Good Growing

Early spring in the Midwest means unpredictable weather—and plenty of garden questions. After bouncing from 80-degree days to single-digit temperatures, Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson tackle what these wild swings mean for your landscape and gardens.This week’s episode answers attendee questions submitted at the Home Lawn & Garden Day in Bloomington–Normal. Ken and Chris discuss surprise cold snaps, summer-bound broccoli, thinking ahead to Japanese beetles, and much more. Get ready to get back in the garden as the seasons begin to shift into spring. And then back to winter. And we'll throw some summer in the mix, too. All in the span of a few days.Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W0mz6CHpuocSkip to what you want to know:00:36 Hey Ken! The weather has been crazy! Do we yet know what this means for our early-spring flowers?05:07 Questions from the Home Lawn and Garden Day in Bloomington/Normal06:35 What are some non-toxic or environmentally friendly ways to kill or keep weeds under control in garden beds?10:42 Hints on growing brassicas in our area/climate? Cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli, etc. Mine seem to fade in the heat.16:11 Drip irrigation is supposed to be better than sprinklers. Can I do it myself? How do I choose and locate the equipment needed?21:45 What tools can you not live without, and which ergonomic tools can you recommend as we age?27:14 What plants are good for repelling rabbits?30:52 How can you prevent Japanese beetles from eating your flowers without using chemicals?37:49 What supplemental lighting (type of bulb, distance from the plants & length of time to keep lighting on) is best for Phalaenopsis orchids & African violets?42:23 https://www.aos.org/all-about-orchids/growing-orchids-under-lights44:05 Thank yous and coming up next week.All About Mulch https://youtu.be/sqw4Cwr7wjoGarden Tools and Gadgets https://youtu.be/GXD12sUiI8wSupplemental Lighting for Orchids https://www.aos.org/all-about-orchids/growing-orchids-under-lightsContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Like what you see? Subscribe for more gardening tips, plant talk, and seasonal inspiration from University of Illinois Extension.Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --Prefer audio? You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Spring is on the horizon—even if the weather can’t quite make up its mind. In this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris and Ken do a little spring dreaming, sharing the flowers, plants, and woodland scenes they look forward to every year as the growing season begins.From early bloomers like crocus, daffodils, and spring ephemerals to peonies, magnolias, and everything in between, we flip through a mental (and visual) photo album of spring favorites. Along the way, we talk about why these plants matter to us, how they fit into home landscapes and natural areas, and how Midwest spring weather—from false summers to surprise snow—keeps things interesting.This is a picture‑heavy episode. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dGihbSjXDi8Skip to what you want to know:00:45 Hey Ken!02:14 Rollercoaster late winter weather. From 80 degrees to 10 degrees!05:06 Ken's favorite spring-blooming plants he looks forward to every year.   05:27    Bleeding heart   06:25    Dutchman's breeches   06:58    Columbine   09:01     Crocus   10:00    Daffodil   11:29    Peony   13:04    Spring beauty   14:57    Tulips   17:03    Common blue violet   19:11    Virginia bluebell   20:05    Wild ginger22:12 Chris' favorite spring blooming plants   22:23    Daffodil    23:57    Woodland walk through Dutchman's breeches, mayapples, and trillum   27:09    Lilac and snow in spring   29:23    Saucer magnolia   30:43    Virginia bluebells   31:50    Foamflower   32:30    Lungwort   33:09    Blueberry flowers   33:43    Rhubarb season   34:04    Tulip 'World Peace'   34:32    Unfurling ferns   34:56    Bloodroot   35:55    Peonies at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, IL38:51 Thank yous and see you next week!Spring beauty video https://youtu.be/i9JVP9wEM_M Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Like what you see? Subscribe for more gardening tips, plant talk, and seasonal inspiration from University of Illinois Extension.Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --Prefer audio? You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Crocuses may be small, but their world is anything but simple! Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast, as we dive into the big, colorful world of Crocus. Learn about identifying crocus, how to grow them in your landscape, some of the commonly grown spring and fall-blooming species, and more!    Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rX7QUDstn9E Skip to what you want to know:    02:26 – 'Crocus' that aren't Crocus  06:33 – What do 'real' Crocus look like? - flowers  11:31 – What do 'real' Crocus look like? - leaves  13:33 – What do 'real' Crocus look like? - corm  17:41 – Categorizing crocus  22:49 – General guidelines for growing crocus  28:32 – When should crocus be planted?   30:15 – Propagating crocus  35:49 – Fun fact - contractile roots  37:24 – A few last planting tips, rodents, fertilizers, and mulch  42:48 – Commonly grown species of Crocus    43:53 - Snow/golden crocus (C. chrysanthus)    47:54 - Dutch yellow/yellow crocus (C. flavus)     48:46 - Tommies (C. tommasinianus)    52:57 - Dutch/giant/spring crocus (C. vernus)     54:01 - Tuscan crocus (C. etruscus)     55:22 - Sieber’s crocus (C. sieberi)     56:51 - Cloth of Gold crocus (C. angustifolius)     57:58 - Corsican crocus (C. corsicus)   59:17 – Some fall-blooming Crocus    59:32 - Saffron/autumn crocus (C. sativus)     1:02:44 - Autumn crocus (C. kotschyanus), Hairy crocus (C. pulchellus), and Showy/Bieberstein’s crocus (C. speciosus)   1:04:17 - Can Crocus be grown in pots? When should they be divided?  1:06:03 - Pests  1:07:27 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! More information:Crocuses: A Complete Guide to the Genus by Janis RuksansNational Garden Bureau – Year of the Crocus: https://ngb.org/year-of-the-crocus/  Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

Get ready to kick off the 2026 gardening season with the Good Growing team as we unveil this year’s Grow Along plant list. In this episode, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educators Chris Enroth, Ken Johnson, and Emily Swihart walk through the selection process and describe the six unique crops chosen for the 2026 Grow Along program.Register for the Grow Along: https://go.illinois.edu/GrowAlong2026Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XUGiBe3RrFwSkip to what you want to know:1:21 Decision-making process for choosing the 2026 Grow Along seeds6:55 Rebel Starfighter Prime11:45 Poppy ‘Amazing Gray', 'Shirley Supreme', and 'Black Swan'20:18 Sweet Pepper ‘Nadapeno’24:41 Cucumber Mexican Sour Gherkin/Mouse Melon28:24 Ground Cherry35:15 Savory ‘Summer Compact'41:46 When/where can you sign up and when will seeds be shipped?Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.eduCheck out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Curious about adding something a little different to your backyard orchard? On this week’s Good Growing Podcast, we dive into the flavorful world of lesser-known fruits you can grow right here in Illinois. From early‑ripening honeyberries and fall-bearing primocane blackberries to compact bush cherries and Illinois-born PRI apples, we explore unique fruit crops that offer exciting alternatives to the usual.   Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XAVtrBFKB40   Skip to what you want to know:    01:30 – Welcome, Grant McCarty! Illinois Beginning Orchard Academy.  03:22 – Some not-so-successful crops for Grant in northern Illinois.   07:35 – Where in Illinois can we reliably grow/harvest peaches?  09:53 – Honeyberries. How to grow and what do they taste like?   14:52 – Are honeyberries problematic like many other honeysuckles?   17:32 – Primocane fruiting blackberries.  21:38 – Is the care of primocane blooming blackberries different than other blackberries?  23:45 – Is there a link to Illini Hardy blackberry?  27:20 – Bush cherries. How are they different than cherry trees?  33:57 – Apples. What are PRI apples?  38:51 – High-density apples  44:31 – Any PRI resources out there?  48:10 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! More information:Overview of Honeyberry from University of MinnesotaHaskap/Honeyberry, University of Wisconsin-MadisonHaskap/Honeyberry-University of Saskatchewan ResourcesThe PRI Apple Breeding ProgramContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.eduGrant McCarty: gmccarty@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

Join University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator Chris Enroth on a winter walk through the prairie as he demonstrates how to overseed an existing native prairie by hand. Learn why winter is the perfect time for prairie overseeding, how they select their seed that is spread, and how to mix seed with a carrier for even spreading. Chris explains practical tips for seed collection, hand sowing methods, using locally sourced seed from community seed shares, and how overseeding supports long-term prairie health. Perfect for native plant lovers or anyone curious about hands-on conservation work that can be done in the winter. Tune in, learn the process, and discover how hand-sown prairie seeds can transform local landscapes over time.Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nF6gGjGbjxURezab MixGolden Alexander - Zizia aureaHairy Mountain Mint - Pycnanthemum pilosumFoxglove beardtongue - Penstemon digitalisGrass-leaved goldenrod - Euthamia graminifoliaSlender Mountain Mint - Pycnanthemum tenuifoliumShowy goldenrod - Solidago speciosaRattlesnake Master - Eryngium yuccifoliumMissouri Ironweed - Vernonia missuricaRigid Goldenrod - Oligoneuron rigidumPrairie Coreopsis - Coreopsis palmataTall Coreopsis - Coreopsis tripterisVirginia Spiderwort - Tradescantia virginianaYellow Crownbeard - Verbesina helianthoidesWild Senna - Senna hebecarpaBlack-eyed Susan - Rudbeckia hirta Evening Primrose - Oenothera biennisFalse Sunflower - Heliopsis helianthoidesPurple Coneflower - Echinacea purpureaContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Feeling a little low this winter? You’re not alone. This week on the Good Growing Podcast, Family Life Educator Tessa Hobbs‑Curley joins us to discuss Seasonal Affective Disorder. Learn about what it is, how it differs from the usual winter blues, coping strategies, and more. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NdOQ8xNM9aI Skip to what you want to know:    03:14 – What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? How is it diagnosed?  06:14 – How is SAD different from just feeling bummed about the weather?  10:11 – How is fall/winter SAD different than spring/summer SAD?  12:35 – Do certain groups, such as farmers or gardeners, experience SAD differently?  19:42 – What about children and SAD?  22:46 – How does less green in our environment affect mental health?  32:31 – What are some strategies to help us cope with SAD?  45:56 – Resources to learn more about SAD  47:56 – A little more on light therapy  51:04 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! More information:Mao Clinic: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)National Institute of Mental Health: Seasonal Affective DisorderIllinois Extension: How to manage the winter bluesSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Seasonal Affective DisorderMental Health America: Seasonal Affective Disorder  Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

How do trees survive freezing temperatures without turning into popsicles? Well, they do kind of turn into popsicles, but they control which part freezes. In this Gardenbite of the Good Growing Podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth breaks down the fascinating science behind how trees and other plants make it through harsh winter conditions.Whether you’re a gardener, nature lover, or just curious about the secret life of plants, this episode gives you a clear and engaging look at what happens inside trees during winter—and how you can help prepare your landscape plants to survive cold stress.

You’ve probably seen Ficus in living rooms, lobbies, or maybe even grown one yourself, but how much do you really know about these iconic houseplants? Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we explore the surprisingly diverse world of Ficus. From weeping figs and rubber trees to creeping figs and giant banyans, we dive into their history, care, different species, and more!  Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2hx5VXZrJmg Skip to what you want to know:    00:41 – There are a lot of ficus species!  02:12 – Ficus species native to the United States, and what are strangler figs.  07:08 – What are Ficus?  12:25 – General care of Ficus houseplants.  22:23 – Common Ficus houseplants    23:38 – Ficus benjamina (weeping fig)    27:14 – Ficus elastica (rubber tree)    33:15 – Ficus lyrata (fiddle leaf fig)    36:03 – Ficus benghalensis (banyan, Ficus Audrey)    42:35 – Ficus maclellandii (banana/long leaf fig, Ficus Alli)    45:31 – Ficus microcarpa (Ginseng ficus, Chinese banyan, Indian laurel)    49:09 – Ficus pumila (creeping fig)  53:08 – Ficus propagation  56:37 – Less commonly encountered ficus houseplants  59:12 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! More information:National Garden BureauFicus: Trees and Vine of Florida (University of Florida)Gods and Monsters: The Genus Ficus (Brooklyn Botanic Garden) Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

Welcome back to the Good Growing Podcast! In today’s episode, we’re sharing a special throwback conversation with Dr. Michael Ward, ornithologist at the University of Illinois. We’re answering real homeowner questions about backyard birds—everything from bird feeders to territorial cardinals to preventing window collisions.If you’re wondering what to feed birds, how to clean feeders, why birds hit windows, or how to attract more colorful birds to your yard, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you create a healthier, more bird‑friendly backyard.Watch this on YouTube https://youtu.be/jKHrH_eeGFoThe full conversation with Dr. Ward https://youtu.be/HxZ3HiI69hs Skip to what you want to know:01:30 How do we discourage barn swallows from building nests underneath overhangs?03:52 Should we feed birds bread, crackers, and other human food?05:10 Is there anything we can do to stop birds from hitting our windows?07:33 What can we do about a territorial cardinal? 08:47 Should we feed birds all year? When is the best time to feed birds?10:33 I only get sparrows at my feeders. How do I attract more types of birds?12:22 Do we need to provide birds with water in the winter, or do they use snow?13:18 How often and with what should we clean birdfeeders?Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

It’s a new year, which means a new gardening season will be here before we know it. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we look back on our most popular episodes and standout moments from 2025. From battling mosquitoes to celebrating pollinator plants like milkweed and mountain mint, we revisit the topics that sparked the most conversation. Plus, we share some of our plans for 2026, from expanding native plantings to growing food and flowers for community donation, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-1T-xDTG_W0 Skip to what you want to know:    01:30 – Most popular podcasts of 2025  09:07 – Our favorite episodes and things we learned  17:43 – Reflecting on the 2025 growing season  30:53 – Looking ahead to the 2026 growing season  46:41 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Popular episodes and videos:Clustered Mountain Mint - Perennial Plant of the YearGet to Know Asclepias (Milkweed) 2025 plant of the yearGardenbite: The life and bites of buffalo gnatsSummer Mosquito Control: What Really Works to Keep Bites AwayVegetable gardening in small spacesCompost your way: Passive and active composting stylesChamomile: Discover 2025's herb of the yearPeonies: Beauty, history, and backyard bloomsThe cranberry story: Native roots and modern agricultureDiscovering Dogwoods: From trees to shrubs and even groundcovers!Answering your spring gardening questionsFall gardening questions answeredSpring beauty in the landscape   Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.eduEmily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of American persimmons (Diospyros virginiana)! In this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris, Ken, and special guest Nick Frillman explore everything from tree identification and growing tips to wildlife connections and seed stratification.We’ll bust common myths—like whether persimmons need frost to ripen—and uncover quirky folklore, including the famous fork, knife, or spoon winter prediction.Skip to what you want to know:00:33 Hey Ken!01:28 Where can we find persimmon growing naturally in Illinois?05:31 Sprouting persimmon seeds.07:51 What animals are eating and moving the seeds around Illinois?08:49 Folklore: Do persimmons require a frost to ripen?10:15 Can persimmon seeds predict the future winter weather?15:07 Other persimmon myths/facts16:56 Persimmon is the sweetest fruit native to Illinois.17:54 Where can we go to learn more about persimmons?19:18 Svannah Institute persimmon breeding19:29 University of Connecticut Climate Smart Orchard Handout19:50 Thank yous and Happy New Year!Growing and Enjoying Pawpaw and Persimmon with Patrick Byers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy6aZdQ5FokCliff England - persimmon breederJames (Jim) Claypool - persimmon breeder (deceased)Cornell - http://www.hort.cornell.edu/fruit/mfruit/persimmons.htmlSavanna Institute - https://www.savannainstitute.org/persimmon/ Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Nick Frillman frillma2@illinois.eduCheck out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

From pines and spruces to firs and cedars, evergreens are an important part of many landscapes in Illinois. Join us as we explore what makes these plants unique, how they thrive in tough conditions, and why they’re holiday favorites. Plus, we share some tips for caring for evergreens, choosing the right species for your landscape, and creative ways to repurpose your Christmas tree. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5y6VlnF24go Skip to what you want to know:    00:34 – Welcome. Talking evergreens and episode 300!  03:02 – Definition time: evergreen, conifer, deciduous conifer, etc.  06:51 – What is the benefit of retaining leaves (being evergreen)?  08:59 – Common evergreens in Illinois landscapes    09:17 – Pines    10:52 – Spruce and fir trees      14:58 – Unusual fir Christmas tree problems no scent and weak limbs      17:26 – Is a Douglas-fir a true fir tree?    19:15 – When a pinecone isn't a pinecone, differentiating conifer cones    21:10 – Cypress family - bald cypress, arborvitae, eastern red cedar    25:38 – Holly    26:50 – Yew  30:45 – Planting evergreens  36:02 – Christmas trees as fire hazards  38:26 – Christmas trees after the holidays  41:46 – Scientific names  43:27 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! More information:Is It Pine, Spruce, or Fir? - https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-80  Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

Persimmons are sweet, native to Illinois, and sometimes astringent! In this episode of Good Growing, Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson sit down with Nick Frillman, Local Foods and Small Farms Educator, to uncover everything you need to know about persimmons. From American vs. Asian cultivars to tips for growing them in Illinois, we cover cultivars, pollination, pruning, and harvesting tricks to avoid that dreaded cottonmouth. Skip to what you want to know:00:39 Hey Ken! Have we ever eaten a persimmon?01:42 Welcome Nick!03:24 What is the difference between the Asian and American persimmon?08:10 Which type of persimmon is grown in Illinois?12:01 What is the comparison of astringent vs. non-astringent persimmon?16:47 What do we need to know about sourcing persimmon trees?19:45 What are some improved cultivars of persimmon available for sale?20:09 https://nafex.org/21:46 How are these trees sold? Bareroot or potted?22:45 American persimmons sold for deer hunting23:54 Where do persimmons need to be planted?  24:28 Chris Evans winter tree ID webinar https://youtu.be/PuAlyp9PamA?si=bdcAOXUjY-NUIe09&t=317625:52 How does pollination work with persimmons? 30:39 What type of pruning is needed to grow persimmons?33:31 What other maintenance needs to occur when growing persimmons? Fertilizer? Irrigation?35:01 What pests can be problems with persimmons?36:39 How do you know when persimmons are ripe and ready to pick?41:16 What about the dropped persimmon fruit on the ground?44:39 How should we store persimmons?48:03 The difference in flavor and texture of American and Asian persimmons50:03 What are some processing methods for preserving persimmons?53:03 Thank yous and coming up next week!Chris Evans winter tree ID webinar https://youtu.be/PuAlyp9PamA?si=bdcAOXUjY-NUIe09&t=3176Growing and Enjoying Pawpaw and Persimmon with Patrick Byers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy6aZdQ5FokContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Holly isn’t just a festive decoration; it’s a plant with a rich history that can be incorporated into almost any garden. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast, as we explore the fascinating world of holly (Ilex spp.), from its cultural significance in ancient traditions to its role in modern landscapes. Learn about different species, tips for planting and care, how to ensure those iconic red berries appear, and even some surprising uses for holly. Whether you’re decking the halls or planning your garden, this episode has everything you need to know about this holiday favorite.  Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ymwu5eIsyaw Skip to what you want to know:    00:37 - Welcome, Ken. Talking holly this week.  01:47 – Holly mythology  05:10 - General growing conditions and care of holly  07:47 - Holly are dioecious, what does that mean? How does that affect pollination and fruit production?  13:21 – Pruning hollies  16:19 – Holly species (some)    17:28 - Ilex glabra – Inkberry    22:26 - Ilex crenata - Japanese holly    26:06 - Ilex decidua – Possumhaw    28:07 - Ilex verticilata – Winterberry    31:39 - Ilex x meserve - Blue holly    35:05 - Ilex aquifolium - English holly    36:58 - Ilex opaca - American holly    41:00 - Ilex cornuta - Chinese holly      42:56 – ‘Nellie Stevens’      45:59 – Ilex cornuta ‘Burford’  47:17 – Holly and wildlife  50:11 – Tea made from holly and a taste test  58:09 – Holly and deer and rabbits  59:06 - Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu  Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 

 It’s the most wonderful time of the year, if you’re battling invasive bush honeysuckle! In this Garden Bite, Chris from the Good Growing podcast walks you through effective late-fall control methods. Learn how to identify honeysuckle when everything else has gone dormant, why timing matters for herbicide applications, and the step-by-step process for the cut-stump treatment using glyphosate. From hand-pulling small plants to tackling large shrubs with saws and chainsaws, this episode covers the tools, techniques, and tips you need to reclaim your woodland understory. Grab your gloves and join us as we keep slaying that honeysuckle! Watch on YouTube! https://youtu.be/fDynOj5pOOg Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk--You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Have you ever had a container planter with perennials and excitedly waited for them to resume growth in the spring, but it never happened? Perennials in pots are subjected to much harsher conditions compared to those in the soil. Because of this, even if they are hardy to our area, they can be damaged and killed. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to help these plants survive the winter, so we can enjoy them come spring.   Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CUbR7Dt7uws‌ Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Discover the fascinating world of cranberries in this episode of Good Growing. Horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson explore the history, science, and cultivation of one of North America’s few commercially grown native fruits. Learn how cranberries evolved from wild bog plants to a global industry, why they float during wet harvest, and the unique challenges growers face in managing seasonal demand. From Indigenous traditions to modern farming techniques, this episode dives deep into cranberry botany, sustainability, and the economics behind your favorite holiday berry. Skip to what you want to know:00:39 Hey Ken! Ken loves cranberries and the holidays.01:26 We studied for this one, promise!01:56 What are cranberries? A look into history.04:23 America's Founding Fruit: The Cranberry14:57 Chris' favorite quote, cranberries are like cats16:12 The anatomy of a cranberry. Why do they float?18:34 Taste testing our fresh cranberries. 19:41 Difference between dry and wet harvest of cranberries26:04 Boom and bust of the cranberry market28:15 A year of growing cranberries from a farmer's perspective - Planting cranberries32:01 What does a cranberry field look like, and where do they get the water?33:31 Cranberries in the spring planting, irrigation needs, and pollination36:35 Summer in the cranberry field - ripening36:53 Fall in the cranberry field -harvest37:32 Wet harvest39:23 Dry Harvest40:48 The cranberry fields in the winter - protecting from winter injury44:59 Can you grow the American cranberry in the backyard?46:59 https://www.cranberries.org/bog-cup-activity53:11 Thank yous and coming up next weekCranberry Pumpkin Muffins https://eat-move-save.extension.illinois.edu/eat/recipes/cranberry-pumpkin-muffinsCranberries https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2019-11-12-cranberries America’s Founding Fruit: The Cranberry in a New Environment, by Susan Playfair https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/distributed/A/bo44311431.htmlContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

In this episode of Good Growing, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive into the latest updates to the Illinois Exotic Weed Act, which now includes nine newly listed invasive plant species. From the notorious Tree of Heaven to the sneaky Sericea Lespedeza. Plus, a tree many people have been waiting to be added to the list - Callery pear!Skip to what you want to know:00:30 Hey Ken! Are we done gardening yet? What we're doing with all our ginger.03:03 News from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources on 9 new invasive plant species04:36 Tree of Heaven08:11 Garlic mustard10:23 Leafy spurge12:58 Sericea lespedeza16:06 Japanese stiltgrass18:05 Amur corktree20:01 Black and pale swallow-wort22:22 Callery Pear27:54 What does this mean to be listed as an invasive species?37:37 What is a native plant?39:59 Do other countries deal with invasive species?42:37 Thanks yous and coming up next week!Illinois Extension Press Release: Nine new invasive species regulated in Illinois with expansion of Exotic Weeds Act https://extension.illinois.edu/news-releases/nine-new-invasive-species-regulated-illinois-expansion-exotic-weeds-actUSDA Plant Guide: Leafy Spurge https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/idpmcpg12069.pdfIllinois Regulations Regarding Invasive Plant Species https://extension.illinois.edu/invasives/regulationsContact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribeAny products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

It’s a Halloween Spooktacular! While they are usually overlooked, parasites are all around us. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we explore the complex, surprisingly common, and sometimes creepy world of parasites and parasitoids with Dr. Kacie Athey. Learn how these tiny creatures attack and manipulate their hosts, the difference between parasites, parasitoids, and diseases, discover mind-controlling fungi that infect insects, and more! Watch us on YouTube: Skip to what you want to know:    02:47 - Welcome, Dr. Kacie Athey!  04:46 – What are parasites? How are they different than diseases?  06:21 - What are some parasites we commonly encounter or affect humans?  09:59 - Parasites 'in the garden' - parasitoid wasps  17:22 - Parasitoid wasps and hornworm caterpillars  23:30 - Parasitoid wasps and aphids  25:37 - The (sometimes) bizarre world of hyperparasitoids.  37:33 - Cordyceps - The Last of Us comes to insects  44:28 - A few more examples of parasites manipulating host behavior  48:44 - A few parasitic plants  54:37 - Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Alabagrus kaciejoaeMistletoe Show: Learn about this holiday parasitic plant  Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingSubscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.  Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk --You can find us on most podcast platforms.  iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377     Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR    Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/    Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/    Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902    Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us