The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

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The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy episodes

  • 485 - Potatoes, Carrots, Onions, & More: How to Cure & Store Root Crops

    You worked hard to grow potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and sweet potatoes. How do you keep them from spoiling before you can use them?

    In this episode, I'll walk you through curing and storing root crops so you can extend their storage life and enjoy more of your garden harvest through winter.

    You'll learn the practical differences between curing potatoes and sweet potatoes, why carrots are surprisingly simple to store, and how storage changes for onions depending on whether they matured normally or bolted. I'll also explain what to do when your home doesn't have those perfect "textbook" storage conditions.

    Free 4-Day Preserving Kickstart

    Not sure whether freezing, water bath canning, pressure canning, or dehydrating makes the most sense for your harvest? Sign up for four short videos, delivered one per day, to help you decide where to start.

    https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving

    Key Takeaways
    • Cure potatoes in a cool, dark, ventilated space.

    • Give sweet potatoes warm, humid curing conditions.

    • Store carrots whole without curing them first.

    • Cure storage onions until their necks are completely dry.

    • Keep garlic cool and dark after curing.

    Chapters

    00:00 – Start with the right preserving method 01:37 – Why root crop storage is different 03:38 – Cure potatoes for longer storage 06:00 – Make home storage conditions work 08:15 – Check potatoes before they spoil 10:22 – Cure sweet potatoes differently 12:43 – Create warm, humid curing conditions 15:02 – Store sweet potatoes after curing 17:23 – Take preserving beyond the basics 19:40 – Store carrots for months 22:03 – Cure onions for storage 24:29 – What to do with bolted onions 26:49 – Choose onions for longer storage 29:08 – Cure and store garlic 31:29 – Keep your harvest through winter

    Resource Links

    Free 4-Day Preserving Kickstart: https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving

    Harvest to Kitchen: Learn step-by-step methods for harvesting, freezing, canning, dehydrating, and storing your garden produce. https://journeywithjill.net/harvest-to-kitchen

    Harvest to Kitchen is $50 off through August 31. Use code PRESERVEIT to get it for $97 instead of $149.

    Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    30 min
  • 484 - Tomatoes, Cucumbers & More: Fridge or Counter? How to Store Today's Harvest

    Fresh garden produce doesn't stay fresh by accident. Learn exactly where to store tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, melons, and more so they last longer and taste their best.

    If you've ever wondered whether tomatoes belong on the counter or in the refrigerator, or why cucumbers sometimes get soft no matter what you do, this episode explains the simple science behind better produce storage so you can make the most of every harvest.

    🌱 Free 4-Day Preserving Kickstart

    Not sure how to preserve everything you're harvesting? This free four-day video series walks you through the basics of freezing, water bath canning, pressure canning, and dehydrating so you can confidently choose the best preservation method for your harvest.

    Get started for free: https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving

    🎉 Harvest to Kitchen is On Sale

    Ready to go beyond the basics? Harvest to Kitchen teaches you exactly how to preserve your garden harvest with confidence using safe, proven methods.

    Sale Price: $97 (Regular Price: $149) Coupon Code: PRESERVEIT

    Learn more: https://journeywithjill.net/harvesttokitchen

    Key Takeaways
    • Learn why some vegetables belong on the counter while others last longer in the refrigerator.
    • Understand how respiration and enzymes affect freshness after harvest.
    • Discover why tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and melons all need different storage methods.
    • Avoid common storage mistakes that reduce flavor, texture, and shelf life.
    • Extend the life of your harvest while maintaining the best eating quality.

    Resource Links

    Friday Emails (Newsletter)

    https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    Recommended Brands & Products

    https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Amazon Storefront

    https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    27 min
  • 483 - What I've Changed in Preserving My Harvest

    Feeling overwhelmed by canning and preserving your garden harvest? Wondering if you have to preserve everything you grow to make gardening worthwhile?

    In this episode, I share how my approach to food preservation has changed over the last few years and how I've found a healthier balance between growing, preserving, and enjoying life. You'll hear the lessons I learned after stepping back from doing it all, how I'm simplifying my preserving routine, and practical ideas you can use whether you have a large garden or just a few extra tomatoes.

    Free Download: Harvest to Jar Estimator

    Not sure what to do with 5, 10, or 25 pounds of tomatoes? The free Harvest to Jar Estimator shows you what you can realistically make from different harvest sizes so you can preserve with confidence.

    https://journeywithjill.net/tomato-harvest-to-jar

    Key Takeaways
    • Learn how to simplify food preservation without giving it up completely.
    • Discover how to prioritize the crops that matter most to your family.
    • See practical ways to reduce preserving stress while still stocking your pantry.
    • Find freezer, canning, and storage tips that save both time and energy.
    • Create a preserving plan that fits your current season of life.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Why my preserving approach changed 01:52 – My original preserving goals 04:14 – The setback that changed everything 06:33 – Taking a break from tomato canning 08:55 – Small-batch tomato preserving lessons 10:18 – My 2026 preserving plan 13:03 – Simplifying tomato preservation 17:44 – Scheduling preserving without burnout 20:05 – Deciding what not to preserve 24:20 – Prioritizing what matters most 28:02 – Freezer organization tips 31:22 – Steam canning advantages 33:07 – Garden planning that reduces preserving 35:20 – Finding a sustainable balance 36:15 – Free Harvest to Jar Estimator

    Resource Links

    Harvest to Jar Estimator (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/tomato-harvest-to-jar

    Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    36 min
  • 482 - Meal Prep from Your Garden with Crystal Schmidt, author of Freeze Fresh Meal Prep

    Have you ever wished your garden harvest could make dinner easier months after the growing season ends?

    In this episode, I'm welcoming Crystal from Whole-Fed Homestead back to the podcast to talk about her newest cookbook, Freeze Fresh Meal Prep. While many gardeners know they can freeze vegetables, Crystal shares a different approach: turning your harvest into meal starters, soups, breakfasts, side dishes, and desserts that make cooking easier all winter long.

    We discuss which vegetables freeze best, how to decide when freezer meal prep is worth the extra effort, and why preserving food in a way you'll actually use is often the best strategy.

    Whether you have a large garden or harvest just a few vegetables at a time from raised beds or containers, you'll walk away with practical ideas for making the most of every harvest.

    In This Episode
    • Why meal starters can be more practical than freezing vegetables individually
    • Which vegetables hold up best in the freezer
    • The difference between fully prepared freezer meals and meal starters
    • How to know when freezer meal prep is worth the extra work
    • Tips for preserving smaller harvests throughout the season
    • Crystal's favorite freezer recipes she never wants to be without
    • How freezer meal prep helps simplify busy weeknights

    Get Crystal's book here: https://amzn.to/4wxz65O

    Join Me for the Fall Garden Workshop

    Want to extend your harvest into autumn?

    Join me for my Fall Garden Workshop where I'll show you exactly what to plant, when to plant it, and how to create a productive fall garden.

    📅 July 28 at 12 PM CDT

    Register here: https://journeywithjill.net/fallharvestplan

    Use discount code FALL26 to register for $29 (regularly $39).

    Resource Links

    🌱 Free Beginner's Garden Resource Vault https://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads

    📧 Join My Friday Garden Newsletter https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    🎙 Browse All Podcast Episodes https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos

    📷 Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/

    🛒 Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    🛍 Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    📒 Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Connect with Crystal

    Whole-Fed Homestead https://wholefedhomestead.com

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WholeFedHomestead

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholefedhomestead/

    Subscribe & Review

    If you enjoyed today's episode, I'd love for you to subscribe and leave a review. Your ratings and reviews help other gardeners discover the podcast and encourage me to continue creating content to help you grow a more productive garden.

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my experience gardening in Zone 8a in Arkansas and from conversations with gardeners across many climates. Your results may vary depending on your location and growing conditions.

    Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    34 min
  • 481 - Wasps and Bees: The Invisible Work These Insects Do in Your Garden

    Struggling to know which garden insects are friends or foes? Learn why wasps, hoverflies, and bees may be doing more to protect your garden than you realize. This episode will change how you see beneficial insects and natural pest control in your vegetable garden.

    Join me for the Fall Harvest Plan Live Workshop on Tuesday, July 28 at 12 PM CDT and learn exactly when to plant your fall garden and access my Fall Gardening CustomGPT. Save your spot at https://journeywithjill.net/fallharvestplan and use coupon code FALL26 to save $10.

    Free Download: Good Bug Bad Bug ID Chart

    Learn how to identify beneficial insects and common garden pests so you can protect the helpers in your garden with confidence.

    https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs

    Many gardeners see insects and immediately wonder whether they're helping or hurting the garden. But what if some of the bugs you fear the most are actually some of your greatest allies? In this episode, I sit down with science writer and Insect Safari author Margie Patlak to explore the fascinating world of beneficial insects. We talk about wasps, hoverflies, bees, and the surprising ways they pollinate crops, control pests, and even demonstrate remarkable intelligence. If you've ever wanted to garden more naturally, this conversation will help you see your garden through a whole new lens.

    Key Takeaways
    • Learn why most wasps are valuable garden allies, not enemies.
    • Discover how hoverflies provide both pollination and natural aphid control.
    • Understand the differences between solitary, parasitic, and social wasps.
    • Find out why bees are far more intelligent than most gardeners realize.
    • Learn how healthy gardens naturally encourage beneficial insect populations.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Why insects deserve another look 03:03 – Why gardeners misunderstand wasps 06:50 – Wasps as natural pest control 07:45 – Solitary vs. social wasps 13:30 – Why hoverflies matter 18:30 – The hidden intelligence of bees 26:20 – How bees communicate and learn 31:15 – Building a balanced garden ecosystem 35:30 – Final encouragement

    Resource Links

    Good Bug Bad Bug ID Chart (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs

    The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault https://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads

    Friday Garden Emails https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/@JourneyWithJill

    Instagram https://instagram.com/journeywithjill

    Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/podcast

    Guest Resource:

    Insect Safari by Margie Patlak

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    40 min
  • 480 - Yellow Leaves, Bugs, and No Fruit: What to Do in the Mid-Summer Garden

    Yellow leaves, chewed-up plants, and tomatoes that suddenly stop producing can make it feel like your garden is falling apart. But many common midsummer garden problems have simple explanations once you know what to look for. In this episode, you'll learn how to diagnose yellowing leaves, tell the difference between nutrient deficiencies and diseases, identify what's eating your plants, and understand why heat can interfere with tomato and pepper production. These practical gardening tips will help you troubleshoot problems with more confidence and avoid treating the wrong issue.

    🌱 Fall Custom Garden Plans are now open! Want a personalized fall garden plan designed specifically for your garden? I'll help you create a planting schedule, bed layout, and step-by-step growing plan based on your space and goals. These spots are limited and sold out quickly last year. Learn more and reserve your spot here: https://journeywithjill.net/planmygarden/

    Free Download: Harvest to Jar Estimator Plan your tomato harvest with confidence by estimating how many plants you need for the jars you want to preserve. https://journeywithjill.net/harvesttojar Key Takeaways
    • Learn how to diagnose yellow leaves by where symptoms appear on the plant.
    • Understand the difference between nutrient deficiencies and plant diseases.
    • Identify common insect pests by the damage they leave behind.
    • Discover why tomatoes, peppers, and other crops stop setting fruit during extreme heat.
    • Learn practical troubleshooting steps before reaching for fertilizer or pesticides.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Why midsummer gardens suddenly struggle

    02:13 – Fall garden planning opportunity

    03:00 – What yellow leaves are really telling you

    05:45 – Mobile vs. immobile nutrients explained

    08:45 – Common nutrient deficiencies to recognize

    13:35 – When a soil test is worth it

    14:10 – Using AI to diagnose garden problems

    15:35 – Nutrient deficiency or disease?

    18:15 – Identifying diseases by leaf patterns

    19:00 – What's eating your plants?

    21:20 – Finding nighttime garden pests

    Resource Links

    Free Download: Tomato Diseases Guide Identify common tomato diseases and learn how to respond before they spread. http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide

    Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/@JourneyWithJill

    Instagram https://instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden

    Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/podcast

    Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    31 min
  • 479 - Fall Garden: 3 Simple Steps to Start Now

    Summer gardening can leave you feeling worn out, but your best harvest may still be ahead. If you've been wondering whether a fall garden is worth the effort, this episode will help you start planning without feeling overwhelmed.

    Learn three simple decisions you can make now to prepare for a productive fall vegetable garden, including which crops to grow, when to start seeds, and how to get your garden space ready before planting season begins.

    Free Download: Celery Growing Guide

    Want to grow fresh celery for soups, Thanksgiving dressing, and winter meals? My free Celery Growing Guide walks you through how to successfully grow celery from seed through harvest. You'll also get access to additional growing guides for broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, carrots, and more.

    👉 https://journeywithjill.net/celery-guide

    Key Takeaways
    • Decide which cool-season crops you'll actually enjoy eating this fall.
    • Learn which vegetables should be direct sown and which need transplants.
    • Know when to start fall transplants before it's too late.
    • Plan ahead for garden space as summer crops finish producing.
    • Prepare your soil and protect young plants for a healthier fall harvest.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Free celery growing guide

    01:00 – Why now is the perfect time to dream about fall

    03:20 – Decide what to grow

    06:10 – Direct sow or transplant?

    08:30 – Should you buy or grow transplants?

    10:20 – When to start seeds indoors

    11:40 – Planning your garden space

    15:05 – Making room for fall crops

    16:35 – Refreshing your soil

    17:25 – Using shade cloth for success

    18:50 – Custom plans and fall workshop

    21:10 – Final encouragement and resources

    Resource Links

    Free Celery Growing Guide Grow celery successfully from seed through harvest, plus receive additional crop-growing guides. https://journeywithjill.net/celery-guide

    Custom Fall Garden Plans Get a personalized planting plan designed specifically for your garden space and climate. https://journeywithjill.net/planmygarden

    Live Fall Garden Workshop Learn how to confidently plan, plant, and grow a productive fall garden. https://journeywithjill.net/fallworkshop

    Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/

    Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Complete Garden Planner Ready for a simple system to plan and track your garden? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    20 min
  • 478 - Summer Watering: What Your Garden Actually Needs

    Struggling to know how much to water your vegetable garden during summer? You're not alone. Learn how to water raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens with confidence so your plants stay healthy and productive all season long.

    Free Download: Raised Bed Soil Options

    Stop guessing what to put in your raised beds. Download Raised Bed Soil Options to learn proven soil mixes that help your beds retain moisture while growing healthy plants.

    https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil

    Summer watering isn't as simple as following the "one inch per week" rule. In this episode, I'll explain why your garden's watering needs change throughout the season and how to tell when your plants actually need water. We'll cover raised beds, containers, grow bags, and in-ground gardens, along with practical ways to build a watering system that saves time while keeping your garden thriving.

    Self Watering Raised Bed Video: https://youtu.be/cVa5YmwprjU?si=9jG3iFqTqmSBicFm

    Key Takeaways
    • Learn why the one-inch-per-week rule is only a starting point.
    • Understand how watering needs change for raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens.
    • Use the finger test and moisture meter to water with confidence.
    • Learn how to recognize underwatering versus overwatering.
    • Discover irrigation systems that make summer watering easier.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Why summer watering gets confusing

    01:24 – Is one inch per week enough?

    06:37 – Raised beds vs. containers

    11:08 – The finger test explained

    15:50 – Heat wilt or drought stress?

    19:58 – Signs of overwatering

    20:20 – Garden in Minutes watering system

    24:00 – Best irrigation methods

    Resource Links

    Raised Bed Soil Options (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil

    Friday Emails https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Sponsor for This Episode

    Garden in Minutes

    Garden in Minutes makes watering raised beds simple with Garden Grids and their new programmable timer, designed specifically from gardener feedback. The timer features durable brass fittings, improved water flow, an easy rain-delay function, and simple programming.

    Use code Jill for 7% off your purchase.

    Affiliate Link: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    34 min
  • 477 - What to Plant in June and July

    Struggling with empty garden beds after harvesting spring crops? Wondering what to plant in June and July without wasting valuable garden space?

    In this episode, you'll learn which vegetables, herbs, and flowers thrive in summer heat so you can keep harvesting, suppress weeds, and make the most of your garden all season long.

    Whether you're looking for heat-loving crops, succession planting ideas, or simple ways to fill empty beds, you'll walk away with practical options you can plant right now.

    Free Download: The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault

    Grow more food with less overwhelm! Get complimentary access to a library of growing guides, charts, and resources to help you garden with clarity and confidence.

    👉 http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads

    Key Takeaways
    • Discover heat-loving crops that thrive when temperatures rise.
    • Learn how succession planting extends your harvest season.
    • Find out which flowers can keep garden beds productive and beautiful.
    • Use days-to-maturity and frost dates to make smarter planting decisions.
    • Start preparing now for fall crops like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and celery.
    Chapters

    00:00 – Why empty beds invite weeds 02:39 – What to plant now 05:25 – Understanding succession planting 06:08 – Heat-loving crops for summer 17:55 – Best succession planting options 20:37 – Second planting of tomatoes 24:59 – Fresh basil all season 26:24 – Summer flowers that thrive 29:06 – Calculate days to maturity 31:27 – Prepare for fall crops 32:05 – Free celery growing guide

    Resource Links

    Free Download: The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads

    Connect with Jill

    Friday Emails (Newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/

    Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Complete Garden Planner Ready for a simple system to plan and track your season? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    31 min
  • Questions My Garden Visitors Asked (and My Honest Answers)

    A bus full of seasoned gardeners showed up to tour my garden, and the questions they asked were so good I wrote every one down. How close is too close when you plant? Why is the garlic browning early? What do you do about squash vine borers? This episode walks through the real questions from that visit, with practical answers on companion planting, succession planting, tomato blight, and growing celery in a hot, humid climate. If you've ever looked at your own beds and wondered whether you're doing it right, this one's for you.

    Free Download: Beginner's Garden Resource Vault A growing library of free guides, cheat sheets, and planning tools to help you garden with less guesswork. → http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads

    Key Takeaways
    • Companion planting can pack a bed full and cut your weeding to almost nothing.
    • Celery and carrots make great neighbors — the celery helps pull excess moisture away.
    • For early blight, prune low stems and learn to live with it instead of spraying.
    • Beat squash vine borers by succession planting, not fighting each plant.
    • A late-summer planting often escapes the pests that wreck your spring crops.
    Chapters
    • 00:00 – Why I hosted a garden visit
    • 03:30 – The bed that calmed my nerves
    • 06:00 – Are these crops too close?
    • 09:30 – Growing and harvesting celery
    • 13:00 – Dealing with tomato blight
    • 18:00 – Keeping tomatoes from taking over
    • 22:00 – Early jalapenos and new varieties
    • 25:00 – Seed starting vs. the greenhouse
    • 30:00 – Why I grow nasturtium
    • 35:00 – Keeping lettuce from bolting
    • 38:00 – Why my garlic matured early
    • 41:00 – My approach to squash vine borers
    • 45:00 – Rabbits, squirrels, and what works
    Resources Mentioned in this Episode
    • Lazy Gardener's Guide to Fungal Tomato Diseases → http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide
    • Chicken Tunnel YouTube Video → https://youtu.be/K5RvpLZVQLw
    • Dream to Garden Garden Planning Course → http://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden
    Products Mentioned in this Episode
    • Garden in Minutes — The garden grids I used to lay out that peppers-celery-carrots bed, plus the tomato cage that's become my favorite. Code Jill for 7% off regular-priced items. → http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes
    • Cross Country Nursery — Where my Marglobe and Jolene tomato plants came from, with a huge selection of pepper and tomato starts. Code JILL for 15% off. → http://www.chileplants.com/jill
    • More brands I recommend and discount codes → https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    More Free Downloads

    • Beginner's Garden Resource Vault → http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
    • Companion Planting for Pest Control → http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest
    • Garlic Planting Cheat Sheet → http://journeywithjill.net/garliccheatsheet

    Connect

    • Friday Emails → https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
    • YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos
    • Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/
    • Podcast archive → https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    One simple system Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. → https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    44 min

About The Beginner's Garden with Jill McSheehy

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to the Beginner's Garden Podcast! This is the podcast with easy-to-understand resources, tips, and information to help beginning gardeners get the most out of their gardening adventure -- big…

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