Top 10 Gardener the Ultimate Garden Blueprint with Ken & Lisa

👩A Woman’s Guide to Better Gardens👩

Lisa Lane, our resident green thumb guru, is sharing her top tips to get your garden ready for winter and ensure a vibrant spring:

To ensure a thriving garden next year, start by saving seed packets and taking pictures of your favorite container arrangements. Rotate your crops for optimal growth, and embrace fall planting with pansies, violas, and winter bloomers. Don't forget to overwinter your favorite container plants by treating them with systemic granules and bringing them indoors before Halloween.

 

Give summer bloomers a light trim and consider incorporating evergreen shrubs and trees for year-round color. Finally, fertilize your plants in the fall to ensure they weather winter and thrive come spring. By following these tips from Lisa, your garden will be ready to embrace winter and explode with life next year!

 

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🕷️Are Tarantula Spiders Good or Bad in the Garden🕷️

Hey there, fellow green thumbs! Ken Lain the Top 10 Gardener here. Ever spotted a hairy hitchhiker in your Arizona garden? Don't swat it away just yet! Our resident expert Ken Lain is here to shed some light (and maybe dispel a few myths) about our fascinating eight-legged friends: tarantulas.

Nature's Pest Patrol

While their size might be startling, Ken assures us these gentle giants are beneficial garden buddies. Here's why:

• They're natural bug zappers: Those creepy crawlies that munch on your precious plants? Tarantulas love to dine on them! From grasshoppers to crickets, they keep pest populations in check.
• They're tidy burrowers: Unlike their web-spinning cousins, tarantulas live underground, so you won't find any unsightly webs in your garden.

The Truth About Tarantula Love

Ever wondered why you see more "spiders" roaming around in the fall? Ken explains it's a bachelor party! Here's the scoop:

• Females stay home: The bigger tarantulas you see are usually the males, out and about searching for love. The females prefer to stay cozy in their burrows.
• A unique courtship: Forget serenades; tarantulas have a special "drumming" ritual to attract a mate.

Living in Harmony with Tarantulas

While they're more scared of you than you are of them, respecting their space is key. Here are some tips:

• Leave them be: No need to remove them from your garden. They're doing you a favor!
• Gentle relocation: If a tarantula finds its way indoors, gently guide it outside with a container.

Keep Learning with Watters!

Want to learn more about Arizona's amazing wildlife and how to create a garden that thrives? Stay tuned for more Mountain Gardener tips from Ken Lain!

 

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🪴How to Bring Outside Plants In for Winter🪴

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here, with my lovely wife, Lisa Watters-Lain, to answer your plant questions!

 

With winter approaching, many of you wonder how to overwinter tender plants.

 

Coleus, with its vibrant foliage, makes a fantastic houseplant! Before bringing it inside, give it a little haircut and treat it with neem oil to prevent pests. Also, water it thoroughly to flush out any critters hiding in the soil. A systemic granule can also help eliminate unwanted guests. Inside, place your coleus in a bright room, and it will thrive all winter long.

 

Remember to water your outdoor plants, especially during cold snaps. Hydrated plants are much more resilient to chilly temperatures.

 

And for those who want to enjoy evergreens like the Black Hills Spruce in containers, choose a large pot to allow for growth. You can enjoy this beautiful tree for years to come with proper care. 🌲

 

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🌻Top 10 Flowers to Plant for Fall Blooms🌻

Hey Gardeners Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here. Fall in the mountains is simply magical, and your garden can be, too, with the right flowers.

Mums are a classic choice with their rainbow of colors, while tough-as-nails snapdragons add a cheerful touch. For a bit of wild beauty, try native asters, and for stunning pink to red blooms, Autumn Joy Sedum is a must-have. Gaillardia, also known as Blanket Flower, is a native wildflower that blooms from spring to fall, and Russian Sage provides a lovely contrast with its silvery foliage and purple flowers.

Don't forget the hardy penstemon, which attracts hummingbirds, and salvias, which come in a variety of colors and bloom for a long season. Add texture and movement with ornamental grasses like Purple Fountain Grass or Blue Fescue, and for cheerful color throughout the cooler months, pansies are a great choice. Now's the perfect time to plant, so grab your gardening gloves and create a stunning autumn display!

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 42 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

As summer fades and we welcome the vibrant hues of autumn, our gardens require special attention. In this episode, we'll explore a range of fall gardening topics, from preparing azaleas and rhododendrons for the colder months to discovering the best evergreen varieties for a splash of color. We'll also delve into the intriguing possibilities of growing yucca and agave in containers, explore the captivating colors of the autumn garden, and learn how to protect our plants from hungry deer, rabbits, and javelina. Finally, we'll discuss the pros and cons of growing plants from seed versus cuttings, helping you make informed choices for your garden.

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

• What to do with Azalea and Rhododendron in Fall
• Can Yucca and Agave Grow in a Container
• Brightest Evergreens are Planted in Fall
• The Colors in the Autumn Gardens
• Animal Proof Plants the Deer Rabbits and Javelina Leave Alone
• Growing Plants by Seed or Cuttings - Which is Better

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 all with you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your gardening game!

 

Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. It's available on all your favorite podcast platforms.

 

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🌱Growing Plants by Seed or Cuttings - Which is Better🌱

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here! Ever wonder how plants are grown?

 

There are two main ways: seeds and cuttings. While seeds are a cheaper way to grow plants, they don't always produce consistent results. It's like a box of chocolates – you never know what you're gonna get!

 

Cuttings, on the other hand, are clones of the parent plant. This means you get the exact same characteristics, which is great for hedges, specimen plants, and fruit trees. 🌳

 

Imagine planting an apple tree from seed, only to find out years later that the apples are small and sour. Not ideal, right? That's why grafting, a form of taking cuttings, is so important for fruit trees. It ensures you get the delicious apples you crave. 🍎

 

At Watters Garden Center, we focus on providing high-quality plants grown from cuttings. This ensures consistency and beauty in your garden. Plus, we can even control things like allergies by selecting specific varieties.

 

So next time you're choosing plants, consider whether they were grown from seed or cuttings. It can make a big difference in the long run!

 

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🐇 Animal Proof Plants the Deer Rabbits and Javelina Leave Alone 🐇

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here. Tired of deer, javelina, and rabbits treating your garden like an all-you-can-eat buffet? 😠  I hear you! This week, I'm sharing my top plant picks that those pesky critters tend to leave alone.

 

Think vibrant Sumacs with their fiery fall colors, graceful ornamental grasses like Pampas and Deer Grass, and tough-as-nails evergreens like Arizona Cypress and Junipers.  Don't forget the flowers!  Mums and Echinacea add pops of color that animals avoid.

 

Want a personalized plan to protect your garden?  Bring in a photo and measurements, and we'll create a critter-proof paradise together!

 

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🍂The Colors in the Autumn Gardens🍂

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here, Let’s talk about the stunning fall foliage that's gracing our gardens. From vibrant reds and oranges to subtle yellows, there's a color for everyone to enjoy. One of my favorite fall shrubs is the Heuchera. They come in a variety of colors, like Ruby Tuesday, Siren Song Orange, and Northern Exposure Amber, providing a beautiful mix of hues. Heucheras are also versatile, thriving in containers or as accents in the garden.

 

Another great option is Nandina, also known as Heavenly Bamboo. Its fiery red foliage in the fall is a sight to behold. Popular varieties include Tuscan Flame, Plum Passion, and Gulf Stream.

 

For a more unusual choice, consider the Barberry. The Golden Ruby variety has striking burgundy leaves with yellow edges, while Lava Nuggets offer a deep burgundy hue.

 

And let's not forget the native Sumacs, like the Trilobata and Tiger Eye, which add splashes of orange and yellow to the landscape.

 

If you're looking for a larger statement, consider the Amur Maple. Its vibrant fall colors and graceful form make it a standout.

 

Finally, don't overlook the beauty of evergreens like Hollies. Varieties like Gold Coast and Sky Pencil offer stunning foliage and berries to brighten your winter garden.

 

Remember, fall is the perfect time to plant evergreens, as they'll have time to establish their roots before the harsh winter weather arrives. With a little care and attention, your garden will be a vibrant showcase of color all season long.

 

So get out there and enjoy the autumn foliage!

 

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🌲The Brightest Evergreens are Planted in Fall🌲

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

 

Did you know that fall is the perfect time to plant evergreens? Here in the mountains, we bring in a fresh batch of these beauties in early fall so they can acclimate to our climate before winter sets in. 🌲

 

Right now, the garden center is bursting with the healthiest, chubbiest evergreens you've ever seen! From classic spruce and pine to vibrant hollies, there's something for every garden.

 

Why plant now? Because it gives your evergreens a head start. They'll establish their roots throughout the fall and be ready to burst forth with new growth come spring. 🌱

 

Just remember to water them regularly as they settle in. A good soaking a couple of times a month will keep them happy through the winter. 💧

 

So come on down to Watters and find the perfect evergreen to add year-round beauty to your landscape. Your garden will thank you! 😊

 

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🌵Can Yucca and Agave Grow in a Container🌵

Ken and Lisa Lain the Top 10 Gardeners here. And we're excited to answer a question from Lynn about growing yuccas in containers. The answer is a resounding YES!

 

Those striking yuccas and agaves you see gracing magazine covers can thrive in pots for years. Just imagine a beautiful glazed pot with a spiky yucca as the centerpiece – it's a Southwestern dream!

 

For best results, use a well-draining soil like our cactus mix. Water weekly in winter and every few days in summer, especially when in bloom. And don't worry about choosing between yellow or red yucca – both are stunning!

 

Want more ideas for hot spots? Native manzanita, coral beauty cotoneaster, and junipers are all excellent companions. Stop by the garden center, and we'll show you the perfect ground cover for your sunny spot. ☀️

 

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🌼What to do with Azalea and Rhododendron in the Fall🌼

Hey Gardeners Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here.

Fall is upon us, and it's time to give your garden a feast before the winter slumber.

 

Think of it like this: your plants have worked hard all summer, producing beautiful blooms and foliage. Now, they need to replenish their energy stores for next spring's show. That's where fertilizer comes in.

 

Before Halloween, give everything in your garden a good dose of 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food. This slow-release, organic blend is perfect for our mountain gardens. Sprinkle it around the base of your plants, and let nature do the rest.

 

This is especially important for spring-blooming beauties like azaleas, rhododendrons, and lilacs. Those vibrant flowers require a lot of energy, and fertilizing now will ensure a spectacular show next spring. 🌸

 

And hold off on the pruning shears! Let your plants enjoy their fall colors and store energy for the winter. We'll tackle pruning later in the season. ✂️

 

So grab your fertilizer and give your garden the nourishment it deserves. Your future self will thank you! 😊

 

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Welcome to Episode 24 - 41 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it's time to prepare your landscape for the beauty of autumn.

October is the ideal time to provide your plants with a final nutrient boost, ensuring they have the strength to withstand the winter months. Evergreens, in particular, will thrive with the additional fertilization.

This is also the perfect season to harvest ripe grapes and consider planting berry bushes for a bountiful harvest next year. Enhance your outdoor spaces with vibrant purple blooms in containers, adding a touch of autumnal charm. Remember essential tasks like pruning and winterizing as you transition your landscape for the colder months.

Finally, embrace the spirit of the season by incorporating festive autumn decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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

• Why October Plant Food is the Most Important Feeding of the Year
• Top Evergreens Better Thank a Dead Pinion Pine Tree
• The Grape Harvest - Add Better Berries this Year
•  Purple Fall Flowers for Pretty Autumn Containers
• The Fall To Do List for a Healthy Landscape
• Autumn Landscaping is All About Decorating

Ken and Lisa are eager to hear from you! They'll be answering listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country, so don't hesitate to share your queries and experiences.

Ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug? They're brimming with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're excited to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your gardening game!

 

Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. It's available on all your favorite podcast platforms.

 

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

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🎃 Autumn Landscaping is All About Decorating🎃

Hold off on those pruning shears, friends! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with a tip to turn your spent summer blooms into a vibrant autumn display.

 

Echinacea, or coneflower, is a superstar in the fall garden. These tall perennials boast stunning flowers all summer long, and guess what? They keep shining well into autumn!

 

Here's the magic: Instead of deadheading (removing spent flowers), let your Echinacea go to seed. The seed heads transform into striking tan structures with dark centers. They're beautiful on their own and provide a valuable food source for migrating birds.

 

Double bonus: By letting your Echinacea seed, you're helping it multiply naturally. Those seeds will spread and create even more cheerful blooms next year!

 

Here's the Ken Lain timeline:

• October: Leave your Echinacea seed heads standing tall. They may brown a bit, but they'll still be attractive.
• November (or later): If the seed heads become unsightly, cut them back. But leave them standing until winter harshens.
• Spring: Enjoy a new generation of Echinacea springing up from the "mother plant" and the scattered seeds.
•  

Autumn is prime planting time! There's still plenty of season left to add Echinacea or other colorful perennials to your yard. Visit Watters Garden Center for a fantastic selection and expert advice.

Let's keep those fall gardens blooming!

 

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🍁The Fall To-Do List for a Healthy Landscape🍁

Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here. October is the perfect time to tackle those fall gardening chores! The weather is still pleasant, and the work you do now will pay off with a healthier, more vibrant landscape come spring.

 

Start by spreading a 2–3" layer of composted manure, like Watters Barnyard Manure, on your empty vegetable and flower beds. This will add nutrients and improve soil structure over the winter.  Next, collect seeds from your wildflowers and zinnias to sow next spring. It's a great way to save money and enjoy the blooms you love year after year.

 

Don't forget our feathered friends! Clean your bird feeders to welcome migrating birds passing through your yard.  It's also time to winterize water features. Bring in pumps and drain fountains to prevent freeze damage. For ponds, make sure the skimmer box is working and consider a pond heater to keep the water open for birds.

 

Finally, give your trees and shrubs a good drink. Even though it's fall, they still need water, especially new plantings.  And don't forget to fertilize everything with Watters 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food. This will help your plants store energy for a strong start next spring.

 

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🪻Purple Fall Flowers for Pretty Autumn Containers🪻

Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners here, with some tips to transform your summer containers into stunning fall masterpieces.

Mother Nature's calling for a wardrobe change, and your pots deserve one too!

Let's ditch the tired blooms and bring on the vibrant hues of autumn! Here are some of my favorite fall container plants:

• Mums (Chrysanthemums): The undisputed king of fall flowers. These beauties boast long-lasting blooms in a dazzling array of colors – whites, oranges, reds, and even purples! Bonus tip: Opt for garden mums from your local garden center (like Watters!) They're acclimated to our climate and will outperform their greenhouse-grown cousins.
• Pansies: Tough little troopers that bloom all winter long! Pansies come in a delightful range of colors, from classic orange to majestic burgundy with a yellow halo.
• Violas: These pansies' petite cousins might be smaller, but they make up for it with nonstop blooms. Perfect for adding pops of color.
• Ornamental Cabbage and Kale: Not just for salads! These come in stunning shades, adding a touch of whimsy and contrast to your container.

Looking for more? Here are some additional options:

• Dusty Miller: This workhorse provides beautiful silvery foliage that complements any flower. Plus, it's deer-resistant and keeps going all season long.
• Ornamental Grasses: Add a touch of height and texture with ornamental grasses like red sedge.
• Snapdragons: Fall is prime time for snapdragons! Choose from tall varieties for drama or shorter ones for a more compact look.

 

🪻Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners

 

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