Top 10 Gardener with Ken Lain

🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 45 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

This Episode dives into the fascinating world of plants, exploring both their practical care and deeper symbolism. We'll uncover the spiritual meanings associated with common houseplants, learn how to maintain the vibrant blue hue of spruce trees and discover strategies for keeping pesky weeds at bay in rock gardens. We'll also delve into selecting vibrant, foliage-rich plants that retain their color and explore the top fall-colored trees perfect for autumn planting with insider tips for successful growth. Whether you're seeking to enhance your home's energy, cultivate a thriving garden, or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, this guide offers valuable insights and expert advice.

Learn how to snag those hard-to-find specialty plants before they even hit the shelves by becoming a Garden Club Member!

https://wattersgardencenter.com/garden-care-advantages/

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

• The Spiritual Meaning of Houseplants
• How to Keep Blue Spruce Silvery Blue

• How to Keep Winter Weeds out of Rock Lawns

• Brighter Plants That Hold Their Foliage and Stay Green
• Top 10 Fall Colored Trees for Autumn Planting
• Top 10 Trees with Insider Tips to Grow Them

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!

 

Click Below to Join Our Garden Club

https://wattersgardencenter.com/garden-care-advantages/

 

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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🌳Top 10 Trees with Insider Tips to Grow Them🌳

Hey there, Garden Community! Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener here, with some autumn wisdom to keep your plants toasty warm all winter long.

 

As those beautiful leaves fall, don't rake them all away! They're like black gold for your garden. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch acts like a cozy blanket, insulating the soil and preventing that nasty freeze-thaw that damages roots.

 

Here's why this is important:

• Warmer Soil: The layer insulates the ground, keeping it from freezing and heaving. This protects your precious plants and keeps their roots happy.
• Reduced Watering: That layer also helps retain moisture in the soil, meaning less watering for you during those dry winter spells (even if the weatherman says otherwise!).
• Weed Control: Bonus! The layer keeps weeds at bay, so they're not competing with your plants for nutrients and water.

 

Head down to Watters Garden Center and grab a bag of their premium, screened mulch. It's perfect for topping off your garden beds and adding that extra layer of protection.

 

Bonus Tip: With winter approaching, it's time to start powering down your irrigation. But don't forget to water occasionally! Dry spells are common in the Arizona mountains, so keep an eye on your garden's moisture needs.

 

Let's keep those gardens thriving, even in winter!

 

Click Below to Join Our Garden Club

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🌺Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

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🍁Top 10 Fall Colored Trees for Autumn Planting🍁

Looking to add a splash of color to your yard this fall? Look no further than Watters Garden Center! Here's Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, with his top picks for trees that'll explode in vibrant hues come autumn.

Ready to Plant, Ready to Dazzle:

• Maples: The classic choice, maples offer stunning reds and oranges. Ken recommends the Prescott Blaze Maple, which is fast-growing and perfect for patios or shade.
• Ash Trees: Don't miss the Raywood Ash. This beauty boasts rich purple foliage and a handsome, rounded shape. Bonus: it's drought-resistant!
• Golden Locust: This low-maintenance option features delicate leaves that turn a bright gold in fall. Plus, it cleans up after itself, naturally dropping its leaves.
• Oaks: A symbol of strength and longevity, oaks are perfect for memorial trees. They offer deep red fall color and can withstand the mountain winds.

Ken's Insider Tips:

• Fall is Prime Planting Time: Cooler temperatures and shorter days help newly planted trees establish themselves before winter.
• Skip the Seedlings: Opt for grafted trees. They'll grow faster and be more consistent in appearance and color.
• Right Plant, Right Place: Consider the mature size of a tree before planting. Oaks are great, but they might overwhelm a smaller lot.

 

Plant Your Dream Fall Landscape Today!

 

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

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🍁Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener

 

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🪴Brighter Plants That Hold Their Foliage and Stay Green🪴

Joining us for this segment is Lisa Watters-Lain, our resident garden guru, who is here to spill the secrets of a thriving garden! She’s here with some fantastic news for those seeking evergreen beauties that bring year-round color to your landscape.

 

Fall is prime time for planting evergreens, and Waters Garden Center has a dazzling selection that goes beyond the usual suspects. We're all about unique finds that add personality to your yard!

Here are some of the standout evergreens we have in stock:

• Korean Fir: This compact charmer boasts silvery-blue foliage, perfect for smaller spaces. Think of it as a miniature version of our local Spruce Mountain cousin.
• Tannenbaum Mugo Pine: This pyramidal wonder offers a Christmas tree shape that stays delightfully manageable, topping out around eight feet.
• Golden Atlas Cedar: A dazzling alternative to the classic blue Atlas cedar, this variety features stunning new growth with a golden tinge, reminiscent of the beloved golden locust.
• Blue Star Juniper & Cedar: These elevated beauties are grafted onto a tree form, making them stand out in containers on your patio.

Remember: Planting in fall allows your evergreens to establish a strong root system before winter.

 

Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with grafted trees like Japanese Pines! They offer a unique architectural element and thrive in containers.

 

Be sure to watch to the end of the Segment to learn how you can snag those hard-to-find specialty plants before they even hit the shelves by becoming a Garden Club Member!

Not already a Garden Club Member? Click to Join and be Notified of Plant Preorders and other Special Offer

 

🪴Ken & Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners

 

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🌿How to Keep Winter Weeds out of Rock Lawns🌿

Hey there, fellow green thumbs! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here with some friendly advice to keep those pesky winter weeds from taking over your rock lawn.

 

We all know weeds are the bane of a gardener's existence. Especially those cool-season weeds that pop up alongside your pansies, like dandelions and foxtail. Those winter weeds are tough to tackle because the usual weed killers just don't work in the cold.

 

Here's the secret weapon in my arsenal: weed and grass stopper. This handy product is a seed killer that prevents weeds from germinating in the first place. Think of it as a weed-proof blanket for your rock lawn.

 

Here's why it's perfect for rock lawns:

• Stops weeds before they start: Apply it now, before those winter weeds germinate, and you can prevent up to 98% of them!
• Safe for existing plants: Don't worry about harming your precious flowers or shrubs. This weed stopper only targets seeds.
• Easy to use: Just spread the granules around your rock lawn, following the instructions on the bag. Water it in, and that's it!
• Long-lasting: One application can cover up to 5,000 square feet and lasts for months.

 

Bonus tip! Since we're here in Arizona, remember there are also summer weeds that appear during monsoon season. To keep those in check, apply another round of weed and grass stopper around the end of June.

 

By following these tips, you can keep your rock lawn looking beautiful and weed-free all year round. And hey, less weeding means more time to enjoy your garden!

 

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🌲How to Keep Blue Spruce Silvery Blue🌲

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

 

This week, we're diving into a question that's on many gardeners' minds: how to maintain that stunning silvery-blue hue on your blue spruce trees.

 

The secret? Aluminum Sulfate!

This magic mineral helps your spruce trees absorb aluminum from the soil, enhancing their natural blue color. It's like giving them a spa day!

 

Here's how to use it:

• Apply aluminum sulfate now, before the first hard freeze.
• Combine it with Watters 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food for optimal results. This provides essential nutrients while encouraging the absorption of aluminum.
• Water it in well, or even better, let nature do the work with some autumn rain or snow. 🌧️❄️

 

By following these simple steps, you'll have the bluest spruce trees on the block come spring!

 

Plus, we'll discuss why organic fertilizers are the best choice for your mountain garden and answer a listener question about pesky aphids. Tune in for a show packed with practical advice and a touch of earthy wisdom!

 

Not already a Garden Club Member Click Below to Join and be notified of Plant Preorders and other Special Offers

 

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🌼The Spiritual Meaning of Houseplants🌼

Hey, Plant Lovers Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here. This week, we explore the fascinating world of houseplants – and I don't just mean their care! We'll delve into the spiritual meanings and symbolism behind some of your favorites.

 

Did you know that the Chinese Money Plant is believed to bring wealth and fortune? Or that Ivy symbolizes eternal life?

 

We'll uncover these secrets and more, offering insights into why certain plants make the perfect gifts for specific occasions. Whether it's a housewarming, a graduation, or simply a gesture of friendship, there's a houseplant with a meaning that speaks volumes.

 

Plus, we'll touch on some timely gardening advice for our mountain gardens as we head into November. So stay tuned for a show that nourishes both your garden and your soul!

 

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🍂 Aspen How Low Will They Grow🍂

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

 

Dreaming of a mountain landscape painted with the shimmering gold of Aspen trees? This week on The Mountain Gardener, we're diving into the fascinating world of Aspens, exploring just how low these iconic beauties will grow. Whether you're in Prescott Valley, Skull Valley, or anywhere in between, we'll uncover the secrets to successfully growing these majestic trees at different elevations.

 

Discover the ideal planting conditions, watering techniques, and care tips to ensure your Aspens thrive. Plus, learn how to incorporate them into your landscape design. Imagine using their striking white bark and vibrant fall foliage to frame breathtaking views, create privacy screens, or simply add a touch of mountain magic to your backyard. Don't miss out on this Aspen adventure!

 

Be sure to watch to the end of the Segment to learn how you can snag those hard-to-find specialty plants before they even hit the shelves by becoming a Garden Club Member!

Not already a Garden Club Member Click Below to Join and be notified of Plant Preorders and other Special Offers

https://wattersgardencenter.com/garden-care-advantages/

 

🍂Ken & Lisa Lain, The Top 10 Gardeners

 

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🌲Mountain Majesty - Top 7 Pine Trees for the Mountain West Landscape🌲

Hey Gardeners Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener here. It's officially autumn in the mountains, and the smell of pine needles and crisp air is everywhere!

This week on The Top 10 Gardener, we're diving deep into the best pine trees for your high-altitude haven. From towering Ponderosas to elegant Austrian pines, we'll share the secrets to growing these majestic evergreens. Plus, discover even more stunning evergreens that thrive in our unique mountain climate, like the vibrant Colorado Blue Spruce and the graceful Deodar Cedar. Don't miss out!

Get in the know! Subscribe for Top 10 Gardener updates!

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 - 43 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain! 🎙️

As the seasons change and we move towards autumn, there's plenty to do in the garden! This includes planting vibrant fall flowers like asters and pansies, prepping more delicate plants for the coming winter by bringing them indoors and considering the role of beneficial creatures like tarantulas in the garden ecosystem. We'll also explore tips and tricks specifically for women gardeners and provide advice on choosing javelina-resistant plants for those dealing with these hungry critters. Finally, we'll look at how the Conscious Capitalism movement, supported by organizations like the Prescott Rotary, is making a positive impact by raising funds for non-profit organizations.

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

• Top 10 Flowers to Plant for Fall Blooms
• How to Bring Outside Plants In for Winter
• Are Tarantula Spiders Good or Bad in the Garden
• A Woman's Guide to Better Gardens
• Javelina Proof Plants Sure to Please in the Landscape
• Conscious Capitalism Raising a Lot of Money for Non-Profits

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.

 

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

 

#WattersGardenCenter, #WattersGardencenterAZ, #Top10Gardener, #GardeningTips, #MountainGardenerPodcast, #kedj, #FallFlowers, #Houseplants, #GardenSpiders, #WomensGardening, #JavelinaProofPlants, #ConsciousCapitalism

💲Conscious Capitalism Raising a Lot of Money for Non-Profits💲

Hey there, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here from Watters Garden Center. Did you know we partner with the amazing Prescott Frontier Rotary Club to host an annual "Grapes 4 Good" event? It's a fantastic way to raise money for worthy causes while enjoying a fun-filled garden party.

This year, the event raised an incredible $105,000 in just three hours! This is thanks to the combined efforts of our passionate team and the dedicated Rotary volunteers. It's a perfect example of "conscious capitalism" in action—businesses like ours using their resources to support our community.

The money raised will go towards Rotary's fantastic programs, like helping kids get through school and providing leadership training for exchange students. We're proud to be a part of making a difference!

Looking to get involved? Stay tuned for next year's Grapes 4 Good event! We'll have delicious food, wine tastings, live music, and exciting auctions. It's a great way to unwind, have some fun, and support a great cause.

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

 

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🐗Javelina Proof Plants Sure to Please in the Landscape🐗

Tired of pesky javelina munching on your favorite plants? Here at Watters Garden Center, we've got you covered! Join Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener, as he shares his top picks for javelina-resistant plants that will thrive in your Arizona landscape.

Nature's Built-in Defense System:

Did you know some plants have natural defenses against hungry herbivores? They might have:

• Unpleasant flavors: Plants like sage and rosemary boast strong scents that deter javelina.
• Tough textures: Echinacea's hairy stems are a mouthful (literally) for javelina to avoid.
• Blue hues: This color often signals a bitter taste, keeping javelina away.

Javelina-Resistant Gems:

Now, let's get planting! Here are some javelina-proof choices you'll love:

• Honeysuckle: A classic with fragrant blooms and versatile growth habits (ground cover, trellis climber).
• Mums: Fall favorites that come in a variety of colors and are generally left untouched.
• Nandina: "Heavenly Bamboo" might sound tempting, but its delicate appearance fools javelina. Perfect for raised beds or borders.
• Tune in to the Podcast to get the full list

Bonus Tip: Blue-hued plants with silver or gray foliage generally appeal less to javelina.

Fencing for Vegetables:

Unfortunately, no vegetable is javelina-proof. If you have a veggie garden, fencing is your best bet.

Visit Watters!

Looking for more javelina-resistant plant ideas? Stop by Watters Garden Center! We have a list waiting for you and expert advice to create a beautiful and resilient landscape.

 

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

 

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👩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!

 

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

 

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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. 🌲

 

Garden like a Pro - unlock the secrets with Top10Gardener.

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