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The Evergreen Thumb — Home & Garden
The Evergreen Thumb

Since 1973, WSU Extension Master Gardeners have been developing programs to address the evolving needs of our communities. Each episode, we’ll dig 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, we’re 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.

Copyright: © 2023

Latest Episodes:

Better Together: How Plant Diversity Supports Garden Health Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

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/

Wildlife Pests vs. Gardeners: How to Find the Balance with Dr. Dana Sanchez Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

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/

Nearby Nature: How Plants Benefit Mind and Body Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

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/

Web Builders and Pest Busters: Why Gardeners Need Spiders Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

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/

Gardening In A Changing Climate: Tips For Resilient Landscapes Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

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/

The Best Edible Perennials For the Pacific Northwest with Lisa Taylor Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

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.

How to Turn Food Scraps Into Garden Gold with Vermicompost Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

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/

How to Support Brain Health in Later Life With Gardening Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

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.

Nature's Calendar: The Value of Phenology in the Garden Dec 24, 2024

Show notes

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.

Rooting Out the Truth: Debunking Common Gardening Myths Part 2 Dec 10, 2024

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/

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