Gardening Simplified

New Year, new plants! Hear all about the 2026 Shrubs of the Year from Proven Winners ColorChoice shrubs.

The New Year is often brought in with various traditions and celebrations. In this episode, we talk about the plants used in these and the symbolism of each. Plus, a few garden resolutions for the New Year. Featured plant: Persimmon.

Christmas history and traditions are heavily influenced by plants, I mean, we bring a whole tree in the house for the holiday! Learn all about the plants behind this holiday.

Is frost really a bad thing for plants? Find out the difference between a frost, and a freeze, and when to take action against them. Plus, hear the benefits of snow in the garden. Featured shrub, Oso Easy Ice Bay rose.

As Stacey says, real gardening starts once you’re not afraid to make mistakes. Sure, taking risks can be scary, but it can also be so rewarding! Whether you try to push the limits of spacing or hardiness, stepping out of your comfort zone is a big part of gardening. We discuss ways to push the boundaries in the landscape and the potential benefits of doing so. Featured shrub: Just Chill Red Tip camellia.

Broadleaf evergreens, or as we like to call them, flowering evergreens, are powerhouses in the landscape. They give you interest, structure, privacy, and color every season. In this episode, we explore the wide variety of broadleaf evergreens and how to care for them. Featured shrub: Gem Box inkberry holly.

There are many plants used as culinary staples when it comes to Thanksgiving. In this episode, we talk about the history, cultural impact, and nature behind these plants. Plus, you’ll never guess what Stacey picked for this week’s plant on trial, but you won’t want to miss it!

Conifers, often mistaken for Pine trees, are and have been landscape staples throughout history. Not to mention a classic choice for the Christmas tree! We dive into what makes a conifer, a conifer, and talk about the wide variety of conifers in the world. Fun facts, care tips, and how to deal with Juglone (the chemical produced by Black Walnut trees) are just a few of the things you’ll hear in this episode. Featured shrub: Stonehenge yew.

The color orange can be associated with cheer, caution, and optimism, to name a few. Learn how incorporating orange in your landscape can add a vibrant element to your palette. Featured shrub: Berry Box pyracomeles.

With 2026 around the corner, Rick and Stacey share what 2025 taught them and how to take that knowledge and use it moving forward. Learn about favorite plants, popular show topics, and garden revelations in 2025. West Michigan had a near historic drought this year - hear how plants handled these tough conditions in Stacey’s garden.