Let's Garden with Scott Beuerlein

This Halloween episode of Let's Garden was a wild ride, folks. We had a caller who thought a mosquito plant would attract mosquitoes, but ended up repelling them instead. And if that wasn't enough, we also discussed some scary trees with sinister pasts, including the Devil's Tree in New Jersey and the Weish Elm in Worcestershire, England.

This hour was a bit of a departure from the usual gardening topics, but it was a fun and spooky way to celebrate the holiday. Our host chatted with a caller who was worried about attracting zombies to her yard, and offered some... creative solutions to the problem. We also heard from a caller who was looking for advice on how to care for her clumping bamboo, and another who was wondering if she could clip off the sides of her bamboo to shape it.

But don't worry, we didn't forget about the gardening tips and advice that our listeners love. Our host shared some great advice on how to care for a cashmere cypress tree and discussed the importance of using the right type of mulch to protect it from the elements. We also heard from a caller who was looking for a good yard sprayer that would last a long time.

If you're looking for a fun and spooky way to spend your Halloween evening, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden. We've got a caller who thinks she's a witch, a zombie apocalypse expert, and a host and producer who's just trying to keep it together.

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As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, this episode of Let's Garden with Scott Berline is the perfect blend of spooky and serene. Scott is joined by landscape designer Sarah Geiger-Behm, who shares her expertise on some of the season's most stunning plants. But don't be fooled - this episode is not just about gardening tips and tricks. It's also a journey into the world of folklore and mythology, where scarecrows and vampires lurk in the shadows.

This special Halloween hour takes listeners on a wild ride, from the creepy burial site of Edgar Allan Poe to the world of night-blooming plants. The hosts discuss the history of scarecrows, from ancient Greece to modern-day agricultural innovations, and even touch on the importance of pollinator plants like Pentis and Caladium. But with all the spooky fun, the episode also tackles some serious topics, like the importance of watering your evergreens during dry spells.

One of the highlights of the hour is the hosts' conversation with a caller who claims to be a vampire, and their discussion of the University of Georgia's 2026 Trial Garden Classic City Awards, which feature some of the most exciting new plants in the garden world. From the Pachoa to the Vinca Coral Cascade, these plants are sure to add some excitement to your garden.

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As the leaves change colors and the weather cools down, many gardeners are left wondering what to do with the piles of fallen leaves. This episode of Let's Garden is all about the importance of leaving leaves in your garden, and how it can benefit your soil and the environment. The hosts discuss the pros and cons of leaving leaves, and share tips on how to do it the right way.

Leaving leaves in your garden may seem like a simple task, but it's actually a crucial step in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The hosts talk about the benefits of leaving leaves, including providing nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for fertilizers, and creating a habitat for beneficial insects. However, they also discuss the potential downsides, such as creating a haven for pests and diseases.

The hosts also delve into the National Garden Bureau's list of perennials that should be cut back versus those that can be left standing. They discuss the importance of cleaning and storing garden tools, and provide tips on how to do it effectively. Additionally, they talk about the benefits of dividing or moving perennials, and share some advice on how to do it successfully.

If you're looking for more tips on how to care for your garden during the fall season, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden.

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**Asters: The Hidden Gems of the Fall Garden**

This hour of Let's Garden is a must-listen for anyone who loves the beauty and diversity of asters. Join Scott as he chats with Mark Wessel, Chief Horticulturist at Gardens Alive, and Kelly Norris, award-winning author and designer, about the fascinating world of asters. From their unique characteristics to their importance in the ecosystem, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for gardeners of all levels.

Asters are often overlooked, but they're a vital part of the fall garden, providing a burst of color and attracting pollinators. Kelly Norris shares his expertise on the different types of asters, including the aromatic aster, which is deer-resistant and perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. Mark Wessel also recommends some of his favorite asters, including the frost duster, which is a great choice for its unique foliage and ability to thrive in dry conditions.

The conversation also touches on the importance of local ecosystems and the role that asters play in supporting pollinators and other wildlife. Kelly Norris emphasizes the need to look to local sources, such as botanic gardens and trials, to get a better understanding of which asters will perform well in your specific region.

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Pumpkins are one of the oldest cultivated plants, with a rich history dating back to around 7,000 B.C. in Mesoamerica. This hour of Let's Garden explores the fascinating world of pumpkins, from their classification as a member of the Cucurbita genus to their versatility in cooking and decoration.

Join Scott and his guest Mark Wessel, chief horticulturist at Gardens Alive, as they delve into the world of pumpkins. They discuss the different species, including the pepo types, which include zucchini and crookneck squash, and the maxima species, which are considered the finest winter squash. They also talk about the importance of pollination, the role of bees in pumpkin production, and the impact of diseases like powdery mildew.

The conversation also touches on the world of pumpkin breeding, with Mark sharing his expertise on the different types of pumpkins, including heirloom and processing varieties. They discuss the challenges of growing pumpkins, including the need for high fertility and the importance of selecting the right variety for your climate.

If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating world of pumpkins, be sure to tune in to this hour of Let's Garden. Barry Rupp from Rupp Seeds joins the conversation, sharing his insights on the latest trends in pumpkin breeding and the importance of selecting the right variety for your garden.

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This week on Let's Garden is a treat for plant enthusiasts, as Scott is joined by Mark Wessel, Chief Horticulturist at Gardens Alive, to discuss their favorite plants of the season. From asters to holly, the conversation is a treasure trove of gardening tips and tricks. Mark shares his expertise on a variety of plants, including the calico aster, which is a favorite among bees, and the deciduous holly, which produces stunning clusters of shiny red berries. The two also dive into the world of perennials, discussing the benefits of plants like bulb fennel and the challenges of growing monkshood.

As the conversation unfolds, Mark and Scott discuss the importance of choosing the right plants for the right place, and the need to be mindful of the needs of each plant. They also touch on the topic of foraging, with Mark sharing his experiences of foraging for wild foods like mushrooms and nuts. The episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their gardening skills and learn more about the fascinating world of plants.

One of the highlights of the hour is Mark's discussion of his favorite plants, including the aster tartaricus, which produces a beautiful ground cover of green strap-like foliage and stunning lavender flowers. He also shares his enthusiasm for the deciduous holly, which is a native shrub that produces bright red berries in the fall. The conversation is engaging, informative, and full of practical advice for gardeners of all levels.

If you're looking for a gardening podcast that's full of expert advice and fascinating conversations, this episode of Let's Garden is a must-listen. Join Scott and Mark as they explore the world of plants and share their knowledge and experiences.

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This week on Let's Garden, Scott is joined by Sarah Geiger-Behm, a landscape designer with Wimberg Landscaping, and Brian Heinz, director of horticulture at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. Despite Scott's lingering cold, the trio dives into a fascinating discussion about the world's largest pumpkins, which can weigh over 3,000 pounds. They explore the genetics and care involved in growing these massive gourds, including the importance of selecting the right seed lineages, preparing the soil, and hand-pollinating the flowers.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of managing flying insects around indoor plants during the fall season. Scott shares his tips for bringing tropical plants inside, including removing the top couple of inches of soil, rinsing the plants with soapy water, and using beneficial nematodes to target fungus gnats. The hosts also discuss the importance of monitoring for pests and using sticky traps to catch any unwanted visitors.

In addition to these topics, the episode covers the latest plant releases and trends. The hosts discuss the new Haskap honeysuckle, which produces edible blue fruit, and the Boreal Bliss blueberry, which is extremely hardy and has notably higher sugar content. They also talk about the potential of sunflowers as a source of meat alternatives and highlight some of the top-rated plants from the Variety Day event.

The episode wraps up with a discussion about the fall color at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, where Brian shares his insights on the beautiful dogwoods, maples, and hazelnut shrubs that are starting to change color. The hosts also chat about the upcoming bulb planting season and the importance of choosing the right trees for the job.

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This hour of Let's Garden is a must-listen for any plant enthusiast. Join Scott and his co-hosts, Sarah Geiger-Behm and Brian Heinz as they dive into their favorite plants of the season. From stunning annuals to beautiful trees, this episode is packed with expert advice and gorgeous visuals.

Scott and his team share their top picks for annuals, including the gorgeous strawflower, Sunbrero Yellow, and the vibrant coleus, Cajun Spice. They also discuss the importance of growing from seed and share their experiences with the process. With a mix of personal anecdotes and expert insights, this episode is a treasure trove of gardening knowledge.

The conversation also touches on the topic of native plants and the importance of incorporating them into your garden. Scott and his co-hosts discuss the benefits of using native plants and how they can help support local pollinators. They also share their favorite native plants, including the stunning American smoke tree and the beautiful white ash.

If you're looking for expert advice on how to create a beautiful and sustainable garden, this hour is a must-listen.

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This week on Let's Garden, the conversation is all about embracing the imperfect and finding joy in the little things. Scott and his co-host Sarah Geiger-Behm dive into the world of gardening, sharing their favorite plants and discussing the importance of patience and hard work in the garden.

As they chat about their favorite plants, Scott and Sarah reveal their go-to picks for low-maintenance and beautiful additions to any garden. From lambs ear to Black Eyed Susan Vine, these plants are sure to inspire gardeners of all levels. But it's not just about the plants - the conversation also touches on the value of hard labor and customer service jobs in shaping a person's perspective and work ethic.

Scott and Sarah also discuss the importance of taking care of your garden, from deadheading to closing water features before the first frost. They share their own experiences and tips for making the most of the gardening season. With a mix of humor and expertise, this hour is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their gardening skills and find joy in the process.

Join Scott and Sarah as they explore the world of gardening and share their favorite plants, tips, and stories.

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This hour is a must-listen for anyone who's ever struggled with the age-old debate: battery-powered vs gasoline-powered equipment. Join Scott as he chats with Jim Herbert, the third-generation owner of Bud Herbert Motors, about the evolution of power equipment and the benefits of going green.

Jim shares his expertise on the pros and cons of battery-powered equipment, from its impressive advancements in technology to its limitations for commercial users. He also discusses the importance of maintenance, highlighting the need to keep blades sharp and the potential issues with ethanol gasoline. Plus, he recommends using high-quality two-cycle gas to prevent carburetor problems.

The conversation also touches on the importance of soil testing and the potential pitfalls of using too much organic matter in your garden. John Butcher, a tree care specialist, joins the conversation to share his insights on the benefits of trees, from energy efficiency to aesthetic appeal. He emphasizes the importance of annual inspections to ensure the health and safety of your trees.

If you're curious about the latest developments in power equipment, soil science, and tree care, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden!

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This hour of Let's Garden is a must-listen for anyone who's ever struggled to get their garden to thrive. From soil testing to choosing the right plants, our guest expert shares valuable insights on how to overcome common gardening challenges. You'll learn about a program that's been helping gardeners across the country for decades, and how you can get involved.

This hour is all about gardening, but it's not just about the plants - it's about the people who make a difference in their communities. Our guest expert talks about a program that trains volunteers to share their knowledge and skills with others, and how it's making a real impact. You'll hear about the importance of research-based information and how it can help you make informed decisions in your garden.

One of the key takeaways from this hour is the value of soil testing and how it can help you identify potential problems in your garden. Our guest expert also shares tips on choosing the right plants for your climate and soil type, and how to overcome common challenges like pests and diseases. You'll also learn about a unique program that's helping gardeners across the country share their knowledge and skills with others.

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This hour of Let's Garden is a fun and informative conversation with John Butcher from Madison Tree Care and Landscape. They dive into the world of horticulture, discussing everything from the importance of knowing your customers to the best time to plant trees. Along the way, they touch on a variety of topics, including the benefits of visiting botanical gardens, the challenges of working with hickory trees, and the beauty of the buckeye nut.

Scott and John chat about their favorite plants, with Scott sharing his passion for pecan trees and John discussing the importance of knowing your customers. They also talk about the value of visiting botanical gardens, both locally and on vacation, and how these visits can be a great way to learn about plants and relax. The conversation is engaging and informative, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in horticulture.

One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion about the different types of frosts that can affect plants, including the nipping frost that can damage tomatoes and the killing frost that can wipe out entire gardens. Scott and John also talk about the importance of preparing for winter, including bringing in houseplants and protecting hoses from freezing temperatures.

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This hour of Let's Garden is a fun and informative conversation between the hosts and their guests, covering a range of topics from lawn care to tree health. The hosts dive into the world of turf grass, discussing the importance of mowing high and often to promote healthy growth. They also explore the fascinating world of insects, specifically the bagworms that can infest trees like pawpaws.

The conversation takes a turn when the hosts discuss the ambrosia beetles that are affecting pawpaw trees in the area. These tiny beetles can cause significant damage to the trees, and the hosts offer advice on how to identify and address the issue. They also touch on the importance of proper tree placement and care, including providing adequate drainage and mulch.

Throughout the hour, the hosts engage in a lighthearted and humorous banter, making the conversation feel approachable and entertaining. They also welcome a few special guests, including Gary Sullivan, who shares his expertise on gutter protection and plumbing.

If you're interested in learning more about lawn care, tree health, and the latest gardening tips, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden

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As the seasons change, it's time to think about your lawn and how to keep it thriving. This hour of Let's Garden is all about turf, and our guest expert, Craig Grabo, is here to share his knowledge on how to care for your lawn, from seeding and seed products to avoiding common mistakes that can lead to problems down the line.

Scott is joined by Sarah Geiger-Beam and Craig Grabo, a turf specialist with a wealth of experience in lawn care. They dive into the world of turf, discussing the importance of understanding your lawn's unique microclimate and how to tailor your care to its specific needs. They also talk about the benefits of seeding and overseeding, and how to do it effectively, as well as the importance of proper watering and fertilization.

One of the key takeaways from this hour is the need to be mindful of the delicate balance between turf and trees. Craig shares his expertise on how to create a healthy relationship between the two, and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to problems down the line. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding your lawn's soil profile and how to adjust your care accordingly.

If you're looking to improve your lawn care skills or just want to learn more about turf, this hour is a must-listen. Craig shares his insights and expertise, and Scott and Sarah ask the right questions to get to the heart of the matter.

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Scott is back discussing the joys of gardening and share some of his favorite plants with his co-host Sarah Geiger-Behm. As they dive into the world of horticulture, they cover a wide range of topics, from the benefits of sumacs to the unique characteristics of lantana and hydrangea.

This hour is a treasure trove of gardening knowledge, with Scott and Sarah sharing their expertise on various plants that thrive in different conditions. They discuss the importance of choosing the right plants for your garden, whether it's a low-maintenance option like lantana or a more challenging one like the hardy banana. They also touch on the topic of national days of celebration, highlighting some of the more unusual ones, like National Rhubarb Month and National Chili Week.

Scott and Sarah engage in a lively conversation, sharing their personal experiences and insights on gardening.

If you're looking for expert advice on gardening and want to learn more about the plants and products discussed in this hour, tune in to hear Scott and Sarah's conversation. They'll share their favorite plants, discuss the benefits of different gardening products, and provide valuable insights on how to create a thriving garden.

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**Get Ready for a Blooming Good Time!**

This hour of Let's Garden is all about the wonderful world of bulbs! Join Scott as he chats with Peggy Ann Montgomery from the Garden Media Group about the common mistakes people make when planting bulbs, and how to avoid them. From timing to depth, Peggy Ann shares her expertise on how to get the most out of your bulb garden.

Peggy Ann discusses the importance of planting bulbs in big sweeps or groupings, rather than scattering them randomly. She also talks about the benefits of minor bulbs, such as crocuses and snowdrops, which can add a burst of color to your garden in early spring. Plus, she shares her tips on how to divide and conquer with bulbs, and how to create a beautiful bulb garden in your lawn.

Peggy Ann also delves into the world of integrated pest management (IPM), explaining the importance of identifying the pest before treating it, and how to use natural methods like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control pests. She also discusses the challenges of reading pesticide labels, and how to use them safely and effectively.

If you're a bulb enthusiast or just starting out with gardening, this episode is a must-listen. Join Scott and Peggy Ann as they chat about all things bulbs, and get ready to take your gardening skills to the next level.

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The speaker shares a remarkable story about a live oak tree in South Carolina that survived the American Revolution and was saved by innovative techniques, including the use of air spades to loosen compacted soil. This tool is a game-changer for tree care, and the speaker explains its benefits and limitations. The conversation also touches on the importance of tree diversity, the impact of weather patterns on tree growth, and the role of trees in mitigating urban heat islands.

The hour also features a discussion with Rhiannon Howeler from Madtree Brewing, who shares the company's commitment to tree planting and sustainability. The company's "Let's Grow Local" initiative aims to plant over 100 trees in neighborhoods with less than 40% tree canopy cover. The speaker and Rhiannon discuss the benefits of this initiative, including improved air quality and community engagement.

If you're interested in learning more about the importance of trees in our communities and the innovative techniques being used to care for them, tune in to this hour.

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Join Scott and his guest John Butcher, CEO of Madison Tree Care and Landscape, as they dive into the world of gardening and share their favorite plants of the season. From the vibrant beauty of beauty berries to the stunning fall colors of the white oak, these two horticulturists are passionate about showcasing the best of the season.

Scott and John discuss their favorite plants, including the American and Japanese forms of the beauty berry, the deciduous holly, and the Oriental spruce. They also share their expertise on how to care for these plants and make the most of their unique characteristics. With a mix of humor and gardening tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to add some fall flair to their garden.

Scott and John's conversation is as engaging as it is informative, covering topics from the importance of trees in communities to the best ways to care for your garden. With their combined knowledge and passion for gardening, they make this episode a fun and educational listen.

If you're looking for inspiration to spice up your garden this fall, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden! most of the season's best plants.

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