Conversations with Alaska Gardeners

Margaret Tharp and David Lindrum discuss how Juneau gardeners can help plants recover after a challenging winter. The episode covers pruning and repairing storm-damaged trees and shrubs, restoring arborvitaes and ornamental trees, and the importance of proper feeding and wound care. David also highlights the beauty and history of fragrant Rugosa (Sitka) roses, shares tips for growing hydrangeas, peonies, lilacs, and clematis, and explains how strategic pruning can rejuvenate aging plants. The conversation is packed with practical advice to help local gardeners prepare for a vibrant growing season while showcasing new arrivals and gardening trends at Landscape Alaska. 

On this episode of Conversations with Alaskan Gardeners, Margaret Tharp and David Lindrum from Landscape Alaska talk spring recovery after Juneau’s heavy snow and cold rain, sharing practical advice on resilient plants, peonies, rhubarb, hydrangeas, lilacs, azaleas, fertilizing, and what’s ready to plant now. It’s a timely, local conversation for Southeast Alaska gardeners looking to bring their yards back to life after a tough winter. 

After a long, punishing winter in Juneau, Conversations with Alaskan Gardeners returns with Margaret Tharp and David Lundrum of Landscape Alaska for a practical and encouraging look at spring garden recovery. This episode covers winter damage to rhododendrons, arborvitae, Japanese maples, viburnums, and flowering cherries, with clear advice on when to prune, when to wait, and how to help plants rebound.

Margaret and David also talk about tough spring performers like primroses, hostas, Lewisia, strawberries, peonies, and hardy columnar trees, while sharing local gardening stories from around Juneau and Southeast Alaska. From broken branches to fresh blooms, this episode is a reminder that even after a hard winter, Alaska gardens have a remarkable way of coming back.