To celebrate Episode 400 of the Garden Basics podcast, we present the four most listened-to garden topics in the history of the podcast. Topics include: starting a victory garden; growing caneberries; container gardening basics; and planting and growing shade trees. This edition runs a bit (!) longer than normal...over two hours. Move over Joe Rogan, this one is worth a long summer road trip! Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden B...
Jul 11, 2025•2 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 28
Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: seed packets Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Where are all the Ripe Tomatoes?”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Botanical Interests Seed Company Glossary A...
Jul 04, 2025•37 min•Season 6Ep. 27
In this podcast, you’ll hear from these U.C. Sacramento County Master Gardeners and their favorite aromatic plants: Collete Armao - Scented Geraniums Dan Vierria - the Tuberose Kathy Hellesen - Lemon Verbena Greta Lacin - Sage (Salvia), especially sages for cooking Teri Van Airsdale - the banana shrub (Magnolia figo) And bonus audio - an interview with Master Rosarian Charlotte Owendyk about her 10 most favorite fragrant roses, including Julia Child Firefighter Francis Meilland Memorial Day Pope...
Jun 27, 2025•31 min•Season 6Ep. 26
Master gardeners share lessons from their mistakes, covering topics like thinning fruit, plant spacing, and pest management, highlighting gardening as a continuous learning experience filled with humor and growth. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: crowded fruit on a donut peach tree Links:...
Jun 20, 2025•34 min•Season 6Ep. 25
Today, we dive into the world of cucumbers, the second most popular crop among backyard gardeners. Debbie Flower shares her expertise on cucumber varieties, growing techniques, and addressing common issues like bitterness. We discuss the importance of starting with fresh seeds, maintaining warm soil, and ensuring consistent moisture for optimal growth. Debbie also explains how to identify and manage male and female flowers, trellising for space optimization, as well as pest and disease managemen...
Jun 13, 2025•28 min•Season 6Ep. 24
We explore the concept of a survival garden, focusing on growing nutritious crops that enhance healthy living. We redefine "survival garden" as a means to reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods while improving dietary intake. Our discussion includes practical tips for cultivating calorie-rich vegetable staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, evaluating their yields and family preferences. The episode covers specific planting techniques for various vegetables, along with our personal gardening ...
Jun 06, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 6Ep. 23
Episode 394 features climate scientist Daniel Swain of Weather West and UCANR discussing the link between gardening and weather patterns. He provides tips on monitoring conditions, setting up weather stations, and adapting practices amid National Weather Service budget cuts. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTub...
May 30, 2025•49 min•Season 6Ep. 22
Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower share tips for managing pests like whiteflies and slugs, highlighting organic solutions and beneficial insects to help you reclaim your garden. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: Whiteflies on a Citrus Leaf (Photo: Flickr/epitree) Links: “Beyond the Garden Basi...
May 23, 2025•33 min•Season 6Ep. 21
Debbie Arrington of the Sacramento Rose Society club introduces Master Gardener Farmer Fred and horticulture professor Debbie Flower at a recent meeting of the club. Fred and Debbie don't necessarily talk about roses, though. They share 10 essential tips to boost your overall gardening success—from innovative seed germination techniques to managing soil health and tackling invasive pests. This lively discussion emphasizes daily garden observation and sustainable practices, ensuring your garden t...
May 16, 2025•33 min•Season 6Ep. 20
If you love melons, this episode is a must-listen! In Episode 391 of the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast, we chat with Gail Pothour from the Sacramento County Master Gardener Program about growing mouthwatering melons at home. Discover tips on germination, pest management, and the benefits of harvesting at peak ripeness for maximum flavor. Gail also shares her unique trellising techniques and highlights exciting melon varieties like Lambton and Kajari. Tune in for a juicy journey into the...
May 09, 2025•35 min•Season 6Ep. 19
Get ready to spice up your garden in Episode 390 of Garden Basics with Farmer Fred! Join Master Gardener Gail Pothour as we explore the vibrant world of peppers—discussing their health benefits, essential growing tips, and delicious culinary uses. From sweet varieties like the Gypsy to mildly hot options like the Mariachi, you’ll discover peppers that will light up your garden and your meals! Packed with practical advice for both seasoned pros and newbies, this episode is your go-to guide for th...
May 02, 2025•48 min•Season 6Ep. 18
In Episode 389 of *Garden Basics with Farmer Fred*, learn to deter pesky squirrels and manage soil moisture. Farmer Fred, Debbie Flower, and Steve Zien share tips on protecting gardens and optimizing watering techniques. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: Squirrel! (Photo by Joe Mabel) Link...
Apr 25, 2025•43 min•Season 6Ep. 17
Master Gardener Gail Pothour shares tips on growing summer and winter squash. We cover variety selection, planting, pest management, harvesting, and storage of squash to boost your yield. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: Male and Female Squash Flowers Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter (by becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support t...
Apr 18, 2025•44 min•Season 6Ep. 16
America’s Favorite College Horticulture Professor, Debbie Flower, and I answers questions about the importance of building “reaction wood” in seedlings, greenhouse airflow, scale pest management for fruit trees, and the benefits of organic mulch. Once again, we’re here to promote proactive gardening practices for healthier gardens. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and epi...
Apr 11, 2025•34 min•Season 6Ep. 15
Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower provide practical advice on cultivating table and wine grapes, focusing on the essentials such as sunlight, well-drained soil and variety selection. Also: peach leaf curl controls, prematurely falling figs, no-till gardening benefits. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) P...
Apr 04, 2025•35 min•Season 6Ep. 14
Prepare to be inspired as we dive into a creative and sustainable approach to gardening with Sacramento County Master Gardener Gail Pothour. We explore how to turn everyday household items and scrap materials into stunning and functional garden art. Whether it’s using an old manhole cover as a striking stepping stone or transforming downed trees into rustic pathways, Gail shares her innovative methods for infusing charm and creativity into any garden space. We explore the many ways she's embrace...
Mar 28, 2025•31 min•Season 6Ep. 13
Essential tips for beginner gardeners, focusing on starting small, plant selection, spacing and companion planting, along with maintenance strategies and the value of involving children and keeping a gardening diary. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: An all-container first garden Links: “B...
Mar 21, 2025•57 min•Season 6Ep. 12
If you’re a tomato-head, this is the episode for you! We dive into the world of tomatoes with Don Shor from Redwood Barn Nursery in Davis, California. We discuss our favorite tomato varieties to plant for the 2025 gardening season. What’s new and intriguing? What’s old and good? Plus, Don has tips for choosing reliable varieties if you are new to tomato gardening, as well as good advice to get those young plants off to a healthier start. It’s Episode 383, The 2025 Tomato Preview Show! Previous e...
Mar 14, 2025•53 min•Season 6Ep. 11
In this episode: • The benefits of delayed winter pruning of fruit trees, with orchardist and Master Gardener Quentyn Young. • Controlling ants in raised garden beds, with America’s Favorite Retired College Horticulture Professor, Debbie Flower. • Protecting your garlic crop in winter weather. • Redwood tree roots vs. raised garden beds. Guess who wins? How to build up your defenses against tree roots. With Debbie Flower. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts...
Mar 07, 2025•41 min•Season 6Ep. 10
Tips for protecting your backyard chickens from the bird flu. Compost for potted plants. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Now on YouTube (audio) Pictured: Backyard Chicken Coop (Wikimedia Commons/Josh Larios) Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/ Previous...
Feb 28, 2025•40 min•Season 6Ep. 9
Today: Practical flower seed starting techniques, such as the critical timing for beginning various flowers and the correct depth for planting those seeds. And, Debbie Flower shares with us her trick for careful watering of newly planted seeds. Also, she has important tips when transplanting those young flowering plants into the garden. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts an...
Feb 21, 2025•37 min•Season 6Ep. 8
We talk with Diane Blazek, the executive director of All-America Selections (AAS), exploring the newly announced 2025 winners of top-performing garden plant varieties. Each year, AAS winners undergo rigorous trials, evaluated by expert judges, to ensure they will thrive in diverse U.S. and Canadian climates. Diane highlights standout varieties like the high-yielding tomato variety, “Tonatico”, the sweet and crunchy “Pick-N-Pop” pepper, and the visually striking “Murasaki Fioretto” cauliflower. W...
Feb 14, 2025•48 min•Season 6Ep. 7
We tackle the management of four-legged garden fruit tree pests with Debbie Flower. We discuss listener concerns about squirrels, raccoons, and rats, exploring protective measures and the importance of exclusion methods. Our conversation also covers strategies for deterring deer and effective, humane rat control tactics. We share practical tips for ongoing maintenance and highlight the relationship between gardening and wildlife, encouraging listeners to check the Beyond the Garden Basics newsle...
Feb 07, 2025•34 min•Season 6Ep. 6
Want bountiful tomatoes and beautiful roses in 2025? Today, we cover essential tips for starting tomato seeds and winter rose pruning. Debbie Flower shares insights on timing for planting tomato seeds and the benefits of starting them indoors. We discuss nurturing seedlings and the advantages of hybrid varieties for beginners. Master Rosarian Charlotte Owendyk explains winter pruning techniques for healthier rose growth this spring. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and ...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 5
Episode 376 of the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast offers more sustainable gardening tips for all gardeners. We cover managing hackberry aphids using less toxic methods with Debbie Flower; growing tips and benefits of the herb, self-heal with Master Gardener and herb specialist Ruth Ostroff; and advice from Organic Consultant Steve Zien, using fallen leaves for winter soil nourishment. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden B...
Jan 24, 2025•32 min•Season 6Ep. 4
We delve into cool season gardening with Master Gardener Gail Pothour and retired college horticultural professor Debbie Flower. We explore best practices for growing peas, focusing on varieties like sugar snap and snow peas, while discussing germination tips, planting times related to frost dates, and inventive trellising methods using materials such as bicycle wheels. Shifting to tulips, we address a listener question about improperly stored sprouted bulbs. Debbie shares her expertise on prope...
Jan 17, 2025•32 min•Season 6Ep. 3
Tips for starting pepper seeds. How to care for pepper seedlings. With Debbie Flower. Protecting your yard and home from wildfire. With Kevin Marini, University of California Defensible Space advisor. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and accurate, human-reviewed transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net . Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout . Pictured: Pepper Seed Packets Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics”...
Jan 10, 2025•1 hr 37 min•Season 6Ep. 2
We're kicking off the 2025 season with the garden interviews that were the Top 3 topics that drew the most interest from you, the listeners, in 2024. Debbie Flower and I have the tips to start your first garden, along with advice for anyone who wants a successful. Blueberry experts, including Master Gardeners and professional blueberry growers, delve into the knowledge you need for growing the best blueberries ever. And, we talk with noted doctor and gardener, The Fresh Physician, Doctor Laura V...
Jan 03, 2025•2 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 1
In this episode, we reflect on the ups and downs of Northern California’s 2024 tomato gardening season, with Don Shor of Redwood Barn Nursery in Davis, California. We share insights on the successful varieties, such as Rugby, Chef’s Choice, and Jet Star. But we also point out the ones that struggled, and failed, during 2024’s record breaking July heat waves here (I’m looking at you, heirlooms!). We explore the effects of weather on tomato growth, including coping with extreme heat, and a compari...
Dec 27, 2024•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 74
In today’s episode, we explore America’s top 10 homegrown vegetables. We are guided by Master Gardener and vegetable expert Gail Pothour. From tomatoes—America’s favorite, with 86% of gardeners growing them—to cucumbers, sweet peppers, hot peppers, squash, beans, lettuce, peas and more, we cover essential tips for garden success in your backyard. In Part 1: Tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers, beans, and carrots. In Part 2 (after the commercial break): summer squash, onions, hot peppers, lettuce,...
Dec 20, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 5Ep. 73
