Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

🛒Shop Plants Online at Top 10 Plants

Hey plant lovers, Ken Lain here! Want to explore our incredible selection of plants from the comfort of your home? Head over to Top10Plants.com, our online nursery!

 

You'll find a wide variety of trees, shrubs, flowers, and everything in between, all with detailed information on size, water needs, and growing conditions specific to our Central Highlands climate. Whether you're looking for inspiration or ready to purchase, Top10Plants.com is your one-stop shop for gardening success.

 

Remember to visit us in person at Watters Garden Center for even more personalized advice and a truly inspiring garden experience.

 

🛒Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌱Top 10 Best Mountains Shrubs in the Southwest

Top 10 Best Mountain Shrubs in the Southwest

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken Lain here! Looking for shrubs that thrive in our mountain climate? Here are 10 of my favorites that bring beauty, color, and texture to your landscape:

• Barberry: These versatile shrubs come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they love our sunny, dry conditions.
• Rose of Sharon: Enjoy the tropical flair of hibiscus with this hardy variety that blooms all summer long.
• Bluebeard: Attract pollinators galore with this butterfly magnet, boasting beautiful blue flowers.
• Deer Grass: This native ornamental grass adds texture and movement to your garden, and it's deer resistant!

Tune in to see the rest of the List.

 

These shrubs are all winners in my book, and they'll bring you years of enjoyment in your mountain garden. Happy planting!

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🐦 How to Attract More Birds into the Garden

Hey bird lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Want to turn your garden into a haven for feathered friends?

 

It's easier than you think! Birds are attracted to gardens that provide food, water, and shelter.

 

Instead of relying solely on bird feeders, create a diverse landscape with plants that offer natural food sources. Think berry-producing shrubs like Cotoneaster and Pyracantha, seed-bearing flowers like Salvia and Gaillardia, and native trees like Arizona Cypress and Junipers.

 

Add a water source like a birdbath or fountain, and provide shelter with a variety of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers. With a little planning, you can create a bird-friendly paradise that brings joy and wonder to your backyard all year long.

 

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🪴 Best Companion Plants of January

Hey garden enthusiasts, Ken Lain here! This month at Watters Garden Center, we're featuring a collection of companion plants that shine in the winter landscape.

 

These beauties not only look fantastic together, but they also thrive in our unique Central Highlands climate.

 

Imagine a backdrop of Arizona Cypress, a fast-growing native evergreen that provides privacy and wind protection. Pair it with the stately Austrian Pine, a cousin of the Ponderosa Pine, for a contrasting texture and shade of green.

 

Add in the versatile Japanese Yew, perfect for hedging or foundation plantings, and the vibrant Mint Julep Juniper with its refreshing minty hue.

 

For a pop of color, including the Red Clusterberry Cotoneaster, boasting bright red berries and glossy foliage.

 

Finally, anchor your design with the classic Winter Gem Boxwood, a versatile evergreen shrub that adds structure and year-round interest.

 

These companion plants create a dynamic and beautiful landscape that will thrive in your garden for years to come. Visit Watters Garden Center to see these beauties in person and get expert advice on planting and care.

 

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🪴 Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌲Dealing with Burlap when Planting a Large Evergreen Pine Tree

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your gardening questions!

 

Planting a large evergreen pine can be a bit intimidating, especially when you see that burlap and twine around the root ball. But don't worry, it's easier than you think!

 

That burlap is there to protect the roots during transport and planting. Leave it on! The roots will grow right through it. Just be sure to cut any twine at the top of the root ball to prevent girdling as the tree grows. Then, backfill your planting hole with a mixture of native soil and Watters Premium Mulch for a happy, healthy tree

 

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🌺When to Transplant and Repot Your Houseplants

Hey indoor gardeners, Ken Lain here! Is your houseplant bursting at the seams? Knowing when to repot is key to keeping your leafy friends happy and healthy.

Here are a few telltale signs it's time for a bigger home:

• Root Bound: Check those drainage holes! If roots are poking out, it's time to move on up.
• Slow Growth: Has your plant's growth slowed or stalled? It might be root bound and craving more space.
• Soil Drying Quickly: If the soil dries out super fast, the roots may have filled the pot, leaving little room for water retention.

Spring is the ideal time to repot, but you can transplant throughout the year if needed. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one and use a quality potting mix. With a little TLC, your houseplants will thrive in their new digs!

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🎙️Welcome to Episode 24 – 53 of The Top 10 Gardener Podcast' with Ken and Lisa Lain!

This week, we're digging into essential winter gardening tips to keep your landscape thriving and prepare for a vibrant spring. We'll explore the power of peony pruning, unlock the secrets of planting success even in cold weather, and discover how to properly stake trees for faster growth. Plus, we'll venture indoors to explore the world of houseplants and how they can enhance your home during the winter months. Let's get started!

Included in this week’s episode:

• Dig In! Winter Landscape Planting for a Stunning Landscape
• Peony Pruning Power Hour
• Unlocking the Earth Planting Success
• Beyond The Power of Houseplants
• Winter Pruning A Guide for Your Backyard
• How to Stake a Tree for Faster Growth

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.

 

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🌳How to Stake a Tree for Faster Growth

Hey there, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here. Did you know that staking your newly planted trees can actually help them grow faster?

 

It's true! Staking provides support, especially during windy winter months, allowing the tree to focus its energy on root development instead of trying to stay upright.

 

Whether you're planting a deciduous tree or an evergreen, like the beautiful Arizona Cypress or the stately Blue Atlas Cedar, staking is essential for strong, healthy growth. Use sturdy stakes and tie the tree loosely, allowing for some movement in the wind. This encourages trunk strength while preventing damage to the roots.

 

With proper staking, your trees will establish themselves quickly and thrive in their new home. Happy planting!

 🌳Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🧥Winter Pruning: A Guide for Your Backyard

Hey there, garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here. While you might think winter is a time for rest, it's actually the perfect opportunity to give your garden some TLC.

 

Pruning deciduous trees and shrubs during dormancy sets the stage for healthy growth and abundant blooms come spring.

 

Think of it like a haircut for your plants! By removing dead or crossing branches, you encourage better air circulation and allow sunlight to reach the inner branches. This helps prevent diseases and promotes stronger growth. Plus, winter pruning allows you to shape your plants and maintain their desired size.

 

So grab your pruners and let's get those gardens in shape for a spectacular spring!

 

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🧥 Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🪴 Beyond The Power of Houseplants

Hey plant lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! Houseplants bring life and beauty to our homes, especially during the winter months.

But before you add to your indoor jungle, consider these key factors:

• Light: Choose plants that thrive in your space's light conditions. Low-light options include ZZ plants, Snake Plants, and Chinese Evergreens.
• Ease of Care: Start with low-maintenance plants if you're new to houseplant care.
• Good Information: Get expert advice from your local garden center to ensure you choose the right plants and provide the proper care.

And remember the power of new beginnings! Just like a fresh start in the new year, new houseplants can revitalize your home and bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

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

 

🪴 Ken Lain, The Top 10 Gardener

 

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🌱Unlocking the Earth – Planting Success

Hey there, fellow dirt diggers! Ken Lain here, and while winter might seem like the off-season, it's actually a great time to plant trees and shrubs in the Central Highlands.

 

But our rocky soil can make digging a challenge. So, let's discuss some secrets to planting success, even when the ground is hard.

 

Forget about digging from the outer edge inwards. Instead, imagine the spokes of a bicycle wheel. Position your shovel blade along those spokes, facing outwards, and dig around the perimeter of your planting hole. This creates a wider, more accessible space for your plant's roots to spread.

 

And remember, amend that hard soil with some Watters Premium Mulch to improve drainage and encourage healthy growth. With a little know-how and the right tools, you can unlock the earth and create a thriving garden, even in winter.

 

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🌼Q and A - Peony Pruning Power Hour

Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your gardening questions! This week, we're tackling peony care, proper winter watering, and prepping raised beds for spring planting.

 

Peonies are tough, cold-hardy perennials that need a good trim in late winter. Cut them back to the ground, taking care not to damage any emerging shoots. And remember to keep those peonies hydrated throughout the winter, even when dormant.

 

For raised beds, refresh the soil with compost and Watters Premium Mulch. And here's an insider tip: add a layer of Watters Potting Soil for an extra boost of nutrients and improved drainage. Your plants will thank you!

 

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🧤Secrets to Landscape Planting in Winter

Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Ken Lain here, and even though it's winter in the Central Highlands, it's still a great time to plant!

 

Trees, shrubs, and evergreens planted now can establish strong roots before the spring growth spurt.

 

The secret to successful winter planting? Water, water, water! 💧 Hydrate the planting hole thoroughly before you even put the plant in the ground. This prevents the surrounding soil from wicking away moisture from your new addition. Then, water regularly throughout the winter, especially during dry spells.

 

With some extra care, your winter plantings will reward you with vibrant growth and beauty come springtime. Happy planting!

 

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🌼Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter

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 Difference Between Winter and Summer Plant Food
• How Early Can Fruit Trees be Pruned
• Does it Hurt Trees to Cut Exposed Roots Out of the Garden
• Lisa’s Year End Garden Review, the Good, The Bad and the Ugly
• Top 10 Houseplants for a Healthier Indoors this Winter
• Deal with Indoor Bugs Safely

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,

🐛Deal with Indoor Bugs Safely

Hey there, fellow bug battlers! Ken Lain, the Top 10 Gardener, here, ready to tackle those tiny terrors buzzing around your house! No need to panic, these indoor invaders can be dealt with naturally and safely, without resorting to chemical warfare.

First, remember, most indoor bugs are loners, not legionnaires. It's usually just a fly-by, not a full-blown invasion. So, before you whip out the bug spray, take a deep breath and assess the situation.

Now, about those sneaky critters:

• Fungus gnats: Those annoying little buzzy things hovering around your houseplants? Yep, it's probably the gnat gang. They love moist soil, so let your plants dry out a bit between waterings. And check out those handy yellow sticky traps – these gnats can't resist their sunny invitation!
• Fruit flies: Got a bowl of sweet, summery fruit attracting tiny fruit flies? Cover it with a breathable cloth, or pop it in the fridge. Remember, these guys are all about the fermented fun, so clean up any spills, and don't leave ripe fruit sitting around like a bug buffet.
• Spiders: Now, these eight-legged friends aren't necessarily bad! They help keep other bug populations in check. But if you're not a fan, try gentle relocation (think a glass and a piece of paper, not a squish!).

Here's the golden rule, folks: don't panic, be proactive! Keep your house clean, eliminate food and water sources, and use natural alternatives like sticky traps and diatomaceous earth (a fancy way of saying crushed rock that's deadly to bugs but safe for us).

Remember, a healthy home equals a happy home, for you and your tiny (sometimes unwanted) roommates. So, keep it clean, keep it natural, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're living in harmony with the not-so-creepy crawlies!

Happy bug-battling, y'all! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, I'm always here to help you keep your home buzzing with joy (and not those pesky invaders)!

 

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