Discover how gardening nurtures more than just plants—it's a powerful tool for supporting mental wellness as we age. Join Erin as she explores the psychological and emotional benefits of gardening for aging adults with Katie Luna, a WSU doctoral candidate in clinical psychology.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website.

In this episode, guest Theresa Crimmins, director of the USA National Phenology Network, explores the fascinating world of phenology—nature’s way of keeping time. Discover how seasonal changes influence plants, pollinators, and the environment, and learn how you can use phenological cues to enhance your gardening practices. We’ll discuss the importance of observing natural patterns and the impact of climate change on seasonal rhythms.

Tune in to connect your gardening with the rhythm of nature!

Connect with USA NPN and learn more about phenology via our show notes.

In Part 2 of our "Gardening Myths" series, we’re busting more common misconceptions about gardening and tree care. Is gravel at the bottom of pots really a good idea? Should trees be planted deeply for stability? What about staking new trees or painting over pruning cuts? We’ll also dive into the truth about using wood chip mulch safely in your garden. Tune in for research-based insights and practical advice to make your gardening smarter and easier. 

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode036/

Think you know the secrets to a perfect garden? In Part 1 of our "Gardening Myths" series, we’re separating fact from fiction on some widely believed plant remedies and techniques. From Epsom salts and blossom end rot to houseplants as oxygen machines, watering causing sunburn, and the acidic magic of pine needles—do these tricks actually work, or are they myths holding you back? Tune in as we break down the science behind these gardening tips.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode035/

Bring festive cheer to your home with colorful winter-blooming houseplants! In this episode, we cover everything you need to know to keep popular holiday plants like poinsettias, amaryllis, and Christmas cacti healthy and vibrant. From care tips and troubleshooting advice to the history behind these winter bloomers, we’ve got you covered for a thriving, festive indoor garden.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode034/

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we explore how to prepare solitary bees for winter. From storing mason and leafcutter bee cocoons safely to managing moisture, pests, and disease, we cover essential tips to ensure your garden’s tiny pollinators survive the cold months. Whether you’re using a bee house or promoting natural habitats, this episode will help you support these vital insects and set them up for a successful spring. Tune in to learn everything you need to know about winterizing your solitary bees! 🐝❄️

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode033/

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we take a deep dive into the fascinating process of growing shiitake mushrooms on logs. Cultivating shiitake mushrooms at home is a fun and rewarding way to produce your own fresh mushrooms at home!

Join us as our guest Kevin Zobrist, a WSU Extension Forester, covers everything you need to know, including:

• Selecting the right type of logs for shiitake cultivation
• The inoculation process and tools you'll need
• How to maintain the ideal conditions for healthy mushroom growth
• Tips for harvesting shiitake mushrooms and getting multiple flushes from your logs
• Overcoming common challenges like pests and contaminants

Tune in to learn how to transform logs into a thriving mushroom crop and bring the magic of fungi into your garden!

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode032/

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the fascinating world of seed saving. Seed saving is a valuable skill that not only helps you create a sustainable garden but also preserves the unique qualities of your favorite plants. Join us as we discuss the basics of seed saving, how to select the best seeds, and tips for storing them to ensure future success in your garden.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode031/

In this special episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we celebrate our first anniversary! Join us as we look back on a year filled with growth, learning, and community. We reflect on memorable moments, share our favorite episodes, and highlight key insights from our guest experts.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated listeners, guests, and contributors who made this journey possible. We also take a moment to discuss the challenges we've overcome and share exciting plans for the future of the podcast.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at 

https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode030/

In this episode, we explore the concept of edible ecosystems, focusing on three key sustainable gardening practices: food forests, fedges, and plant guilds. These systems mimic natural ecosystems, providing a multitude of benefits, from enhancing biodiversity and soil health to improving water conservation and climate resilience. We discuss the basics of designing and implementing these systems, including practical tips for starting in your own garden, and highlight the importance of these practices in creating sustainable, self-sufficient landscapes.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode029/