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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:

How to Support Solitary Bees with Thyra McKelvie - Episode 16 Mar 05, 2024

Show notes

Join us as we explore the wonderful realm of leafcutter and mason bees with our special guest, Thyra McKelvie from RentMasonBees.com. In this episode, Thyra shares her wealth of knowledge about these incredible pollinators, shedding light on their unique behaviors, vital roles in pollination, and how gardeners can support their populations.

Thyra offers valuable advice on providing suitable nesting materials and creating a bee-friendly environment. The episode also touches on the positive impact that leafcutter and mason bees can have on crop yields, making them essential allies for gardeners and farmers alike.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode016/

Unveiling the Secrets of Successful Rain Gardens with Valorie Savisky - Episode 15 Feb 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Master Gardener Valorie Savisky joins us to chat about what successful rain gardens are and how to build them in the PNW.

We discuss the technical aspects of planning and installing a rain garden, as well as plant choices and resources for guidance when building a rain garden.

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

https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode015/

Unlocking the Soil Carbon Code with Doug Collins- Episode 014 Feb 06, 2024

Show notes

Delve into the fascinating world of carbon sequestration, exploring how gardeners in can play a crucial role in environmental stewardship. Our expert guest, Doug Collins sheds light on the significance of healthy soil in capturing and storing carbon, emphasizing the impact of gardening practices on this process. From the role of plants in soil carbon sequestration to practical steps for listeners to enhance soil health in their gardens, we uncover the secrets beneath the surface.

Find resources, links, a transcript, and more at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode014/

Dry to Dazzling: Xeriscape Gardening with Elaine Jamerson Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we delve into the world of xeriscape gardening, exploring the art of creating water-wise landscapes in the unique climate of Washington State. Join us as we unravel the principles of xeriscape gardening, sharing practical tips on plant selection, soil improvement, and water-conserving techniques.

Discover the beauty of sustainable serenity as we showcase a success story from Kittitas County, Washington's xeriscape garden, proving that thriving landscapes can be achieved while preserving precious water resources. Guest Elaine Jamerson unravels common misconceptions, and provides insights into the environmental benefits.

For resources, links, a transcript, and more, visit https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode013/

Digging into the Basics of Soil Biology - Episode 12 Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

Soil is Alive!

Today we talk about the basics of soil biology including:

Understanding soil as a living ecosystem
The "players" in soil biology
Soil organic matter and nutrient cycling
The principles of soil health

I also go through the January gardening calendar. It is a great time for planning in the garden.

Check out the show notes for resources, notes, and a full transcript at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode012/

Designing With Nature: An Introduction to Permaculture - Episode 011 Dec 26, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever heard of permaculture?

In this episode, I delve into the basics of Permaculture, a sustainable and holistic approach to gardening. I break down the fundamental principles of permaculture, sharing insights on creating resilient ecosystems, conserving resources, and fostering biodiversity in your garden. Tune in to discover how permaculture can help enhance your garden and contribute to environmental stewardship in your community.

In this episode I talk about:

What is Permaculture and its history
The guiding ethics of permaculture
Examples of Permaculture Principles including:
- Working with nature rather than against it
- "The Problem is the Solution"
- Making the least change for the maximum effect
- Everything Gardens
Common concepts used in permaculture design
- Design elements and element analysis
- Stacking functions
- Pattern recognition
- Edge Effect
- Energy Flow
- Zone and Sector planning

For show notes, a transcript, resources, and more visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode011/

Managing Winter Issues in Trees with Tim Kohlhauff - Episode 010 Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Is winter really the best time to prune fruit trees? What do I do if my tree is damaged by wind or snow? Do I need to water in the winter?

Tim Kohlhauff, certified Arborist and the Urban Horticulture Program Coordinator for Spokane County, answers these questions and more on this episode of The Evergreen Thumb.

First up is the December gardening calendar. Then, Tim Kohlhauff joins me to talk about winter issues in trees and shrubs. Tim and I discuss:

The best time to prune trees
How to prevent and treat winter damage
Winter pests and diseases in trees
Winter Watering
Erosion

For resources, links, a transcript and more, be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode010/

Pollinators in Winter with David James - Episode 009 Nov 28, 2023

Show notes

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/

Greening Your Space: Caring for House Plants with Ann Amato - Episode 008 Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

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.

Creepy Garden Critters with Todd Murray - Episode 007 Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

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/

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