—I’ll be the guy with dirt-smudged knees and a grin wider than a sunflower face.

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

 

🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #BackyardBliss, #GrowGreen, #PlantMagic

Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring

Welcome, fellow gardeners! I’m Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, your friendly green-thumb guide. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or just dipping your toes into the soil, I’m here to share practical tips, earthy wisdom, and a dash of neighborly advice.

🌿 Zone Check: First things first—know your gardening zone. For our Midwest friends, Prescott, Arizona, has its quirks. Our elevation plays tricks on plants. Take geraniums, for instance. They thrive in full sun here, but in California, they’d rather sip a cool drink in the shade.

🌞 Sun and Shade Dance: Now, let’s talk Japanese maples. You Californians adore them, and rightly so! But here’s the twist: in our high-altitude haven, they’re shade lovers. Our midday sun in June? Not their jam. Trust me, they’ll pout, their leaves scorched and grumpy.

🌳 Leafy Etiquette: Picture this: a Japanese maple strutting its stuff in LA, basking in full sun. But bring it to Prescott, and it sulks. Tiny leaves, brown tips—the whole drama. Solution? Give it a cozy spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. It’ll thank you with vibrant foliage.

🌄 Elevation Revelation: Why the fuss? Well, we’re a mile closer to the sun up here. Less atmosphere means more intense rays. So, my gardening comrades, adapt! Your green journey is about discovery. Embrace the nuances, learn your plants’ quirks, and let’s grow together.

 

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates

 

🌱  Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #PlantWisdom, #PrescottGardening

February Plant of the Month – Hellebore

Hello, fellow gardeners! I’m Ken Lain, your friendly gardening guru, and I’m here to share with you the Top 10 Gardener  February Plant of the Month - the Hellebore Lenten Rose!

🌿 Why Hellebore Lenten Rose? 🌿

• This perennial beauty is not a rose at all, but a hellebore hybrid that belongs to the buttercup family
• It blooms in late winter or early spring, often during the Lent season, hence the name.
• It has delicate, nodding flowers in a range of colors, from white to pink to purple, that add a touch of grace to your garden.
• It is hardy, drought-tolerant, and deer-resistant, making it a low-maintenance and reliable choice.

🌼 How to Grow and Care for Hellebore Lenten Rose? 🌼

• Plant them in well-drained, rich soil, preferably in partial shade or full shade.
• Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering or soggy soil.
• Mulch them with organic matter to keep the soil moist and cool.
• Prune off any damaged or diseased leaves and stems, and remove faded flowers to encourage new growth.
• Enjoy their lovely fragrance and long-lasting blooms!

I hope you’ll join me in celebrating this wonderful plant, and give it a try in your own garden. You’ll be amazed by its charm and resilience. Remember, fellow gardeners, gardening is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life. So let’s get growing, and make the world a greener place! 🌿🌸🌱

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener. Subscribe now!

 

🌸Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast,  #HelleboreHeaven, #LentenRoseLove, #WinterWonder, #SpringSensation   

 

Best Companion Plants Best Planted in February

🌱 Ken Lain’s Green Thumb Wisdom: 🌱

Welcome to the Top 10 Gardener community, where soil-stained hands and curious minds unite! I’m Ken Lain, your friendly gardening guru, and I’m here to help you cultivate your own Eden, one petal at a time.

🌿 Best Companion Plants Best Planted in February 🌿

1. Lenten Rose (Hellebore): These hardy beauties defy winter’s chill with their delicate blooms. Plant them in well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with early spring flowers. Their nodding heads whisper secrets of resilience.
2. Lily of the Valley: Fragrance wafts from these dainty bells, inviting fairies to dance. Find a shady nook, tuck them in, and watch their emerald leaves unfurl. They’re like whispered promises of renewal.
3. Peony: Ah, the queen of the garden! These lush blooms demand patience but deliver opulence. Give them sun, rich soil, and room to stretch. Their ruffled petals hold stories of romance and endurance.

To watch future episodes of the Top10Gardener subscribe with this Link

 🌿 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #GardenMagic, #BloomingBliss, #PlantWisdom

Are New Fruit Tree Planting in Danger from Winter Snows

🌿 Snow on Fruit Trees: Friend or Foe? 🌿

Let’s chat about the delicate dance between snow and our beloved fruit trees as winter blankets our orchards. Picture this: a fresh layer of snow draping the branches like a cozy quilt. But is it a warm embrace or a frosty foe?

Let’s explore:

• Surprisingly, snow plays the role of a natural insulator. 
• If your tree has already sprouted leaves, snow won’t harm much. But if it’s still in the budding stage, tread carefully. Heavy snow can weigh down branches, causing them to bow or break. So, keep an eye on those baby buds.

 Snow isn’t just frozen water; it’s a silent partner in our orchard symphony. So, sip your tea, watch the snowflakes dance, and let’s nurture our green dreams! 🌲❄️

🍎 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #SnowyOrchard, #FrostyFruit

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

Dive into the enchanting world of winter gardens with Ken Lain, the Top10Gardener, your guide to uncovering "The Good, Bad, and Ugly Reasons to Love Snow in the Gardens."

Ken shares his earthy wisdom, revealing how a blanket of snow benefits your plants, insulating them like a cozy quilt against the chill. Yet, he doesn't shy away from the challenges - weighty snow can break branches, and the thaw-reveal can be a mixed bag of surprises.

With Ken's practical advice, learn how to protect your green oasis and embrace the beauty and hurdles of the snowy season.

Discover the magic hidden beneath the snow and prepare your garden for a vibrant spring awakening.

🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #WinterGardening, #SnowBenefits      

 

Mix, Mulch, Marvel: The Secret to Effortless Wildflower Beauty

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:

• Awaken Your Garden: Spring Planting Guide

• Peaches - Does it take more than one to fruit?

• Whispering Winds: Capturing the Essence of Nature with Ornamental Grasses
• Gifts any Garden Valentine Loves
• Mix, Mulch, Marvel: The Secret to Effortless Wildflower Beauty
• Dive into Spring Gardening: Free Weekly Classes at Water's Garden Center

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.

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top10Gardener

🪴Ken Lain, the Top10Gardener

 

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

Dive into Spring Gardening: Free Weekly Classes at Water's Garden Center

Feeling the spring itch? Join Watters Garden Center for their FREE weekly gardening classes, starting this Saturday! Every Saturday at 9:30 AM, Ken Lain, the Top 10 gardener, will guide you through essential gardening tips and tricks.

Here are some of our exciting upcoming classes:

• Mountain Fruit Trees: Grow your own delicious fruit with expert tips on choosing varieties and maximizing your harvest.
• Gardening for Newcomers: Get started on the right foot with this comprehensive guide to planting, zones, and more.
• Evergreens that Bloom Early: Discover beautiful evergreens that add color and cheer to your winter landscape.

Don't miss out! Classes are held in the back greenhouse, but seating is limited, so bring your own chair.

For more details and the full class schedule head to https://wattersgardencenter.com/events/

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top10Gardener gardening community

🪴Ken Lain, the Top10Gardener

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #gardeningclasses, #springgardening, #growyourown,  #freelearning