Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

The Mountain Gardener: Your Guide to Gardening in Arizona’s Mountain Landscape

The Mountain Gardener Podcast is your one-stop shop for all things gardening Arizona’s High Country. Our hosts, Ken and Lisa Lain, are experienced gardeners who are passionate about helping others succeed in their gardens.

In each episode, we cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Shrubs for a Brighter Autumn Landscape
• What is the Best Plant Food?
• Which Container is Right for Your Orchid, African Violet, or Houseplant?
• Top 10 Colors of Fall
• Evergreen Trees that Last
• Insider Garden Tips and Tricks that Work

We also interview experts in the field and share listener stories.

Whether you're a beginner gardener or a seasoned pro, we have something for everyone on the Mountain Gardener Podcast.

Gardening can be a rewarding hobby, but it can also be challenging. There's a lot to learn about plants, soil, and climate.

In this episode, we'll share some insider gardening tips and tricks that work. We'll cover everything from choosing the right plants for your climate to protecting your plants from the cold.

We hope you'll join us for the Mountain Gardener Podcast! Subscribe today on your favorite podcast platform.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

 

Insider Garden Tips and Tricks that Work!

Gardening can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, but it can also be challenging. There are many factors to consider, such as the type of plants you want to grow, the climate you live in, and the soil quality.

If you're looking for some insider gardening tips and tricks that work, here are a few from Watters Garden Center:

• Choose the right plants for your climate and altitude. 
• Plant your plants in the right location. Some plants need full sun, while others prefer partial shade or even full shade. Be sure to research the needs of your plants before you plant them.
• Water your plants regularly. The amount of water your plants need will vary depending on the type of plants, the climate, and the time of year. However, most plants need about an inch of water per week.
• Fertilize your plants regularly. This will help them to grow strong and healthy. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer label.
• Mulch your plants. Mulch will help to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots of your plants.

Here are a few more insider tips:

• Amend your soil.  If your soil is low in nutrients, you can add compost or manure.
• Water your plants deeply. It's better to water your plants deeply once a week than to water them lightly every day. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deep, which makes the plants more drought-tolerant.
• Deadhead your flowers. This will encourage them to bloom more.
• Divide your perennials every few years. This will help them to stay healthy and vigorous.

At Watters Garden Center, we're not just selling plants. We're selling garden experiences. That's why we offer a variety of plant handouts and resources to help you succeed in your garden. We also have a team of knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and help you choose the right plants and products for your needs.

So come on down to Watters Garden Center today and let us help you create the garden of your dreams!

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

#insider gardening tips, #gardening tips and tricks, #gardening hacks, #gardeningexperiences, #amendingyoursoil

Evergreen Trees that Last

Evergreen Trees that Last: Now is a Great Time to Plant!

Evergreen trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They provide year-round interest and privacy, and they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. If you're looking for evergreen trees that will last, Watters Garden Center has a wide selection to choose from.

Why plant evergreen trees?

There are many benefits to planting evergreen trees. Here are just a few:

• Year-round interest: Evergreen trees provide year-round interest to your landscape, even in the winter when other plants are dormant.
• Privacy: Evergreen trees can be used to create a privacy screen, block out unwanted views, or simply add a sense of seclusion to your property.
• Wind protection: Evergreen trees can help to protect your home and other structures from the wind.
• Soil erosion prevention: Evergreen trees help to prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place with their roots.
• Wildlife habitat: Evergreen trees provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits.

Which evergreen trees should I plant?

When choosing evergreen trees for your landscape, there are a few factors to consider, such as the size and shape of the tree, the climate you live in, and the amount of sun and shade in your yard.

Here are a few popular evergreen trees that are well-suited to the Prescott area:

• Deodar cedar: This fast-growing tree can reach heights of 50 feet or more. It has long, drooping branches with blue-green foliage.
• Arizona cypress: This native tree is known for its drought tolerance and fast growth rate. It can reach heights of 20 feet or more.
• Colorado spruce: This classic Christmas tree is a popular choice for its symmetrical shape and blue-green needles.
• Austrian pine: This fast-growing pine tree can reach heights of 60 feet or more. It has long, dark green needles and a dense growth habit.

Why 20% of your landscape should be evergreen

Landscape designers recommend that 20% of your landscape be evergreen trees. This helps to provide year-round interest and privacy, and it also creates a more balanced and harmonious landscape.

When to plant evergreen trees

The best time to plant evergreen trees in the Prescott area is in the fall or winter. This gives the trees time to establish their roots before the hot summer months.

How to plant evergreen trees

Here are a few tips for planting evergreen trees:

1. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
2. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree.
3. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
4. Water the tree deeply.
5. Mulch around the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for evergreen trees

Evergreen trees are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require some basic care. Here are a few tips:

• Water evergreen trees regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
• Fertilize evergreen trees in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune evergreen trees as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to maintain their shape.

If you're looking for evergreen trees that will last, Watters Garden Center has a wide selection to choose from. Visit us today or shop online at wattersgardencenter.com!

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #evergreens

Top 10 Colors of Fall

Fall is a beautiful time of year, with its crisp air, changing leaves, and harvest bounty. One of the best things about fall is the stunning colors that the leaves turn. From brilliant reds and oranges to deep purples and yellows, fall foliage is a sight to behold.

If you're looking to add some fall color to your yard or garden, here are some of the best plants to choose from:

Coles Compact Burning Bush is a small, shrub that grows to about 6 feet tall and wide. It has bright red leaves in the fall that turn a deep burgundy color in the winter.

Autumn Blaze Maple is a popular shade tree that grows to about 60 feet tall and 40 feet wide. It has brilliant red leaves in the fall.

Heavenly Bamboo is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that grows to about 10 feet tall and wide. It has dark green leaves with white variegation in the spring and summer. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful shade of yellow.

Oregon Grape Holly is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that grows to about 6 feet tall and wide. It has dark green leaves with yellow flowers in the spring. In the fall, the leaves turn a deep purple color.

These are just a few of the many plants that offer stunning fall foliage. Watch the Podcast to see the rest of Lisa’s recommendations.  

When choosing plants for your yard or garden, be sure to consider the size and shape of the plants, as well as the desired fall foliage color. You may also want to consider the growing conditions in your area and choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil type.

With a little planning, you can create a beautiful fall landscape that you will enjoy for years to come.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

#fallcolorsforyourgarden, #autumnfoliage, #fallvibes, #fallcolorsinthearizonamoutains

Which Container is Right for Your Orchid, African Violet, or Houseplant?

Orchid, African violet, and Houseplant containers are specially designed to meet the unique needs of these different types of plants.

Orchid Containers

Orchids are epiphytes, which means that they grow on other plants in the wild. Their roots need a lot of air circulation, so orchid pots have holes in the sides and bottom to allow for this. Orchid pots are also typically made of clay or plastic, which allows water to drain quickly.

African Violet Containers

African violets are delicate plants that need consistent moisture, but they don't like to sit in water. African violet pots have a special wicking system that allows water to be drawn up from the bottom of the pot as needed. This helps to prevent the roots from becoming overwatered or underwatered.

Houseplant Containers

Houseplant containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: drainage holes. Drainage holes are essential for preventing root rot, so it's important to choose a container with at least one drainage hole.

When choosing a houseplant container, it's also important to consider the size of the plant and its root system. A pot that is too small will restrict the plant's growth, while a pot that is too large will hold too much water, which can lead to root rot.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right container for your orchids, african violets, and houseplants:

• Choose a container that is the right size for the plant. The pot should be large enough to accommodate the plant's root system, but not so large that it holds too much water.
• Make sure the container has drainage holes. Drainage holes are essential for preventing root rot.
• Choose a container that is made of a material that is appropriate for the plant. Orchid pots should be made of clay or plastic, while African violet pots should have a special wicking system. Houseplant containers can be made of a variety of materials, but they should all have drainage holes.

At Watters Garden Center, we carry a wide variety of orchid, African violet, and houseplant containers to choose from. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right container for your needs.

 

Additional Tips

• Repot your plants every year or two, or when they outgrow their current pots.
• When repotting, use a fresh potting mix.
• Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater them.
• Fertilize your plants according to the instructions on the fertilizer label.

By following these tips, you can help your orchids, African Violets, and Houseplants thrive.

 

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

#differencesbetweenorchidafricanvioletandhouseplantcontainers,

What is the Best Plant Food?

The best plant food is one that provides your plants with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. The specific nutrients that your plants need will vary depending on the type of plants you are growing. However, there are some general nutrients that all plants need, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Here is a guide to choosing the best plant food for your needs:

• Fruit trees: Fruit trees need fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will help them to produce abundant fruit.
• Vegetables: Vegetables also need fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, they also need other nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium.
• Pumpkins: Pumpkins need fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus. This will help them to grow large and plump.
• Berries: Berries need a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium. This will help them to produce abundant berries.
• Grapes: Grapes need fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium. This will help them to produce sweet and juicy grapes.

When choosing a plant food, it is important to consider the NPK ratio. The NPK ratio is a three-number code that indicates the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the fertilizer. For example, a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 7-4-4 contains 7% nitrogen, 4% phosphorus, and 4% potassium.

The NPK ratio of the fertilizer you choose should depend on the type of plants you are growing and their specific needs. For example, if you are growing fruit trees, you will want to choose a fertilizer with a high NPK ratio. If you are growing vegetables, you will want to choose a fertilizer with a lower NPK ratio and more calcium and magnesium.

Watters Garden Center offers a variety of plant foods to choose from, including:

• All Purpose Plant Food 7-4-4: This fertilizer is a good choice for all types of plants. It is a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in equal proportions.
• All Organic Fruit and Vegetable Food People and Pet Friendly: This fertilizer is a good choice for organic gardeners. It is made from natural ingredients and is safe for people and pets.

You can also find a variety of other plant foods at Watters Garden Center, including fertilizers for specific types of plants, such as roses, tomatoes, and lawns.

Calcium for Better Tasting Fruit

Calcium is an important nutrient for all plants, but it is especially important for fruit trees and vegetables. Calcium helps to improve the flavor and size of fruit. It also helps to prevent diseases and pests.

If you want to get the best tasting fruit from your fruit trees and vegetables, be sure to use a fertilizer that contains calcium. You can also supplement your plants with calcium by using a calcium spray or by adding lime to the soil.

How to Apply Plant Food

The best way to apply plant food depends on the type of fertilizer you are using. Some fertilizers can be applied directly to the soil, while others need to be mixed with water and applied to the leaves of the plant.

If you are using a granular fertilizer, be sure to follow the instructions on the label. Most granular fertilizers should be applied in the spring and fall.

If you are using a liquid fertilizer, be sure to mix it with water according to the instructions on the label. Liquid fertilizers can be applied to the soil or to the leaves of the plant.

Tips for Using Plant Food

• Always follow the instructions on the label.
• Do not overfertilize your plants. Overfertilizing can damage your plants and pollute the environment.
• Water your plants regularly, especially after applying plant food.
• Fertilize your plants regularly, especially during the growing season.

By following these tips, you can use plant food to help your plants grow and thrive.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #how to choose the best plant food for your plants, #organic plant food, #all-purpose plant food, #fruittreefertilizer

Shrubs for a Brighter Autumn Landscape

Autumn is a time for change, and there's nothing more beautiful than the transformation of leaves from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. If you're looking for ways to add some extra color to your autumn landscape, consider planting some shrubs.

Here are a few of the best shrubs for a brighter autumn landscape:

• Aspen: Aspens are known for their stunning golden foliage in the fall. They're also relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of climates.
• Maples: Maples are another popular choice for fall foliage. They come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, and yellow. Some popular varieties include Japanese maples, Norway maples, and sugar maples.
• Sumac: Sumac is a native North American shrub that produces bright red leaves in the fall. It's also a good source of food for birds and other wildlife.
• Barberry: Barberries are known for their bright red, orange, and purple foliage in the fall. They're also relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
• Boston Ivy: Boston Ivy is a fast-growing vine that can be used to cover walls, fences, and other structures. It produces bright red leaves in the fall.
• Virginia Creeper: Virginia Creeper is another fast-growing vine that produces bright red leaves in the fall. It's also very tolerant of shade and poor soil conditions.
• Burning Bush: Burning bush is a popular shrub that produces bright red leaves in the fall. It's relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of climates.

When choosing shrubs for your autumn landscape, be sure to consider the size and shape of the plants, as well as the desired fall foliage color. You may also want to consider the growing conditions in your area and choose shrubs that are well-suited to your climate and soil type.

Here are a few tips for planting and caring for shrubs:

• Choose a sunny spot for most shrubs. Some shrubs, such as Boston Ivy and Virginia Creeper, will tolerate shade.
• Plant shrubs in well-drained soil.
• Water shrubs regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
• Fertilize shrubs in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune shrubs as needed to maintain their shape and size.

With a little planning, you can create a stunning autumn landscape with shrubs that will provide years of enjoyment.

Visit Watters Garden Center today to see our wide selection of shrubs for a brighter autumn landscape!

#wattersgardencenter, #watterscardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #Top10Gardener, #shrubs for fall foliage, #best shrubs for autumn color, # best shrubs for fall foliage in Arizona

Best Plant Food for Really Health Plants

Watters Premium Plant Food: The Best Plant Food for Really Healthy Plants

Looking for the best plant food to help your plants thrive? Look no further than Watters Premium Plant Food! This all-purpose fertilizer is specially formulated to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to produce lush, green foliage, vibrant blooms, and delicious fruits and vegetables.

Watters Premium Plant Food contains a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), as well as essential micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and calcium. This nutrient-rich formula helps to promote strong root growth, healthy leaf development, and abundant flowering and fruiting.

Watters Premium Plant Food is also easy to use. Simply mix it with water and apply it to the soil around your plants according to the package directions. You can use it on all types of plants, including flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, and houseplants.

Here are just a few of the benefits of using Watters Premium Plant Food:

• Promotes strong root growth
• Encourages healthy leaf development
• Boosts flowering and fruiting
• Increases resistance to pests and diseases
• Improves overall plant health and vigor

Tips for getting the most out of Watters Premium Plant Food:

• Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Test your soil every few years to determine the pH level and nutrient content.
• Apply fertilizer according to the package directions and avoid over-fertilizing.

With Watters Premium Plant Food, you can give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive and produce their best blooms, fruits, and vegetables.

 

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #fertilizer, #plantfood

Year End Garden Class for Healthier Plants

Watters Garden Center offers free garden classes every Saturday at 9:30 AM, both in-person and online. The classes are relevant to the Southwest climate and cover a variety of topics, including autumn colors, succulents, cacti, and showy shrubs. The classes are recorded and available on the Watters Garden Center YouTube channel and website.

The last 3 classes of the season are:

• Best Autumn Colors that you can Plant and Enjoy at Home
• Succulents, Cacti, and Low Maintenance Gardens
• Showy Shrubs of Autumn

These classes will cover how to choose, plant, and care for plants that will thrive in the Southwest climate. We will take a break in November and December and hit it hard again beginning in mid January as next year’s garden season is on the horizon.

Watters Garden Center is committed to helping people garden better in the Southwest. We believe that everyone has the right to a beautiful garden, and we provide the knowledge and resources people need to succeed.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

#gardenclasses, #bettergardening

Best Plant Food for Really Health Plants

Watters Premium Plant Food: The Best Plant Food for Really Healthy Plants

Looking for the best plant food to help your plants thrive? Look no further than Watters Premium Plant Food! This all-purpose fertilizer is specially formulated to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to produce lush, green foliage, vibrant blooms, and delicious fruits and vegetables.

Watters Premium Plant Food contains a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), as well as essential micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and calcium. This nutrient-rich formula helps to promote strong root growth, healthy leaf development, and abundant flowering and fruiting.

Watters Premium Plant Food is also easy to use. Simply mix it with water and apply it to the soil around your plants according to the package directions. You can use it on all types of plants, including flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, and houseplants.

Here are just a few of the benefits of using Watters Premium Plant Food:

• Promotes strong root growth
• Encourages healthy leaf development
• Boosts flowering and fruiting
• Increases resistance to pests and diseases
• Improves overall plant health and vigor

How to use Watters Premium Plant Food:

1. Apply to the soil around your plants, being careful to avoid the leaves.
2. Water the plants thoroughly after applying the fertilizer.
3. Fertilize your plants every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

Tips for getting the most out of Watters Premium Plant Food:

• Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Test your soil every few years to determine the pH level and nutrient content.
• Apply fertilizer according to the package directions and avoid over-fertilizing.

With Watters Premium Plant Food, you can give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive and produce their best blooms, fruits, and vegetables.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #fertilizer, #plantfood

Top 10 Evergreens for Every Landscape

Evergreens are a great way to add year-round beauty and interest to your landscape. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so there is an evergreen that is perfect for every landscape.

Here are our top evergreens for every landscape:

Vanderwolf Pine

Is a beautiful and hardy evergreen tree that is perfect for any landscape. It has a dense, pyramidal habit and grows to a height of 20-30 feet. The needles are a deep green color and are slightly twisted. The cones are small and round, and they mature in the fall. The Vanderwolf Pine is very tolerant of drought and heat, and it is also resistant to pests and diseases.

Austrian Pine

Is a fast-growing evergreen tree that is perfect for hedges, screens, or windbreaks. It has a dense, pyramidal habit and grows to a height of 50-60 feet. The needles are a dark green col-or and are short and stiff. The cones are large and oval-shaped, and they mature in the fall. The Austrian Pine is very tolerant of drought and heat, and it is also resistant to pests and diseases.

Oregon Green Pine

Is a slow-growing evergreen tree that is perfect for smaller landscapes. It has a dense, pyramidal habit and grows to a height of 15-20 feet. The needles are a deep green color and are soft and flexible. The cones are small and round, and they mature in the fall. The Oregon Green Pine is very tolerant of drought and heat, and it is also resistant to pests and diseases.

Arizona Cypress

Is a fast-growing evergreen tree that is perfect for hedges, screens, or wind-breaks. It has a dense, pyramidal habit and grows to a height of 50-60 feet. The foliage is a silvery-blue color and is very soft and fine. The cones are small and round, and they mature in the fall. The Arizona Cypress is very tolerant of drought and heat, and it is also resistant to pests and diseases.

Spruce

Are evergreens that are known for their soft, needle-like leaves and pyramidal shape. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from dwarf shrubs to tall trees. Spruces are also very tolerant of a variety of soil conditions and climates.

Juniper

Are versatile evergreens that can be used for groundcovers, hedges, or foundation plantings. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from low-growing shrubs to tall trees. Junipers are also very tolerant of a variety of soil conditions and climates.

When choosing evergreens for your landscape, be sure to consider the size and shape of the plants, as well as the soil conditions and climate. With a little planning, you can choose the perfect evergreens to add year-round beauty and interest to your landscape.

Visit Watters Garden Center for more information on evergreens and other landscape plants.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #Evergreen

Mineral for Brighter Plants

Evergreens prefer acidic soil, so aluminum sulfate is a great mineral to use to brighten them up. It contains aluminum and sulfur, and it creates an ideal growing environment for evergreens. In addition to Watters 7-4-4 Plant Food Aluminum sulfate also helps to brighten evergreens by developing a silvery coating on their leaves, which can reflect sunlight.

To use aluminum sulfate on evergreens, simply apply it to the soil around the base of the plants. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label. In addition to Watters 7-4-4 Plant Food Aluminum sulfate is a very effective fertilizer for evergreens in the Fall, but it can be harmful if overused.

Here are some additional tips for growing bright and vibrant evergreens:

• Water regularly, but don't overwater.
• Place in a sunny location.
• Avoid planting in areas with poor drainage.
• Fertilize in the spring with Watters 7-4-4 Plant Food.
• With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of bright and vibrant evergreens in your landscape for many years to come!

Visit Watters Garden Center for more information on how to grow and care for evergreens.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #fertilizer

How Low will Aspen Grow?

Aspens are a beautiful and iconic tree species, but how low will they grow? The answer depends on climate, soil conditions, and elevation. In general, aspens prefer higher elevations, but can tolerate some dry conditions and grow as low as 4,000 feet above sea level.

If you are interested in planting an aspen tree in your landscape, choose a location at the right elevation and with the right soil conditions. Plant your aspen tree in the fall and water it regularly, especially during the first year. Fertilize your aspen tree in the spring and mulch around it to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. With proper care, your aspen tree can thrive for many years, even at lower elevations.

Here are some additional tips for growing aspen trees at lower elevations:

• Put your aspen tree on drip irrigation. This will help you to water deeply and less often, which is important for aspen trees.
• Be careful not to overwater your aspen tree. Aspen trees are more likely to die from overwatering than from underwatering.
• Mulch around your aspen tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize your aspen tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of aspen trees in your landscape, even at lower elevations.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener, #aspen

Designer Tips for Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are a versatile and beautiful flower that can be used in a variety of ways in landscape design. They come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, so there is a chrysanthemum perfect for any style of garden.

Here are a few tips from Watters Garden Center on how to use chrysanthemums in your landscape:

• Plant chrysanthemums in full sun or partial shade. Chrysanthemums prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you may want to amend it with compost or sand before planting.
• Water chrysanthemums regularly but be careful not to overwater them. Chrysanthemums do not like to sit in water, so it is important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilize chrysanthemums every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer, such as Watters Flower Power. This will help your chrysanthemums produce more flowers.
• Deadhead chrysanthemums regularly to encourage new growth and flowering. To deadhead a chrysanthemum, simply remove the spent flower heads from the plant.

Here are a few specific ideas for how to use chrysanthemums in your landscape:

• Plant chrysanthemums directly in containers you bought them in.  This is a great option if you have a small garden, if you want to be able to move your chrysanthemums around to different locations, or if you want to treat them as an annual and pop them out after the fall season ends and plant winter flowers, such as pansies, in their place.

• Use chrysanthemums to attract butterflies and bees. Chrysanthemums are a great way to attract pollinators to your garden.
• Use chrysanthemums to create a festive fall display. Chrysanthemums can be used to create a variety of festive fall displays. For example, you can plant them in pumpkins or gourds, or you can use them to create a fall wreath or centerpiece.

No matter how you choose to use them, chrysanthemums are a beautiful and versatile flower that is sure to add interest and appeal to your landscape.

Communities & CONSCIOUS Capitalism

Conscious capitalism is a business philosophy that emphasizes the importance of social and environmental responsibility alongside financial profit. Conscious businesses strive to create a positive impact on the world by treating their stakeholders fairly, including employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which they operate.

Communities play an important role in conscious capitalism. Conscious businesses are committed to supporting the communities in which they operate. They do this by creating jobs, investing in local businesses, and donating to charities and nonprofits.

Conscious businesses also work to protect the environment. They do this by using sustainable practices, reducing their emissions, and conserving resources.

Here are some examples of how conscious businesses support communities:

• Employee ownership: Some conscious businesses are employee-owned, which gives employees a stake in the success of the company and encourages them to be more engaged and productive.
• Fair wages and benefits: Conscious businesses pay their employees fair wages and provide them with good benefits. This helps to ensure that employees can earn a decent living and support their families.
• Local sourcing: Conscious businesses source their goods and services from local suppliers whenever possible. This helps to support the local economy and create jobs.
• Charitable giving: Conscious businesses donate to charities and nonprofits that support the communities in which they operate. This helps to fund important programs and services that benefit the community.
• Environmental protection: Conscious businesses use sustainable practices, reduce their emissions, and conserve resources. This helps to protect the environment and create a more sustainable future for all.

Here are some ways that communities can support conscious capitalism:

• Shop at conscious businesses: When you shop at conscious businesses, you are supporting businesses that are committed to making a positive impact on the world.
• Invest in conscious businesses: If you have the financial means, you can invest in conscious businesses. This helps to provide them with the capital they need to grow and succeed.
• Promote conscious capitalism: Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about conscious capitalism. Encourage them to support conscious businesses and invest in conscious businesses.

By working together, communities and conscious businesses can create a more sustainable and equitable world.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #Top10Gardener, #community, #nonprofit