In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're shedding light on the secrets of successful spring lawn care and debunking some common myths about lawn fertilization. With the snow finally melting and hints of green returning, Mike discusses the much-needed moisture for our lawns and the importance of proper timing for fertilizer application.

Mike breaks down the science of soil temperature and its critical role in preventing crabgrass, guiding listeners through the use of pre-emergent treatments. He explains why soil temperature, not the calendar date, should dictate your lawn care routine, and offers a straightforward method for measuring soil temps with a thermometer.

Listeners will also learn about the impact of heavy spring rains on fertilizer effectiveness and the legal limits on product applications. Mike emphasizes the importance of reading labels and following instructions to avoid damaging your lawn with over-fertilization.

Amidst the lawn care talk, Mike takes a delightful detour to answer a caller's question about pansies, sharing his childhood fondness for the flower and offering tips on how to enjoy their vibrant colors throughout the season.

Whether you're contemplating the best fertilizer for your lawn, curious about the timing of applications, or simply seeking advice on your spring planting, this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier is brimming with expert insights. Tune in and turn your lawn into the lush, green oasis you've been dreaming of this spring.

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In this vibrant episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're cultivating a love for gardening in the young and the young at heart. Mike shares a heartfelt story about his own early experiences with plants, revealing how a twiggy juniper he planted as a child grew into a botanical behemoth visible from space! He emphasizes the importance of introducing kids to the wonders of gardening, offering tips on how to make it educational without them even realizing they're learning.

Listeners will be treated to a live troubleshooting session as Mike assists Cindy with her ailing tropical hibiscus, providing expert advice on how to revive the plant by repotting and proper care. Roy also gets help with propagating his cherished Christmas cactus, learning the simple and effective methods to spread the joy of this family heirloom.

Mike's musings on Easter and its commercialization set the stage for a discussion on meaningful family activities that won't break the bank. He suggests swapping out traditional basket fillers for child-sized gardening tools, turning Easter into an opportunity for outdoor fun and growth.

Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a budding gardener, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. So, before you let the kids loose on their Easter egg hunts, tune in to Plant Doctor with Mike Meier and plant the seeds of a lifelong gardening passion.

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In this enlightening episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're pruning away the confusion surrounding USDA hardiness zones and media-manufactured myths. Mike dives into the recent reshuffling of growing zones, explaining why, despite the changes, your garden's green residents will continue to flourish just as they always have. He also tackles the media's penchant for panic, particularly regarding bee decline and its purported impact on global food security.

Listeners are in for a treat as Mike dismantles the sensationalized stories that have taken root in the press, offering a dose of reality on the actual causes of bee decline and the resilience of plant pollination. He reminisces about historical agricultural practices, like the Native American technique of burying fish to fertilize crops, and draws a line from the past to our present-day gardening methods.

Mike also fields questions from listeners on a variety of topics, from ash tree care and the effectiveness of tree inoculations to the best practices for lawn aeration. In his signature no-nonsense style, he provides actionable advice while debunking common misconceptions about plant care.

Whether you're curious about the true pollinators in our ecosystem or you're seeking guidance on nurturing your green space, this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier is your guide through the thicket of misinformation to the clearings of truth. So, before you let the media buzz kill your vibe, tune in and cultivate your knowledge with the wisdom of the Plant Doctor.

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On this St. Patrick's Day-themed episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're digging deep into the roots of a controversial topic that sprouts up every spring: GMOs and the media's portrayal of them. Mike unpacks the sensationalism surrounding genetically modified organisms and glyphosate, peeling back the layers of misinformation to reveal the truth behind the scare tactics.

Join us as Mike dissects a news story from the Huffington Post, stripping away the "useless qualifiers" to demonstrate how the media can manipulate facts into fear. He explains the critical role GMOs play in combating plant diseases like the late blight, which threatens our beloved tomatoes and potatoes, and why the anti-GMO narrative could lead to a world devoid of ketchup, fries, and pizza.

Listeners chime in with their green queries, from tulip care to tree watering, and Mike provides his expert guidance with the practical wisdom you've come to expect. He also takes a moment to debunk myths about bee decline and pollination, offering a dose of reality to the buzzworthy topic.

Whether you're a home gardener or an agriculture aficionado, this episode will arm you with the knowledge to see through the weeds of media spin. So, before you go green with envy over organic labels, tune in for a dose of Mike's no-nonsense advice and learn why GMOs might just be the unsung heroes of horticulture.

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In this week's fresh-cut episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're sowing the seeds of knowledge on the timely topic of lawn fertilization. Mike tackles the early bird mistakes of eager green thumbs, advising against following the lead of professional lawn care signs popping up like daisies. With a forecast still flirting with frost, he shares the scoop on when to feed your turf and what products to pick to prevent premature plant problems.

Mike fields live calls, guiding listeners through the seasonal conundrums of early plant growth and the perplexity of premature watering. One caller's concern about southern exposure spurs a discussion on protecting tender shoots from potential freezes, while another's inquiry about container tulips blossoms into advice on optimal watering practices without jumping the gun.

We also dig into the nitty-gritty of dormant oil sprays, the right time for pruning, and the dark tale of a pear tree's battle with blight. Mike's expertise branches out to cover the dangers of the poisonous hemlock plant, masquerading as a harmless carrot in the wild, underscoring the importance of garden vigilance.

Whether you're contemplating the conundrum of crabgrass control or pondering the purpose of potash, this episode cultivates a deeper understanding of the elements essential for a lush lawn. So, before you rush out to fertilize your fescue or water your wisteria, tune in and let Mike's wisdom take root.

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On this week's vibrant episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're inching closer to spring with a countdown to the season's arrival while navigating the peculiarities of an unseasonably dry winter. Mike discusses the potential hazards of premature yard work during a drought and shares essential tips on how to avoid damaging your grass with a dethatcher due to the arid soil conditions.

Join us as Mike also addresses the absence of snow mold this year, a silver lining given our lack of snowfall, and provides sage advice on how to care for your lawn without exacerbating the dryness. He offers creative solutions, like using a leaf blower to gently fluff up your lawn without disturbing the fragile root systems.

Listeners bring their gardening quandaries to the table, ranging from the best time to plant Texas bluebonnets to the healing properties of the white pine and its historical significance. Mike's expertise shines as he guides a caller on the proper care for Amaryllis bulbs, ensuring a spectacular bloom cycle.

We also delve into the topic of transplanting willow cuttings, the importance of changing water for rooting, and diagnosing needle loss in a pine tree. Whether you're a first-time gardener or a seasoned green thumb, this episode is packed with practical advice and fascinating plant lore to help you prepare for the upcoming season.

Remember, spring may be on the horizon, but patience and careful attention to our current climate conditions are key to a thriving garden. Tune in, get inspired, and let's get ready to welcome spring with open arms and well-prepared gardens!

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In this week's episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we're shaking off the winter chill and embracing the early hints of spring with a deep dive into the art and joy of rock gardening. Mike shares his extensive experience and passion for crafting these unique and textured landscapes, offering practical tips on how to start your own rock garden, even amidst the unpredictable weather of late winter.

Discover how to build a solid foundation for your garden, the best materials to use, and how to incorporate a variety of rocks and boulders to create depth and interest. Mike also discusses the endless possibilities of plant selection, from annuals and perennials to exotic, grafted trees that add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space.

Plus, learn how to cleverly disguise unsightly elements like old tree stumps and even how to integrate water features for that extra special touch. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious novice, this episode will inspire you to step outside, get your hands dirty, and transform your backyard into a stunning rock garden oasis.

Listeners also call in with their own gardening concerns, from early-blooming peonies to the intricacies of caring for lilac bushes. Mike tackles these questions with his signature expertise and enthusiasm, ensuring everyone walks away with the knowledge they need to nurture their green spaces.

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On this week's enlightening episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we take a stroll down memory lane and explore the fascinating world of traditional plant-based remedies. Mike reflects on the pre-snowstorm shopping frenzy and contrasts it with the resilience of our forefathers, who braved the elements without the panic we see today. He then bridges the past with the present, highlighting how many of today's medicines have their roots—quite literally—in the natural world.

Mike shares anecdotes of his own experiences with homeopathic concoctions like the pungent Queen Anne's lace tea his grandmother brewed. He also dives into the historical significance of plants like the white pine, which played a pivotal role in the Civil War, and the hemlock tree, a veritable "drugstore" in its own right. But beware, not all hemlocks are friendly—Mike warns of the poisonous variety that resembles a wild carrot.

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This week on Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, we delve into the effects of a persistent drought on our gardens and lawns. Mike unravels the complexities of moisture content in soil and offers practical advice for nurturing our green spaces despite the dry spell. He also tackles a listener's concern about a wilting money tree, providing a diagnosis and care instructions to revive the stressed plant.

In the second half, Mike sheds light on the ease of growing succulents and cacti, perfect for those self-proclaimed 'black thumbs' out there. He shares vital tips on watering, sunlight exposure, and handling mealybug infestations. Plus, discover how to propagate herbs like basil and oregano from fresh cuttings or seeds, and learn about the low-maintenance peace lily and its suitability for indoor environments.

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Mike discusses techniques to keep critters away from your garden. He explains the man-made methods and the scent methods.

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