Top 10 Gardener the Ultimate Garden Blueprint with Ken & Lisa

Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Beautiful ornamental grasses add so much texture and movement to our gardens, but did you know they benefit from a little "extra love," too?

Just like us, they appreciate a good meal! Manure is a fantastic organic fertilizer packed with nutrients that grasses absolutely love. It improves soil structure, helps retain water, and promotes vigorous growth.

We recommend using aged or composted manure at Watters to avoid burning your precious plants. In early spring, apply a thin layer around the base of grasses like Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') or Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), being careful not to let it touch the leaves.

Water thoroughly afterwards, and repeat this nourishing process again in the fall. Don't forget to cut back your grasses in autumn to remove dead foliage and encourage fresh growth. Regular watering, especially during our hot Arizona summers, is also essential. With these simple tips, your ornamental grasses will thrive, creating a stunning landscape you can enjoy year-round.

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Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your questions about growing luscious peaches in the Central Highlands.

Good news! You can plant fruit trees right now, and most peach varieties are self-pollinating, meaning you only need one tree to produce fruit.

However, planting two different varieties nearby can increase fruit set and give you a more abundant harvest.

For those wondering about cherries, look for self-fruitful varieties like Lapins and Stella. But remember, even self-pollinating trees benefit from having a partner, so consider planting two if you have the space.

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Hey gardeners, Ken Lain The Top 10 Gardener here! February is the time to get your hands dirty and your garden ready! Spring planting is just around the corner, and a little prep now makes all the difference. Don't wait for perfect weather; seize those sunny days and get your soil in shape. I've been busy in my own garden, and I'm sharing what works for me, hoping it works for you too.

First things first: soil preparation. Think of it as building a cozy bed for your plants. You want to enrich it with plenty of organic matter. I use a 50/50 blend of composted mulch and manure. We take the extra step to deodorize our manure here at Watters Garden Center, so no stinky surprises in your car! Spread a two-to-three-inch layer over your raised beds or garden plot and turn it in one shovel's depth. While you're at it, remove any leftover roots and debris from last year – they can harbor disease and rob your new plants of nutrients.

Now, for my secret weapon: a blend of fruit and vegetable food (6-4-4-7 formula, high in calcium!), gypsum, and sulfur. The calcium helps with bigger, more flavorful fruits and vegetables and prevents blossom end rot. Gypsum also helps with that. And the sulfur? It's key for us here in Northern Arizona. Our water is very alkaline, so we need to lower the pH of the soil, and sulfur does just that. Don't add lime – you'll just make the problem worse! Mix everything in, let it settle for a few weeks, and you'll be ready to plant your early spring crops like potatoes, garlic, onions, cauliflower, lettuce, and broccoli come March.

Get a head start now, and you'll be harvesting long before the "yardiners" even think about planting!

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This week, we're focused on getting a jump start on your spring garden! We'll explore how to prepare your garden beds in January, discover the magic of manure for ornamental grasses, and learn the secrets to winter sowing wildflowers. Plus, we'll venture indoors to explore the world of houseplants and how they can enhance your sleep and well-being. Let's get growing!

Included in this week’s episode:

Ken and Lisa will also answer listener questions about gardening in Arizona's high country.

Get ready to catch Ken and Lisa's gardening bug! They're bursting with knowledge and passion for growing beautiful things, and they're ready to share it all with you. Don't miss out on this chance to level up your gardening game! Subscribe to The Top 10 Gardener Podcast today and get your hands dirty with their expert tips and tricks. You'll find it on all your favorite podcast platforms.

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Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! January is a great time to start thinking about your spring garden, and that means stocking up on fresh seeds!

Here at Watters, we've got a wide variety of seeds for all your favorite flowers and vegetables.

When choosing seeds, be sure to check the date to ensure they're fresh and haven't expired. Our seed packets are clearly labeled with the testing date, so you can be confident you're getting the best quality. We also offer a variety of seed mixes, including our popular Arizona native mix, perfect for attracting pollinators and adding local beauty to your landscape.

And don't forget about houseplants! They're a great way to brighten up your home during the winter months. We have a fantastic selection of houseplants in all shapes and sizes, perfect for any room in your home.

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Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! This weekend at Watters Garden Center, we're diving into the wonderful world of wildflowers! We will explore why January is the best time to sow these beauties.

It might seem counterintuitive, but those tiny wildflower seeds actually benefit from winter's chill. The freeze-thaw cycle helps to break down their tough outer shells, improving germination come spring. Plus, planting now gives them a head start on the growing season and reduces competition from weeds.

When choosing wildflower seeds, opt for a perennial mix that's specifically designed for our mountain climate. Avoid those cheap annual mixes that look pretty but won't return year after year. To prepare your soil, simply scrape it open with a stiff rake and remove any debris. Then, mix your seeds with some Watters Premium Mulch for easier spreading and to protect them from hungry birds.

With a little patience and care, you'll be rewarded with a vibrant and ever-changing wildflower display that brings joy to your garden and supports pollinators.

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Hey Houseplant Lovers, Ken Lain here with Lisa Watters Lain! We all spend a lot of time in our bedrooms, so why not create a space that's both beautiful and conducive to a good night's sleep?

Houseplants can help! Not only do they add a touch of nature and clean the air, but studies have shown they can also improve sleep quality.

Plants like Aloe Vera, Dracaena, and English Ivy are known for their air-purifying properties. Peace Lilies are great for removing toxins, and Spider Plants are super easy to care for. Even the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig can contribute to a healthier bedroom environment.

When choosing plants, consider the light conditions in your room and your own caregiving style. And don't forget to use a moisture meter to ensure you're watering correctly. With a little planning, you can create a bedroom oasis that promotes relaxation and restful sleep.

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Hey gardeners, Ken Lain here! Today, I'm sharing a little secret that will transform your ornamental grasses: the power of manure!

Manure is a rich, organic fertilizer packed with nutrients that grasses love. It helps to improve soil structure, increase water retention, and promote healthy growth. For best results, use aged or composted manure to avoid burning your plants. Apply a thin layer around the base of your grasses in the spring, being careful not to let it touch the leaves. Water thoroughly and repeat the process in the fall.

In addition to fertilizing, remember to cut back your grasses in the fall to remove dead leaves and encourage new growth. Water regularly, especially during hot weather, and mow as needed to maintain a neat appearance.

By following these tips and giving your ornamental grasses a little extra love, you can create a beautiful and healthy garden that adds texture, movement, and curb appeal to your home.

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Hey there, backyard buddies! Ken and Lisa Lain, the Top 10 Gardeners, here, to answer your gardening questions!

Folks are already itching to get planting, and the big question I keep hearing is, "When can I start my spring garden?" Well, here in Northern Arizona, we need to be mindful of those late frosts. Mother's Day is a good rule of thumb for planting those summer-loving veggies like tomatoes and peppers. 🌶️

But don't despair! There's plenty you can plant before then. Think cool-season favorites like broccoli, cauliflower, and those cheerful pansies. Watters just got our first shipment of pansies in, and they're raring to go!

And guess what? Our fruit trees arrive next week! So if you're dreaming of fresh peaches and apples, now's the time to get those trees in the ground. 🍎🍑

Don't forget about those early spring bloomers like lilacs – they'll add beauty and fragrance to your garden while you wait for those warm summer days.

If you're new to mountain gardening, or just need a refresher, stop by Watters! We'll help you choose the right plants for your garden and answer all your questions. Happy planting!

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Hey gardeners, Ken Lain The Top 10 Gardener here! It's January in Northern Arizona, and while the snow might be falling, a true gardener knows it's time to start thinking spring!

The first step? Soil preparation. Clear out any remaining debris from last year's garden and mix in a 2-3 inch layer of composted mulch and manure. At Watters, we compost our manure extra-long so you can skip the stink and get straight to the good stuff.

To really give your garden a boost, mix in Watters Fruit & Vegetable Food, gypsum, and sulfur. The Fruit & Vegetable Food is packed with calcium for bigger, tastier yields (think tomatoes and cucumbers!) and helps prevent blossom end rot. Gypsum provides extra support for your veggies, and the sulfur helps balance the pH of our naturally alkaline soil.

Let that amended soil rest for a few weeks, allowing the snow and rain to work their magic. By March, you'll have the perfect foundation for planting potatoes, garlic, onions, and all those early spring vegetables! Don't forget to stop by Watters Garden Center – our early spring pansies are here, and the fruit trees arrive this week!

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