David James joins me today to talk about pollinators, particularly in winter.  We discuss:

• Supporting Pollinators in Winter
• Protecting habitat for overwintering pollinators
• Mason Bees
• Butterflies
• Xerces Society
• Pollinator-related research
• Attracting pollinators to the vegetable garden
• Attracting pollinators with native plants

David James is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at WSU's Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington. He became an entomologist at 8 years old by rearing caterpillars in his English bedroom. 

Find complete show notes, resources, a transcript, and more at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode009/

In this episode of the Evergreen Thumb, Ann Amato shares her expert insights on house plants, providing practical tips on care and the benefits they bring to our indoor spaces. From choosing the right plants for your home to creating a lush and healthy indoor garden, Ann's guidance will help you transform your space into a haven of greenery.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Watering and Humidity
• Lighting
• Pests and Diseases
• Wellness benefits, including air purification

Ann also busts a huge myth about house plants that has been circulating the internet for several years. Tune in to find out what she has to say.

Visit https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundaion.org/episode008/ for show notes, links, photos of some of Ann's plants, and more.

Today I talk with Todd Murray, entomologist and Director of WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center, about "creepy critters" and their value in the garden (or lack thereof in the case of rats).

We discuss:

Bats

Spiders

Snakes

Beetles

Rats

Parasitoids

Todd also explains, from his perspective, the value an endowed faculty chair/professor will bring to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program.

For show notes, resources, and a transcript of the episode, visit https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode007/

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Jonica Burkett explains indoor gardening essentials.  She discusses the hows and whys of growing indoors, briefly touching on methods like aquaponics and hydroponics, as well as the key concerns of managing soil, water, and pests.

Resources and show notes, as well as a transcript can be found at:  https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode006

In this episode, Bonnie Orr discusses various strategies for preparing gardens for winter weather. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your local environment, including factors like sunlight exposure, climate patterns (such as El Niño or La Niña), and the unique features of your yard, such as slopes, trees, and shade.

Bonnie also provides practical tips for gardeners, such as correct planting depth, applying herbicides to control weeds, and lifting tender bulbs for winter storage. She discusses preventative measures to protect trees and plants from winter damage from wind and snow.  

Overall, the episode highlights the importance of thoughtful planning and environmentally conscious gardening practices to prepare for the challenges of winter weather.

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

https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode005/

In this episode, I have a conversation with Alice Allison, a WSU Extension Master Gardener in Benton-Franklin Counties, about their work with the local juvenile justice center.

The Benton-Franklin County WSU Extension Master Gardener Program won the David Gibby Search for Excellence Award in the youth category at the 2023 International Master Gardener Conference in Overland Park, Kansas for this project.  

But first, I go through the gardening calendar for October.  It's time to put that garden to bed!

Check out the blog post to find the show notes, link to the video and other resources mentioned in this episode:  https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode004

Do you like to store some of your garden harvest for the winter?  Do you wish you had a root cellar to store it in?

In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," the focus is on how to harvest and store crops for winter without a root cellar. Your host, Erin, provides valuable insights into the ideal conditions for storage and more practical options for home gardeners. The episode covers various vegetables, starting with garlic, emphasizing factors like timing, watering, and proper harvesting techniques. Apples, summer squash, winter squash, pumpkins, and potatoes are also covered, including advice on curing, temperature, humidity, and potential storage challenges.

Visit https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode003 for links, resources, transcripts, and more.

Have you ever wondered what a Master Gardener is?  What exactly do Washington State University Master Gardener Program volunteers do?

Our guest today is Jennifer Marquis, Statewide Program Leader of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program.  We talk about how the program started, how Extension Master Gardeners serve their communities, and how much Extension Master Gardeners love their "job." 

Visit https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode002 for show notes, links, and a full transcript of this episode.

In this introductory episode of "The Evergreen Thumb" podcast, host Erin Landon, a Washington State University Extension Master Gardener, shares her background and gardening journey. Erin discusses her experiences with gardening and her current gardening focus.

Erin also introduces the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program, providing a brief history of the program and its mission, as well as that of the Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State.

Erin outlines what listeners can expect from the podcast, including monthly gardening calendars, interviews with Master Gardeners, discussions with experts, and event updates. 

Visit the show notes at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode001 for all the relevant links and a full transcript of the show.

Welcome to The Evergreen Thumb, brought to you by Washington State University Extension Master Gardener program volunteers and sponsored by the Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State.

I'm your host Erin Landon, a WSU Extension Master Gardener since 2015 as well as a certified permaculture designer and modern homesteader. I'm thrilled to be your guide on this journey through the landscapes and gardens of the Pacific Northwest. 

Since 1973, WSU Extension Master Gardeners have been developing programs to address the evolving needs of our communities. In each episode, we'll delve into the fascinating world of gardening, exploring a wide range of topics tailored to our unique climate and diverse flora.

Whether you're an experienced gardener with a green thumb or a beginner eager to cultivate your own green oasis, this podcast is here to inspire and educate. Join us as we invite expert horticulturists, seasoned Master Gardeners, and passionate plant enthusiasts to share their wisdom, practical tips, and hands-on experiences. We'll cover everything from plant selection and care, sustainable gardening practices, organic pest control, and landscaping design to tackling common challenges specific to our region. Discover the secrets to thriving vegetable gardens, vibrant flower beds, bountiful fruit trees, and breathtaking native plant landscapes. We'll also explore the intersection of gardening and sustainability, discussing topics like permaculture, composting, and water-wise gardening to help you create an environmentally friendly garden that nurtures both you and the ecosystem.

So, whether you're tuning in from the urban jungles of Seattle, the rolling hills of Spokane, or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, get ready to dig deep, cultivate your knowledge, and connect with a community of fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Be sure to subscribe so you’ll get new episodes as they come out and check out www.theevergreenthumb.org for a deeper dive into who we are and what we do.

Get your gardening gloves on, grab your favorite trowel, and join us as we embark on this exciting gardening adventure together. Welcome to The Evergreen Thumb!