Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

Top Plant Food for a Healthy Organic Yard

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:

• The Essential Spring To-Do List for March Gardens
• When Can You Starting Planting Spring Vegetables
• How to Grow Healthy Pinion Pines for Their Nuts

• Top Spring Bloomers that Should be Planted Now

• Top Plant Food for a Healthy Organic Yard
• Top Podcast for Local Gardeners Top10Gardener.com

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.

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community

 

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

Top Podcast for Local Gardeners Top10Gardener.com

Get Your Local Gardening Fix with Top 10 Gardener!

Howdy, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a tip for staying in the know about all things local gardening.

Looking for practical advice, inspiring ideas, and expert tips tailored to Arizona's unique climate? Look no further than the Top 10 Gardener podcast!

Every week, we delve into six bite-sized segments, covering everything from pest control to planting tips for our specific region. Then, on Sundays, we bring it all together in a one-hour, downloadable episode.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Top 10 Gardener podcast is your one-stop shop for local gardening wisdom. Find us on any major podcast platform, and do me a favor – subscribe, like, and comment!

Your engagement helps us reach more fellow plant lovers, and trust me, Arizona's gardening community is blooming with valuable insights.

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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Top Plant Food for a Healthy Organic Yard

Feed Your Yard for Spring Beauty: Ken's Top Tip!

Howdy, plant pals! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a secret to a thriving spring yard.

Spring is a time of new growth and blooming beauty, but remember, your plants need energy to put on their best show. That's where fertilization comes in!

By the end of this month, give your yard a nutritious boost with 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food. This unique blend, specially formulated for Arizona's mountain soils, delivers the good stuff: cottonseed meal, bird guano, iron, and sulfur.

Why these ingredients? They combat the natural alkalinity of Arizona's water, ensuring your plants can absorb nutrients more effectively. The result? Stunning blooms, vibrant foliage, and bountiful harvests – all season long.

So, feed your yard for a spectacular spring! Visit Watters Garden Center for expert advice and the perfect plant food for your needs.

To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link

🌸  Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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Top Spring Bloomers that Should be Planted Now

Spring's Symphony of Scents: Plant These Beauties Now!

Howdy, garden friends! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a tip for adding a burst of color to your spring landscape.

It's prime time to plant Rhododendrons, those majestic shrubs known for their stunning blooms and lush foliage. We just received a breathtaking selection at Watters Garden Center, offering a variety of vibrant colors to suit every taste.

Imagine clusters of pink, red, or purple flowers cascading from these evergreen beauties. Plus, their glossy leaves add year-round interest, making them a low-maintenance way to elevate your garden.

Remember, fellow plant enthusiasts, spring is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So head over to Watters, explore our rhododendron collection, and find the perfect pop of color for your garden!

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🌸Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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How to Grow Healthy Pinion Pines for Their Nuts

Craving Nutty Goodness? Grow Your Own Pinion Pines!

Howdy, fellow plant enthusiasts! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a tip for those who love a delicious challenge. Ever dreamt of harvesting your own pinion pine nuts? It's easier than you think, especially with the single-leaf pinion pine variety.

Now, I know some folks struggle with pests and keeping their pines healthy. But here's the secret: the 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food is a one-stop shop for both fertilizing and pest control. It nourishes the tree while creating a natural defense against those pesky bugs.

But the real star of the show is the single-leaf pinion pine. This beauty boasts thicker needles, a stunning blue-green hue, and superior resistance to pests. Even better, you can expect delicious, buttery nuts within just a few years – a far cry from the 20-year wait with native varieties.

We just received a stunning shipment of these beauties at the nursery. They're hardy, robust, and sure to add a touch of the Mediterranean to your landscape. So, if you're looking for a low-maintenance way to grow your own nutty treasure, the single-leaf pinion pine is the one for you!

Don't miss out! Tap or Click to stay tuned for more from Top 10 Gardener

🌲Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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When Can You Starting Planting Spring Vegetables

Spring Has Sprung: Time to Plant Your Veggies, Friends!

Hey there, fellow gardeners! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here.

Spring's in the air, and that means it's time to get your hands dirty (in the best way possible!) with some early-season planting. You asked, and I'm happy to answer: it's perfectly fine to start planting cool-season veggies now, even if you see nighttime temperatures dipping into the 20s or 30s.

Mother Nature is on our side! This cool weather, coupled with warming soil, is ideal for kales, cabbages, broccoli, and even Brussels sprouts. Don't forget your fresh herbs like sage and mint. These guys love the cool nights and bright days of early spring.

Lettuce and spinach are also raring to go. Wait too long, and they might "bolt" (flower prematurely), losing their delicious flavor.

Garlic and onions are superstars too, and can be planted any day now. The ground won't freeze, so go ahead and get them in!

Remember, gardening is a journey, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way. So grab your seeds, get outside, and enjoy the magic of spring!

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener. Subscribe now!

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

 

🥦Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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The Essential Spring To-Do List for March Gardens

Spring's knocking, gardeners!

Time to shake off winter and prep your beds for vibrant blooms. Prune those summer-flowering shrubs like roses and butterfly bushes, feed your hungry evergreens with a slow-release fertilizer, and get a head start on weeding. A little love now means a dazzling garden come summertime.

Need help with what to plant? Pop into Watters for the best veggies and flowers suited to our unique mountain climate.

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates

https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/

 

🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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

🍎Unlocking Nature’s Bounty - Grow Perfect Fruit Trees🍒

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:

• Pruning for Recovery & Repairing Broken Tree Branches
• A Space to Thrive - Guidelines for Planting Fruit Trees

• Mastering the Green Carpet - A Guide to Growing Calgary Carpet Juniper

• Blooms Ahead! Unleash the Power of Spring-Planted Fiber Roses

• Unlocking Nature’s Bounty - Grow Perfect Fruit Trees

• Unbox a Garden - Explore the Wonder of Fruit Cocktail Trees

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,

Unbox a Garden - Explore the Wonder of Fruit Cocktail Trees

Hey plant people, Ken Lain here, Top 10 Gardener, with a garden surprise – Fruit Cocktail Trees! Imagine a single tree bursting with varieties of peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots – a tastebud party in your backyard!

Unbox a mini-orchard: These space-saving wonders combine multiple fruits on one tree, thanks to the magic of grafting. Think of it as a delicious bouquet, all in one convenient package!

Pick your perfect mix: From classic combos to exotic options, Watters has a variety to tickle your taste buds. Whether you crave juicy peaches or tangy plums, there's a tree waiting to call your garden home.

Planting made easy: These low-maintenance marvels are perfect for even beginner gardeners. Follow a few simple steps – sunshine, well-drained soil, and gentle watering – and you're on your way to homegrown goodness.

Harvest happiness: Imagine the joy of picking fresh fruit right from your own tree! Share the bounty with friends and family, or savor the sweetness yourself. Remember, gardening is about creating memories, and Fruit Cocktail Trees offer a delicious adventure for the whole family.

Ready to unbox a garden and unlock a world of fruity flavor? Head over to WattersGardenCenter 1815 Iron Springs Rd in Prescott

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community

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🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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🍎Unlocking Nature’s Bounty - Grow Perfect Fruit Trees🍒

Howdy, plant pals! Ken Lain here, Top 10 Gardener, ready to turn your backyard into a fruit-filled paradise! Growing your own juicy treats is easier than you think, so grab your shovel, and let's get diggin'.

Sunshine is Key: Fruit trees crave sunlight, so pick a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours a day. Imagine them basking like happy lizards, soaking up the sun's goodness. South-facing is ideal, but east or west works, too – most trees are adaptable.

Soil Savvy: Happy roots, happy fruit! Amend your soil with compost or organic matter for fluffy drainage. Think of it as a comfy bed for thirsty roots to explore. Clay soil? No worries, just mix in some sand to create the perfect haven.

Pick Your Perfect Pair: Remember, some trees need a buddy for pollination. Research varieties that bloom at the same time and plant accordingly. Think of them as BFFs, helping each other out for a bountiful harvest.

Planting Power: When it's time to dig, bigger isn't always better. Dig a hole just deep enough for the root ball, avoiding burying the graft union (the knob where trunk meets roots). Gentle care is key!

Water Wisely: Deep watering less often is the way to go. Encourage those roots to grow deep for stability and nourishment. Imagine them reaching down like thirsty miners seeking treasure.

With these tips and a little TLC, your fruit tree will be on its way to thriving. Remember, gardening is a journey, not a race. So put on your gloves, get dirty, and watch your backyard transform into a delicious oasis. Happy planting!

To watch future episodes of the Top 10 Gardener, subscribe with this Link

🍎  Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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🌸Blooms Ahead! Unleash the Power of Spring-Planted Fiber Roses🌸

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken Lain, Top 10 Gardener, here with a rosy revelation! Spring is the perfect time to plant fiber-pot roses, and Watters has a blooming bounty waiting for you!

Think classic Don Juan for a timeless crimson touch, or Ginger Snap for a vibrant burst of orange sunshine. Do you prefer deep, dramatic hues? Drop Dead Red or Te Ching will steal the show.

But remember, these new and exclusive varieties are limited edition! Once they're gone, they're gone until next spring. Don't wait – snag yours now and be the envy of your neighborhood with a show-stopping display come summer.

Bonus tip: Planting in spring gives your roses a head start, allowing them to establish strong roots before the summer heat.

Head over to WattersGardenCenter.com to see the full selection and bring the power of roses to your garden! Remember, the early bird gets the rose!

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community

🌸Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #Roses, #FiberPotRoses, #SpringPlanting. #BloomingBeauty 

 

 

Mastering the Green Carpet - A Guide to Growing Calgary Carpet Juniper

Hey plant pals, Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a ground cover gem: the Calgary Carpet Juniper! This low-maintenance beauty adds year-round charm and saves you water, too. Let's unravel its secrets!

Sun-loving soul: Plant your Calgary Carpet in a sunny spot – they bask like happy lizards! South-facing is ideal, but east or west works too. Remember, more sunshine, happier juniper!

Drainage drama: Soggy feet are a no-go! Plant in well-draining soil. Think fluffy, not soggy. Amend clay soil with compost or sand for happy roots.

Watering wisdom: Deep soak less often is key. Imagine roots reaching deep like thirsty miners. Once established, water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Size matters: Want a miniature mountain landscape? Prune lightly to maintain desired size. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!

Bonus tip: Calgary Carpet shines in rock gardens, alongside paths, or cascading over walls. Let your creativity bloom!

For more juicy details, head over to WattersGardenCenter.com! Happy planting!

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🌲Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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A Space to Thrive - Guidelines for Planting Fruit Trees

Hey garden gurus! Ken Lain, Top 10 Gardener, here, reminding you that size matters when it comes to fruit trees. Want that juicy Bartlett pear but worried about a 30-foot titan? No worries! Grafting lets us shrink them down!

By choosing different rootstocks, we can create semi-dwarf trees, 20-25% shorter and easier to manage. No more ladder gymnastics to reach those pears! 🪜

For truly tiny trees, genetic dwarfs are your friends. These cuties fit perfectly in containers or add charm to flower beds. Remember, the fruit stays the same size – just the tree shrinks!

So, dream big, but choose wisely! Standard, semi-dwarf, or genetic dwarf? The choice is yours! Happy planting!

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener. Subscribe now!

🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌳Pruning for Recovery & Repairing Broken Tree Branches🌳

Hey friends, Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener! Storms happen, and sometimes our beloved trees take a hit. But don't despair! With a little know-how, you can help your tree thrive again. Pruning for recovery and repairing broken branches isn’t rocket science, but it does require a touch of care and the right techniques.

Here's the skinny: first, safety! Wear gloves and grab sharp, clean pruners. Next, assess the damage. For smaller, clean breaks, a prune just above the branch collar (that bump where it meets the main branch) encourages healthy growth. Bigger splits? Consult a pro. Remember, clean cuts heal faster, so aim for a diagonal slice, folks.

And hey, even if your tree looks rough, don't give up! With proper care, nature's resilience can amaze you. So grab your pruners, channel your inner green thumb, and give your tree a helping hand. Happy gardening!

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🪴Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring

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:

• The Good, Bad and Ugly Reasons to Love Snow in the Gardens
• Are New Fruit Tree Planting in Danger from Winter Snows
• Best Companion Plants Best Planted in February
• February Plant of the Month Hellebore
• Garden Tips for Newcomers this Spring
• Insider Garden Happenings at Top 10 Gardener

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.

Be the first to know! Click to join the Top 10 Gardener gardening community

🌼 Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #BackyardBliss, #GrowGreen, #PlantMagic