Top 10 Gardener with Ken Lain

🪴Using Coffee Grounds for a Healthy Garden

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here. And let's clear up some confusion about coffee grounds in the garden. While they won't magically solve all your plant problems, they can be a helpful addition to your soil-building arsenal. ☕

Coffee grounds act as a top dressing, similar to leaves or pine needles. They help insulate the soil, suppress weeds, and attract beneficial earthworms. Plus, they're slightly acidic, which can help balance the pH of our alkaline Arizona soils.

But don't expect coffee grounds to act like a fertilizer. They don't provide a significant boost of nutrients to your plants. Instead, add them to your compost pile to speed up decomposition or use them as a soil amendment to improve texture and water retention.

So, enjoy your morning coffee, and then share the grounds with your garden!

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🌿Wildflowers To Revegetate Construction Site

Hey garden friends, Ken and Lisa Lain the Top 10 Gardeners here to answer your gardening questions. This week, we're tackling a common challenge for those with new homes in the Central Highlands: re-vegetating a construction site. 🚧

If you want to restore a bare patch with native grasses and wildflowers, we've got you covered. Our Arizona wildflower and grass mix is perfect for creating a natural, low-maintenance landscape.

Spread the seed anytime between now and January, add a layer of Watters Premium Mulch to keep the birds away, and water regularly. You'll soon have a beautiful, thriving meadow that attracts pollinators and adds vibrant color to your property.

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🍂 Are Autumn Leaves Good or Bad for the Garden in Fall

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! As we transition from fall to winter, many of you are busy raking leaves. But did you know those leaves can actually be beneficial to your garden? 🍂

 

Leaves are like garden gold! They decompose quickly, creating a nutrient-rich compost that improves soil health and attracts beneficial organisms like earthworms and mycorrhizal fungi. Use them as mulch around your plants to insulate the soil, prevent weeds, and add valuable organic matter.

 

But don't let leaves pile up too thickly, especially on top of other plants. A layer of 2-3 inches is ideal. Too many leaves can smother plants and create a haven for pests and diseases.

 

And speaking of leaves, those pine needles can also be beneficial in moderation. They provide insulation and suppress weeds, but avoid excessive buildup.

 

So, rake those leaves, spread them around your garden, and let nature work its magic!

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 51 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken and Lisa Lain here! This week, we're diving into a variety of topics to help you navigate the winter gardening season. Lisa Waters Lane joins us to answer your burning garden questions, from growing cumquats to transplanting trees. We'll also debunk the myth of plant spikes and explore the fascinating history and care of the Christmas Cactus. Plus, I'll share expert tips on planting evergreens in cold weather so you can create a vibrant landscape even when the temperatures drop. Let's get started!

 

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Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Included in this week’s episode:

• Lisa Answers Your Garden Questions
• Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work
• Garden Trivia and History of Christmas Cactus
• Better Technique for Planting Winter Evergreens When it Cold Outside

 

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 are excited to share it 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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🌲Spruce Trees from Small to Tall🌲

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener Here. We're highlighting our wide variety of spruce trees, perfect for adding year-round beauty and texture to your landscape.

From towering giants like the majestic Colorado Blue Spruce to compact dwarfs ideal for smaller spaces or rock gardens, we have the perfect spruce for every need. Come explore our selection and find your perfect tree! Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right spruce for your specific needs and provide expert advice on planting and care. Don't miss out on these fantastic evergreens!

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🌲Better Technique for Planting Winter Evergreens When it Cold Outside

Hey, mountain gardeners, Ken Lain here. Even though winter's chill is in the air, it's still a fantastic time to plant evergreens. Whether you're dreaming of a lush privacy screen or simply adding a festive touch to your landscape, planting now offers some unique advantages. 

 

The secret to success is proper planting technique. This allows your evergreens to establish strong roots while they're dormant, ready to burst forth with new growth come spring. When digging your planting hole, make it the same depth as the root ball, but three times as wide. This encourages those roots to spread out and explore their new home.

 

Don't forget to amend the native soil with some Watters Premium Mulch. This will improve drainage, attract beneficial organisms, and help your evergreen thrive. And before you even place the tree in the hole, give the soil a good soaking. This prevents the surrounding soil from wicking away moisture from your new evergreen.

 

Finally, protect your evergreen from heavy snow loads by staking it securely. This is especially important for fast-growing varieties like Arizona cypress and Deodar cedar. With these simple steps, you can create an evergreen oasis that will bring you joy for years to come. Happy planting!

 

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🌺Garden Trivia and History of Christmas Cactus🌺

Hey gardeners, Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here! to share some fascinating facts about the Christmas Cactus! Did you know it's actually a cactus? Native to the mountains of Brazil, this holiday favorite thrives in cool, humid environments.

 

We'll uncover the legends behind its festive name, from a prayer answered in the Brazilian jungle to a Christmas miracle in a Bolivian village. Plus, learn about the three types of Christmas Cactus – Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter – and how to care for them so they bring you joy for years to come.

 

Join us for a journey through garden trivia and history, and discover the magic of the Christmas Cactus!

 

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🪴 Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work🪴

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here.  It's time to fertilize those evergreens, but with so many options on the market, you might be wondering what really works. Let's talk about those plant spikes. You know, the ones you hammer into the ground and supposedly feed your plants for a year?

In my experience, they're not all they're cracked up to be. It's nearly impossible to get the spikes in the right spot for the roots to absorb the nutrients. Plus, you often need multiple spikes per plant, which can get expensive.

Instead, I recommend using a good quality granular fertilizer, especially for trees and shrubs. Our 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food is an excellent organic option that provides slow-release feeding for healthy growth and vibrant color.

So skip the spikes and give your plants the nourishment they deserve with a granular fertilizer. Your garden will thank you!

 

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🌳Lisa’s Questions and Answers🌳

Hey garden friends, Ken and Lisa Lain the Top 10 Gardeners here, ready to tackle your gardening questions! This week, we're covering everything from growing cumquats in Prescott (spoiler alert: it's tricky!) to watering newly planted pines and transplanting trees. 

 

Plus, we'll share a cautionary tale about deciduous plants and why you shouldn't assume they're dead just because they've lost their leaves. 🍂 Remember, when in doubt, take a picture and bring it to your local garden experts for advice. We're always happy to help you keep your garden thriving!

 

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USDA Garden Zones

Hey there, fellow gardeners! I'm Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener  and owner of Watters Garden Center in Prescott, Arizona. If you're like me, you're always looking for ways to make your garden thrive. And if you're new to gardening in Prescott, you might be wondering what zone you're in and how to choose the right plants for your climate.

Zone 7: We're in zone 7, which means we get some pretty cold winters, but also some warm summers. This zone is great for a variety of plants, both annuals and perennials.

Choosing the Right Plants: When choosing plants for your garden, be sure to look for varieties that are hardy in zone 7 or colder. You can find a list of plants that are suitable for your zone at the Watters Garden Center website.

Tips for Success:

• Water: Arizona is a dry climate, so it's important to water your plants regularly.
• Mulch: Mulch helps to keep your plants moist and regulate the soil temperature.
• Fertilize: Fertilize your plants according to the instructions on the fertilizer label.
• Protect from Frost: In the winter, protect your plants from frost by covering them with blankets or sheets.

 

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🌺How to Force a Poinsettia to Flower and Turn Color Again🌺

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener Here. Want to enjoy your poinsettia's vibrant color year after year? You can!

 

Though often treated as annuals, these festive plants can rebloom with the right care. The secret lies in mimicking their natural cycle.

 

Starting in September, give your poinsettia 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night – a cool, dimly lit room is perfect. Keep the temperature around 65 degrees and fertilize regularly with a balanced houseplant food. By Thanksgiving, you'll be rewarded with those iconic colorful bracts!

 

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 50 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

Winter brings a desire to spruce up our homes with festive decorations. Poinsettias, with their vibrant red bracts, are a popular choice. To keep them thriving, ensure they receive bright, indirect light and maintain a consistent temperature between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry and avoid overwatering. If you want to enjoy your poinsettia beyond the holidays, provide it with proper care and consider forcing it to bloom again next year. For outdoor enthusiasts, evergreen shrubs like juniper, holly, and arborvitae can add beauty and cheer to your landscape during the winter months. Remember to choose hardy varieties in your climate and provide them with proper care.

Learn how to snag those hard-to-find specialty plants before they even hit the shelves by becoming a Garden Club Member!

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Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here. Included in this week’s episode:

• Best Pond Care for a Healthy Winter
• How to Grow a Better Holiday Poinsettia
•  Can Poinsettias Live Outdoors
• Why are Poinsettias used to Celebrate Holidays like Christmas
• Top 10 Landscape Evergreens for Holiday Decorating
• How to Force a Poinsettia to Flower and Turn Color Again

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 are excited to share it 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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🌲Top 10 Landscape Evergreens for Holiday Decorating🌲

Hey, mountain gardeners, Ken Lain here! With the right evergreens, creating a festive outdoor display is a breeze!

 

Arizona Cypress, with its soft texture and silvery-blue foliage, adds a touch of elegance. For a classic Christmas feel, choose a Spruce – Baby Blue Spruce offers that iconic pyramidal shape and stunning color. Pines, like the Austrian Pine, bring a bold, architectural presence. And don't forget Junipers!

 

Their diverse forms and colors add year-round interest. Visit Watters Garden Center to find the perfect evergreens to sparkle your landscape this holiday season!

 

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🎄Why are Poinsettias used to Celebrate Holidays like Christmas 🎄

Hey gardeners, Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here! Poinsettias have become a beloved symbol of Christmas, but have you ever wondered why?

 

The story begins with a young Mexican girl named Pepita who, lacking a gift for baby Jesus, offered humble weeds that miraculously transformed into brilliant red blooms. Later, in the 1800s, these "Flores de Noche Buena" were introduced to the U.S. by Ambassador Joel Poinsett. But it was the Ecke family who, with clever marketing in the mid-20th century, cemented the poinsettia's status as the Christmas flower.

 

Stop by Watters Garden Center to learn more about these fascinating plants and find the perfect poinsettia for your holiday celebration!

 

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🌄Can Poinsettias Live Outdoors🌄

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here.  Poinsettias, with their vibrant red foliage, scream "holiday cheer!"

 

But these tropical beauties much prefer the cozy indoors. Think of them like houseplants – comfy room temperatures, bright indirect light, and no cold drafts. Water only when the soil surface is dry, and never let them sit in soggy soil.

 

With a little TLC, your poinsettias will be the stars of your holiday decor all season long. Stop by Watters Garden Center for the finest poinsettias and expert advice to keep them thriving.

 

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