Valley Nursery Plantcast

145: Valley's Legacy Trees Feb 20, 2025

There are plants in the ground at Valley older than the hosts of the podcast and nearly as beautiful (but certainly not as charismatic). The trees work to enhance the property and serve as examples to what plants purchased here can grow to be. On this episode - we highlight seven of those legacy trees planted years ago and describe how customers can find success with them in their own landscapes.

144: How to be a Horticulturist Feb 13, 2025

We already believe that our nursery is something special. Our team of Certified Professional Horticulturists elevate our ability to serve our customers with their extensive plant knowledge. Their willingness to help folks diagnose problems or plan for planting or troubleshooting and sometimes even celebrate is that little extra that we are so proud to offer. We dive into what it takes to become a horticulturist with Holly Osborne, the director of the Washington State Nursery and Landscape Association on this episode AND we chat with two of our own horticulturists about what they actually DO here at Valley. And yes, it's more than just watering.

143: A Conversation with Saltwater Seeds Jan 30, 2025

We chat with Katie Miller from Saltwater Seeds about cultivating seeds specifically for our Maritime Northwest climate. Valley offers more than 60 varieties of seeds from this local producer and talking with Katie about the work and responsibility of being a steward of seeds is an inspiration to anyone interested in having a successful vegetable garden this year (and yes! they have flower seeds too!).

142: Prune to get more fruit Jan 23, 2025

You've pruned for shape and air and light, now it's time to focus the fruit tree's energy on what they are made for ... fruit. Fan favorite Sam is back for another insightful interview on this episode.

141: What now? January Jan 16, 2025

January is synonymous with new beginnings - let it be so with your garden. Planning, pruning, prepping are all past times to indulge in during these cold winter days. Pops of color and early bloomers (hello hellebores) are also in and ready to plant. Find out how you can set your self up for a successful 2025 garden with Justin and Erin's tips in this episode!

140: Holiday Decor Favs Dec 19, 2024

Christmas Trees may be the granddaddies of Christmas decor but wreaths and poinsettias are stalwarts of holiday tradition. Both classic symbols have rich history and we tell their stories on this episode as well as offering tips on how to keep them bright, fresh and full of cheer as the season continues to brighten your homes. Merry, holly and jolly ... fa la la.

139: Holiday Gift Guide Dec 05, 2024

Christmas shopping got you all a twitter? Still searching for that perfect something? Want to find unique treasures for everyone on your list - regardless of the color of their thumb? We've got you friend. Our resident gift giving expert Bailey sits down with us to chat about items we have to wow even the trickiest recipient on your list this holiday season.

138: What now? November Nov 21, 2024

Baring survival of impending bomb cyclons and atmospheric rivers, there's not a whole lot to do as the rain sets in. What there is to do we are happy to tell you about with candor and rays of light shooting from our eyes. Intrigued? Always.

137: A Conversation with Nick Penovich Nov 07, 2024

The soil your plants are in determines their health and there is no one in Kitsap County with more passion for soil health than Nick Penovich. Justin and Erin had the pleasure of chatting with the founder of Soil Science Products about what you can be doing in your garden right now to create optimal soil conditions for exceptional growth year round.

136: Winter Blooming Shrubs Oct 31, 2024

Staring at the rain - wishing you had something bright to focus on and help the gloom seem a little less ... gloomy? Want something to pop in the ground and add some interest to your garden this winter? Well loyal listener (or newfound friend) look no further than this podcast! Justin and Erin chat about shrubs that bloom after all the summer petals have fallen and the big dark has descended. Fall is the ideal time to put these darlings in the ground and the nursery has them in stock now!

135: Get READY for COLD Oct 24, 2024

We've told you once and we'll tell you again - proper planning prevents poor performance. That's especially true as the temperatures dip into the 40s and below. Your tender new plants, your beloved seasonal delights, your hoses - all of it needs a little special attention as the nights lengthen and the temps drop. This episode is chock full of helpful reminders that will get your garden safely put to bed for winter. It's coming.

134: Health Benefits of Plants Oct 17, 2024

Spending time outdoors makes you healthier. Spending time in nature reduces stress. Growing plants is good for your health. The lack of sunlight and colder temperatures make us all want to tuck inside and cozy up in our sweaters and inhale pumpkin spiced everything. Your cohosts want to keep you healthy so in this episode - they chat about how continuing to garden outside right now and adding houseplants to your home is fantastic for your overall wellbeing.

133: What Now? October Oct 10, 2024

Admiring the stunning fall color is not the only thing you can do in your garden right now friends - you can mulch! Okay - you can always mulch - but now is a great time to do that and many other things. Guest host Maria joins Erin to chat about what you can do in your gardens right now. The gals also detail how to save some of your favorite summer annuals as tender perennials ... like your favorite tuberous begonias and those geraniums that just brought you endless joy all summer. Stretch those gardening muscles through the cold months with some over-wintering experiments!

132: Spoooooooky Plants Oct 03, 2024

L Looking for Halloween decorations that go beyond the classic pumpkin vibe more organically awesome? Look here friends. Justin and Erin discuss plants with spooky names, spooky habits and spooky vibes to get your porch or landscape or even inside your house festive for Halloween..

131: Why do the leaves change color? Sep 26, 2024

Have a listen and find out why trees and shrubs put out such magnificent color every fall ...

130: Little Trees - Big Color Sep 19, 2024

Little trees can have big color. When you're on the hunt for a tree to fit into a smaller landscape or even in a pot and want something that is going to wow you as the season changes - hunt no further! We have some fantastic suggestions for small showstoppers - just in time for the tree sale!

129: What Now? September Sep 12, 2024

You can do it all! September is a fantastic time to do just about anything in your garden. Plant trees! Plant shrubs! Plant bulbs! Plant veggies! Propagate roses! Cohosts Justin and Erin chat about what to do to transition your summer garden into a productive and beautiful autumnal garden. Possibilities abound!

128: Fall Containers Plants & Lawn Care Sep 05, 2024

Just because summer is slipping away doesn't mean our gardens have to go with it. Cooler temperatures are ideal for revitalizing your lawn (I know - lawns again) but we don't dwell on grasses too long this episode! Maria joins us to let us in on some fresh ideas for fall containers to brighten up your porches and keep the growing going. ha-za!

127: Vegetables for Fall and Over Winter Aug 29, 2024

Ugh - summer is almost over but your vegetable gardening prowess doesn't have to end with the change of seasons. There are several things you can plant now for harvest in the fall, winter and even in the spring. Have a listen to find out what will work in our maritime northwest gardens for an extended vegetable harvest.

126: Hillside Erosion Control Aug 23, 2024

As summer winds down and prime fall planting conditions grow closer, now is the time to consider how you can remedy a slope in need of a little attention. Summer drought conditions and removal of unwanted invasion species or even just earth moving may have created an area that will be prone to erosion once the rains resume. Fear not friends - there are loads of options for what you can do so slow down the slip of slopes and enhance the beauty of your landscape. As ever, we are full of suggestions.

125: Veggie Problems Aug 15, 2024

Technically - you did everything right, we know. Nature has thrown a stick in your spokes and something is wrong with your vegetables. Don't fret friend. We are here to help. This episode is dedicated to solutions for common vegetable garden problems. Abundance will prevail!

124: Plant Rewards Sale is ON! Aug 08, 2024

If you've been collecting your plant rewards for the last 11 months - now is the time to cash in. Our annual incentive sale is going on right now! Erin and Maria chat about options for big-ticket items customers can save on right now. It's also a great time to experiment in the garden ... fill those holes, try something different! Plant bucks ends Aug. 25 so don't delay!

123: Groundcovers Aug 01, 2024

Got ground that needs to be covered? We got you covered. Our selection is fantastic and can help you craft the look that is as varied or monotonous (in a good way!) as you want it to be. Hosts Justin and Erin discuss a few options for different growing habits to help you decide what groundcover solution is best for your yard.

122: Lasting Bouquets Jul 25, 2024

Our extra special guest host introduces tips on how to make that beautiful bouquet you grew or picked or bought last and last and last. We bring the flowers inside to add a little beauty in the home fand this episode will give you the advice you need to keep them that way!

121: Prep the Garden for Vacation Jul 18, 2024

The trip is booked and the garden is bountiful - will they both just be fond memories when the vacation is over? They don't have to be. You planned ahead for the vacation - now plan ahead for your garden to survive in your absence. It's not hard and we have a few tips, as we always do, to set you up for success. You've done all this work to make your garden beautiful, you deserve that hard-earned vacation ... so go. But listen to us before you go so everything will still be beautiful upon your return.

120: Watering Again Jul 11, 2024

Watering is paramount this time of year - rain feels like a distant memory as the thermostat rises and the sky stays brilliantly blue. This episode is a retooled rebroadcast of our watering episode from 2023 - the information is completely applicable to today. Erin and Justin talk about how to water everything in your yard - new plants, established plants, vegetables ... all of it. Pop in your earbuds, grab the hose and have a listen.

119: A Conversation with Shayne Chandler Jun 27, 2024

Shayne Chandler is a celebrated plantsman, international plant collector and landscape designer from Kingston. Erin and Justin chat with him about how to create a garden that integrates the unusual and unexpected into an existing garden space. He talks about his experience creating a classic Provencial French garden on a massive scale.

118: 2024 Gardening Trends (you can do it!) Jun 20, 2024

You want to know what is really trending in the gardening world?
Gardens.
Specifically, your garden. Being a little wild, trying something different, trying anything - that is what gardening gurus are encouraging. And so are we.
Justin and Erin discusshow to create a meadow garden and embrace what they're best at - trying and offer advice for how can try too.

117: Maple Trees Jun 13, 2024

Maple trees are not the basic bobs of the garden - there are more than 150 varieties worldwide and here in the PNW they are majestic pops of color in the fall, reliable shade havens in the summer and a lovely addition to your yard because they come in sizes, shapes and colors that suit pretty much any of your needs. Seriously. Listen. We'll tell you all about them.

116: Tomato Troubles Jun 06, 2024

Cold and wet are not ideal conditions for growing tomatoes and that was the hand we were dealt this spring. As it is finally starting to warm up, we diagnose a few common tomato problems and help you move forward to juicy, abundant tomato success.

115: Questions from the Floor May 30, 2024

All day, every day, we are inundated with questions from customers. We have great plants, we have great people and it makes sense that folks come here seeking answers about the former from the latter. With the help of a few of their co-workers, Erin and Justin share the most frequent questions asked by customers on this episode of the Valley Nursery Plantcast.

114: Hydrangeas are Happening. May 23, 2024

Hydrangeas are happy in the Northwest ... their blooms are showy and vibrant. The variety is at its best right now at Valley. Justin and Erin chat about how to make them thrive in your landscape with tips on watering, fertilizing and placement. They even dabble in shade shifting and propagating ... crazy, right?

113: What Now? May May 16, 2024

The warm wonderful days we have been waiting for are finally here! What are you supposed to be doing in the garden right now? Duh! Everything! We have the tips on what to prioritize and how to keep things looking incredible as you bring them home and add them to your landscape. We also chat briefly about lawn care (is yours growing like crazy?), how to amend questionable soil and what to plant to bring those precious pollinators to your yard.

112: Zone Pushers May 09, 2024

There comes a time in our gardening journey when we want to try something new, something harder. Adding a zone pusher is exactly what you CAN do add a plant that will reward you for your TLC simply by surviving and being cool. Justin and Erin discuss a few of the plants that need more attention and will draw more attention to your landscape. Go ahead. Get advanced. You're ready.

111: Lotta Veggies for a Little Sun Apr 25, 2024

Here's the description: Shade is more common than bright sunny spots in these parts. Let that NOT be a hinderance to you having a successful vegetable garden. If you have a spot big enough for a pot that gets more than 4 hours of direct sunlight (when the sun shines) then YOU TOO can grow vegetables. No, you can't have tomatoes or cucumbers, but you can have other delicious and nutritious and satisfying vegetables. Find out how by having a little listen.

110: Low Maintenance Perennials Apr 18, 2024

So many plants, such little time. Not to worry listeners, we chat with our resident horticulturalist and very talented plant picker Taylor about some easy perennials you can add to your garden and pretty much leave alone. She and Erin talk about a couple plants that love the sun, others that prefer shade and all that will leave you feeling like you are capable of making things beautiful with just a little effort.

109: Ethereal Ephemerals Apr 11, 2024

Look quickly because ephemerals are Spring's here today gone tomorrow darlings. They bloom beautifully and briefly and can be a real challenge to grow. On this episode, we talk about how to bring some of these elusive lovelies into your own garden and help them flourish for years to come.

108: What Now? April Apr 04, 2024

It's the perfect time to do everything! April is a glorious month to be the garden, days are longer, weather is warmer and the garden center is full of everything you need, want and dream of to improve and reshape your own landscape. Within this episode, we help you prioritize action items for your garden and give you some tips for saving time and energy later in the season.

107: Give grass a chance Mar 28, 2024

Not all grass is created equal. All lawns are grass but not all grass is lawns. Ornamental grasses need care (albeit minimally) and your lawns need the right kind of attention at the right time. This is the season taking care of all of them and we talk about what to do to what to ensure your grasses grow!

106: The Spring Sale Continues! Mar 21, 2024

Merrily we sale along! As spring officiallybegins, we barrel into the second weekend of the Spring Sale with more specials and a restock of thousands of plants for your home! On this episode, Erin chats with the folks responsible for ordering and maintaining the different sections of the nursery about what they are featuring during the sale and other exciting plants and goods you should look for while you are here.

105: Spring Sale Preview 2024 Mar 14, 2024

It's the SALE of the year! Our annual spring sale is an incredible time to jump start your garden for 2024. We have daily in-store specials on plants, we've got week-long 20% sales on a huge variety of other plants and you have that coupon in your mailbox (or on the kitchen counter) that gives you 30% one item! Use it! On this episode we talk about the deals and why it's a great time to get those sale plants into the ground. So much awesomeness and so many reasons to use exclamation points!!!

104: Rabbit and Deer Resistant Plants Mar 07, 2024

Them pesky vermins everywhere buddy and ain't nothing you gonna do about it - or is there?
This episode is full of tips to keep the unwanted visitors out of your beloved garden. And really only one of the ideas is ridiculous. Erin and Justin also discuss what you can plant that they'll shy away from or maybe just eat once.

103: Valley Grown Feb 29, 2024

At Valley Nursery, a huge selection of our product is grown by ... us. It started as a small endeavor but over the last 10 years, our Valley Grown program has increased so much that we even employ a pig to help out. Justin and Erin chat with the head grower at our greenhouse in Port Gamble about what it takes to run the greenhouse that feeds our awesome nursery.

102: What Now? February Feb 22, 2024

February is a mixed bag - you get snow, you get sun and now you can get pretty much anything that you're looking for to have an incredible garden this spring. This week Justin and Erin chat about new arrivals and a few of the things you can do in the garden right now. With new deliveries arriving weekly the nursery is bursting with options to fuel your garden dreams.

101: Plants with Heart (shaped leaves) Feb 15, 2024

Valentine's Day isn't the only day we should appreciate hearts. There are a plethora of plants with heart shaped leaves that make great additions to your garden or house plant collection ANY time of the year. Justin and Erin chat about some of their favorite perennials, trees and house plants with heart shaped leaves.

100!: A Conversation with THE Ciscoe Morris! Feb 08, 2024

For our 100th episode we invited PNW gardening legend Cisco Morris into our Poulsbo studio for a jovial conversation about gardening. He gave us tips on how to prepare for spring and suggested hacks all gardeners should implement. This renowned horticultural hoot has energy and enthusiasm for all things plants that are infectious. He teaches us how to bring the joy of gardening into everyone's life. Ooh la la indeed!

99: What Now? Late January/Early February Feb 01, 2024

Take advantage of pockets of dry and mild weather between our wet squalls to get a jump start on planting for spring! Take inventory of what you have, what you want, what you need and be ready to make your garden better than ever. Super special guest host Maria helps us all remember proper planning prevents poor performance :)

98: Bareroot Fruit Trees - A Conversation with Joe Biringer Jr. Jan 25, 2024

For nearly 40 years, Valley has brought in bareroot fruit trees, shade trees and shrubs from Biringer Nursery in Mount Vernon. On this episode, Erin & Justin chat with Joe Biringer Jr. about this family's business and how you can successfully grow fruit trees and home.

97: Bringing Home Berries Jan 18, 2024

When it's this cold, all we can do is plan our gardens. Why not plan on adding edible berries? Our nursery is stocked with a big variety of edibles right now and we discuss the differences in the types of berries that will add flavor and color to your landscape! Plan on grasshopper!

96: Prepare for Cold Cold Cold Weather Jan 11, 2024

With sub-freezing temps in the forecast looms large this week and we've got some tips to help you and your plants breeze through unscathed. Bundle up, stay warm and bring a little brightness into your home as winter gets real this week.

95: Low Light Loving Plants Dec 21, 2023

The winter solstice is has less light than any other day of the year so we are celebrating plants that thrive in low light conditions on this episode of the Plantcast. Here's to renewal, rebirth and the return of the light!

94: What Now? December Dec 14, 2023

December is proof in the pudding that gardening can be done year-round in the Pacific Northwest. This episode offers some advice for lite gardening activity to do during the darkest month of the year.

93: 2023 Holiday Gift Guide! Dec 07, 2023

Looking for the perfect gift for anyone on your list - look no further friend because we have it here at Valley Nursery! We chat with our beloved gift shop guru Bailey about some of the items she's brought into the shop for this season of giving and share a few of our favorite things too. Happy shopping!

92: Christmas Trees & Lights & Giving Nov 30, 2023

Our Christmas tree selection is at it's finest and our trees are the freshest in the county and their purchase brings so much more than just holiday delight to your home ... find out about where part of your purchase goes this holiday season on this episode.

91: Rare and Rad Houseplants Nov 16, 2023

Indoor gardens can be as rewarding as their outside brethren especially if you add a rare plant to the mix. Valley has several options that will add new depth and texture to anyone's collection. Yet - there are those who aren't so savvy with their houseplants and that's cool - we talk about a few easier to grow options on this episode too.

90: What Now? November. Nov 09, 2023

The days are shorter and the rain has increased but the work in the garden isn't over. Justin and Erin discuss what they're doing this month in their gardens and offer suggestions for what to plant right now and what to do to keep you busy throughout the fall as well as to set yourself up for success in the spring.

89: A Conversation with Richie Steffen Nov 02, 2023

Fern fanatic and horticulturalist extraordinaire Richie Steffen is our guest on this episode of the plantcast. He spreads his enthusiasm for fern tables easier than wind spreads spores and discusses what keeps him so enchanted with all things horticulture.

88: Autumn Explained Oct 26, 2023

Wonder why your pumpkins rotted right after you carved them? We'll tell you.
Wonder why the leaves change color? We'll tell you that too.
Wonder why this podcast is so great? Just listen, you'll find out for yourself.

87: Perennial Division Oct 19, 2023

Dividing your perennials is easier than fifth grade math (I've been doing a lot of both lately). Before the first frost, you'll want to brave the rain and divide your spring and early summer perennials to promote better health for your plants. You'll be rewarded with more blooms when the sun shines again. We chat about how it's done in this episode.

86: A Conversation with Dan Hinkley Oct 12, 2023

Dan Hinkley, one of the most revered plantsmen in all the world - seriously - chats with Justin and Erin about gardening. We still cant believe it either.

85: Evergreen Texture ... get some Oct 05, 2023

Conifers aren't the only champions of green during the long gray months of our beautiful Evergreen State. Shrubs, low growing trees and even ground cover add to the variety in our landscapes that give the eyes something to feast beyond the tall trees.

84: What now? October. Sep 28, 2023

Looking out and wondering what to do with your landscape? We got you friend. From lawn maintenance to tomato ripening tips, our little Plantcast will guide you through October chores to set you up for success all over the yard.

83: Fall Houseplant Care Sep 21, 2023

As the summer winds down and we all move inside for the season it's time to focus your green thumb onto your houseplants. We've got a few pointers to help you set yourself up for a long winter of loving the plants inside your home. Our fingers are also on the pulse of what plants you can add to your collection for more texture and variety. Get out those quilts and cuddle up.

82: Pumpkins! Sep 14, 2023

Every year, Vally transforms from your friendly neighborhood nursery into a massive pumpkin-palooza. We unload 42,000 pounds of pumpkins onto our grounds and create a cornucopia of autumnal delight. In this episode, we chat with the farmer who grows the gourds and learn a little bit more about the people and process behind Hopper Bros. Farm.

81: AAA ... Apples are Autumn Sep 07, 2023

Apples are every where right now ... on trees, on the ground, in pies, in those back to school lunches and at our nursery. Fall is the season for harvesting and planting the fruit of our beloved state and many of the varieties that thrive in our climate our here at the nursery right now. We share some fun facts (as we always do) about apples, tips on planting apple trees and Justin turns Erin's dream into a trip down memory lane. We are back baby!

80: Valley on the Small Screen! (and sale highlights) Aug 03, 2023

Valley's own customer container guru Maria makes her television debut on BKAT this month. Without any spoilers she tells us about the show which was filmed at Valley! We also discuss featured products in the progressive sale (now save 50% on annuals!) and provide details about annual Loyalty Rewards sale that begins on Saturday, Aug. 5.

79: Midsummer Maintenance Jul 20, 2023

It's beautiful in your garden - look at all that you've accomplished! Now keep it simply keep it looking fabulous with easy care. Erin & Justin remind sitting at staring at the fruits of your labor won't keep them looking great for long. Get out there and spend a little time keeping your plants tidy, trimmed, pruned and harvested. You've come this far - keep it growing!

78: Think About Fall Vegetables Right NOW Jul 13, 2023

Sure, it's the middle of summer. Enjoy your vegetables now. Just remember, proper planning prevents poor performance and why not continue to be a stellar vegetable gardener into the fall and over the winter. The time to start prepping and planting your fall vegetable garden is upon us. Find out what we are doing to get our greens growing on this amazing and brief!!!! podcast! Then get back out to enjoying our amazing NW summer. kissy face!

77: Make Cut Flowers LAAAAAST Jun 29, 2023

Frustrated by the lack of longevity with your cut flowers? Turn that frown upside down with a few simple tricks to prolonging the life of your bouquets presented by your favorite friendly podcast hosts Erin & Justin.

76: Baby Bloomers Jun 22, 2023

Big blooming flowers are generally the show stoppers but there are loads of little guys out there that are just as lovely and can add texture and interest to your garden. Don't ignore your baby bloomers friends, they easily fit into the big picture of any sized garden.

75: How to Water Everything Jun 15, 2023

Our gardens are as varied as we are. Watering your lawns is way different than your hanging baskets which are way different than your veggies - so don't do it all the same. We'll talk you through how to water the various zones of your oasis so you aren't over or under watering anything.

74: Vibrant Later Blooming Perennials Jun 08, 2023

As we slide out of spring and into summer, keep color bursting in your garden with late blooming perennials. Find out a few of our favorites that bring brightness into your landscape throughout the summer months.

73: Nasty Noxious Scotchbroom May 25, 2023

That bright prolific yellow plant that's blooming every where in Kitsap County is an invasive noxious weed. Getting rid of it is as challenging as gardening is rewarding. We chat about how and when to get rid of the nasty plant so it won't destroy your yard the work you've put into it.

72: Herbs are Easy May 18, 2023

It ain't hard to have a prolific herb garden in the PNW and this is an episode dedicated to a handful of the freshest and easiest herbs you can grow for culinary purposes. Think of the as the gateway to great flavor. With little care you'll grow lots of taste sensations - what's not love?

71: Pepper Planting Pep Talk May 11, 2023

Valley Nursery owner Brad Watts swoops into the studio to offer tips on how to successfully grow sweet and hot peppers in this episode of the Plantcast. It's up to you to decide if you are going to be sweet or spicy.

70: Climbing Vines May 04, 2023

Whether they're climbing up a trellis or winding through your rhodies - climbing vines can be a striking addition to any yard, providing shade (sometimes), wow factor and cascades of color. We've got options that will suit your fancy and maybe make your space even look a little more fancy.

69: Planting to Promote Pollinators Apr 27, 2023

Pollinators are our greatest allies in the garden. Want more blooms? Place more landing pads for the pollinators in your garden. What a bounitful harvest? Plant more color variety. There are very simple tricks and additions you can make to your garden to make it a healthier and happier habitat for the little guys who do so much work. Find out some of the options we have in stock today and get out in this awesome weather to make your yard a better place.

68: Let's Play Name that Unusual Conifer! Apr 20, 2023

Diverging from the norm, in this episode Erin tries to stump Justin with simple descriptions of a few of the more unusual trees found at Valley Nursery. The extended cold this season is actually perfect for planting trees and shrubs and our nursery has several very cool, very weird looking statement pieces that will inspire conversation and bring funky freshness to any landscape.

67: Shade - for growing, not throwing Apr 13, 2023

Shade is a garden feature oft feared by novice gardeners. The options for turning it into a bright and colorful spot in your yard are abundant. Don't fear the shade - embrace it! Ground cover, shrubs and flowers can be planted in the varying degrees of shade with stunning results. Find out some options for bringing unexpected delight into some of the darkest areas of your garden in this episode from Valley Nursery in Poulsbo, WA.

66: Growing Vegetables in Small Spaces Apr 06, 2023

Short on space but long on desire for home-grown veggies? Fret not my friend, we've got you covered. From planting in lovely ceramic containers to utilizing old tires, you can grow what you fancy in the strange or small or strange small space you have with a little patience and ingenuity. We'll help you cultivate both in this episode of the Valley Nursery Plantcast.

65: Flowering Trees Blooming NOW Mar 30, 2023

Bursts of pink and white are popping up all over Kitsap County as flowering trees start to bloom throughout the Pacific Northwest. Justin and Erin chat about the two showiest right now but also discuss the trees that will be delightfully bloomtastic in the coming weeks.

64: Updated Spring Sale Info & Fuchsia Planting Details Mar 23, 2023

Valley Nursery's 17th Annual Spring Sale continues through March 26 and our celebrated fuschia planting event begins on Saturday, March 25 and runs through April 2. Hosts Justin and Erin discuss new addtions to the sale and discuss details of the fuschia planting as well as chat about how to help the plants once they're hanging at your home daring the hummingbirds to drink their body weight in nectar.

63: Spring Sale Preview 2023 Mar 16, 2023

The 17th Annual Valley Nursery Spring Sale is upon us and we detail what we have in stock and what is on sale during the event. Start your growing season with the best selection of everything and enthusiasm and joy and wonder and grow grow grow!

62: Cultivate Color Mar 09, 2023

Leave the doldrums behind with a burst of color in your garden. We've got a nursery full of colorful flowers, shrubs, treees and we want you to benefit! Hosts Justin and Erin discuss the variety of plants available to add to your garden regardless of size to bring color back into your life.

61: Rhododendron Ra Ra Mar 02, 2023

Our annual shipment of rhodies has arrived and now is the time to check out these Northwest darlings. Guest co-host Maria steps in to chat about a few of the spectacular varieties we have in stock and to offer tips for successful planting, pruning and general care of these lovely garden staples.

60: Starting Seeds Indoors Feb 23, 2023

Get growing! February is NOT too early to start thinking of your spring and summer bounty. Starting seeds indoors is easy with the right mindset and equipment which is easy to attain from your friends here at Valley. Hosts Justin and Erin chat about all the things you need to get your vegetable and flower gardens started today.

59: Pottery is for PLANTS Feb 16, 2023

Ceramic pots are the perfect addition to every garden. They add color to shady areas, give height to short spaces - they make you wanna look at your nook. Our selection is bigger than ever and their hardiness makes them a welcome year round feature.

58: Love Lovey LOVE love plants Feb 09, 2023

We are real loving this week friends. Roses aren't the only plants that represent love friends and we want you to know about the others. Discover alternative options for your sweetie and then pop in here and buy them! Be fresh. Be creative. Be as full of love as we are!

57: Pruning Fruit Trees Feb 02, 2023

We call in the expert to discuss how to prune juvenile and old fruit trees. With a little patience, sharp tools and the confidence gleaned from our resident arborist, you'll have your personal orchard looking good soon-ish.

56: Citrus Trees CAN Survive! Jan 26, 2023

Sweet, juicy and delicious homegrown citrus CAN be achieved in the Pacific Northwest and we will give you the confidence to give it a go in your own personal garden (even though one of us continues to fail at it herself over and over and over). You can do it and Erin will keep trying right alongside you. Limes for margaritas, lemons for lemonade, grapefruits for breakfast, oranges for the elixir of youth, kumquats cause it's a funny word ... citrus can take your garden to a whole new level of awesome.

55: Houseplant Pests BE GONE Jan 19, 2023

Proper and easy winter houseplant care can help your green babies thrive throughout the season but pests can foil even the most dutiful of caregivers. We chat about how to identify a few of the more common buggers and let you know how to eliminate them from your indoor oasis.

54: Shroomy Shroomerson (He's a Fun Guy) Jan 05, 2023

The weather anamoly of snow and ice rapidly melting followed by inches of rain and warmer temps make right now a strange and delightful time for mushrooms to florish. Same with mold. Outside and for some of us aggressive waterers - inside too.

53: 2022 Wrapped Dec 15, 2022

The Plantcast dove into a plethora of topics in 2022. Justin and Erin did not shy away from tough topics (anyone remember how to build a rain garden?) and indulged in perennials, conifers and you know, mulch. The last episode of 2022 is what they learned and a fun little gift rap. You'll see.

52: Winter Bloomers - Better than Sweatpants! Dec 08, 2022

Winter bloomers cyclamen, hellebores and camellias are on the cusp on blooming right now and survive even the harshest of PNW winters. This episode is chock full of planting tips and fun facts about these seasonal showstoppers.

51: Holiday Gift Guide - so much more than plants! Dec 01, 2022

Plantcast listeners must have plant lovers in their life and our big red barn is the gift shop to visit to find the perfect present for that person! Valley's buyer Bailey sits down with us to chat about a few of her favorites for the season that fit any budget.

50: Thanksgiving Thankfulness Nov 24, 2022

Hosts Justin and Erin give thanks for a year of podcasting glory and reveal some of the great holiday decor finds at the Nursery available right now.

49: Christmas Trees ... Cut or Living? Nov 17, 2022

Valley Nursery offers both cut and potted living Christmas Trees every year. In today's episode, we discuss the varieties of both and talk about how to care for them AND pepper in fun facts with very little singing.

48: Fear Not Frost ... Winterize! Nov 10, 2022

Frigid temperatures are on the horizon and only you can save yourself from the dangers of frost. Have a listen to learn about some practical projects you can squeeze in before the mercury drops. Save yourself from extra work in the spring by getting the work done now!

47: A Brief History of Valley Nursery Nov 03, 2022

To celebrate one full year of podcasting glory we look back on the history of Valley Nursery and how it became the beautiful place it is today.

46: Succulents Are Such Sweet Sweeties Oct 27, 2022

There isn't a houseplant easier to care for than a succulent nor is there a groundcover that spreads easier with such dynamic texture and diversity. Funny how one word can cover such a range of plants, yet succulent does just that. We chat about care for the indoor variety, those which do great outdoors here and some of our favorite indoor darlings too.

45: Composting Makes You Better Oct 20, 2022

You can buy it, or you can make it, either way, it exponentially increases the nutrient levels in your soil and promotes healthy, vibrant plants and vegetables. We give you several tips on how to create beneficially compost from your kitchen and garden waste. It's easy. Really.

44: Even More Fall Color ... Shrubtastic Color Oct 13, 2022

Trees aren't the only ones out there bringing beauty to this season change. Shrubs are singing with color this month in hues of yellow, orange, red and purple. The texture and vibrance of these mid-level champions can prolong the appreciation of any garden. Find out about a few different options for your space in this episode from your friends at Valley Nursery.

43: Fall Color ... Solving the Mysteries of Sweater Season Oct 06, 2022

Ever wonder why leaves turn color? Have you noticed oaks don't drop their leaves? What is the name of that huge tree that sifts through almost all the colors of the autumnal rainbow? Put on your flannel, grab a mug of hot apple cider and tuck in as we answer some questions about autumn.

42: Spring Bulbs, Fall Planting Sep 29, 2022

Spring color begins in the fall with bulb planting. The best selection of daffodils, tulips, hyacinth and other spring bloomers is upon us. This episode is dedicated to the success of your bulbs. We've got tips on how to plant, what to plant together and make gentle suggestions for making your tulips look awesome year after year.

41: Pumpkins - Festive Decor AND Delicious Sep 22, 2022

Our annual massive pumpkin shipment has arrived and with it comes a feisty conversation about the use of fall's favored fruit.

40: Native Plants Are Great and So Are YOU Sep 15, 2022

The Pacific Northwest's diverse ecosystem is ripe with an equally diverse world of native plants available to enhance your landscape. During this episode we chat about why they are a great idea to plant in your home garden and also select a few of our favorites to highlight.

39: Fall Planting, Mulch, Mulch, Miggity Mulch & Cover Crops Sep 08, 2022

The season changing does not mean you are finished in the garden. No friends, the fun ain't over. Fall is the PRIMO season for planting new trees and shrubs while also freshening up the yard with mulch AND planting cover crop to replace nutrients in the soil to get your garden primed for next spring. A gardener's work is never done. Wahoo!

38: My Lawn Looks Real Bad BUT Hope is Not Lost Sep 01, 2022

At the end of the summer, NW lawns look more like carpets of beige ilk. Fall is the best time to step out onto the dead grass and give your lawn the love it needs to regrow into its green glory with aeration, fertilization and a little overseeding. We chat about how to do that and some lawn alternatives in this episode from Valley Nursery in Poulsbo, Washington.

37: Wash Your Watering Woes Away Aug 25, 2022

It's late summer - have you got your watering habits down to a science. We haven't seen much rain so it's easy to over water or under water or worry about watering ... let us help you find the right balance to keep your current garden growing and help the new additions establish healthy roots with manageable watering practices.

36: Dahlias Aug 18, 2022

Dahlias are everywhere right now and who better to chat find out how to care for the growing and cut blooms than the wonderful woman behind the little yellow flower shack in Port Gamble, Gamble Cove Dahlias very own Yvonne. She shares her secret for the longevity of cut dahlias and answers the age-old question to dig or not to dig up your tubers.

35: An Abundance (of mistakes and produce) Aug 11, 2022

Our gardens are bursting and we talk about the successes and mistakes that shaped our season and guide you into planting for an abundant fall harvest. We also give folks some suggestions about what to do with all of the extra veggies multiplying in gardens this season.

34: Delightful Deciduousnesses Aug 04, 2022

Showy summer blossoms overshadow the silent bones of our gardens that bring delight after the season fades into cooler temperatures. We chat about a few different multi-season deciduous trees that can be planted now to bring joy throughout the year.

33: The Duality of Perennials Jul 28, 2022

Erin and guest host Maria reach into their witchy roots to chat about perennials that are more than just pretty flowers. With Justin on vacation, the gals talk about common summer bloomers used throughout history to quell crazy, calm aches and sooth soreness. All can be grown in the PNW and harvested for use in your own witchy ways.

32: The Duplicity of Blackberries Jul 14, 2022

How easy it is to love one of the most difficult plants to remove in our yards - blackberries. The common Himalayan blackberry is delicious and devilish - hard to remove and hard to resist. We chat about what makes them so voracious in the landscape and how to remove them and replace with the native and non-invasive option.

31: Summer Care for Containers and Houseplants Jul 07, 2022

Keep those stunners stunning with specialized care in the summer guided by Valley's custom container specialist Maria. Her expertise extends beyond the creation of vibrant containers and glorious hanging baskets and her tips will help your garden darlings remain delightful throughout the season.

30: The Gardener's Partner ... Tools Jun 30, 2022

We talk tools every gardener needs to get the job done in this super summer episode full of guest appearances. The sun is shining, the garden is growing, the landscape in lush and we tell you about the tools to help you maximize your time, minimize your backache and win the war on dandelions.

29: A Rose is a Rose is a Rose Jun 23, 2022

To prepare for the Kitsap Rose Society Rose Display at Valley Nursery on June 26, we chatted with Master Consulting Rosarian Elena Williams about selecting and growing roses in the PNW.

28: Weeds are the WORST Jun 16, 2022

No one is safe from weeds. This cool, wet spring has been glorious for the weeds and gardeners can't win but we CAN make progress. This episode identifies some of the more common weeds in our region and offers advice on how limit spreading.

27: The Ephemeral Peony Jun 09, 2022

Peonies are in full bloom in Kitsap County and in this episode, we chat with Rebecca from Persephone Farm about these stunning spring bloomers.

26: Hype for Hydrangeas May 19, 2022

Showy hydrangeas are the undeniable scene stealer of most northwest gardens - regardless of time (and money) spent curating a stunning garden, a full blooming hydrangea is always bound to get attention. Rightly so. With an abundance of variety and color, these flowering shrubs are a delight to behold and we share tips for cultivating, changing the color of your blooms and lore from the plant's past.

25: Brad Talks Tomatoes May 12, 2022

The ultimate garden vegetable is here and ready to be planted. Tomatoes are in stock and hearty and beautiful and Vallery Nursery's owner and tomato grower extraordinaire Brad Watts chats with us about his sure-fire strategy for home-grown love apples (that is a synonym for tomato, I swear).

24: Preferred Perennials May 05, 2022

With so many different perennials, it's difficult to choose favorites. Sun loving, shade loving, tall, squat, spreading, robust, delicate ... dang folks, we've got them all. We chat about a few of our favorites and the benefits of adding these seasonal celebrants to your garden.

23: Hanging Basket Glory Apr 28, 2022

Nothing brightens up a home more for the summer than a vibrant hanging basket and ours are blooming NOW. For more than 30 years, Valley's grown beautiful mixed baskets and we discuss the evolution of the basket and how to care for them in this episode of the Valley Nursery Plantcast.

22: So Slugs ... ew Apr 21, 2022

Our super rainy spring is prime slug season ... the nasty garden destroyers are slowly creeping through the overgrowth on a mission to destroy your hard work. Take action. Unite in removing these slimly vermin from the gardens that we all love! Here are some humane, organic or violent and sinister ways to get slugs out of your life.

21: Japanese Maples Apr 14, 2022

They're worthy of a prominent place in your yard so why not talk about them? Now is the time to plant these year-round pleasers and our stock is at its peak. Find out what all the fuss is about as we discuss the virtues of the iconic Japanese Maple.

20: Container Gardening ... just do it Apr 07, 2022

Lack of space doesn't mean you can't be a gardener! Container gardening is a great way to get growing. We chat with Valley's custom container specialist about how to have success planting in any sized container. It's spring - get your hands dirty and grow baby grow!

19: Screening Conifers or How to Hide From Your Neighbors Mar 31, 2022

Conifers are the perfect way to create privacy and block out undesirable views - like that shirtless neighbor with all the junked cars in the yard. Resident arborist Deane chats with us about four fantastic conifer options for various screening preferences.

18: Fuchsia, Fuchsia, Fuchsia Mar 24, 2022

Our annual fuchsia planting begins March 26 and we discuss planting, growing, fertilizing and pinching these delicate and delightful flowers for blooming success throughout the spring and summer. We had to call in Brad - we couldn't event pretend we knew it all.

17: Spring Sale Preview Mar 17, 2022

It's time for our annual Spring Sale! In this episode we discuss what items we have on sale during this awesome spring event. Check your mailbox for our mailer and come on in - there's something for everyone - no matter what color your thumb is.

16: Brad Talks Early Spring Vegetables Mar 10, 2022

We welcome back Valley's owner Brad Watts to discuss what vegetables to start indoors and outside right now (don't worry - you're not too late!)

15: Mason Bees Save the World! Mar 03, 2022

The docile mason bee is one of the earliest pollinators in spring and the benefits of hosting them in your garden extend beyond the confines of your yard. We chat with one of our favorite horticulturalists today about how to create a happy habitat for these gentle bees and how by doing so you can help save the world. Kind of.

14: Brad Talks Strawberries Feb 24, 2022

Valley Nursery owner Brad Watts is our special guest this week and chats with us about strawberries and boosts confidence about plant survival through a late season sudden drop in temperature.

13: Fruit Trees ... Booya Feb 17, 2022

A fruit tree in your yard is as classic as white picket fences and golden retrievers but these symbols of Americana are shrouded in misinformation about care and growth. Today we set the record straight on three fruit tree myths and share one Washington specific truth.

12: Into the Subterranean Feb 16, 2022

Take advantage of this lovely false spring and get outside. It's time to dig those trenches and plant your asparagus and potatoes. Prep your beds for summer color with our bold beautiful bulbs. As ever, mind your soil folks, turn it, supplement it, get it covered! It's actually pleasant even to get outside and we are full of suggestions for how you can make the most of your time in the garden.

11: Bareroot Bonanza Jan 27, 2022

10: Raingardens Jan 20, 2022

With more than six inches of rain in less than three weeks, we've got water everywhere and today we discuss how to proactively direct runoff into a "green" stormwater solution - a raingarden. With proper planning, a hearty team of helpers and a cacophony of plants, you can create a low-maintenance yard feature that benefits your landscape and your community. Let us tell you how!

9: Houseplants Part 2 - Going Bigger Jan 13, 2022

You've mastered the basics of cultivating common houseplants and are ready to get more tropical ... so how do you do it? We chat with a local plantsman who took the leap from quit his day job to pursue growing large tropical houseplants as his business. His enthusiasm is bound to boost your confidence and inspire the growth of your own collection.

8: So much about SEEDS Jan 06, 2022

The turn of the calendar year means the arrival of seed catalogs in mailboxes and seed packets in the nursery. The time to plan is upon us and today we discuss how to decide which seeds are best for your garden.

7: Festive Feast Fodder Dec 23, 2021

Want to wow your friends and family with fun facts about traditional holiday plants? Listen no further than this podcast! We've got the skinny on holly, ivy, the poop stick, Christmas cactus and the Virgin Mary's favorite plant. There's a tidbit in this Plantcast for everyone!

6: Celebrating the Solstice Dec 16, 2021

Lighten up on the shortest day of the year with the Plantcast with conversations about how to celebrate with bits of trees and a little creativity. There's also a worldwide bloom happening and we tell you how to identify it (pssst ... it's bamboo).

5: Perfectly Pretty Poinsettias Dec 09, 2021

The poinsettia is synonymous with Christmas. Erin and Justin chat with Todd Nakamura from StarLake Greenhouse, a Western Washington grower of this beautiful holiday favorite. They also discuss how to take care of this delicate flower.

4: Cut Greens Dec 02, 2021

It's time to decorate for the holidays! Locally sourced cut greens have filled our greenhouses and we talk about where they come from and what we do to spruce them up so they're ready to spruce up your home (and no, it's not all spruce). Worried about keeping your cut greens alive? We have some suggestions in prolonging their prettiness. There's also living gifts that aren't all green we tell you about some of the festive and full of color plants that make great gifts or can brighten up the long dark days of winter.

3: Dabbling in Conifers Nov 18, 2021

We dip into the world of Justin's favorite topic and the reason our beautiful state is called the Evergreen State, conifers. It's not all Christmas Trees and cedars around here. Justin tells the story of bringing in our new big crop of Mountain Hemlocks and we get advice from our certified arborist on how to keep these beautiful trees alive. We'll also tell you a little about Christmas Trees, cut and living. Wondering about your Uncle Fogy (if you weren't - I know you are now). Justin tells you how to keep that little fella happy.

2: HouseplAAAAAnts! Nov 11, 2021

Directly from our greenhouse to your living room, today we discuss houseplants.
This episode highlights four popular houseplants. Erin & Justin will tell you how to care for them, how to help them thrive indoors throughout the cold winter months and maybe, just maybe, how to say their Latin names. Trust us, these plants are easier to care for than they are to pronounce.

1: Dealing with Dirt, Garlic & Fall Color Nov 04, 2021

In our first episode, we chat about what to do in the garden this weekend to set yourself up for success in the spring, planting garlic and what to plant now to ensure stunning fall color NEXT year.

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