A healthy garden is more than just beautiful—it's biodiverse! In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we explore how increasing plant diversity in home gardens, community spaces, and public landscapes can create more resilient ecosystems, healthier soil, and stronger pollinator populations.

Join us as we discuss:

• Why biodiversity is essential for sustainable gardening

• How native plants and layered plantings support wildlife and soil health

• Practical ways to enhance biodiversity—even in small urban spaces

• How plant diversity helps address climate change, pollinator decline, and habitat loss

Whether you're a backyard gardener or working on larger landscapes, this episode offers actionable strategies to support garden resilience and environmental health.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode045/

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb Oregon State University Extension's Wildlife Specialist, Dr. Dana Sanchez, joins host Erin Hoover to discuss strategies for managing wildlife pests (a.k.a. vertebrate pests), in your garden and surrounding areas.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode044/

From stress reduction to faster healing times after surgery, being in nearby nature has measurable effects on our well being. Master Gardeners work to foster the connection between people and the natural world to help our communities be able to access nature no matter where they live.

In part two of our Program Priority Series we sit down with Master Gardener Cathi Lamoreux to discuss Nearby Nature.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode043/

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of spiders and their crucial role in garden ecosystems. Learn about common spider species in the Pacific Northwest, including orb-weavers, wolf spiders, and jumping spiders, and how they help gardeners by naturally controlling pest populations.

Expert insights help unravel the mysteries of spider behavior, their impact on pollinators, and ways to create spider-friendly habitats in your garden.

By the end, you'll gain a new appreciation for these eight-legged allies, embracing their role as key players in sustainable gardening and healthy ecosystems.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode042/

Climate change is reshaping how we garden, from shifting planting zones to increased drought and extreme weather. In this episode, we're joined by Mike Peronto to explore how the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program's Climate Change Priority is helping gardeners adapt. Learn practical, science-backed strategies for building climate resilience, improving soil health, conserving water, and selecting plants that thrive in changing conditions.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode041/

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, host Erin Hoover speaks with author and gardening educator Lisa Taylor about the joys and benefits of growing perennial edibles in the Pacific Northwest. They explore a variety of crops, from perennial vegetables like asparagus and rhubarb to fruit-bearing trees and shrubs well-suited to the region's climate. Lisa goes over lesser-known edible perennials, herbs, and her favorite edible perennials in her garden. She not only lists what edible perennials work well in the Pacific Northwest, but she also shares practical tips for incorporating these resilient and sustainable plants into home gardens and landscapes.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of vermicomposting with WSU Extension Master Gardener and Master Composter Recycler Program Coordinator, Jason Adams.

Learn how worms transform kitchen scraps into rich, nutrient-dense compost that boosts soil health and supports sustainable gardening. We discuss the basics of starting and maintaining a worm bin, troubleshooting common issues, and the numerous benefits vermicompost offers to gardens, the environment, and even local food systems. Perfect for gardeners and sustainability enthusiasts looking to reduce waste and enrich their gardens naturally!

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode039/

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/