Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

Lisa’s New Plants for Autumn 2023

Lisa Watters-Lain is ready for autumn with a new selection of plants, including:

She is excited to share some of her New Plants for Autumn 2023 from Wattersgardencenter.com:

• Pansies and Violas: These colorful flowers are perfect for adding a touch of brightness to your fall garden. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
• Snapdragons: Snapdragon flowers have a unique shape that resembles a dragon's mouth. They come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, pink, and purple.
• Dusty Miller: Dusty Miller is a silver-leaved plant that can add contrast and texture to your garden. It is also a good choice for drought-tolerant gardens.
• Alyssum: Alyssum is a small, flowering plant that produces masses of tiny white or purple flowers. It is a good choice for borders and edging.
• Ornamental Grasses: Ornamental grasses add height and movement to your garden. They are also a good choice for attracting wildlife.
• Sumac: Sumac is a shrub that produces bright red foliage in the fall. It is a good choice for adding a pop of color to your landscape.

Whether you're freshening up an existing landscape or starting with a blank slate Watters Garden Center has the plants you need to create a beautiful and productive garden.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #Top10GardenerPodcast, #autumnplants

How to Identify Dangerous Snakes in the Garden

How to Identify Dangerous Snakes in the Garden

Whether you're an avid gardener or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, it's important to be able to identify dangerous snakes in your area. In this episode of the Top10 Gardener Podcast, we'll discuss the key characteristics of venomous snakes and how to stay safe around them.

How to identify dangerous snakes

Venomous snakes typically have a triangular-shaped head, slit pupils, and a thick body. Some venomous snakes, such as rattlesnakes, also have rattles on their tails. However, not all snakes with these characteristics are venomous, so it's important to be familiar with the specific types of venomous snakes in your area.

What to do if you see a snake in your garden

If you see a snake in your garden, the best thing to do is to leave it alone. Snakes are generally shy and will avoid humans if possible. If you need to move a snake, you can use a long-handled shovel to gently nudge it away. If the snake is venomous, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Call a professional snake remover.

How to prevent snakes from coming into your garden

There are a few things you can do to prevent snakes from coming into your garden:

• Keep your yard tidy and free of debris. Snakes like to hide in tall grass and piles of leaves.
• Seal up any holes or cracks in your foundation or siding. Snakes can use these openings to enter your home or garage.
• Trim bushes and trees away from your home. Snakes can climb trees and shrubs to reach your roof or upper-level windows.

Ken Lain, The Top 10 Mountain Gardener says "Literally, they'll be gone within just a few hours. They're just resting while they get their energy back and they'll move on by themselves. You don't have to take a shovel to the head. They're good for us out there."

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #Top10GardenerPodcast, #snakesinthelandscape

Best Care for Tall Grasses

We've gotten some huge selections of grasses in. Pampas grass, Carl Forrester's, Buddy grass. They're all in bloom. They're just stunning. Yeah, they're gorgeous. You let them bloom through the end of the year. Then Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener, says that he usually cuts back his grasses in January, when they have turned tan and are starting to lose their shape. He cuts most grass back to ankle level, but some larger grasses, like Pampas grass, he may cut back to knee level.

He recommends waiting until the end of the year to cut back grasses because they provide structure and interest to the garden during the winter months. Even after the grass has turned tan, the plumes can still be quite attractive.

However, once the grasses start to lay over and lose their shape, it's time to cut them back. This will help to promote new growth in the spring.

Here are some additional tips for cutting back Ornamental Grass:

• Use sharp shears or a pruning saw to make clean cuts.
• Remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems.
• Fertilize in the spring to encourage new growth.
• Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting.

With proper care, your grasses will thrive for many years to come.

Getting the Most Out of the Autumn Garden

In this podcast from Top10 Gardener, we'll join Ken Lain, the mountain gardener, at Watters Garden Center to learn how to get the most out of your autumn garden. Ken will share his expert tips on everything from planting cool-season vegetables to preparing your garden for winter.

You'll learn:

• The best plants to plant in the fall
• How to enrich your soil for the coming year
• When to clean up your garden
• How to protect your plants from the winter cold
• And much more!

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this video podcast is packed with valuable information to help you make the most of your autumn garden.

Visit Watters Garden Center today to find all the plants and supplies you need for a successful autumn garden. And don't forget to subscribe to the Top10 Gardener Podcast for more expert gardening tips and advice.

#wattersgardencenter #wattersgardencenteraz #fallgardening

The Best Plants of Autumn and How to Plant Them

Fall is a great time to plant new plants in your garden. The weather is more relaxed, and the soil is warm enough for plants to take root and establish themselves. In this episode, we will talk about the top 10 plants of fall and how to plant them.

We'll start by discussing chrysanthemums, a classic fall flower in many colors. We'll then discuss pansies, violas, asters, goldenrods, sedum, Russian sage, purple coneflower, hydrangeas, ornamental grasses, and fall bulbs.

We'll also discuss choosing the right plants for your garden and caring for them after planting. So if you want to add beauty and interest to your garden this fall, be sure to listen to this episode.

How Many Plants for a Privacy Screen

Privacy screens are a great way to add privacy to your yard and block out unsightly views. But how many plants do you need for a #privacy screen?

The number of plants you need will depend on the height and width of your desired privacy screen and the spacing requirements of the plants you choose.

To calculate the number of plants you need, follow these steps:

1. Determine the height and width of your desired privacy screen.
2. Divide the height and width of your privacy screen by the spacing requirements of the plants you choose.

For example, if you want a privacy screen that is 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide, and the plants you choose have a spacing requirement of 2 feet, you would need 30 plants. (6 feet / 2 feet = 3 plants; 10 feet / 2 feet = 5 plants; 3 plants x 5 plants = 30 plants)

It is important to note that this is just a general guideline. The actual number of plants you need may vary depending on the specific plants you choose and the desired density of your privacy screen.

For more information on how to plant a privacy screen, be sure to check out Wattersgardencenter.com. They have a wide selection of plants that are perfect for privacy screens, as well as a wealth of knowledge and resources on all things gardening.

Here are some additional tips for planting a privacy screen:

• Choose plants that are the appropriate height and width for your desired privacy screen.
• Consider the climate and soil conditions in your area when choosing plants.
• Plant the plants in a staggered pattern to create a more dense screen.
• Water the plants regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting.
• Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With a little care, your privacy screen will thrive and provide you with privacy and enjoyment for many years to come.

The Best Plants of Autumn and How to Plant

Autumn is a beautiful time of year for gardeners. The weather is cool and crisp, and the plants are putting on a show of color. If you're looking for some plants to add to your #autumn garden, here are a few of the best:

• Asters (Symphyotrichum): Asters come in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. They bloom in the fall and winter and are a good food source for pollinators.
• Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum): Chrysanthemums are another popular fall flower. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and white. They bloom in the fall and winter, and they are a good source of food for pollinators.
• Pansies (Viola): Pansies are a cool-season flower that blooms in the fall and spring. They come in various colors, including purple, yellow, orange, and white.
• Sedums (Hylotelephium): Sedums are succulent plants that bloom in the fall. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and yellow.
• Ornamental grasses: Ornamental grasses add texture and interest to the fall garden. They come in a variety of heights and colors, including green, gold, and burgundy.

How to Plant

To plant fall plants, follow these steps:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.
2. Amend the #soil with #compost or manure.
3. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
5. Water the plant well.

Tips for Care

Fall plants are relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips:

• #Water regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting.
• #Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• #Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
• #Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With a little care, your fall plants will thrive and add beauty to your garden for many years to come.

 

 

Top 10 Trees for Fall Planting

Fall is a great time to plant trees. The cooler temperatures and shorter days help to reduce stress on the trees, and they have plenty of time to establish themselves before winter.

If you're looking for ideas for trees to plant in your fall garden, check out Wattersgardencenter.com. They have a wide selection of trees perfect for this time of year.

Here are the top 10 trees for fall planting, according to Wattersgardencenter.com

1. Red Maple (Acer rubrum) Red #maples are known for their beautiful red fall #foliage. They are also fast-growing and relatively easy to care for.

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2. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) Sugar maples are another great option for fall foliage. They are also a good source of maple syrup.

   

    

3. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) Japanese maples are known for their delicate leaves and beautiful fall colors. They are also relatively slow-growing, making them a good choice for small yards.

   

    

4. Dogwood (Cornus florida) #Dogwoods are known for their beautiful white or pink spring flowers and their red fall foliage. They are also relatively easy to care for.

   

    

5. Crabapple (Malus) Crabapple trees produce beautiful spring flowers and small fruits in the fall. They are also relatively easy to care for.

   

    

6. Birch (Betula) #Birch trees are known for their white or silver bark and their bright green summer foliage. Some varieties also have yellow or orange fall foliage.

   

7. Oak (Quercus) Oaks are slow-growing but long-lived trees. They are known for their sturdy branches and beautiful fall foliage.

   

    

8. Magnolia (Magnolia) Magnolia trees are known for their beautiful spring flowers and their large, dark green leaves. Some varieties also have yellow or orange fall foliage.

   

    

9. Hornbeam (Carpinus) #Hornbeam trees are known for their dense foliage and their ability to tolerate a variety of soil and sun conditions. Some varieties also have yellow or orange fall foliage.

   

    

10. Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) #Sweetgum trees are known for their star-shaped leaves and their brilliant red, orange, and yellow fall foliage.

    

When choosing a tree to plant in your #fall garden, be sure to consider the size and shape of the tree, as well as its climate and soil requirements. You should also consider the purpose of the tree. For example, if you are looking for a tree to provide shade, you will want to choose a tree that grows to a large size. If you are looking for a tree to provide privacy, you will want to choose a tree with dense foliage.

No matter what your needs are, you are sure to find the perfect tree for your fall garden at Wattersgardencenter.com.

 

 

Composting for Better Gardens

Composting is one of the best things you can do for your garden. Recycling food scraps and yard waste is a natural way creating a rich, nutrient-rich fertilizer that will help your plants thrive.

There are many different ways to #compost, but one of the simplest is to start a compost pile in your backyard. To do this, choose a spot in your yard that gets plenty of sun and shade, and add layers of food scraps and yard waste.

Be sure to mix the layers together well, and add water regularly to keep the compost moist. Every few weeks, turn the compost pile with a pitchfork to aerate it.

After a few months, your compost will be ready to use. You can add it to your garden #soil or use it to make a compost tea.

Composting is a great way to improve your garden soil and reduce environmental impact. It's a fun and rewarding project that the whole family can enjoy.

For more information on composting, be sure to check out Wattersgardencenter.com. They have a wealth of knowledge and resources on all things gardening.

Here are some of the benefits of composting for your garden:

• Improved soil structure: Compost adds #organic matter to the soil, which helps to improve drainage and aeration.
• Increased nutrient levels: Compost is rich in nutrients essential for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Reduced need for #fertilizers: Compost can help to reduce the need for commercial fertilizers, which can save you money and help to protect the environment.
• Suppressed pests and diseases: Compost can help to stop pests and diseases by creating a healthy soil environment.
• Increased water retention: Compost helps the soil retain water, reducing the need for watering.

If you're looking for a way to improve your #garden soil and reduce your environmental impact, composting is a great option. And Wattersgardencenter.com is the perfect place to start.

 

How to make Tomatoes Turn Red Faster

If you're growing #tomatoes, you know that waiting for them to turn red can be frustrating. But you can do a few things to speed up the process.

One way to make tomatoes turn red faster is to pick them when they're still slightly green. Place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana. The ethylene gas emitted by these fruits will help to ripen the tomatoes more quickly.

Another way to speed up the ripening process is to place the tomatoes in a warm, dark place. A pantry or basement is ideal. The warm temperature will help the tomatoes to ripen, and the dark environment will prevent them from becoming overripe.

You can also help them ripen faster by providing full sun and regular watering. Tomatoes need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to ripen correctly. They should be watered regularly, but not too much. Overwatering prevents tomatoes from maturing properly.

If you follow these tips, you'll enjoy your #homegrown red tomatoes in no time!

For more information on how to make tomatoes turn red faster, be sure to check out Wattersgardencenter.com. They have a wealth of knowledge and resources on all things gardening.

Here are some additional tips from Wattersgardencenter.com:

• Choose a suitable variety of tomatoes. Some types of tomatoes ripen faster than others. For example, cherry and grape tomatoes typically ripen faster than #beefsteak tomatoes.
• Fertilize regularly. Tomatoes need a balanced #fertilizer to produce healthy fruit. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer label.
• Harvest regularly. The more often you harvest tomatoes, the more likely they ripen quickly.
• Monitor the weather. Tomatoes ripen more slowly in hot weather above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You should take steps to cool down your tomatoes, such as placing them in a shady spot or watering them more frequently.

You can enjoy your homegrown red tomatoes all season long with some care and attention!

Why Autumn Gardens Looks Better than All Other Seasons

Autumn is a magical time for gardeners. The leaves change color, the air is crisp, and the garden is full of life. But what makes autumn gardens so special?

There are a few reasons. First, many plants peak in the fall. This is when they produce their most colorful flowers and foliage. Second, the cooler temperatures and shorter autumn days help plants create more complex flavors. Third, autumn is a great time to plant new trees and shrubs, as they will have plenty of time to establish themselves before winter.

If you're looking for some inspiration for your autumn garden, be sure to check out Wattersgardencenter.com. They have a wide selection of perfect plants for this time of year. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right plants for your needs.

Here are a few of the many benefits of autumn gardening:

• Beautiful fall foliage: Many trees and shrubs put on a spectacular show of color in the fall. This is due to the changing levels of chlorophyll and other pigments in the leaves. Top10Trees.com
• Sweeter fruits and vegetables: The cooler temperatures of autumn help plants to produce sweeter fruits and vegetables. The plants have more time to develop sugars and other flavors. Top10Herbs.com
• Abundant wildlife: Autumn is a great time to attract wildlife to your garden. Many birds and other animals seek food and shelter before winter.
• Less weeding and pests: Weeds and pests are less active in the fall, so you'll have less work to do in your garden.

Consider autumn gardening if you're looking for a beautiful and rewarding gardening experience. Wattersgardencenter.com is the perfect place to start. Top10Gardener podcast

Growing Brighter Mums for Autumn color

• Chrysanthemums are a classic fall flower, and for good reason. They come in various colors, from bright yellows and oranges to deep purples and maroons. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.

 

• Mums are another popular fall flower. They are similar to chrysanthemums, but they tend to be smaller and have a more delicate appearance. Mums come in various colors, including pink, white, and lavender.

 

• Sedum is a succulent plant that blooms in the fall. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that can be white, pink, or purple. Sedum is very drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.

 

• Asters are a type of daisy that blooms in the fall. They come in various colors, including blue, purple, and white. Asters are an excellent choice for butterfly gardens, as they attract many different species of butterflies.

 

• Cosmos are a carefree annual flower that blooms in the fall. They come in various colors, including pink, white, and yellow. Cosmos are an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

 

These are just a few of the many new flowers that are introduced each fall and autumn. When choosing flowers for your garden, it is vital to consider the climate in your area and the amount of sunlight and water your garden receives. You should also choose flowers that will bloom at the same time of year to enjoy their beauty for as long as possible.

How Gardeners Learn to Garden

There are many different ways to learn gardening. Some people learn from their parents or grandparents, who taught them how to garden when they were young. Others learn from books, magazines, or online resources. And still, others learn by taking classes or workshops.

No matter how you learn about gardening, the most important thing is to get started. The best way to learn is by doing. So get out there and start gardening!

 

In this episode, we'll discuss some different ways people learn to garden. We'll also discuss some challenges new gardeners face and how to overcome them.

 

If you're interested in learning more about gardening, tune in to this episode of the Top 10 Gardener Podcast. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below.

 

Here are some of the ways that gardeners learn to garden:

• Family and friends: Many people learn about gardening from their parents, grandparents, or other family members. This is a great way to learn the gardening basics and get some hands-on experience.
• Books and magazines: There are many books and magazines available that can teach you about gardening. These resources can provide information on various topics, such as plant selection, soil preparation, and pest control.
• Online resources: Many websites and blogs offer information on gardening. These resources can be a great way to learn about new gardening techniques and to get advice from other gardeners.
• Classes and workshops: There are many classes and workshops available that can teach you about gardening. These can be a great way to learn from experienced gardeners and to get hands-on experience.
• Trial and error: Sometimes, the best way to learn about gardening is by trial and error. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. You'll learn a lot from your mistakes and eventually find what works best for you.

No matter how you learn about gardening, the most important thing is to get started. The best way to learn is by doing. So get out there and garden!

Growing Brighter Mums for Autumn Color

Welcome to the Top 10 Gardener Podcast. Today, we're discussing how to grow brighter mums for autumn color. I'm your host, Ken Lain, and I'll talk to you about the best practices for growing these beautiful flowers.

Mums are popular for fall gardens because they come in various colors and sizes. They're also relatively easy to grow, but there are a few things you can do to ensure that your mums are as bright and vibrant as possible.

**Here are a few tips for growing brighter mums:

• Choose the right location: Mums need full sun to thrive. They won't bloom if you plant them in a shady spot.
• Plant them in well-drained soil: Mums don't like wet feet, so ensure your garden's soil drains well.
• Fertilize regularly: Mums need regular fertilizer with 'Flower Power' to produce their best blooms. Feed them a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
• Water them deeply: Mums need deep watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Deadhead spent blooms: Deadheading will encourage your mums to produce more flowers.
• Protect them from frost: Mums are hardy in most climates but can be damaged by frost. If you live in an area with cold winters, bring your mums indoors before the first frost.

By following these tips, you can grow brighter mums that add beauty to your fall garden.

 

That's all for today's episode of the Garden Podcast. Thanks for listening!

To learn more about growing mums, check out our blog post. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below.

New Flower Introductions of Fall and Autumn

• Chrysanthemums are a classic fall flower, and for good reason. They come in a wide variety of colors, from bright yellows and oranges to deep purples and maroons. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
  Opens in a new windowwww.gardendesign.com

  Chrysanthemums flower
• Mums are another popular fall flower. They are similar to chrysanthemums, but they tend to be smaller and have a more delicate appearance. Mums come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and lavender.
  Opens in a new windowwww.gardendesign.com

  Mums flower
• Sedum is a succulent plant that blooms in the fall. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that can be white, pink, or purple. Sedum is very drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.
  Opens in a new windowwww.gardenersworld.com

  Sedum flower
• Asters are a type of daisy that blooms in the fall. They come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and white. Asters are a good choice for butterfly gardens, as they attract many different species of butterflies.
  Opens in a new windowwww.almanac.com

  Asters flower
• Cosmos are a carefree annual flower that blooms in the fall. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and yellow. Cosmos are a good choice for pollinator gardens, as they attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
  Opens in a new windowwww.gardendesign.com

  Cosmos flower

These are just a few of the many new flowers that are introduced each fall and autumn. When choosing flowers for your garden, it is important to consider the climate in your area, as well as the amount of sunlight and water your garden receives. You should also choose flowers that will bloom at the same time of year, so that you can enjoy their beauty for as long as possible.