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 395 episodes available.

Garden Basics with Farmer Fred episodes:

May 30, 2025 394 Home Weather Station Basics
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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.
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50min
May 23, 2025 393 Garden Pests - Whiteflies, Slugs, and More!
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
April 18, 2025 388 Squash Growing Basics
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Master Gardener Gail Pothour shares tips on growing summer and winter squash. We cover variety selection, planting, pest management, harvesting, and storage of squash to boost your yield.
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net.
Now on YouTube (audio)
Pictured: Male and Female Squash Flowers
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/
All America Selections Squash varieties mentioned in today’s podcast:
Gold Rush
Bossa Nova
Sunburst yellow scalloped squash
Green Lightning squash
Early Prolific Straightneck Squash
Tivoli Spaghetti Squash
Waltham butternut squash
Black Futsu butternut squash
Sweet Jade Kabocha squash

OTHER PLANTS MENTIONED:
Green Zebra zucchini
Honey Boat Squash
Ortolana di Faenza zucchini
Galeux d’ Eysines pumpkin
Rouge Vif d’ Etampes pumpkin
Jarrahdale pumpkin
Marina Di Chioggia pumpkin
African Blue Basil
Wild Magic Basil
All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.
Got a garden question?
• 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
45min
April 11, 2025 387 Q&A: Reaction Wood and Seedlings. Controlling Scale. Plants and Mulch.
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America’s Favorite College Horticulture Professor, Debbie Flower, and I answers questions about the importance of building “reaction wood” in seedlings, greenhouse airflow, scale pest management for fruit trees, and the benefits of organic mulch. Once again, we’re here to promote proactive gardening practices for healthier gardens.
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: Tomato Seedlings building "Reaction Wood"
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/
“Teaming with Bacteria” (book) by Jeff Lowenfels
Scale Control Tips (from UCANR)
Thigmotropism - What is That?
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
April 04, 2025 386 Grape Growing Basics (And More!)
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Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower provide practical advice on cultivating table and wine grapes, focusing on the essentials such as sunlight, well-drained soil and variety selection. Also: peach leaf curl controls, prematurely falling figs, no-till gardening benefits.
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: A cluster of grapes on the vine (Photo: UCANR)
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
“Growing Grapes for Beginners”- West Virginia University
Training and Pruning Grapes - UCANR
No-Tiil Gardening - Sonoma Co Master Gardeners
Peach Leaf Curl Info - 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
36min
March 28, 2025 385 The Repurposed, Sustainable, and Creative Garden
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Prepare to be inspired as we dive into a creative and sustainable approach to gardening with Sacramento County Master Gardener Gail Pothour. We explore how to turn everyday household items and scrap materials into stunning and functional garden art. Whether it’s using an old manhole cover as a striking stepping stone or transforming downed trees into rustic pathways, Gail shares her innovative methods for infusing charm and creativity into any garden space. We explore the many ways she's embraced repurposing, showcasing the beauty of sustainability in a tangible, hands-on manner. This episode blends creativity with pragmatism. Gail's enthusiasm for gardening and her resourceful methods bring an upbeat energy to the conversation, making it a delightful listen for aspiring and seasoned gardeners alike.
Plus - "Will my blueberry plants recover after being weed trimmer whipped by my grandson?"
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: Gail’s Repurposed Items in the Garden
Links:
“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter (Mar. 28 edition features more about Gail’s repurposed garden)
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
Scilla peruviana
Bilbergia nutans
New Zealand Lemonade Tree
Large Binder Clips (for securing frost/shade cloth to PVC supports)
Mesh Wastebasket for plant protection (much cheaper at a Dollar-type Store)
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
32min

FAQs about Garden Basics with Farmer Fred:

How many episodes does Garden Basics with Farmer Fred have?

The podcast currently has 395 episodes available.

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