Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

✂️ Summer Pruning - Does and Don’ts ✂️

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardner, is here to help you clean up those Summer Perennials in your landscape.

Never be afraid to summer prune or clean up those perennials. Pruning in the summer is not only okay, but it can also benefit your plants. Removing spent blooms and trimming excess growth encourages healthier and more vigorous blooms.

For example, I recently pruned the green growth on a Red Hot Poker, and it doubled in size within a week! Just a little attention and cleanup can make a significant difference. Plants often respond positively to pruning, almost as if celebrating the extra care.

When pruning, always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts and be mindful not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time. This ensures the plant retains enough foliage while encouraging new growth. Regular summer pruning keeps your garden looking its best and your plants thriving.

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🌺Bright Blooming Shrubs in the Summer Garden this Year 🌺

Transform your garden into a vibrant summer haven with bright blooming shrubs that add an explosion of color and delightful fragrance. Imagine strolling through a landscape alive with the hues of Catmint, Butterfly Bush, Honeysuckle, Crape Myrtle, and more, each contributing its unique charm to your outdoor space.

Other noteworthy summer-blooming shrubs include Hydrangeas, with their large, lush flower heads in blue, pink, or white, and Roses, which offer classic beauty and a wide array of colors and scents.

Incorporating these bright blooming shrubs into your summer garden enhances its visual appeal and creates a welcoming environment for pollinators. With careful selection and placement, you can enjoy a continuous display of color and fragrance throughout the summer months. Happy gardening!

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🌵Top 10 Cactus & Desert Agave for Mountain Gardens🌵

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are here with the solution to all your prickly landscape needs.

Cactus and desert agave bring a touch of the wild to your mountain garden, thriving with minimal water and maximum resilience. These hardy plants are perfect for those looking to add unique, low-maintenance beauty to their outdoor spaces. The Century Plant, or Agave, is a standout, with its dramatic bloom that can reach feet in height seemingly overnight. While it’s true that pack rats or porcupines might occasionally nibble on your agave, these plants are generally tough and undemanding. To protect your precious blooms, consider some simple deterrents.

Planting desert cacti like the Prickly Pear or Barrel Cactus can also be a rewarding experience. These species require little water, making them ideal for arid climates and busy gardeners. Place them in well-draining soil and enjoy their striking forms and vibrant blooms.

By incorporating these top cacti and agave into your garden, you’re not just adding plants; you’re creating a sustainable, eye-catching landscape.

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🪴How Much Water Does a New Container Garden Need to be Healthy 🪴

It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with the scoop on Container Watering

 

Think of your soil as a sponge to keep your new container garden thriving. A freshly planted container needs plenty of water to get started - imagine filling a five-gallon bucket with water to hydrate the soil thoroughly. This initial soaking is crucial as it ensures your soil holds enough moisture around the plant roots, promoting healthy growth. Without this deep watering, plants can struggle to establish themselves, leading to poor health and growth.

Once you've given your container garden a good initial soak, the soil will retain moisture more efficiently, releasing it to the plants as needed. This process mimics natural soil conditions, where consistent moisture levels support robust plant health. Remember, well-hydrated soil is key to vibrant, healthy plants.

Watch for water trickling out the bottom of the container as you water. This indicates that the soil is saturated and has absorbed all it can hold. This ensures that excess water can drain away, preventing root rot. Consistent monitoring and watering adjustments are essential to cater to your plant's needs, especially during hot weather or dry spells.

By thinking of your soil as a sponge, you'll be able to water your container garden more effectively, leading to healthier, more resilient plants. Happy gardening!

 

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🍒Can You Really Water Fruit Trees Just Once a Week for a Bountiful Harvest? 🍒

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, are here to guide you. Follow these tips, and your fruit trees will thrive!

Watering your fruit trees just once a week can indeed yield a bountiful harvest, but timing and soil type are crucial. For those of you dealing with heavy clay soils, be aware that these soils retain moisture longer than sandy or loamy soils. While the surface might appear dry, just a few inches down, the soil can still be quite moist. This is particularly important for pitted fruits like peaches, plums, apricots, and nectarines, which prefer their roots to be moist but also need to breathe. Overwatering can suffocate the roots, leading to poor fruit production or even tree death.

A practical approach is to water your fruit trees twice a week. This frequency ensures that the roots receive sufficient moisture without becoming waterlogged. Remember, the goal is to keep the roots moist but also allow the soil to dry out enough for air to penetrate, promoting healthy root growth. Checking the soil moisture a few inches below the surface can help gauge whether it's time to water again.

Trust the advice of garden center professionals: more isn't always better when watering. With proper care, your fruit trees will reward you with a generous harvest.

 

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🚰Why Every True Gardener Needs 2 Water Cans and a Moisture Meter 🚰

It's Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener Here with Garden Tool Tips!

Every gardener knows the joy of nurturing plants to full bloom, and the right tools make all the difference. For peak efficiency, invest in two 2.5-gallon plastic watering cans. While one is filling, you can use the other to evenly distribute water or a fertilizer like our Watters  Flower Power across your garden. This simple practice doubles your productivity and ensures your plants stay hydrated and healthy.

These cans are durable, inexpensive, and perfect for mixing compost tea or fertilizer. You'll find that with two watering cans, your garden chores become more efficient, allowing you more time to enjoy the beauty of your plants.

Additionally, a moisture meter is indispensable, especially if you're new to the area. This handy tool helps you understand your soil's moisture levels, preventing over or under-watering. It takes the guesswork out of plant care, ensuring your garden thrives. With a moisture meter, you’ll quickly learn how your soil dries out, giving you the knowledge to water effectively.

Investing in these simple tools will transform your gardening experience, making it more enjoyable and productive. Happy gardening!

 

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🎤An Interview with Chris Shipley from Civano Nursery🎤

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

Included in this week’s episode:

• Evergreens for Privacy that Screens Prying Eyes
• Insider Tips for Growing Terrific Tomatoes
• Insider Tips to Growing Faster Trees
• Fragrant Flowers that Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies

• An Interview with Chris Shipley from Civano Nursery

 

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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🎤An Interview with Chris Shipley from Civano Growers 🎤

Ken Lain here, your Top 10 Gardener, I am thrilled to bring you an insightful interview with Chris Shipley from Civano Growers. Chris is a master in cultivating vibrant, resilient plants that thrive in our unique climate.

In this conversation, Chris shares his expertise on selecting the best varieties for your garden, from colorful perennials like Penstemon and Salvia to hardy shrubs and trees such as Arizona Cypress. He delves into the importance of understanding your soil, watering wisely, and the benefits of mulching.

Chris’s insights are not just theoretical; they are practical steps that will transform your garden into a flourishing oasis. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this interview is packed with tips that will elevate your gardening game.

Join us for this enlightening discussion and let’s grow something beautiful together!

 

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🌼Fragrant Flowers that Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies 🌼

Ken and Lisa Lain here, your Top 10 Gardeners, with tips for creating a buzzing, vibrant garden.

Are you looking to fill your garden with fragrant flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies? Butterflies and hummingbirds are drawn to specific plants, and with the right choices, your garden will be their favorite spot.

Consider planting Butterfly Bushes (Buddleia) – they come in a variety of colors and sizes. From the compact Pugster series to the taller Buzz Hot Rhapsody, there's a perfect fit for every garden. These bushes bloom all summer long, offering continuous color and fragrance. Regular deadheading will keep them looking their best and encourage more blooms.

Lavender and Bee Balm are also excellent choices. They provide nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies while adding a lovely fragrance to your garden. Plant these in sunny spots for the best results.

To attract even more pollinators, create a diverse planting scheme. Include flowers with different bloom times, colors, and shapes. This provides a constant food source and makes your garden visually appealing.

For a comprehensive list of butterfly and hummingbird-friendly plants, Go to this Link   and check out our dedicated plant list. Let's make your garden a haven for these delightful creatures!

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🌳Insider Tips to Growing Faster Trees🌳

Looking to boost the growth of your garden trees?

Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener here, your garden neighbor with tried-and-true tips for vibrant, fast-growing trees.

First, ensure your trees are healthy with regular care. If they seem slow to wake up, mix up a five-gallon bucket of Root and Grow, pouring it around the roots. This boosts activation and growth. Every time it rains, the moisture releases nutrients, so an application of all-purpose plant food (7-4-4) can work wonders. This is especially effective for privacy screens like Red Tip Photinia. Feeding regularly and providing natural moisture will have your garden flourishing in no time.

For the best results, fertilize in the early spring. The rain we receive activates the fertilizer, releasing food for the plants and giving them a jump start. If your trees seem stressed or not growing as quickly as you'd like, a couple of applications of Root and Grow can make a noticeable difference. Simply pour the solution around the roots, and watch your plants respond with new growth.

By using a combination of all-purpose plant food and Root and Grow, you can give your trees the nutrients they need to grow faster and stronger. Remember, a well-fed tree is a happy tree! Happy gardening!

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🍅 Tips for Growing Terrific Tomatoes 🍅

Growing terrific tomatoes is easier than you think with a few simple tricks from your trusted garden experts, Ken and Lisa Lain. As your tomatoes start to flower, give them a bi-weekly spritz of Tomato & Pepper Set. This special spray helps plants focus on setting fruit rather than just growing leaves. It is a simple step, but it makes a big difference in the number of tomatoes you get.

Blossom end rot is a common problem for many gardeners. The end of the fruit rots and turns black. This is usually due to a calcium deficiency. To prevent this, use a calcium-rich spray like Yield Booster. Apply this once a week, alternating with the Tomato & Pepper Set spray. This ensures your plants get the nutrients they need to produce healthy, delicious tomatoes.

By alternating these sprays, you'll see a noticeable increase in your tomatoes' quantity and quality. The fruits will be larger, juicier, and sweeter because calcium enhances the flavor of your vegetables. Consistent care and the right products make all the difference.

With these simple steps, you can look forward to a bountiful tomato harvest. Remember, a little care goes a long way in your backyard garden. Happy gardening!

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🌲Evergreens for Privacy that Screens Prying Eyes🌲

Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, here to help you create a private, lush garden sanctuary with evergreens.

We recommend Arizona Cypress, Spartan Juniper, and a wide selection of evergreen pines at Watters Garden Center for natural privacy screens.

These evergreens provide a beautiful green barrier and thrive in our local climate. The first year focuses on rooting, so plant now to give them a strong start. By the second year, you'll see significant growth, often doubling in size. Timing is everything—take advantage of this ideal planting window.

I advise working with the seasons to maximize growth. Avoid planting mums now, as they are a fall crop. Instead, consider echinaceas, iris, and especially red salvia if you love attracting baby hummingbirds. Our practical, friendly advice ensures your garden flourishes. Plant with confidence, and enjoy a beautiful, private green sanctuary all year round!

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🌼 Best Blooming Flowers - May and Beyond 🌼

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

Included in this week’s episode:

• Preparing Old Containers & Raised Beds for New Flowers Plants
• Holding Hills with Honeysuckle & More
• Bugs that Bite People and Plants
• Perennial Flowers for Nonstop Blooms
• Best Blooming Flowers - May and Beyond
• Why No One will Hire a Small Business Owner

 

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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💼Why No One will Hire a Small Business Owner 💼

Ken delves into the intricate art of merchandising, a cornerstone of success for any retail endeavor. Through his passionate leadership, Ken imparts invaluable lessons to his team, nurturing them into skilled retailers who can turn any space into a captivating masterpiece.

From interior design principles to the nuances of graphic arts, Ken's approach transforms merchandising into a symphony of visual delight that beckons customers and sparks their desire to purchase.

 

Embrace the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship alongside Ken, where every task—from selling plants to crafting spaghetti sauce—contributes to the vibrant tapestry of success. Join Ken on this enlightening journey as he unveils the secrets to thriving in the dynamic world of small business!

 

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🌸Perennial Flowers for Nonstop Blooms🌸

Step into the radiant world of perennial flowers with Ken and Lisa Lain, your trusted gardening companions!

 

Ken unveils the secrets of plants like Veronica, boasting tall, spiky blooms that stand proud in even the sunniest spots. These resilient perennials not only endure the heat but return faithfully each year, gracing your garden with their enduring beauty and long-lasting blossoms. Imagine the joy of hosting a party or celebrating a graduation surrounded by these spectacular blooms!

 

Pair them with vibrant companions like million bells or coral bells for an unforgettable display that captivates all who behold it. From shaded patios to sun-drenched borders, Ken's expert tips ensure your garden thrives with nonstop blooms, creating a haven of natural beauty and endless delight in your own backyard oasis!

 

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