Plant Doctor with Mike Meier

In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into the often-overcomplicated world of planting spring flowering bulbs. He dismantles the myths surrounding bulb planting, emphasizing that it's not rocket science and can be quite forgiving. Mike provides practical advice on how deep to plant bulbs, the correct orientation, and the best time to plant them to avoid premature growth.

Mike also shares tips on caring for bulbs after they bloom, including the importance of allowing leaves to die back naturally to recharge the bulb's energy for the next season. He discusses the best practices for storing bulbs that need to be taken in for the winter, such as using peat moss in a cardboard container and occasional misting to prevent rot.

Listeners get insights into creative ways to plant bulbs for aesthetic appeal, like scattering them randomly for a natural look or using them as accent pieces around mailboxes and lamp posts. Mike also covers the special care needed for planting perennials and shrubs bought at reduced prices from chain stores at the end of the season, including soil amendment and proper planting depth.

In the second half of the show, Mike addresses listener questions about various plant issues. Bill calls in about young American chestnut trees and receives advice on managing sucker growth and the challenges posed by chestnut blight. Another caller seeks guidance on controlling the growth of grapevines and the best time for pruning to avoid disease.

Mike wraps up with a discussion on fall planting, highlighting the popularity of mums and the importance of selecting the right ones to ensure they bloom at home. He also introduces listeners to the lesser-known but highly rewarding flowering kale, which can add vibrant color to your garden even through winter frosts.

Whether you're a novice gardener or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with Mike's expert advice, practical tips, and a touch of humor to help you navigate the world of fall planting and bulb care.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into a variety of topics, from the best practices for growing chives to the folklore of weather prediction. The episode kicks off with a call from Don, who asks about managing the blooms on his chives. Mike explains the benefits of letting them flower and how it doesn't harm the plant, providing useful tips for both regular and garlic chives.

Mike then shares his personal experiences with the changing weather in Wisconsin and his favorite season, autumn. He talks about the joys of cooler weather, the beauty of fall foliage, and the reduction of pesky bugs after the first frost. He also poses a question to listeners about the unusually high spider population he's noticed this year, speculating on the potential link to the declining bat population.

Listener Kevin texts in to ask about planting apple trees, and Mike provides detailed advice on the type of soil to use and the importance of staking young trees. He also discusses the benefits of using dormant oil spray to protect against fungal diseases.

Rob calls in with a common issue: his morning glories are growing well but not blooming. Mike identifies the problem as over-fertilization and advises against using fertilizers for morning glories, which thrive in poor soil. He offers similar advice for rhubarb, emphasizing the need to avoid phosphorus-rich fertilizers to prevent unwanted flowering.

Mike delves into the folklore of weather prediction, sharing various old wives' tales and scientific studies about the woolly bear caterpillar's ability to predict winter severity. He also discusses other signs from nature, like the behavior of squirrels and the thickness of onions' skins, as indicators of upcoming weather conditions.

Listeners are encouraged to share their own weather-related folklore and to call in with any plant-related questions. Mike wraps up the episode by discussing weather phobias, adding a humorous touch to the show.

Whether you're curious about plant care, fascinated by weather folklore, or just looking for practical gardening advice, this episode is packed with Mike's signature blend of expertise and humor.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike delves into the perennial debate on organic versus synthetic pesticides. He begins by sharing his disdain for the summer heat and reminisces about his younger days when he enjoyed warmer climates. Mike emphasizes his realistic approach to gardening and his disdain for misleading information, particularly in the media.

Mike tackles common misconceptions about organic gardening methods, highlighting the ineffectiveness of some popular organic remedies like using chewing gum to get rid of moles. He explains that not all organic substances are safe, listing harmful organic compounds such as arsenic, cyanide, and even gasoline. Mike stresses the importance of using effective solutions, whether they are organic or synthetic, to ensure plant health and safety.

Throughout the episode, Mike takes calls from listeners with various plant-related questions. Phil seeks advice on stopping a tree stump from regrowing, and Mike provides a detailed method involving glyphosate or Tordon. Kelly inquires about propagating hardy hibiscus, and Mike offers step-by-step instructions for rooting cuttings in water. Another caller, Betty, describes unusual bugs on her coneflowers, and Mike suggests they might be weevils and reassures her about her pest control methods.

Mike also addresses the issue of rust mold in lawns, explaining that it is a common problem during this time of year and can be managed by proper fertilization and watering. He shares a humorous anecdote about kids coming home with orange-stained clothes due to rust mold spores.

Whether you're curious about the efficacy of organic methods, dealing with persistent plant issues, or seeking practical gardening advice, this episode is packed with Mike's signature blend of humor, realism, and expert knowledge.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into a variety of listener questions and offers practical advice on lawn care, pest control, and plant health. The episode kicks off with a call from Mary, who is curious about the best time to aerate her lawn. Mike explains the importance of soil moisture and suggests fall as the optimal time for periodic maintenance aeration. Mary also asks about weed control, and Mike recommends using Four Speed XT for broadleaf and grassy weeds, providing detailed instructions on its application.

Next, Jim Dandy calls in with a mole problem exacerbated by his dogs digging up the yard. Jim shares a home remedy involving castor oil and dish soap, but Mike debunks its effectiveness and suggests using pinwheels to deter moles. He shares his own surprising success with pinwheels, despite his initial skepticism, and emphasizes the importance of non-chemical solutions.

Kevin texts in about his pumpkin plants, which flourish but produce few pumpkins. Mike identifies potential issues such as insufficient sunlight and acidic soil due to proximity to a spruce tree. He advises moving the plants and testing the soil to improve next year's crop.

Mike then addresses a widespread issue with lilacs in the area, likely caused by a bacterial blight known as Pseudomonas syringae. He provides a comprehensive guide on diagnosing and managing the disease, including pruning dead branches and avoiding fertilization.

In the second half of the show, Mike discusses the notable absence of bats this summer and their role in controlling mosquito populations. He explains the impact of white nose syndrome on bat colonies and suggests ways to safely encourage bats to return without spreading the disease.

Finally, Mike tackles the common problem of tomatoes not ripening due to high temperatures. He explains the role of lycopene and carotene in the ripening process and offers insights into how to manage this issue, emphasizing the importance of temperature regulation.

Whether you're dealing with lawn aeration, pest control, plant diseases, or garden productivity, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical solutions to help you maintain a thriving garden.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike tackles the controversial topic of "No Mow May" and its impact on lawns and pollinators. Mike starts by expressing his frustration with the heat and humidity, and then dives into a heated discussion about the "No Mow May" policy. He explains why he believes this policy is unnecessary and potentially harmful to both lawns and pollinators.

Mike argues that suburban landscapes already provide ample flowers for pollinators and that the policy does not significantly benefit them. He also debunks the myth that honeybees are essential for pollination, pointing out that many crops were successfully grown by Native Americans long before honeybees were introduced to North America. Mike emphasizes that wind and air currents are far more effective at distributing pollen than insects.

Throughout the episode, Mike takes calls from listeners with various plant-related questions. Al inquires about caring for Amaryllis bulbs, and Mike provides detailed instructions on how to manage their growth and dormancy. Another caller, Tom, seeks advice on dealing with sucker growth on apple trees and the mysterious issue of lilac bushes losing their leaves prematurely. Mike promises to investigate the lilac problem further and provide updates in future episodes.

Mike also discusses the practical challenges of "No Mow May," explaining how allowing grass to grow too long can lead to a weaker lawn and increased pest problems. He highlights the recent decision by the city of Appleton to reinstate grass height restrictions, validating his stance against the "No Mow May" policy.

Whether you're curious about the effectiveness of pollinators, dealing with lawn care challenges, or seeking advice on specific plant issues, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to help you maintain a healthy and thriving garden.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into listener questions and offers practical advice on various gardening challenges. The episode kicks off with a call from Chris, who is dealing with a pest problem on his redbud tree. Mike helps identify the culprit, likely Japanese beetles, and recommends using insecticides like Malathion or Sevin to protect the tree. He also explains the difference between insecticidal soap and contact poisons, emphasizing the importance of understanding how each product works.

Next, Dan calls in with concerns about walnut trees affecting his garden. Mike explains the allelopathic properties of black walnut trees and suggests moving the garden to avoid the herbicidal effects of the tree's litter. They discuss the symptoms of affected plants and the importance of keeping the garden at a safe distance from the walnut tree.

Mike also addresses seasonal lawn diseases, highlighting the importance of a healthy lawn to resist diseases like dollar spot and necrotic ring spot. He offers tips on creating a disease-resistant lawn by mixing different types of grass seeds, such as bluegrass, fine fescues, and perennial ryegrass.

Later, Greg calls in about a fungus issue in his wife's flower garden. Mike identifies it as slime mold and reassures Greg that it won't harm the plants. He shares his fascination with molds and funguses, explaining how to manage slime mold in mulch beds and lawns.

Throughout the episode, Mike provides detailed advice on identifying and treating various plant problems, from pests and diseases to environmental challenges. Whether you're dealing with pest infestations, lawn diseases, or garden issues, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical solutions to help you maintain a thriving garden.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike starts by addressing the recent severe weather and its impact on trees, particularly focusing on the frequent question of when and how to transplant trees and shrubs. With the summer heat and infrequent rains, Mike explains why fall is generally a better time for planting, emphasizing the importance of adequate watering and the challenges posed by summer conditions.

Mike takes live calls from listeners dealing with various plant issues. Kurt from Alaska seeks advice on removing invasive cattails from his pond, and Mike offers a detailed method involving Roundup and a paintbrush, while also considering wildlife safety. Kurt also asks about propagating Boston ivy, and Mike provides a step-by-step guide using rooting hormone and water.

Sue calls in with a dilemma about unplanted dinner plate dahlia bulbs and packets of seeds. Mike advises on storing the bulbs in peat moss and keeping the seeds in a cool, dark place for future planting. Another caller, Andy, suggests an innovative method for applying herbicide to cattails using a car wash mitt, which Mike endorses with additional safety tips.

Mike delves deeper into the topic of tree planting, discussing the importance of selecting the right tree for the right location and the need for proper soil amendments. He highlights the pros and cons of popular trees like maples and ashes, including disease susceptibility and maintenance considerations. Mike also touches on the benefits of using fertilizers and the timing for application to avoid harming the plants.

Throughout the episode, Mike provides valuable insights and practical tips for maintaining a healthy garden, addressing everything from transplanting challenges to pest control and plant propagation.

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike starts with a discussion on the recent sporadic weather conditions affecting the coulee region, highlighting the paradox of drying lawns amidst flooding rivers. With the rising costs of utilities, many are opting to let their lawns go dormant. Mike explores whether this is a viable option and the potential drawbacks of allowing your lawn to dry out.

Mike explains that while lawns can survive drought by going dormant, this can lead to issues such as dead patches from foot traffic and increased vulnerability to diseases and pests. He emphasizes the importance of watering your lawn properly to avoid these problems and offers tips on efficient irrigation to make the most of your water bill.

 

Whether you're dealing with watering dilemmas, transplanting challenges, or pest problems, this episode is packed with practical advice and tips to help you maintain a healthy and thriving garden.

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In this insightful episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike kicks off with a warm welcome and a reflection on the recent Fourth of July weekend, before diving into a topic suggested by a listener—blossom end rot. With the recent heavy rains, many gardeners are facing the challenges of overwatered soil, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.

Mike explains the intricacies of blossom end rot, a common issue affecting tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, squash, and watermelons. He describes the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures for this frustrating condition, emphasizing the importance of calcium in preventing the disease. Mike offers practical advice on how to manage water and calcium levels to keep your plants healthy and productive.

The episode also features live calls from listeners dealing with various gardening issues. Linda from La Crosse shares her unfortunate experience with maggots in her raspberries, and Mike provides tips on washing and handling berries to avoid such problems. Fred calls in with a question about spiders in his raspberry patch, and Mike reassures him about the beneficial role of spiders in controlling other pests.

Jim from La Crosse seeks advice on dealing with mushrooms and dead grass patches in his yard. Mike explains the possible causes and offers solutions for both the mushrooms and the grass. Leo asks about his hydrangea that only produces one flower each year, and Mike gives detailed pruning advice to encourage more blooms.

Later in the show, Mike addresses a question about getting rid of wood violets in the lawn, recommending a specific herbicide and the best timing for application. He also touches on the importance of following product instructions to avoid damaging the lawn further.

Mike wraps up the episode by discussing Japanese beetles, their history, and effective methods for controlling them, including the use of pheromone traps and systemic insecticides. He stresses the importance of using these methods correctly to protect your plants without inadvertently attracting more pests.

Whether you're dealing with blossom end rot, pest infestations, or lawn care issues, this episode is packed with valuable advice and practical tips to help you maintain a thriving garden.

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In this festive episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into the timely topic of fireworks safety, just in time for the 4th of July celebrations. As we prepare to enjoy backyard barbecues and dazzling firework displays, Mike emphasizes the importance of respecting these explosive devices to avoid injuries and accidents.

Mike shares practical advice on how to set up a safe fireworks display, including maintaining a safe distance for spectators, ensuring a clear launch area free of obstructions like tree branches and power lines, and having essential safety equipment like fire extinguishers and hoses on hand. He also discusses the dangers of mixing fireworks with alcohol and the importance of proper storage and disposal of unused fireworks.

Listeners will learn about different types of fireworks, such as cakes and mortar rounds, and how to safely handle and set them up. Mike also touches on common mistakes people make, such as using PVC pipes for launch tubes and propping up cakes at angles, which can lead to dangerous situations.

In addition to fireworks safety, Mike answers listener questions on various gardening topics. He offers advice on fertilizing lawns in sandy soils, the appropriate timing for applying lime, and managing common garden pests like Japanese beetles and SWD flies. A unique tip on using "cigarette butt tea" as a natural insect repellent is also shared, providing an eco-friendly solution for pest control.

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