Just Grow Something | Evidence-Based Home Gardening

Thinking about building raised garden beds but not sure what materials to use? Today on Just Grow Something we dig into all the options for raised bed construction, from wood, stone, and galvanized steel to creative choices like reclaimed materials, fabric grow bags, and more. We’ll talk about the pros and cons of each, including cost, durability, aesthetics, and safety concerns like chemical leaching or microplastics. You’ll also learn when (and if) you need a bottom layer to block weeds, stop burrowing critters, or protect your soil. Whether you’re a new gardener or looking to upgrade your existing setup, this episode gives you the science-backed insights you need to choose the right raised bed materials for your garden. Let’s dig in!Perfect for: raised bed gardening, beginner gardeners,vegetable gardening, sustainable gardening, DIY garden beds, pressure-treated wood safety, and backyard food growing.Save 20% and get Free Shipping on your new planter from PlanterBoxDirect.com! Use code JUSTGROW20 now through October 15th, 2025!References:https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/soil-compost/pressure-treated-wood-raised-bed-construction-willamette-valleyhttps://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/raised-bed-gardensFull show notes can be found at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/materials-to-use-for-building-a-new-raised-garden-bed-ep-266

If you are considering adding your first raised bed or yourfiftieth to your garden for next season, now is the time to be doing it. A new raised planter is going to have to be filled and that material is going to have to break down a bit before it can be planted in order to make the nutrients available to your plants. This is NOT something we want to put together at the last minute in the spring just before we start planting.For the entire month of September, I am taking you step-by-step through starting a new raised bed, from deciding the dimensions and layout, what materials to use to build it, what to fill it with and how, all the way to successfully planting those beds with your first crop in the spring.So, today on Just Grow Something, we’re starting with the basics: how to decide what size and depth your raised bed should be and how it can fit into the overall layout and design of your garden. You just might find they are so versatile, you will eliminate your in-ground beds in favor of an entire yard of raised beds, whimsical planters, and neat little walkways. Let’s dig in!NEW! For a limited time, save 20% AND get FREE shipping on my favorite planters from PlanterBoxDirect.com. Just use code JUSTGROW20 before October 15th, 2025!For full show notes, visit https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/how-big-should-a-raised-bed-be-ep-265

It's late August, the time of year when the garden can be just as likely to flourish as it is to fizzle out. I know all too well the rollercoaster of emotions we gardeners feel at this point in the season: you're hot, tired, maybe a little bit over it, and those early-season mistakes are showing their faces. But don’t give up!Today on Just Grow Something we dig into the common issues that crop up during these steamy late-summer days, like overwatering, overcrowding, plant pairings gone wrong, and, of course, the power of keeping a garden journal. You’ll get practical advice on fixing, tweaking, and even letting go of certain garden habits so you can set yourself up for a better harvest now and an even more successful season next year. Let’s dig in!Now's the time to save 20% and order your new rose from HeirloomRoses.com! Use code JUSTGROW to save!For complete show notes, visit https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/what-to-fix-tweak-or-stop-doing-in-your-garden-late-summer-ep-264

This week we’re on a blooming adventure into the world of roses. Okay, that was cheesy, but if you’ve ever struggled with roses or thought they were too fussy for your garden, this episode is for you. Joined by Robin Jennings from Heirloom Roses, I explore the super interesting history of thisfamily-owned company, from its humble beginnings as a backyard hobby to becoming the only U.S. nursery licensed to propagate the renowned David Austin roses.We talk about why growing roses on their own roots makessuch a difference in their hardiness, health, and longevity, and how modern breeders are creating varieties that thrive in a wide range of climates. Robin shares practical advice on choosing the perfect rose for your garden and demystifiesrose care, pruning, and fertilizing so you can be as successful as I have been this year.Whether you’re new to roses or a seasoned grower, thisepisode is packed with inspiration, practical know-how, and all the encouragement you need to start (or expand) your own rose collection. Let’s dig in!Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comFind the full show notes at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/from-hobby-to-heirloom-growing-healthier-roses-for-every-garden-with-heirloom-roses

Is your summer tomato crop struggling with strange spots, brown mushy bottoms, or mysteriously vanishing leaves? You’re not alone! Mid-season brings a whole host of challenges for tomato gardeners, but with a little know-how, you can keep your plants thriving through to fall.Today on Just Grow Something, I dig deep into the four biggest summer tomato problems: blossom end rot, tomato hornworms, nutrient imbalances, and common leaf diseases like Septoria and early blight. Learn how fluctuating moisture leads to blossom end rot (hint: it’s not just about calcium!), practical mulching and watering tips for every growing setup, including containers, raised beds, and in-ground gardens, and why choosing the right fertilizer at the right time can make all the difference.I share a trick for spotting hornworms at night, how often to feed tomatoes in pots vs. beds, the signs and treatment of tomato leaf diseases, and the most effective organic control methods (from copper sprays to simple sanitation practices). I also share how to manage disease outbreaks, when to prune, and why fall tomato harvests are totally worth the effort.Whether you’re a first-time tomato grower or a seasoned gardener facing a tough summer, this episode is packed with easy, practical solutions to keep your plants producing. Let’s dig in!Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW at https://heirloomroses.comFull show notes available at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/summer-tomato-problems-ep-262

In this eye-opening episode, I unpack the shocking truth about nutrient loss in modern fruits and vegetables. A 2023 review found that today’s produce contains significantly fewer vitamins and minerals than in decades past. Some nutrients have dropped by up to 80% since the 1950s!We explore how industrial agriculture, depleted soils, and synthetic fertilizers have impacted our food and, more importantly, how we as home gardeners can grow more nutrient-rich produce by focusing on soil health. Soil nerds, unite!I talk about the essential role of soil microbes and organic matter in our soil in creating nutritious food (and how synthetic fertilizers can’t compete), how composting, mulching, and no-till gardening can restore soil health, and give you actionable tips for increasing nutrient density in your own garden. If you care about what goes into your food and on your family’s plate, this is a must-listen. Let’s dig in!Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comReferenced episodes:Ep. 18 - Garden Talk Tuesday: Plant Nutrients and Why You Need to Know ThemFocal Point Friday: Plant Nutrient BasicsCompost EpisodesFind the full show notes at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/is-homegrown-produce-more-nutritious-how-your-soil-makes-the-difference-ep-260

This week I share how to take your fall garden from conceptto cultivation. Learn when to plant, what to grow, and how to extend your harvest well into winter. Discover why fall gardening is more than just practical - it's backed by science and perfect for nutrient-dense, flavorful produce with fewer pests!What You’ll Learn:The science behind why fall gardens are nutritionally and logistically smartBest timing strategies based on frost dates and daylight reductionFall-friendly crops and succession planting strategiesTips for season extension using row covers and container gardeningHow to improve soil health and prep beds for fall successLet’s dig in!Save20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW at https://heirloomroses.comReady to plan your fall garden? Join the free Fall GardenChallenge now: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/fallResources:Fall Garden Seed Starting Secrets - Ep. 257: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/fall-garden-seed-starting-secrets-ep-257Find your frost dates: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdatesFind the full show notes at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/how-to-extend-your-gardening-season-with-successful-fall-crops-ep- 259

This week we dig into the strategy of mid-to-late summersuccession planting—how to make the most of garden space left vacant by spring crop failures or early harvests. I share five heat-loving, fast-maturing crops you can direct sow now to squeeze in one last summer harvest before fall. Learn how to keep your beds productive, beat pest cycles, and maximize soil health, all without needing indoor seed starts.What You’ll Learn:Why filling summer garden gaps mattersKey traits of good late-summer cropsMy top five heat-loving, fast-growing picksLet’s dig in!Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roseswith code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comFor full show notes visit https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episodes/5-quick-crops-to-fill-summer-garden-gaps-ep-258

Fall might still feel far off, but if you want a successful fall harvest, now is the time to start those seeds indoors. Today on Just Grow Something, I walk you through the step-by-step timing strategy for indoor seed starting specifically for fall gardening.Learn how to:Calculate back from your first fall frost date to find yoursowing and transplanting windowsAdjust days to maturity using the “fall buffer” methodChoose the best crops to start indoors based on your zone and daylight hoursUtilize strategies for short-season gardeners and season extendersFrom understanding the Persephone period to selectingshort-season varieties, this episode equips you with the tools to master indoor seed starting for the fall garden. Let’s dig in!Fall Buffer Chart:Planting Window Before Frost: Days to Maturity Adjustment> 11 weeks: +10% buffer8–10 week: +20% buffer5–7 weeks: +40% buffer3–4 week: +70% buffer Links:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comSeed to Sprout Course: https://www.justgrowsomething.com/indoor-seed-startingResources:Plant Growth Factors: TemperatureSowing Planting Calculation | UC Agriculture and Natural ResourcesFall Vegetable Gardening | UGA Cooperative ExtensionFind the full show notes at https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/fall-garden-seed-starting-secrets-ep-257

Your summer garlic and onion harvest are ready, now what? You spent a lot of time and energy getting this crop to maturity, let’s not waste that effort by allowing them to go soft before we get to use them. Today on Just Grow Something, I give expert tips for harvesting, curing, and storing garlic and onions to keep them fresh through next spring. Learn how to recognize when your crops are ready, the best techniques for drying and storing, and how to avoid spoilage. Plus, I share alternative preservation methods like freezing and dehydrating. Whether you're new to gardening or a seasoned grower, this episode will help you get the most from your harvest.What You’ll Learn:When and how to harvest garlic and onionsIdeal curing conditions and durationHow to store for short- and long-term freshnessAlternative storage techniques (oil, freezing, dehydration)The best types for long-term storageLet’s dig in!Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comReferences and Resources:Garlic episodes: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/search/garlicOnion episodes: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/search/onionLoveland Acres Farm: lovelandacresfarm.orgGet 10% off and FREE shipping on my favoriteraised planters at Planter Box Direct using code JUSTGROW10: https://planterboxdirect.com/?ref=593Find the show notes at:https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/how-to-harvest-cure-and-store-garlic-and-onions-ep-256

This week we dive deep into the world of garden weeds and how some seemingly harmless plants can actually be Trojan horses harboring pests and diseases. Learn how to identify five major plant families by their flowers, leaves, and growth habits — and why removing these weeds early can protect your precious crops.Today on Just Grow Something You'll Learn:The role of alternate hosts in pest and disease cyclesHow to identify Brassicaceae, Solanaceae, Asteraceae, Polygonaceae, and Amaranthaceae weedsWhy flower structure is the key to early identificationTips for weed removal and garden protectionThis episode is ad-free in support of Loveland Acres Farm. Please consider donating at lovelandacresfarm.org to support Scarlett's vital community work.Visit our sponsor HeirloomRoses.com and save 20% on your order using code JUSTGROW.

From experimenting with peas shading lettuces to using mint as a living mulch for kale and cucumbers, this week on Just Grow Something I share the successes, tweaks, and surprises of my spring growing season. If you’re looking to maximize yield, minimize weeds, and experiment with companion planting, this episode is packed with all the things. And these can all be repeated for fall! Let's dig in!What We Cover:How to use “high, low, fast, slow” principles in garden planningThe pros and cons of using mint as a living mulchPairings that worked: Beets & kale, Collards and mintWhat didn't work, maybe?: Kohlrabi & beetsHow my vegetable persona is... okra?!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at Heirloom Roses with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comGet 10% off and FREE shipping on my favorite raisedplanters at Planter Box Direct using code JUSTGROW10: https://planterboxdirect.com/?ref=593Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

Summer gardening should be about sunshine and fresh veggies, not swatting and scratching. So, this week on Just Grow Something we dig into the science and strategy behind controlling two of the most irritating garden pests that go after the gardeners, not our plants: ticks and mosquitoes. Learn which ones are in your region, understand the risks they carry, and implement practical, research-backed solutions to protect yourself and your family while in the garden. From landscape tweaks to personal protection hacks and a game-changing DIY mosquito trap, this episode has everything you need to enjoy your garden bite-free.We cover:Common tick species by region and associated diseasesMosquito types and their disease vectorsNatural vs. chemical repellent optionsLandscaping tips to deter pestsHow to build a “Bucket of Doom” mosquito trapLet's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant atHeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comhttps://homegrownnationalpark.org/mosquito-bucket-challenge/https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alpha-gal-syndrome/in-depth/tick-species/art-20546861?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://extension.psu.edu/using-insect-and-tick-repellents-safelyhttps://www.canr.msu.edu/news/summer_safety_part_3_mosquitoes_and_tickshttps://cals.cornell.edu/integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/ticks/managing-ticks-landscapehttps://hawxpestcontrol.com/how-to-treat-standing-water-to-prevent-mosquitoes-in-your-yardhttps://extension.sdstate.edu/how-avoid-being-dinner-preventing-tick-and-mosquito-biteshttps://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/PicaridinGen.htmlhttps://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-deet-bad-for-you-and-your-kidshttps://ticksafety.com/about-ticks/seed-ticks-tick-bombs/Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

In this short and snippy episode, we dig into a classic gardening technique known as the Chelsea Chop. Named after the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show, this late spring/early summer pruning method can help home gardeners promote bushier growth, delay blooms for season-long color, and support pollinators with flowering perennials in the garden.If you’re looking to add more beauty to your veggie garden and boost the productivity of your perennials, this episode is your green-thumb guide to giving those flowers a haircut.Today on Just Grow Something we're talking:What the Chelsea Chop is and why it's doneIdeal plants for the technique (Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum, Phlox, and more)Different pruning strategies and how to choose the right oneThe timing of the chop based on your climate and plant maturityBenefits for both aesthetics and garden health (more airflow, fewer pests!)The Chelsea Chop is more than just a cut—it's a strategic move to shape your garden and support pollinators. Let's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant atHeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comRHS Chelsea Chop: https://www.rhs.org.uk/pruning/chelsea-chopBBC Gardener's World, How to Do the Chelsea Chop: https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/how-to-do-the-chelsea-chop/Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

There’s a persistent myth floating around on social media that gardening is too expensive to be worth the effort when it comes to saving money on groceries. But what if I told you that with the right strategies, your backyard (or balcony!) garden could not only feed your family but actually save you money?Today on Just Grow Something, we’re busting the myth thatgrowing your own food can’t compete with grocery store prices. We’ll explore how your location, soil type, and choices in the garden can make a huge difference in your return on investment. From essential tools and inputs to skip-the-splurge items and savvy seed saving, we’re diving deep into the real numbers and practical tips that make gardening not just a hobby—but a financially smart one. Let’s dig in!In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why some crops offer more bang for your buck than othersWhat you really need to spend money on in your garden—and what you don’tHow to track your gardening costs and harvest value to measure your savingsBudget-friendly strategies like starting from seed, making your own compost, and using free or recycled materialsHow to choose crops and garden methods based on your climate and soil type for maximum returnReferences and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant atHeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.com Get 10% off and FREE shipping on my favorite raisedplanters at Planter Box Direct using code JUSTGROW10: https://planterboxdirect.com/?ref=593USDA Inflation Tracking – Retail Produce Prices: https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/fruit-and-vegetable-prices Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

Welcome to the 250th episode of the Just Grow Something podcast! 🎉Whether you've been listening since the beginning or just found the show, thank you for being part of this growing community. In this special milestone episode, we're digging into listener-submitted questions on a variety of timely gardening topics.In this episode:When seedlings are ready to transplant (what to look for beyond just "true leaves")How to properly plant using the Three Sisters method and why timing is keyWhat to do with sprouted or soft seed potatoes and how to plant them successfullyHow to manage Colorado potato beetles while supporting beneficial insects like ladybugsWhen and how to use insect netting effectively in your garden (and how to keep it from blowing away!)Winter sowing tips for celeriac and strategies when you can’t start seeds indoorsOrganic pest control tips for pill bugs, armyworms, grubs, and moreThe role of beneficial nematodes in controlling Japanese beetles and other soil pestsThese are all real questions from you, my gardening friends, submitted via email, social media, and our Facebook community. If one person is wondering, chances are others are too! Let's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new David Austin rose plant atHeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comHow to Prepare Seedlings for Transplant into the Garden - Ep. 243: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/how-to-prepare-seedlings-for-transplant-into-the-garden-ep-243Ep. 131 - The Basics of Winter Sowing: Seed Starting Outdoors: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/ep-131-the-basics-of-winter-sowing-seed-starting-outdoorsMy favorite insect netting: https://amzn.to/3Fems6kAnd the fabric staples: https://amzn.to/45jjzLTArbico Organics Neemaseek: https://www.arbico-organics.com/product/nemaseek-beneficial-nematodes-hb-heterorhabditis-bacteriophora/beneficial-nematodesMilky Spore: https://www.arbico-organics.com/product/milky-spore-granular-bacillus-popillae/organic-lawn-carePyganic: https://amzn.to/4dsx9inSpinosad: https://amzn.to/4mpkdhcJust Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomethingJust Grow Something is a participant in the AmazonServices LLC Associates Program. Anytime you click on one of those links and proceed to make a purchase, we may receive a small percentage of the purchase price in the form of a commission directly from Amazon.

Are all bugs in your garden bad news? Not at all! In fact,some insects are your best allies when it comes to pest control and plant health.Today on Just Grow Something, we’re talking about howto tell the difference between beneficial insects and destructive garden pests—even if you’re not an entomologist. Learn how to identify common bugs based on their behavior, body features, and habitat, and discoverwhich insects you want to attract to your garden and which ones to manage quickly.Whether you’re a new gardener confused about who’s chewing on your cabbage, or a seasoned grower wanting to attract more natural predators to your space, this episode has practical tips for observing, identifying, andunderstanding the insects in your garden.In This Episode, You'll Learn:The role of beneficial insects in natural pest control and pollinationHow to visually identify insects based on body shape, wing type, behavior, and feeding habitsExamples of common garden pests like aphids, squash bugs, and hornwormsIdentification tips for good bugs like ladybugs, parasitic wasps, lacewings, and hoverfliesWhy local resources like university Extension services and conservation departments are your best tool for regional pest and beneficial IDHow to build a garden that attracts and supports beneficial insectsWhy not all creepy crawlies need to be squished—some are silently helping your garden thrive!Let's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at HeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comGet 10% off and FREE shipping on my favorite raised planters at Planter Box Direct using code JUSTGROW10: https://planterboxdirect.com/?ref=593BugGuide.net – Community-supported insect ID toolEpisode 24 - Aphids! https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/ep-24-garden-talk-tuesday-aphidsJust Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

It’s been a while since we’ve done a full crop specific episode and I think this is the perfect time of year to talk tomatoes. We are getting about 500 tomato plants in the ground over the next week so they are on my mind!So, today on Just Grow Something we’ll walk through the full tomato-growing process—from choosing varieties and starting seeds indoors to troubleshooting common problems and harvesting for peak flavor.You’ll learn how to choose the right variety for your space, when and how to plant for success, how to deal with pests before they ruin your harvest, and what to do when things don’t go quite as planned (looking at you, blossom-end rot). Let's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant or find your next favorite perennial at HeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comhttp://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/l/lycopersicon-esculentum=tomato.phphttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10050865/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12424325/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168945212001483Just Grow Something: ⁠https://justgrowsomething.com⁠Just Grow Something Merch and Downloads: ⁠https://justgrowsomething.com/shop⁠Just Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/508637300354140/⁠Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomething⁠Bonus content for supporters of the Podcast: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomething⁠Amazon storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

I promised this week we’d go into the actual techniques of interplanting. One of the main methods I use in my own garden, in helping my clients in their gardens, and what I teach in my Plan Like a Pro course is “high, low, fast, slow.” This little mantra is a great way to combine the plants in your garden to make the most use of all of your space without impeding on the growth of any of the plants.When done successfully, not only are you taking advantage of mixing the species up to help with pest pressure, but you’re also providing better diversity in the garden in terms of your soil and getting more out of the same garden space. When done incorrectly, though, we can choke out our plants, cause disease issues, invite pests in because we have weak plants and, ultimately reduce our yield.Today on Just Grow Something, I’m taking you through how to judiciously combine plant families in your garden beds so you can make the most of the space you have while also benefitting your plants and the soil they’re in. I will give you specific examples of how this is working out in my gardens right now so maybe you can be inspired to do the same in your own garden. Let’s dig in!EPISODE REFERENCES AND RESOURCES: Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant or find yournext favorite perennial at Heirloom Roses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comJust Grow Something Garden Planning Workbook: https://www.justgrowsomething.com/shop/p/just-grow-something-garden-planning-workbookPlan Like a Pro Course: https://justgrowsomething.thinkific.com/courses/plan-like-a-proJust Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

If you’ve been gardening for any amount of time, you’ve likely come across companion planting charts—maybe you’ve seen advice like “plant basil with tomatoes” or “marigolds repel all pests.” But how much of this is actually true?Companion planting can mean a lot of things, depending on what our goal is. We can either be going for pest repelling properties, keeping weeds down, soil health benefits, or just enhancing flavors or saving space.Today on Just Grow Something, we’re sorting fact from fiction. Some companion planting practices do have solid science behind them. But many claims are more anecdotal than evidence-based—and in some cases, well-intended pairings might even backfire. I’m looking at you marigolds. Let's dig in!References and Resources:Save 20% on your new own-root rose plant at HeirloomRoses.com with code JUSTGROW https://heirloomroses.comCompanion Planting: Fact or Fiction?: https://growappalachia.berea.edu/2019/04/01/companion-planting-fact-or-fiction/Companion Planting & Botanical Pesticides: Concepts & Resources: https://attra.ncat.org/publication/companion-planting-resources/#4Companion Planting | West Virginia University: https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/gardening/garden-management/companion-plantingPhytoremediation episode: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/focal-point-friday-are-sunflowers-good-or-bad-for-the-gardenIPM episode: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/integrated-pest-management-in-the-home-garden-ep-228How to Find and Support the Show:Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething