In The Garden with Ron Wilson

Ron Wilson chats with Laura Conkle, the executive director of America in Bloom, about their mission to help communities become their best selves. Laura shares the organization's 25-year journey, from its humble beginnings to its current impact on communities across the country. They discuss the benefits of community beautification, the importance of economic development, and the role of horticulture professionals in making a difference. With a new program launching in 2026, Laura explains how communities can get involved and make their mark.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# From Greens to Garden Catalogs: Your Winter Gardening GuideEver wondered how to extend your gardening season into the winter months? In this episode, we explore the surprising cold-hardiness of greens like collards and kale, which can thrive well into the holiday season with minimal protection. Host Ron Wilson shares nostalgic memories of his grandmother's open-hearth fireplace cooking that made even children crave collard greens, while offering practical advice for protecting plants as temperatures drop.## Timestamps:- 3:45 - What to do with plants you haven't planted yet as temperatures drop- 8:30 - Final lawn fertilization timing and frozen ground warnings- 12:20 - Growing cold-tolerant greens through winter- 17:30 - Must-have garden catalogs for winter planning- 22:15 - Breaking up crusty mulch before winter- 25:45 - Tree protection against buck rubs and frost crack- 28:30 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer damage## Key Takeaways:- Cool-season greens like collards, kale and mustard greens can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F without damage- Create simple protection using straw bales, plastic covers, or hoop houses to extend harvest into December- Johnny's Seeds catalog offers excellent resources for year-round greens growing, including microgreens for indoor winter production- Crusty mulch should be broken up before winter to allow water penetration- Install tree trunk protectors to prevent damage from deer, rabbits, and frost crackDon't let winter stop your gardening journey! Whether you're planning next year's garden with catalogs or harvesting fresh greens from your protected beds, there are plenty of ways to keep your green thumb active during the colder months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Botanical Banter Podcast: Gardening Insights with Rita and Ron Step into the world of gardening wisdom as Rita Heikenfeld, an Appalachian herbal scholar and media personality, joins host Ron Wilson for a delightful conversation about seasonal gardening and cooking. From transforming holiday leftovers into gourmet salads to discovering the surprising year-round benefits of holiday spices like cinnamon and ginger, this episode offers practical advice for both your garden and kitchen. The conversation blooms with insights about growing and cooking collard greens, storing Jerusalem artichokes, and the surprising health benefits of common holiday spices that do more than just flavor your food. Rita shares her expertise on how these aromatic additions can boost your mood and support your immune system throughout the year. Later, arborist Ron Rothhaas joins to tackle tree care questions, offering expert advice on ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer damage, selecting the best street trees, and why winter is the ideal time for oak tree pruning. The episode wraps with a weather forecast that has gardeners preparing for potential winter storms. ## Timestamps:04:13 - Rita's recipe for collard greens with "pot liquor"07:32 - Jerusalem artichoke storage tips09:15 - Leftover turkey Cobb salad recipe12:30 - Holiday spices with year-round benefits14:25 - Cinnamon varieties and health benefits16:20 - Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties27:45 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer31:35 - Best trees for street planting34:20 - Winter oak tree pruning benefits38:30 - Winter weather forecast for gardeners Whether you're looking to make the most of your holiday leftovers, understand the medicinal properties of your spice rack, or prepare your trees for winter, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can use immediately in both your garden and kitchen. Subscribe now for more seasonal gardening wisdom!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Yard Boy's Winter Garden WisdomSettle in for an insightful journey through winter garden preparation with Ron Wilson, your personal "yard boy." In this episode, Ron tackles essential seasonal tasks from protecting trees against winter damage to deterring hungry wildlife from your prized plants. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just looking to keep your landscape thriving through the cold months, Ron's practical advice will help you prepare for whatever winter brings.Ron shares his expertise on protecting thin-barked trees from frost damage and critter attacks, emphasizing the importance of proper trunk guards and mulching techniques. You'll learn about innovative natural repellents including wool pellets with lanolin that research shows outperforms many commercial options for keeping deer at bay.**Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**- 3:45 - Tree protection strategies: trunk guards and proper mulching techniques- 8:20 - Effective deer and critter repellents, including the surprising effectiveness of wool pellets- 15:30 - Overwintering arborvitae and troubleshooting common issues- 22:15 - Growing fig trees in containers and winterizing techniques- 35:40 - Christmas tree selection and care tips for maximum freshness- 42:30 - Using sheep wool as a garden amendment for moisture retentionFrom fig tree overwintering to Christmas tree selection, this episode is packed with seasonal wisdom to help your garden thrive. Ron even shares insights about innovative gardening products like sheep wool amendments that not only improve soil quality but also help repel pests naturally.Ready to make the most of your yard even as temperatures drop? Tune in to learn how small efforts now can protect your garden investment and set you up for success in the spring!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Gardening and Home Improvement Show with Ron Wilson and Gary SullivanStep into the world of gardening and home improvement with Ron Wilson and special guest Gary Sullivan. In this engaging episode, Ron reveals the plant pick of the week - the Poinsettia, once America's #1 potted plant with a rich history as both a holiday decoration and landscape specimen. Gary Sullivan joins to share expert insights on home maintenance, discussing everything from the proper use of spray foam insulation to the importance of annual attic inspections. Their casual, friendly banter creates an informative yet entertaining atmosphere as they exchange Thanksgiving stories and seasonal home care tips.## Key Moments and Takeaways**3:15** - Poinsettia history: Learn how this holiday favorite was once the most produced potted plant in the United States and grows as a perennial "weed" in southern countries**8:40** - Spray foam insulation discussion: Gary explains whole house encapsulation trends and warns about improper DIY foam application**14:20** - Attic inspection importance: Why checking your attic annually can reveal problems from poor ventilation to animal nests**16:30** - Winter weather tips: Using windy days to identify drafts and energy loss points in your home**19:45** - Seasonal planting reminder: Despite colder weather, it's still a good time to plant treesReady to tackle your own home and garden projects? Tune in for practical advice from these seasoned experts who make home improvement accessible and enjoyable. Call in with your questions at 1-800-823-TALK and make this weekend your most productive yet!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# A Weather-Watching Arborist Shares Tree Wisdom and Winter Forecasts In this engaging episode, renowned arborist Ron Rothhaas brings his expertise to the garden, discussing everything from the fate of recovering ash trees to the best choices for street tree plantings. With his unique combination of tree knowledge and meteorological insight, Ron offers practical advice for homeowners while sharing his predictions for an unusually snowy December across the Midwest and Northeast. ## Episode Highlights: **3:15** - Emerald ash borer update: Ron explains that while the insect remains present in smaller numbers, treatment protocols have been extended from every two years to every three years, and some untreated ash trees show surprising resilience. **9:20** - Street tree selection: Discussion of infrastructure damage from tree roots, with recommendations for black gum and ginkgo over red maple in limited planting spaces. **12:05** - Winter pruning benefits: Why arborists prefer dormant-season pruning for oaks to prevent oak wilt disease, plus structural pruning tips for young trees. **18:40** - Winter weather outlook: Detailed forecast of an active storm pattern bringing significant snow to the Midwest, with Cincinnati potentially facing accumulating snow by Tuesday morning. **21:30** - White Christmas predictions: Ron breaks from his usual "50% chance" stance, suggesting significantly higher odds this year for the Ohio Valley and Northeast regions. Whether you're managing trees on your property or preparing for winter weather, Ron combines scientific knowledge with practical experience to help you make informed decisions. Listen now to benefit from his decades of expertise in both arboriculture and meteorology!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Dive into the Garden: A Seasonal Chat with Herbal Expert Rita Nader HikenfeldAre you ready for a cozy, informative chat about seasonal herbs, holiday spices, and post-Thanksgiving culinary delights? Join host Ron Wilson and special guest Rita Nader Hikenfeld, an award-winning Appalachian herbal scholar and media personality, as they explore everything from collard greens to holiday spices with surprising health benefits.This episode takes you on a journey through winter gardening wisdom and festive cooking tips that will transform your holiday leftovers and boost your mood with aromatic spices that have been cherished for centuries.## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**2:15** - Rita shares her secrets for cooking collard and mustard greens the traditional way, with ham bones and red pepper flakes for a hearty winter dish**4:30** - Jerusalem artichokes storage tips: treat them like potatoes but use within a month for best results**5:45** - Post-Thanksgiving leftover recipe: Transform your turkey or ham into a gourmet Cobb salad with two dressing options including Nell's famous blue cheese dressing**10:20** - Holiday spices with year-round benefits:- Cinnamon: Supports blood sugar balance and boosts immunity- Ginger: Aids digestion and reduces inflammation- Cloves: Soothes toothaches and enhances immunity**13:45** - Tips for storing and testing spices for maximum flavor and health benefitsWant to learn more about traditional cooking methods, how to repurpose holiday leftovers, or the surprising health benefits of your favorite seasonal spices? This episode is packed with practical wisdom that connects ancient traditions with modern wellness. Visit abouteating.com for more of Rita's recipes and herbal knowledge!Listen now and discover how these seasonal ingredients can transform your holiday cooking while supporting your health all year long.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Podcast Gardening: From Christmas Trees to Thanksgiving TraditionsDive into the festive season with Ron Wilson and Joe Strecker as they share invaluable gardening wisdom just before Thanksgiving. This episode captures the excitement of holiday preparations while delivering practical advice for plant lovers during the transitional season.The hosts discuss the rapidly changing Christmas tree market, noting how Fraser Firs have become the dominant variety and why you might want to purchase your tree earlier than ever this year. Ron shares expert tips on keeping your cut tree fresh longer, from proper storage before setup to essential watering techniques that will extend its life through the holiday season.## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:- 00:05:30 - Christmas tree market trends and why you should shop early this year- 00:15:20 - Proper techniques for preserving cut Christmas trees- 00:23:45 - Live Christmas trees with rootballs: how to successfully plant after the holidays- 00:27:10 - Fall planting window and watering schedules for newly planted trees- 00:31:15 - Using Wilt-Proof products to preserve holiday greeneryWhether you're considering a fresh-cut Fraser Fir, planning late-season plantings, or preparing your garden for winter, this episode delivers the seasonal gardening advice you need. Don't miss Ron's personal stories and traditions that make this time of year special for gardeners everywhere!Listen now to ensure your yard and holiday decorations stay vibrant throughout the season!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Cultivating Garden Wisdom: From Seasonal Plant Care to Holiday PreparationsEver wondered how to keep your Christmas tree fresh through the holidays or what to plant for stunning late-fall color? Ron Wilson's garden expertise shines in this episode packed with seasonal gardening insights that both novice and experienced gardeners will appreciate.As winter approaches, Ron shares his secret weapon for preserving holiday greenery - Wilt Stop and Wilt Proof, pine resin products that seal moisture inside needles. He explains how these products can extend the life of Christmas trees, wreaths, and even protect outdoor evergreens from winter damage, offering that professional touch to your holiday decorations.The conversation blooms with insights about plants still providing spectacular fall color, from Japanese red maples to ornamental grasses that are often prematurely cut back. Ron passionately advocates for leaving ornamental grasses intact through winter for their stunning visual appeal, while warning listeners about invasive honeysuckles and ornamental pears that become glaringly obvious as other plants lose their leaves.## Timestamps:- 8:30 - Using Wilt Stop/Wilt Proof for Christmas trees and holiday greenery- 15:45 - Plants with outstanding late fall color and ornamental grass appreciation- 23:10 - Yard work as exercise: calories burned during different gardening activities- 30:20 - Dr. Alan Armitage discusses fall planting and his new book "The Common Sense Gardener"- 42:15 - The story behind Iron Butterfly ironweed and its garden benefitsDr. Alan Armitage joins the conversation to share his practical wisdom about fall planting and garden bed preparation. He introduces his latest book, "The Common Sense Gardener," which offers straightforward advice on gardening questions from pruning to pest control. As the creator of the Iron Butterfly ironweed, Dr. Armitage explains how this native plant's beautiful foliage makes it garden-worthy all season long.Whether you're preparing your garden for winter, planning your holiday decorations, or looking to add color to next year's landscape, this episode offers practical advice delivered with Ron's signature enthusiasm for all things growing.Listen now to transform your outdoor spaces with tried-and-true gardening wisdom that connects you with nature's seasonal rhythms!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Vibrant Harvest: Transforming Your Vegetable Garden Through Color Imagine walking through a vegetable garden that explodes with color - not just greens, but purples, reds, yellows, and blues creating a living kaleidoscope of edible beauty. This captivating vision comes to life as Ron Wilson interviews Sandra Mau about her stunning book "Vibrant Harvest," which challenges traditional notions of vegetable gardening by showcasing how to cultivate a rainbow of colorful varieties that are both visually striking and nutritionally superior. Sandra shares how her journey began during the 2020 quarantine with simple container gardening before expanding to raised beds. Her passion for colorful vegetables stems from childhood, where she discovered gardening with her grandmother. Now, she's inspiring others to see that vegetable gardens "don't have to be plain green or boring" but can instead be "busting with color" through thoughtful variety selection. ## Timestamps and Key Takeaways: **00:01:30** - Introduction to Sandra Mau and her book "Vibrant Harvest"**00:05:45** - Sandra explains how she started gardening during the 2020 pandemic**00:09:20** - Discussion of the Vego planters and solar lighting systems Sandra uses**00:15:00** - Sandra's soil mix recipe for container gardening success**00:18:30** - Overview of the book's structure and content**00:29:15** - Tips for growing colorful Swiss chard varieties**00:35:20** - Box tree moth warning for boxwood owners**00:42:10** - Ladder safety tips for holiday decorating Sandra's approach transforms not just the garden but the entire growing experience - from planting to harvesting to enjoying meals. By "eating the rainbow," gardeners get both visual delight and enhanced nutritional benefits from these colorful varieties. The book serves as both inspiration and practical guide, showing exactly which varieties to choose and how to grow them successfully. Ready to transform your vegetable garden from ordinary to extraordinary? Grab a copy of "Vibrant Harvest" and follow Sandra on Instagram at Sandra.Urban Garden to see her stunning garden in action. Your garden (and your plate) will never be the same!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Gardening Wisdom and Holiday Preparations with Ron Wilson and Gary SullivanAs winter approaches, Ron Wilson and Gary Sullivan share essential seasonal advice while bantering about holiday preparations. From dormant sprays for peach trees to the perils of ladder use during Christmas light installation, this warm conversation blends practical gardening tips with humorous holiday decorating stories. The duo's friendly exchange captures the challenges many homeowners face when preparing for the festive season—including the eternal debate between artificial and real Christmas trees.The episode takes a serious turn when discussing ladder safety, with both hosts admitting to past risky behaviors while emphasizing proper techniques. Gary reveals that ladder accidents are among the most common emergency room visits, offering valuable advice on secure ladder placement and the importance of having a helper. Their candid discussion about gutter-cleaning gadgets versus traditional methods provides listeners with practical insights based on real-world experience.## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:- 0:00 - Introduction and reminder about dormant sprays for peach trees- 1:30 - Discussion about recent gloomy weather and Christmas light installation- 3:45 - Ladder safety tips and recommendations for safer decorating- 7:20 - Debate about gutter-cleaning tools and their effectiveness- 9:15 - Christmas tree choices: artificial vs. live trees- 11:00 - Closing gardening recommendations for the seasonWhether you're tackling holiday decorating, maintaining your winter garden, or planning for next year's plantings, this episode delivers practical advice wrapped in entertaining conversation. Tune in to hear Ron and Gary's full discussion and benefit from their decades of home and garden experience!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out the book, "Vibrant Harvest, Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden with Heirlooms, Modern Hybrids, and More".  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Garden Guru's Guide: Wisdom from Dr. Alan ArmitageStep into the world of gardening wisdom as renowned horticulturist Dr. Alan Armitage joins Ron Wilson for an enlightening conversation about fall gardening practices and plant selections. From the often-overlooked beauty of ornamental kale and cabbage that thrive in winter's chill to the proper timing of garden bed cleanup, Dr. Armitage shares practical insights seasoned with his trademark humor and decades of experience.The episode reveals Dr. Armitage's personal connection to the popular 'Iron Butterfly' ironweed—a plant he developed himself that's now gaining recognition for its stunning foliage and garden-friendly habit. The conversation culminates with the exciting announcement of his newest book, "The Common Sense Gardener," a narrative-style guide that cuts through gardening confusion with straightforward, practical advice.## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:- **2:45** - Fall planting recommendations including ornamental cabbage and kale as underutilized options for winter color- **7:20** - Tips on bulb planting and protecting them from hungry squirrels- **11:30** - When and how to properly "put your garden to bed" for winter- **14:45** - The story behind 'Iron Butterfly' ironweed and why it's becoming a garden favorite- **18:30** - Introduction to Dr. Armitage's new book "The Common Sense Gardener" and its practical approachReady to elevate your gardening game with expert knowledge delivered in an entertaining way? Listen now to glean wisdom from one of horticulture's most beloved voices and discover how common sense might be your most valuable gardening tool!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron's expert advice along with your calls.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Queen Bee and Author Jeremy Hill.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.