Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

Attract More Birds into the Garden

Hey, bird buddies! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, chirping in with tips to turn your backyard into a feathered frenzy! We all love those colorful flashes of life flitting through the trees, singing sweet melodies and keeping pesky bugs at bay. But how do we lure these feathered friends to our green havens? Easy, peasy, lemon squeezy, with the right tricks and treats!

Food Glorious Food: Birds crave variety, just like us! Set up a buffet of bird feeders filled with different delights. Sunflower seeds are a classic crowd-pleaser, attracting cardinals, chickadees, and finches. Offer suet cakes for high-energy fuel in winter, and don't forget the nectar-loving hummingbirds with a brightly colored feeder filled with sugar water (recipe below!). Remember, keep feeders clean and well-stocked, especially during harsh weather.

Bird feeder filled with sunflower seeds

Water Works Wonders: Birdies gotta stay hydrated! Provide a fresh, clean water source like a birdbath or shallow tray. Place it away from predators and direct sunlight, and top it up regularly, especially during hot days. Bonus points for moving water, like a trickling fountain, which birds find irresistible!

Shelter from the Storm: Birds need cozy nooks to escape bad weather and raise their young. Plant dense shrubs and evergreens for natural hideaways, or hang nesting boxes specifically designed for different bird species. Check your local Watters Garden Center for expert advice on the best nesting boxes for your area.

Safety First: Keep cats indoors or build a cat-proof enclosure around your feeders. Place feeders away from windows and fences to prevent collisions, and avoid using pesticides that could harm birds and their food sources.

Remember, attracting birds is a journey, not a destination. So experiment, have fun, and watch your garden become a vibrant sanctuary for our feathered friends. Enjoy the songs, the colors, and the joy of sharing your backyard with these amazing creatures! Happy birding, everyone!

Bonus Tip: Want to attract specific bird species? Research their favorite foods and plants! Watters Garden Center has a wealth of resources to help you create the perfect avian oasis.

See you next time in the garden!

— Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #BirdGarden

January Companion Plants

Ahoy, desert dreamers and frosty foliage fans! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, reporting for January duty, is ready to transform your winter landscape into a vibrant tapestry with the power of companion planting! Even under winter's frosty gaze, these evergreen beauties can thrive and bring year-round interest to your garden. So grab your gloves, a steaming mug of cocoa, and let's get planning!

Arizona Cypress & Mint Julep Juniper: Picture this: the stately, silvery-blue form of the Arizona Cypress standing sentinel next to the cascading emerald-green waves of the Mint Julep Juniper. This dynamic duo adds texture and contrast, their contrasting forms mirroring the winter sky and snowdrifts. Plus, junipers provide excellent ground cover, helping suppress weeds and retain moisture – a boon in arid regions.

Austrian Pine & Red Clusterberry Cotoneaster: This bold pairing is a feast for the eyes! The Austrian Pine's deep green needles offer a dramatic backdrop for the Cotoneaster's fiery red berries, like festive ornaments scattered across the snow. These berries attract feathered friends, adding a touch of life and movement to the winter scene. The pine also provides valuable wind protection, while the Cotoneaster's dense foliage offers shelter for small critters.

Japanese Yew & Winter Gem Boxwood: This elegant partnership is all about understated beauty. The Japanese Yew's rich, dark green needles contrast beautifully with the Winter Gem Boxwood's lighter, glossier foliage, creating a sophisticated, layered effect. Both plants thrive in shade and tolerate cold temperatures, making them perfect for north-facing areas or under taller trees. Plus, their slow-growing nature means minimal maintenance – ideal for busy gardeners.

Remember, companion planting is about creating a thriving ecosystem in your garden. Consider spacing, sunlight needs, and water requirements when choosing your pairings. And don't hesitate to experiment! Head to Watters Garden Center for a treasure trove of evergreen beauties and expert advice to create your own winter wonderland.

Bonus Tip: Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, giving your evergreen companions a healthy head start in spring.

Happy planting, everyone! Until next time, keep those winter gardens glowing!

- Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #CompanionPlants

Dealing with Burlap when Planting

Hey, green thumbs. Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardener here, ready to untangle you from a burlap bind! Planting those beauties with the fabric-wrapped root balls can get tricky, so let's clear the air (and the dirt!).

Here's the game plan:

1. Size Up the Situation: Gently loosen the twine or wire holding the burlap in place. If it's mostly jute, you can leave the bottom half or two-thirds on. Just cut away any bits circling the trunk, like a too-tight collar.
2. Peel Back the Mystery: Grab those gardening shears for synthetic mesh and get snipping. Remove as much as you can without disturbing the root ball itself. Think of it like freeing a butterfly from its cocoon.
3. TLC Time: Tease apart any compacted roots with your fingers. Nestle the plant in its hole, making sure the soil line on the root ball matches the ground level. Backfill with good-quality soil, gently tamping it down to eliminate air pockets.
4. Hydration Hero: Give your newly liberated plant a deep, slow drink. Let the water soak in, then repeat when the top inch of soil feels dry. Remember, overwatering is a no-no, even for thirsty roots!

And there you have it, folks! Burlap blues banished, roots rejoicing, and your garden on its way to green glory. Remember, happy planting is all about giving your leafy friends the right start. So grab your gloves, some sunshine, and let's get growing!

See you next time in the garden,

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

P.S. Bonus tip: If you're planting in clay soil, consider mixing in some compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. Happy roots, happy you!

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #Planting

Healthier Houseplants in 6 Steps or Less

Hey, plant pals, Ken Lain here, back with dirt on your fingernails and sunshine in your smile! Today, let's talk houseplants: those leafy friends brightening our indoor jungles. Want them vibrant? Thriving? Follow these 6 simple steps, and watch your green gang glow!

Step 1: Pot Party! Check if your plant's roots are peeking out the bottom. That's their way of saying, "Hey, buddy, I need a bigger digs!" Choose a pot one size up, with drainage holes, so water doesn't get swampy. Ceramic pots breathe better than plastic, too.

Step 2: Fresh Digs, Happy Roots! Fill the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Skip the pebbles at the bottom, they just steal valuable root space. Nestle your plant in, gently backfilling, and don't bury the stem!

Step 3: Water Wisely! Drench the soil until water peeks out the drainage holes. Then, hold off! Let the top inch of soil dry before watering again. Overwatering drowns roots, remember?

Step 4: Lighten Up! Find your plant's happy light spot. Most love bright, indirect light, like a sunbeam dancing on a bookshelf. Some, like ferns, prefer dappled shade. Research your leafy buddy to know their light groove!

Step 5: Feed 'Em Right! Skip the fertilizer for the first 6 weeks. New soil has plenty of nutrients. After that, a light feeding every other month during spring and summer is enough. Less is more when it comes to feeding!

Step 6: TLC Time! Give your plant a gentle misting on dry days, dust the leaves, and keep an eye out for pests. A quick wipe with soapy water usually sends those buggers packing.

There you have it, folks! Six simple steps for happier, healthier houseplants. Remember, these leafy friends thrive on a little love and attention. Watch them unfold, breathe cleaner air, and add a touch of zen to your indoor haven. Keep on grooving' in the garden, friends! See you next time!

- Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #Houseplants

Preparing Garden Soil for Spring Planting

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:

• Secrets to Winter Planting
• How to Cut back Peony for Bigger Blooms
• How to Plant in Hard Soil
• Houseplants for a Healthy Home
• Preparing Soil for Spring Planting
• How to Stake a Tree for Growth

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.

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast,

How to Stake a Tree for Faster Growth

Hey there, plant pals! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a friendly tip to get your spring seedlings soaring toward the sun. We all know healthy roots are happy roots, but did you know a little strategic support can give your young trees a growth spurt right out of the gate? That's where staking comes in, folks!

Now, staking might seem like a summer chore, but winter's actually the perfect time to lend your leafy friends a helping hand. Here's the scoop:

1. Winter winds can be meanies. Even evergreens, those brave souls who stand tall year-round, can get tossed around by blustery days. A sturdy stake acts like a trusty friend, keeping your tree upright and focused on growing, not wrestling with the wind.
2. Spring snow can be a heavy blanket. Those wet, fluffy flakes might look harmless, but they can pack a punch, especially on young trees with thin branches. A well-placed stake helps prevent snow-induced flops, ensuring your tree wakes up to a sunny spring, not a faceplant in the dirt.
3. Stake smart, not strong. The goal is to gently guide, not strangle your tree. Use flexible ties that won't rub or dig into the bark, and leave some wiggle room for natural movement. Think of it as a supportive hug, not a constricting boa constrictor.
4. Timing is everything. Stake your tree soon after planting, while the soil is still soft and the roots haven't had a chance to anchor themselves yet. As spring unfolds and your tree gains strength, you can gradually loosen the ties and eventually remove the stake altogether.

Remember, staking is all about giving your tree a head start. It's like providing a helping hand as they climb the ladder to leafy greatness. So grab some stakes, some gentle ties, and a big dose of plant power – your spring garden will thank you for it!

Bonus tip: For extra winter protection, add a layer of mulch around the base of your tree. This cozy blanket will help retain moisture and insulate the roots from those sneaky frosts.

Happy planting, friends! And don't forget, Watters Garden Center has everything you need to give your trees the TLC they deserve. So head on over and let's get those saplings soaring!

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

P.S. Don't be shy to share your staking success stories in the comments below! We love to hear about your plant parenting triumphs.

Happy gardening!

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #trees, #treeplanting

Preparing Garden Soil for Spring Planting

Getting the Ground Grooving for Springtime Sprouts!

Hey gardening pals, Ken Lain here, your trusted green thumb guide! Even as winter throws snowflakes like confetti, spring whispers sweet secrets to our gardeners’ hearts. Now's the time to nurture our soil, getting it ready for the grand planting party soon to come.

First things first, let's talk manure. This golden treasure trove isn't just fertilizer It's a natural symphony of nutrients – nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium – the key ingredients for happy, thriving plants. Before you picture pitchforks and overalls, remember we're talking aged manure, mellowed by time and ready to work its magic. Spread a two-inch layer over your beds now, and let winter rains and snow gently blend it in. Those nutrients will be a vibrant chorus in spring, ready to fuel your veggie bonanza.

Pro tip: No manure magic available? Don't fret! Compost, aged leaves, and even spent coffee grounds (acid-lovers like blueberries will do a happy dance!) can all boost your soil's goodness. Just remember, we're aiming for a gentle mix, not a soil Olympics – keep those beneficial microbes comfy and bubbly.

So, don't let your gardening spirit hibernate while the world sleeps under a snowy blanket! Get that soil prepped, let winter work its wonders, and come spring, your backyard will be a vibrant masterpiece, proving that even the coldest months can't dampen a true gardener's passion.

Keep digging, keep dreaming, and remember, your garden is your canvas, paint it with joy!

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #GardenSoil, #Planting

Lisa’s Better Houseplants for a Healthier Better Home

Hey there, fellow plant peeps! Let's dish about bringing the outdoors in, shall we? You know, those verdant friends keeping our air fresh and smiles wide. But keeping houseplants happy can feel like deciphering a leafy language, right? Don't worry; Lisa Watters Lain is here with your green thumb cheat sheet!

First things first, light is life-juice for most houseplants. Think about where they'd naturally grow: a sun-dappled forest floor? A sun-soaked desert mesa? Mimic that! Ferns and spider plants crave shade, while succulents bask in sunbeams. Remember, too much sunbathing can crisp leaves faster than you can say "cactus sunburn."

Next, let's talk watering wisdom. Think "slow and steady wins the race." Stick your finger in the soil – dry up to your second knuckle? Time for a drink! Soggy like your socks after a rainy stroll? Hold your horses! Overwatering is quicker than a hummingbird to turn your happy houseplant into a mushy mess.

Potting mix matters, friends! Ditch the dense store-bought stuff. Think airy and light, like well-draining potting mixes with perlite or coco coir. Roots need to breathe, you see! And speaking of roots, don't let them get rootbound! Those cramped plastic pots aren't doing anyone favors. Repot when the roots start peeking out the drainage holes into a pot just one size bigger.

Lastly, remember, houseplants are living critters too! Talk to them (they dig the positive vibes), mist them on dry days (humidity is their happy dance), and give them a sprinkle of fertilizer in spring and summer (like a leafy vitamin boost).

With these tips and a dash of TLC, your houseplant jungle will be thriving in no time! So go forth, plant parents, and watch your leafy friends flourish! Remember, a happy houseplant means a happy home, and isn't that the best kind of green living there is?

Happy planting,

Ken Lain, your topsoil sidekick!

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #Houseplants

How to Dig the Proper Planting Hole in Hard Soil

Hey there, fellow dirt lovers! Ken Lain here, your trusty garden guru, ready to tackle the age-old battle: conquering hard soil. We've all been there, shovels clanging off clay clods like knights against a dragon's hide. But fear not, green thumbs! Today, we'll turn those impenetrable patches into plant paradises with some clever digging tricks.

First things first, let's ditch the brute force. Think finesse, not fury. Instead of hacking away like a lumberjack, grab a pickaxe or soil aerator. These are your knights in shining armor, breaking up the clumps without turning your arms into jelly. Trust me, your future self will thank you for not wrestling the soil like an angry gardener in a sumo match.

Next, size matters! Dig your hole twice the width of your plant's root ball, giving those babies room to stretch and breathe. Think of it as building a spacious condo, not a cramped studio apartment for your leafy friends. And don't forget to loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole too. This creates a welcoming landing pad for thirsty roots, like a fluffy welcome mat for their grand entrance.

Now, the secret weapon: compost. This magical mix is like gold dust for hard soil. Toss in a generous scoop or two, and those rich organic goodies will work their magic, aerating the soil and adding essential nutrients. Think of it as a five-star buffet for your plants, making them dance with joy (well, maybe wiggle their roots excitedly).

Finally, don't just dump the dirt back in. Mix it with that glorious compost, creating a fluffy, aerated paradise for your plant's roots. Think of it as building a luxurious feather bed for your leafy royalty. Remember, happy roots mean happy plants, and happy plants mean a garden that sings!

So there you have it, friends! With a little know-how and these clever tricks, you can turn even the hardest soil into a haven for your green gang. Go forth, dig with wisdom, and watch your garden flourish!

Happy planting, and remember, a little sweat today means a lifetime of leafy laughter!

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast,

How to Cut back Peony Properly

Hey there, garden pals! Ken Lain here, your trusty neighbor with the dirt on all things leafy and lovely. Today, we're tackling a task that might make some of you sweat: cutting back those glorious peonies. Don't worry, folks, it's not as scary as it sounds! Think of it as giving your peony a spa day for winter, prepping it for next year's grand flower show.

So, picture this: it's late fall, the leaves are turning into crunchy, rusty jewels, and your peony's stems stand tall like weathered generals. That's your cue! Grab your sharpest pruners (think samurai sword, not butter knife) and gently snip those stems about an inch above the ground. Yes, even those strong, healthy ones – trust me, it's for their own good. Think of it as removing dead soldiers from the battlefield, making room for fresh recruits next spring.

Now, some folks leave the foliage, but here's why I'm not a fan: those crispy leaves can harbor diseases and pests, acting like winter hotels for unwanted guests. By snipping them away, you're giving your peony a clean slate for spring's grand re-opening. Don't worry, the underground bulbs are tucked in snug and dreaming of next year's blooms.

Finally, a little winter mulch is like tucking your peony in for a cozy hibernation. Use straw, leaves, or even shredded bark – think comfy sheets, not heavy chains. Just a light layer to keep the frost at bay and the soil happy.

And voilà! You've given your peony the ultimate winter pampering. Now, sit back and imagine those buds forming under the snow, waiting to explode in a springtime spectacle. Remember, a little snip-snip now means a whole lotta wow later! Go forth, my garden warriors, and conquer those peonies!

 

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast,

Secrets to Landscape Planting in Winter

Hey there, garden friends! Ken Lain here, peeking over the fence to share some winter planting secrets that'll turn your frosty landscape into a wonderland. Now, I know what you're thinking: "Isn't the ground a frozen fortress? Who dares disturb it?" But hold on, that's just the old-fashioned way. Winter's the perfect time to plant the seeds of spring beauty, and I'm here to show you how!

First things first, let's ditch the misconception that winter's a dormant wasteland. Plants like snowdrops, winter aconites, and crocuses are raring to go, pushing their cheery blooms up through the frozen earth. Imagine the delight of seeing those bright splashes of color in February! Just picture your neighbors' jaws dropping when they see tulips already peeking out in March. That's the magic of winter planting, folks.

Now, don't go digging with a pickaxe like a modern-day gold prospector. Choose a mild day, loosen the soil gently, and nestle those bulbs in like cozy little earth babies. Mulch lightly with straw or leaves to keep the ground from heaving (that's when frost makes the soil dance a bumpy jig, bad for delicate shoots). Remember, these early birds need to breathe, so don't smother them with blankets. Think of it as tucking them in, not burying them alive.

And while you're out there, don't forget the evergreen superstars! Pines, spruces, and firs keep the winter blues at bay with their vibrant green needles. Bonus points if you choose varieties with colorful cones or berries that provide tasty treats for our feathered friends. Remember, a winter landscape bursting with life attracts feathered visitors, and their cheerful chirps are the sweetest winter music.

So, ditch the shovel-hibernation mentality and grab your gloves! Winter planting is a gift you give to your future spring self, a promise of color and life just when you need it most. Happy planting, friends!

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast

Deal with Indoor Bugs Safely

Hey there, fellow bug battlers! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to tackle those tiny terrors buzzing around your house! No need to panic, these indoor invaders can be dealt with naturally and safely, without resorting to chemical warfare.

First, remember, most indoor bugs are loners, not legionnaires. It's usually just a fly-by, not a full-blown invasion. So, before you whip out the bug spray, take a deep breath and assess the situation.

Now, about those sneaky critters:

• Fungus gnats: Those annoying little buzzy things hovering around your houseplants? Yep, it's probably the gnat gang. They love moist soil, so let your plants dry out a bit between waterings. And check out those handy yellow sticky traps – these gnats can't resist their sunny invitation!
• Fruit flies: Got a bowl of sweet, summery fruit attracting tiny fruit flies? Cover it with a breathable cloth, or pop it in the fridge. Remember, these guys are all about the fermented fun, so clean up any spills, and don't leave ripe fruit sitting around like a bug buffet.
• Spiders: Now, these eight-legged friends aren't necessarily bad! They help keep other bug populations in check. But if you're not a fan, try gentle relocation (think a glass and a piece of paper, not a squish!).

Here's the golden rule, folks: don't panic, be proactive! Keep your house clean, eliminate food and water sources, and use natural alternatives like sticky traps and diatomaceous earth (a fancy way of saying crushed rock that's deadly to bugs but safe for us).

Remember, a healthy home equals a happy home, for you and your tiny (sometimes unwanted) roommates. So, keep it clean, keep it natural, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're living in harmony with the not-so-creepy crawlies!

Happy bug-battling, y'all! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, I'm always here to help you keep your home buzzing with joy (and not those pesky invaders)!

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

Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter

Hey there, houseplant enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, here, ready to ditch the winter blues and breathe some fresh life into your indoor jungle! Winter winds may howl outside, but inside, we'll be creating cozy green havens with these top 10 houseplant heroes.

 

Here are just a few of the 10 we will cover during this segment:

1. Peace Lily: This elegant beauty loves low light and moist soil, making it perfect for those shady corners. Bonus: it purifies the air, removing nasty toxins like a leafy superhero!
2. Snake Plant: Tough as nails and stylish to boot, the snake plant thrives on neglect. Water it occasionally, forget it in the corner, and watch its dramatic, upright leaves add instant oomph to your space.
3. Spider Plant: This cheerful friend sends out baby spiderettes like confetti, making it easy to propagate and share the planty love. Hang it in a basket or let it cascade from a shelf for a touch of whimsical greenery.

Remember, folks, these are just a starting point! Explore, experiment, and find the houseplants that speak to your soul. With a little love and care, you can create a thriving indoor oasis that'll banish the winter blues and fill your home with fresh air and vibrant life.

Happy houseplant living, y'all! And don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. I'm always here to help you grow your indoor jungle!

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #HouseplantHeroes, #IndoorOasis, #BreatheEasy

 

Lisa’s Year End Garden Review, the Good, The Bad and the Ugly

Hey there, Green Thumb Gang! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to sip some hot cocoa and reminisce about the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious moments of our 2023 garden journey! Buckle up, it's gonna be a wild ride down memory lane!

January: Remember that brutal cold snap? Your pansies turned into popsicles, and the birds looked like feathery snowballs. But hey, it gave us an excuse to snuggle indoors with seed catalogs and dream of spring blooms!

February: Love was in the air (and the greenhouse)! We sowed seeds with hopeful hearts, watching tiny sprouts peek through the soil like baby chicks hatching. And who can forget the Valentine's Day massacre when Cupid's arrow struck my prized rose bush, leaving it thorny and heartbroken?

March: Spring sprang into action! Daffodils danced in the breeze, bees buzzed with newfound purpose, and we all got a little mud up to our elbows. Remember the Great Slug Massacre of '23? We fought those slimy fiends with vengeance, protecting our tender lettuce like knights guarding a queen's salad.

April: Easter egg hunts and blooming cherries painted the world in pastels. Butterflies fluttered like confetti, and the first whiff of tomato leaves was like a summer serenade. And let's not forget the epic battle with the neighborhood squirrel who declared war on my bird feeder!

May: Flowers overflowed like confetti at a party, veggies sprouted like popcorn kernels, and the sun finally felt like a friend, not a foe. Remember the time we planted an entire row of potatoes upside down? We may have laughed then, but those spuds still haunt my dreams!

June: Sunburns blossomed alongside our sunflowers, fireflies twinkled like tiny stars, and the scent of barbecue mingled with honeysuckle. And who can forget the Great Basil Bonanza? We made pesto galore, infusing everything from pizza to ice cream with that vibrant green goodness.

July: Fourth of July fireworks rivaled the zinnias in our gardens, kids splashed in sprinklers, and the heat had us all seeking shade like lizards on a rock. Remember the night the possum raided my compost bin? Let's just say his uninvited waltz left a lasting (and smelly) impression.

August: Dog days arrived, but so did juicy peaches and plump tomatoes. We canned, we pickled, we ate our weight in watermelon, and grumbled about the endless weeding. And who can forget the Great Zucchini Apocalypse? Those prolific squash threatened to take over the entire neighborhood!

September: Crisp mornings hinted at autumn, leaves started their slow-motion ballet, and the harvest moon cast an ethereal glow on our pumpkin patches. Remember the Grapes for Good fundraiser? We stomped and laughed our way to a record haul, raising funds for a worthy cause while getting deliciously sticky.

October: Halloween costumes and crunchy leaves painted the landscape in orange and black. Pumpkins grinned from porches, and bonfires crackled with cozy magic. Remember the time my scarecrow mysteriously came to life (okay, maybe it was just the wind, but it sure scared the bejeebers out of me!)

November: Thanksgiving feasts and falling snow reminded us of nature's bounty. We raked leaves into golden mountains, planted garlic for next spring's bounty, and snuggled indoors with hot cocoa, dreaming of summer days. Remember the epic snowball fight with the neighbors? I may still have a welt shaped like a snowman, but the memories are priceless!

December: Finally, we're here, cuddled up by the fire, reflecting on the year gone by. It was a bumpy, messy, glorious ride, full of triumphs and disasters, laughter and tears. But one thing's for sure: every weed pulled, every bloom admired, every tomato devoured made us closer to our gardens, and closer to each other.

So here's to 2023, the year we laughed in the face of slugs, danced with butterflies, and learned that even the ugliest weeds can teach us something beautiful. May the next year be even greener, bountiful, and full of garden adventures!

Happy growing, y'all! And don't forget to share your own garden memories in the comments below!

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

#MountainGardenerPodcast, #YearInReview, #HappyWinter

 

Does it Hurt Trees to Cut Exposed Roots Out of the Garden

Hey there, plant power enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to tackle a question that pops up like a weed after a spring rain: should you yank those exposed tree roots peeking out of your garden?

Let's face it, those gnarly beauties can be trip hazards, space invaders, and moisture thieves. But before you whip out the pruning shears, hold on! Cutting a major root is like chopping off a main artery to your tree. Think of it as severing a lifeline of water and nutrients.

Now, there are times when a little trim is okay. Imagine a stray branch growing horizontally – a root that's more nuisance than lifeline. If it's less than 2 inches thick and not near the trunk, a careful snip might be alright. But always err on the side of caution!

Here's the lowdown:

• Big cuts, big trouble: Hacking off major roots can weaken the tree, stunt its growth, and even make it susceptible to disease. Think of it as leaving an open wound for bugs and bad vibes to enter.
• Small snips, sometimes okay: If a smaller root (think pencil, not baseball bat) is causing real problems, like tripping you up or hogging all the moisture, a carefully measured cut might be tolerated. But remember, this is like taking a tiny nibble, not a full-blown burger bite.
• Consult the tree whisperer: Before you even think about shears, ask a professional arborist for advice. They have the wisdom to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action, saving you (and your tree) heartache.

Remember, folks, trees are our backyard buddies, living giants sharing our space. Treat them with respect, even the rooty ones. And when in doubt, remember the golden rule: when it comes to major root cuts, less is always more!

 

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