Episodes

Monday Apr 21, 2025
🌿Top 10 Native Plants to Grow in Arizona
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Hey Arizona gardeners, Ken Lain here! With our beautiful weather, it's prime time to plant natives that thrive here. Arizona Cypress is a fantastic evergreen for windbreaks and privacy. Silverberry (Elaeagnus) is a low-care, fast-growing evergreen shrub that softens fences beautifully. For vibrant blooms, try Manzanita, which is loved by pollinators and drought-tolerant once established.
Consider our amazing Yuccas and Agaves – they're tougher than nails and offer unique textures. Red Yucca is a hummingbird favorite, and Artichoke Agave adds architectural interest. For a pop of color, Desert Willow blooms with orchid-like flowers, attracting hummingbirds galore. Don't forget native Redbuds, with their stunning pink blossoms. These ten natives are perfectly adapted to our landscapes, offering beauty with ease.
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🌿Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
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Sunday Apr 20, 2025
Sunday Apr 20, 2025
Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken & Lisa Watters Lain, The Mountain Gardeners here!
This week, we're tackling a range of spring gardening essentials. We'll explore how to grow better herbs and veggies, understand why evergreen oaks turn yellow, and share insider secrets for big, juicy tomatoes. Plus, we'll discuss landscape updates, and gain insights from a Monrovia Nursery expert, all while remembering the best time to plant those beautiful roses!
Included in this week’s episode:
- Growing Better Veggies and Herbs this Year
- Why Evergreen Oaks Turn Yellow in Spring
- Insider Secrets to Big Juicy Tomatoes
- 5 Reasons to Update Your Landscape
- Interview with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Nursery
- When can Roses be Planted in Spring
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.
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🎙️Ken & Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #TheMountainGardener, #GardeningTips, #KenLain,
#SpringGardening, #VegetableGardening, #TreeCare, #LandscapeDesign, #RoseCare

Saturday Apr 19, 2025
🌹When can Roses be Planted in Spring
Saturday Apr 19, 2025
Saturday Apr 19, 2025
Hey rose lovers, Ken Lain here! Spring is in the air, and that means it's rose planting season! You'll find a wide variety of roses at the garden center now, from ground covers and shrubs to hybrid teas and climbers.
The ideal time to plant roses is when they're dormant but showing signs of waking up. This allows them to establish roots before the stress of blooming. Fiber pot roses, which are already rooted, are especially forgiving to plant now.
While you might see some roses in bloom already, the biggest selection arrives around the last week of April. This timing helps us avoid late frosts that could damage those delicate flowers.
So, get your gloves ready and prepare to add some beauty and fragrance to your garden!
Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #Top10Gardener, #TheMountainGardener, #GardeningTips, #KenLain,
#RosePlanting, #SpringRoses, #GardenTips, #FlowerGardening

Friday Apr 18, 2025
🎥Interview with Jim Rupe from Monrovia Nursery
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! This week on the Mountain Gardener, we welcome Jim Rupe from Monrovia Growers, a true plant expert! Jim shares his journey in the agribusiness, from tending Christmas trees to representing Monrovia across Arizona.
We explore the challenges and rewards of growing plants in our diverse state, from the high desert to the mountains. Jim highlights the importance of acclimation and choosing varieties that thrive in our unique conditions.
We also get a glimpse behind the scenes at Monrovia's operations, with its four locations across the West Coast, Georgia, and Connecticut. And of course, we touch on our favorite plants, from the show-stopping blooms of Wisteria and Crab Apples to the reliable beauty of Euphorbias and Lilacs.
Join us for this insightful conversation with a true plant pro!
🎥Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
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Thursday Apr 17, 2025
🌱 5 Reasons to Update Your Landscape
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Ken and Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners here! Just like our homes, our landscapes need a refresh now and then. Here are five reasons to consider updating your outdoor spaces:
- Plants Have a Lifespan: Shrubs and trees age, becoming less vibrant and productive. Replace those tired specimens with fresh, healthy plants.
- Overgrown Plants: Those cute little shrubs can quickly become monsters, blocking walkways and windows. Choose plants that will fit their space at maturity.
- Reflect Your Style: Your landscape should reflect your Don't be afraid to remove what you dislike and create a space you love.
- Boost Curb Appeal: A well-maintained landscape enhances your home's value and creates a welcoming first impression. Simple steps like weeding and adding fresh mulch make a big difference.
- Because You Want To! It's your space, and you deserve to enjoy it. Add new beds, containers, or a specimen tree to bring you joy.
Remember to update a portion of your plants every year to keep your landscape looking its best!
🌱Ken & Lisa Lain, the Mountain Gardeners
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Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
🍅Insider Secrets to Big Juicy Tomatoes
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Want sweet, juicy tomatoes and flavorful herbs?
It starts with the soil. While manure is good, it's not enough. Remember N-P-K: you need phosphorus (the middle number) for fruits and roots. I sprinkle super phosphate under my tomato plants for a game-changing harvest.
Use Aqua Boost polymer crystals to prevent tough skin and cracking, which is especially crucial in our arid climate. They regulate moisture, ensuring consistent hydration.
And don't forget calcium! Our alkaline soils can cause deficiencies, leading to blossom end rot. That's why I created Watters Fruit and Vegetable Food (6-4-4-7), packed with calcium for bigger, tastier produce.
Follow these tips for a truly delicious and successful garden!
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🍅Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #TheMountain Gardener, #GardeningTips, #KenLain, #VegetableGardeningTips, #TomatoGrowing, #SoilHealth, #Fertilizer,

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
🌳Why Evergreen Oaks Turn Yellow in Spring
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
And we are back with Lisa Watters Lain. Spring is here, and it's time to give your trees some TLC. This is the ideal window to plant new trees, especially your early bloomers like redbuds and crab apples. Get them in the ground before they fully leaf out to minimize transplant shock and maximize root growth.
It's also time to tune up your irrigation system for established trees. Check for leaks, clogs, and proper emitter placement. Remember, water deeply and less frequently to encourage those roots to reach down.
And don't forget about those yellowing evergreen oaks! That's a natural process, but a little fertilizer will enhance their beautiful blue hue.
With a little attention now, your trees will thrive all season long!
Not already a Garden Club Member?
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🌳Ken & Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners
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Monday Apr 14, 2025
🥕Growing Better Veggies and Herbs this Year
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Spring is bursting forth, and it's time to get those hands in the soil. Here in the mountains, that means turning your attention to early spring bloomers and cool-season veggies.
You'll see forsythia and purple leaf plums putting on a show, so get those in the ground now! Redbuds and crab apples are also perfect for planting this time of year.
For your vegetable garden, it's go-time for lettuce, kale, and broccoli. But remember, tomatoes and peppers are summer lovers; protect them from late frosts with plant protectors.
And here's a local tip: Cool season herbs like parsley, sage, and oregano thrive when planted early.
So, ditch the couch and embrace the season! Your garden awaits!
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🥕Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener

Sunday Apr 13, 2025
Sunday Apr 13, 2025
Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken & Lisa Watters Lain, The Mountain Gardeners here!
This week, we explore a range of gardening topics, offering insider tips for cultivating flavorful herbs, natural pest control methods using ladybugs and praying mantises, and specific guidance on growing vibrant hydrangeas in challenging mountain landscapes. It also highlights ten top-performing spring-blooming plants and showcases the local gardening scene with John Murphy's "Rock the Gardens" event and the Prescott Food Forest, while suggesting hydrangea plants as a thoughtful Mother's Day gift for gardening enthusiasts.
Included in this week’s episode:
- Insider Tips to Growing Herbs with Flavor
- How to Use Ladybugs and Praying Mantis in the Gardens
- How to Grow Hydrangea in Mountain Landscapes
- Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens
- John Murphy Rock the Gardens and Prescott Food Forest
- Hydrangea Hugs as a Mother’s Day I Love You Plant for Gardeners
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.
To Watch the Entire Podcast Show, Tap or Click on the Link Below
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https://themountaingardener.podbean.com/
🎙️Ken & Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners
#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #TheMountainGardener, #GardeningTips, #KenLain, #SpringGardening, #Herbs, #PestControl, #Hydrangeas, #PrescottGardens

Saturday Apr 12, 2025
🪻Hydrangea Hugs as a Mother’s Day I Love You Plant for Gardeners
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Hey gardening friends, Ken Lain here! This Mother's Day, give a gift that keeps on giving – a beautiful, blooming hydrangea. These aren't just flowers; they're living expressions of a mother's enduring love.
Imagine presenting Mom with a cloud of delicate blooms, a symbol of your appreciation that will brighten her garden for years to come. Hydrangeas come in a range of captivating colors, from soft pinks to serene blues, each with its own unique charm.
When choosing a hydrangea for Mom, consider her garden's light. Most prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. And remember, soil pH can influence bloom color!
But most of all, give the gift of joy and beauty. A hydrangea is more than a plant; it's a living reminder of your love, growing stronger with each passing season.
🪻Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
Get Your Own Hydrangeas by Preordering for Mothers Day
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Friday Apr 11, 2025
👨🌾John Murphy Rocks the Gardens and Prescott Food Forest
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Join me, Ken Lain, as we welcome John Murphy, a gardening force of nature, to Watters Garden Center! John's passion for plants is contagious, and his knowledge will ignite your own green thumb.
We'll delve into the exciting work of the Prescott Food Forest, exploring how to create your own thriving food forest, even here in our challenging climate. John will share his best practices for soil preparation, companion planting, and water-wise techniques that will have your garden bursting with fresh produce.
But that's not all! We'll explore some of John's favorite plant selections, those that bring both beauty and bounty to your backyard. From fruit trees to hardy perennials, we'll cover it all.
Get ready for an inspiring journey into the world of gardening, dedicated to sustainable practices and community collaboration with the Prescott Food Forest. This is one you don't want to miss!
👨🌾Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
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Thursday Apr 10, 2025
🌻Top 10 Bloomers in the Spring Gardens
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Ken and Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners here!
Spring has officially sprung, and the garden center is exploding with color and fragrance. It's a feast for the senses!
Right now, we've got Amaryllis in bloom, those incredible bulbs with trumpet-shaped flowers, some even dipped in rose petals or moss! You won't believe the size and beauty.
And the early spring flowers are here too! Pansies and violas are showing off their vibrant hues, and snapdragons are standing tall. Don't forget the fragrant stock, a real treat for the nose.
This is the time to visit and plan your colorful spring displays. From cool-season veggies to herbs and showy hanging baskets like Calibrachoa, we've got everything to get your garden thriving. Come on down and experience the joy of spring!
🌻Ken & Lisa Lain, the Mountain Gardeners
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Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
🪻How to Grow Hydrangeas in Mountain Landscapes
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
🪻How to Grow Hydrangeas in Mountain Landscapes
Ken Lain Here, The Mountain Gardener!
You know, folks often ask if hydrangeas can thrive here in our Arizona mountains. The answer is a resounding yes!
But there are a few tricks to it.
The key is selecting newer varieties that bloom on new wood. This ensures they'll flower reliably, even if the winter chills them back a bit.
Also, our soil and water tend to be alkaline, which pushes hydrangea colors toward the pink side. You can amend the soil, but I find they're just as beautiful embracing those pinks and softer blues.
Most importantly, give them the right location. Here, they need protection from our intense sun and drying winds. Think north- or east-facing exposures, or under the dappled shade of trees. Plant them right, and you'll be rewarded with armfuls of blooms!
Get Your Own Hydrangeas by Preordering for Mothers Day
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🪻Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
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Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
🐞How to Use Ladybugs and Praying Mantis in the Gardens
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Welcome back, garden friends! Ken Lain here, chatting with Lisa Watters Lain about keeping our green spaces thriving naturally.
Many of you ask if ladybugs and praying mantises truly work for pest control, and the answer is a resounding yes! These beneficial insects are nature's tiny cleanup crew.
If you're seeing aphids on your roses or fruit trees, gently moisten the affected area and release ladybugs at the base in the evening. They'll crawl up and feast! Praying mantis egg cases can be placed now and will hatch later when temperatures are right. It's a fun, effective, and chemical-free way to nurture a balanced and beautiful garden.
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🐞Ken & Lisa Lain, The Mountain Gardeners
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Monday Apr 07, 2025
🌿Insider Tips to Growing Herbs with Flavor
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Welcome, fellow mountain gardeners! Ken Lain here, your neighborly guide from Watters Garden Center.
Spring in our Arizona highlands is a vibrant, sometimes dramatic awakening. Just like my own wildflowers pushing through the soil, your gardens are likely showing new life. Have you noticed those first blooms on your Forsythia or the fresh growth on your roses?
Now is the time to think about consistent moisture. Once you see that new growth and those first flowers, it's time to activate your irrigation for a deep weekly soak, especially for your established trees and shrubs. Think of it as giving your garden a refreshing drink after a long winter's nap.
And speaking of fresh starts, there's nothing quite like stepping out of your door to snip flavorful herbs for your kitchen. Imagine the taste of homegrown rosemary on the grill or fresh garlic greens in your morning frittata!
Plant your favorites now – rosemary, lavender, sage, thyme, and all those wonderful mint varieties thrive in our bright days and cool nights. Consider a sunny spot, perhaps even the east side of your home, for the most flavorful results. Happy gardening!
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🌿Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener
#WattersGardenCenter, #TheMountainGardener, #GardeningTips, #KenLain, #ArizonaGardening, #HerbGrowingTips, #WateringWisdom,