Garden Basics with Farmer Fred

By Fred Hoffman

Tips for beginning and experienced gardeners. New episodes arrive every Friday. Fred Hoffman has been a U.C. Certified Master Gardener since 1982 and writes a weekly garden column for the Lodi News

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FAQs about Garden Basics with Farmer Fred:

How many episodes does Garden Basics with Farmer Fred have?

The podcast currently has 399 episodes available.

Garden Basics with Farmer Fred episodes:

June 27, 2025 398 Aromatic Plants, plus Roses!
In this podcast, you’ll hear from these U.C. Sacramento County Master Gardeners and their favorite aromatic plants:
Collete Armao - Scented Geraniums
Dan Vierria - the Tuberose
Kathy Hellesen - Lemon Verbena
Greta Lacin - Sage (Salvia), especially sages for cooking
Teri Van Airsdale - the banana shrub (Magnolia figo)
And bonus audio - an interview with Master Rosarian Charlotte Owendyk about her 10 most favorite fragrant roses, including
Julia Child
Firefighter
Francis Meilland
Memorial Day
Pope John Paul II
Secret
Princess Alexandra of Kent
Mr. Lincoln
Double Delight
Beverly
Falling in Love
Golden Celebration
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Magnolia figo (banana shrub) 'Port Wine'
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Aromatic Plants and Roses - More Info”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
GardenBasics.net
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
32min
June 20, 2025 397 Garden Lessons Learned (the hard way)
Master gardeners share lessons from their mistakes, covering topics like thinning fruit, plant spacing, and pest management, highlighting gardening as a continuous learning experience filled with humor and growth.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: crowded fruit on a donut peach tree
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Gardening and Gratitude”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
“Sacramento Digs Gardening” newsletter
All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
35min
June 13, 2025 396 Cucumber Success Tips
Today, we dive into the world of cucumbers, the second most popular crop among backyard gardeners. Debbie Flower shares her expertise on cucumber varieties, growing techniques, and addressing common issues like bitterness. We discuss the importance of starting with fresh seeds, maintaining warm soil, and ensuring consistent moisture for optimal growth. Debbie also explains how to identify and manage male and female flowers, trellising for space optimization, as well as pest and disease management. (Originally aired in May, 2023)
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Cucumbers Growing on a Trellis
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Should You Prune Off Tomato Flowers?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Cucumber growing info from Sonoma County Master Gardeners
Cucumber Pests
Cucumber seeds
All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
29min
June 06, 2025 395 "Survival Garden" Basics
We explore the concept of a survival garden, focusing on growing nutritious crops that enhance healthy living. We redefine "survival garden" as a means to reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods while improving dietary intake. Our discussion includes practical tips for cultivating calorie-rich vegetable staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, evaluating their yields and family preferences.
The episode covers specific planting techniques for various vegetables, along with our personal gardening experiences, highlighting the adaptability needed for successful growth and storage of crops. Ultimately, we aim to inspire you to embrace gardening as a sustainable practice that enriches nutrition and well-being.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Heirloom Popcorn - Pennsylvania Butter Flavored
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Growing Microgreens” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
“Growing A Survival Garden” - Modern Farmer, October 2024
Mushroom Growing Kits
Microgreen Seed Sources - Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Harris Seeds
Bean Seeds - Yellow Indian Woman (Buckeye Bean), Bingo
Beet Seeds - Choggia, Golden
Growing Sweet Corn Information (Iowa State)
Sweet Corn Production in California (UCANR)
All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
1h 8min
May 30, 2025 394 Home Weather Station Basics
Episode 394 features climate scientist Daniel Swain of Weather West and UCANR discussing the link between gardening and weather patterns. He provides tips on monitoring conditions, setting up weather stations, and adapting practices amid National Weather Service budget cuts.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Davis Vantage Pro Weather Station (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “What is a Grocery Store Vine-Ripened Tomato?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Daniel Swain / WeatherWest on YouTube
Home Weather Stations
Davis Instruments Weather Stations

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
50min
May 23, 2025 393 Garden Pests - Whiteflies, Slugs, and More!
Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower share tips for managing pests like whiteflies and slugs, highlighting organic solutions and beneficial insects to help you reclaim your garden.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Whiteflies on a Citrus Leaf (Photo: Flickr/epitree)
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: Controlling Slugs in Mulch. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Plants That Attract Beneficial Insects
The Good Bug Hotel
Beneficial Insects for Whitefly Control
Whitefly Control Product - Bug Buster O
Sluggo for Snail and Slug Control
Sluggo Plus for Snail, slug, and earwig control
Other Slug/Snail Control Products
Earwig Control Tips from UCANR

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
33min
May 16, 2025 392 I Did Not Know That! Garden Tips for Success, Live
Debbie Arrington of the Sacramento Rose Society club introduces Master Gardener Farmer Fred and horticulture professor Debbie Flower at a recent meeting of the club. Fred and Debbie don't necessarily talk about roses, though. They share 10 essential tips to boost your overall gardening success—from innovative seed germination techniques to managing soil health and tackling invasive pests. This lively discussion emphasizes daily garden observation and sustainable practices, ensuring your garden thrives beautifully. Get ready to dig deep into the art of gardening!
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Rose Show at the Sacramento Rose Society. Roses: Whirlaway, Marriotta, Magic Show, Dolly Parton
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: Tips for more effective drip irrigation on raised garden beds. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
The Force of Rainwater Hitting bare soil
Hairy Bittercress weed exploding seeds

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]
Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
33min
May 09, 2025 391 A Masterclass in Melons
If you love melons, this episode is a must-listen!
In Episode 391 of the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast, we chat with Gail Pothour from the Sacramento County Master Gardener Program about growing mouthwatering melons at home. Discover tips on germination, pest management, and the benefits of harvesting at peak ripeness for maximum flavor. Gail also shares her unique trellising techniques and highlights exciting melon varieties like Lambton and Kajari. Tune in for a juicy journey into the world of homegrown melons.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Muskmelons growing on a trellis, with the fruit in t-shirt slings. (Photo: Gail Pothour)
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: more words and pictures about all the melon varieties we talked about in this podcast. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
Book - “Melons for the Passionate Grower” by Amy Goldman

All About Farmer Fred:

GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
36min
May 02, 2025 390 Pepper Growing Basics
Get ready to spice up your garden in Episode 390 of Garden Basics with Farmer Fred! Join Master Gardener Gail Pothour as we explore the vibrant world of peppers—discussing their health benefits, essential growing tips, and delicious culinary uses. From sweet varieties like the Gypsy to mildly hot options like the Mariachi, you’ll discover peppers that will light up your garden and your meals!
Packed with practical advice for both seasoned pros and newbies, this episode is your go-to guide for thriving pepper plants. Tune in for a pepper-centric journey that will elevate your gardening game.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Colorful Sweet peppers
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: more about all the pepper varieties we talked about in this podcast. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
Soil Thermometers
Chile Pepper Institute - New Mexico State University
Garden Basics, Ep. 25: Peppers - the Hot and the Sweet
Giant Whitefly Control (UCANR)
South American Tomato Leaf Miner (UCANR)

All About Farmer Fred:

GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
48min
April 25, 2025 389 Digging Squirrels? Soil Irrigation Basics
In Episode 389 of *Garden Basics with Farmer Fred*, learn to deter pesky squirrels and manage soil moisture. Farmer Fred, Debbie Flower, and Steve Zien share tips on protecting gardens and optimizing watering techniques.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Squirrel! (Photo by Joe Mabel)
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter (by becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!)
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Squirrel Controls (UCANR):
Ground Squirrels
Tree Squirrels
Soil Moisture Meters
Soil Probes
Farmer Fred Rant Blog Page: Don’t Let Drip Irrigation Become Drip Irritation
Soil Tests at Universities:
Texas A&M Soil Testing
Colorado St. Soil Testing
U. Mass/Amherst Soil Testing

All About Farmer Fred:

GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com
Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics
• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.
• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net
• E-mail: [email protected]

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.
...more
43min

FAQs about Garden Basics with Farmer Fred:

How many episodes does Garden Basics with Farmer Fred have?

The podcast currently has 399 episodes available.

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