Claim OwnershipThe Evergreen Thumb
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Since 1973, WSU Extension Master Gardeners have been developing programs to address the evolving needs of our communities. Each episode, we'll dig into the fascinating world of gardening, exploring a wide range of topics tailored to our unique climate and diverse flora. Whether you're an experienced gardener with a green thumb or a beginner eager to cultivate your own green oasis, we're here to inspire and educate.
Join us as we invite expert horticulturists, seasoned Master Gardeners, and passionate plant enthusiasts to share their wisdom, practical tips, and hands-on experiences. We'll cover everything from plant selection and care, sustainable gardening practices, organic pest control, and landscaping design, to tackling common challenges specific to our region.
Discover the secrets to thriving vegetable gardens, vibrant flower beds, bountiful fruit trees, and breathtaking native plant landscapes. We'll also explore the intersection of gardening and sustainability, discussing topics like permaculture, composting, and water-wise gardening to help you create an environmentally friendly garden that nurtures both you and the ecosystem.
So, whether you're tuning in from the urban jungles of Seattle, the rolling hills of Spokane, or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, get ready to dig deep, cultivate your knowledge, and connect with a community of fellow gardening enthusiasts.
Join us as we invite expert horticulturists, seasoned Master Gardeners, and passionate plant enthusiasts to share their wisdom, practical tips, and hands-on experiences. We'll cover everything from plant selection and care, sustainable gardening practices, organic pest control, and landscaping design, to tackling common challenges specific to our region.
Discover the secrets to thriving vegetable gardens, vibrant flower beds, bountiful fruit trees, and breathtaking native plant landscapes. We'll also explore the intersection of gardening and sustainability, discussing topics like permaculture, composting, and water-wise gardening to help you create an environmentally friendly garden that nurtures both you and the ecosystem.
So, whether you're tuning in from the urban jungles of Seattle, the rolling hills of Spokane, or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, get ready to dig deep, cultivate your knowledge, and connect with a community of fellow gardening enthusiasts.
58 Episodes
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Soil is a living and dynamic resource. It provides critical services essential for life, including food production, shelter, and water filtration. It supports plant growth, serves as a habitat for countless organisms and even supplies antibiotics. Humans depend on soil for waste management, water purification, and as a foundation for infrastructure. In part eight of our Program Priority Series, guest Tessa Halloran goes over soil health. In this episode, Tessa covers: What is the soil health program priority? What is soil health? The Soil Food Web Simple steps to care for your soil Components of soil texture Ways to evaluate your soil for improvement Common soil challenges in Washington
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, guest Karen Wright from the Washington State Department of Agriculture tells us all about the Washington Bee Atlas and the importance of native bees. Karen explains the difference between honey bees and native bees. She talks about how Washington state has around 600 known native bee species, with many more still undescribed, and goes over how native bees are vital for pollinating about 80% of flowering plants, which is crucial for our ecosystems and agriculture. She explains what the Washington Bee Atlas is and how to get involved with their project of documenting native bee diversity, tracking their distribution, and promoting bee conservation efforts. Listeners will learn how the Washington Bee Atlas leverages collaboration among researchers, volunteers, and the public to gather data on native bee populations.
Wildfires are becoming more frequent and more intense—especially in areas where homes and wildlands meet. But your garden can be part of the solution. In this episode, I talk with Al Murphy, a national wildfire management expert and WSU Master Gardener, about how home gardeners can take simple, effective steps to reduce wildfire risk around their homes. Learn what it means to have a fire-ready garden, what to plant (and avoid), and how to create defensible space without sacrificing beauty or biodiversity. Whether you live in the wildland-urban interface or just want to be more prepared, this episode offers practical guidance rooted in research and years of field experience. Join us as we talk about What is the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI)? How your landscape choices affect wildfire risk Creating defensible space around your home Common landscaping mistakes that increase fire danger How communities can work together to become fire-adapted
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we’re joined by Jim Kropf, WSU Pierce County Extension Director, to explore how thoughtful plant choices can help protect your home and garden from wildfire. With fire seasons growing longer and hotter across Washington, understanding which plants are more fire-resistant—and how to maintain them—is essential for creating a safer, more resilient landscape. Jim shares the key characteristics that make plants less prone to ignition and offers tips on landscape design and defensible space. We also discuss how to balance fire resistance with water conservation. Whether you’re updating your landscape or starting from scratch, this episode will help you make informed choices that support wildfire preparedness. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
What does a truly waterwise garden look like in Washington, and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode, we’re joined by Spokane County Master Gardener Mason Neil to explore how home gardeners can make practical, research-based choices that reduce outdoor water use while creating beautiful, resilient landscapes. From choosing drought-tolerant plants to using more efficient irrigation, Mason shares tips and insights rooted in local experience and the WSU Master Gardener program’s Water Conservation priority. Whether you're redesigning your yard or just adjusting your watering habits, this episode will leave you inspired to grow with the climate in mind. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
💧 Are you overwatering your garden? You’re not alone! In our newest episode of The Evergreen Thumb, WSU horticulturist Austin Little shares easy, efficient watering strategies to help your garden thrive—without wasting water. 🌿 Learn about: • How to water less but grow more • Mulch and soil tips to retain moisture Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
1Pollinators play a critical role in food production, plant biodiversity, and ecosystem health—but many of these essential species are facing serious threats. In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we sit down with a WSU Master Gardener and Certified Pollinator Steward to explore why pollinators matter, what’s putting them at risk, and how you can take simple, effective steps to support them in your own garden. From native plant choices to pollinator-safe practices, this conversation is packed with practical, science-based tips for every Washington gardener. 🌼 Learn how the WSU Master Gardener Program supports pollinator stewardship as one of its core priorities. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we’re joined by Jennifer Marquis, Statewide Program Leader for the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program, to talk about the exciting launch of the Washington State University Extension Green School. Designed to deepen gardeners’ knowledge and environmental stewardship, the Green School offers flexible, research-based education through two tracks: the Washington Gardener Certificate and the WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer certification. Jennifer walks us through the program’s mission, how WSU Green School is structured, and the gardening topics included in the training. Whether you’re looking to garden more sustainably or take your community impact to the next level, this conversation will show how WSU Green School opens the door to meaningful, science-backed learning opportunities. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website or find more WSU Green School information at greenschool.extension.wsu.edu
Get a first look at what’s in store for the 2025 WSU Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference! Host Erin chats with the AEC Committee Chair and the Educational Outreach Program Lead about this year’s theme, keynote speakers, exciting workshops, and how gardeners of all backgrounds can get involved. Whether you're a certified Master Gardener or a passionate plant lover, this episode highlights why AEC is a must-attend event for continuing garden education and community connection. Registration for the WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference 2025 opens on June 1, 2025 For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode048/
In this episode, we explore the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program’s Local Food priority—and how growing food close to home can lead to healthier individuals, stronger communities, and a more resilient environment. I break down how local food connects to sustainable gardening, food access, and community empowerment. Whether you're growing in a backyard, a balcony, or a community garden, discover practical steps you can take to make a meaningful difference through what you grow. Listen now to learn: Why local food matters for health and sustainability Gardening practices that support local food systems How food gardens contribute to resilient, equitable communities For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode047/
Want to keep your forested property healthy and thriving? In this episode, we chat with Sarah Stewart from WSU Forestry about backyard forest stewardship—covering best practices for managing small woodlands, improving tree health, enhancing wildlife habitat, and building resilience to climate change. Whether you have a few trees or several acres, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you care for your woodland sustainably. We also explore the Women Owning Woodlands (WOW) program and how it supports female forest landowners. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode046/
A healthy garden is more than just beautiful—it’s biodiverse! In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we explore how increasing plant diversity in home gardens, community spaces, and public landscapes can create more resilient ecosystems, healthier soil, and stronger pollinator populations. Join us as we discuss: Why biodiversity is essential for sustainable gardening How native plants and layered plantings support wildlife and soil health Practical ways to enhance biodiversity—even in small urban spaces How plant diversity helps address climate change, pollinator decline, and habitat loss Whether you're a backyard gardener or working on larger landscapes, this episode offers actionable strategies to support garden resilience and environmental health. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode045/
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb Oregon State University Extension’s Wildlife Specialist, Dr. Dana Sanchez, joins host Erin Hoover to discuss strategies for managing wildlife pests (a.k.a. vertebrate pests), in your garden and surrounding areas. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode044/
From stress reduction to faster healing times after surgery, being in nearby nature has measurable effects on our well being. Master Gardeners work to foster the connection between people and the natural world to help our communities be able to access nature no matter where they live. In part two of our Program Priority Series we sit down with Master Gardener Cathi Lamoreux to discuss Nearby Nature. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode043/
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of spiders and their crucial role in garden ecosystems. Learn about common spider species in the Pacific Northwest, including orb-weavers, wolf spiders, and jumping spiders, and how they help gardeners by naturally controlling pest populations. Expert insights help unravel the mysteries of spider behavior, their impact on pollinators, and ways to create spider-friendly habitats in your garden. By the end, you'll gain a new appreciation for these eight-legged allies, embracing their role as key players in sustainable gardening and healthy ecosystems. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode042/
Climate change is reshaping how we garden, from shifting planting zones to increased drought and extreme weather. In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Peronto to explore how the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program’s Climate Change Priority is helping gardeners adapt. Learn practical, science-backed strategies for building climate resilience, improving soil health, conserving water, and selecting plants that thrive in changing conditions. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode041/
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, host Erin Hoover speaks with author and gardening educator Lisa Taylor about the joys and benefits of growing perennial edibles in the Pacific Northwest. They explore a variety of crops, from perennial vegetables like asparagus and rhubarb to fruit-bearing trees and shrubs well-suited to the region's climate. Lisa goes over lesser-known edible perennials, herbs, and her favorite edible perennials in her garden. She not only lists what edible perennials work well in the Pacific Northwest, but she also shares practical tips for incorporating these resilient and sustainable plants into home gardens and landscapes.
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of vermicomposting with WSU Extension Master Gardener and Master Composter Recycler Program Coordinator, Jason Adams. Learn how worms transform kitchen scraps into rich, nutrient-dense compost that boosts soil health and supports sustainable gardening. We discuss the basics of starting and maintaining a worm bin, troubleshooting common issues, and the numerous benefits vermicompost offers to gardens, the environment, and even local food systems. Perfect for gardeners and sustainability enthusiasts looking to reduce waste and enrich their gardens naturally! For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode039/
Discover how gardening nurtures more than just plants—it's a powerful tool for supporting mental wellness as we age. Join Erin as she explores the psychological and emotional benefits of gardening for aging adults with Katie Luna, a WSU doctoral candidate in clinical psychology. For resources, links, a transcript, and more be sure to visit our website.
In this episode, guest Theresa Crimmins, director of the USA National Phenology Network, explores the fascinating world of phenology—nature’s way of keeping time. Discover how seasonal changes influence plants, pollinators, and the environment, and learn how you can use phenological cues to enhance your gardening practices. We’ll discuss the importance of observing natural patterns and the impact of climate change on seasonal rhythms. Tune in to connect your gardening with the rhythm of nature! Connect with USA NPN and learn more about phenology via our show notes.
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brilliant and inspiring podcast about phenology. thank you for this. had never heard of it previously and am hooked now.