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...
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Sep 29, 2026 · 15:01
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Erin Hoover covers everything you need to know about growing garlic in Washington state. She explains the difference between hardneck and…
Sep 15, 2026 · 39:10
What does it take to protect important crops from harmful plant pathogens? In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we explore the work of the Clean Plant Center Northwest at…
Sep 1, 2026 · 26:01
Fall may feel like the end of the gardening season, but for many spring-flowering plants, it's just the beginning. In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , Erin explores fall…
Aug 18, 2026 · 29:32
Cover crops can protect and improve garden soil during the time of year when our gardens are resting. In this episode, Erin talks with Twinflower Wilkie, a WSU Extension Master…
Jul 28, 2026 · 40:24
Every gardener has encountered advice that promises amazing results, from family traditions passed down through generations to the latest trend making the rounds on social media.…
Jul 21, 2026 · 32:39
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Erin Hoover chats with Julie Banken, a Master Gardener with a background in entomology, about creating pollinator-friendly gardens by…
Jul 7, 2026 · 27:43
Every gardener has decisions they would make again…and a few they probably wouldn't. In this episode, Erin Hoover reflects on the gardening choices that paid off, the ones that…
Jun 23, 2026 · 27:52
Gardening changes as we do. Tasks that once felt easy may take more planning, different tools, or a new approach. In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk about practical…
Jun 9, 2026 · 48:16
In this episode, Lisa Taylor returns to share tips on saving water while gardening. Lisa focuses on how being intentional with water use improves soil health, efficient watering…
May 26, 2026 · 40:00
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we talk with Master Gardener Ed Adams about growing dahlias in Western Washington, including what it takes to manage a large collection…
May 12, 2026 · 39:13
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we talk with Dr. Joel Gardner from the WSU M.T. James Entomological Collection about native bees, including Dialictus sweat bees, and how…
Apr 28, 2026 · 29:17
Explore the development of a sensory garden designed to be accessible and therapeutic for neurodivergent individuals, veterans with PTSD, and others with sensory sensitivities.…
Apr 14, 2026 · 24:43
Slugs and snails are a constant frustration for gardeners in Western Washington, but trying to eliminate them completely isn't the goal, and it's not realistic. In this episode,…
Mar 31, 2026 · 28:07
In this episode, Patrick Schults, WSU Extension forester, discusses the threat of emerald ash borer, an invasive insect that poses a significant risk to Washington's forests and…
Mar 17, 2026 · 15:42
In this solo episode, Erin shares her top 10 gardening tips for 2026. These are practical shifts that can make your garden easier to manage while helping plants handle stress…
Mar 3, 2026 · 47:03
In this conversation, Colleen Adams-Schuppe, the executive director of the Yakima Area Arboretum, shares her journey and the history of the arboretum, highlighting its unique…
Feb 17, 2026 · 26:19
Most gardeners recognize honey bees, but in Washington, there are over 600 species of native bees doing much of the pollination work in our landscapes. In this conversation, Anne…
Feb 3, 2026 · 23:33
Good vegetable gardens aren't built by following rules; they're built by paying attention. In this episode, we step back from prescriptive advice and focus on how experienced…
Jan 20, 2026 · 32:22
What does it take to steward a public garden in the middle of a growing city? This episode explores how Bellevue Botanical Garden blends design, ecology, and community…
Jan 6, 2026 · 25:23
Are you looking to boost your vegetable garden's productivity while keeping soil healthy and pests under control? In this episode, Erin dives into practical crop rotation…
Dec 23, 2025 · 0:36
We're taking a break from the podcast this week for the holidays. We'll be back on January 6 with a new episode on vegetable crop rotation. Happy New Year!
Dec 9, 2025 · 34:35
Creating Plant Guilds with Native Plants in Washington State Discover how to design thriving, low-maintenance landscapes by mimicking nature's own plant communities! In this solo…
Nov 25, 2025 · 31:23
Washington once grew hundreds of unique apple varieties—many of which disappeared from modern cultivation. In this episode, David Benscoter of the Washington Lost Apple Project…
Nov 11, 2025 · 28:19
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, host Erin Hoover interviews Deirdre Griffin-LaHue, an expert in soil health, about the importance of soil structure in gardening. They…
Oct 28, 2025 · 27:37
In part nine of our Program Priority Series, guest Laurel Moulton is back to go over clean water. In this episode, Laurel covers: What the clean water program priority is about…
Oct 14, 2025 · 34:45
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , guest Todd Murray joins host Erin Hoover to discuss how climate change is affecting garden pests. He explains that "pests" are defined by…
Sep 30, 2025 · 27:19
Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving garden. 🌱 In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , Erin explores the key principles of soil health and how gardeners can apply…
Sep 16, 2025 · 37:18
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,…
Sep 2, 2025 · 20:20
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…
Aug 19, 2025 · 44:44
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…
Aug 5, 2025 · 33:58
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…
Jul 22, 2025 · 34:16
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…
Jul 8, 2025 · 36:47
💧 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…
Jun 24, 2025 · 24:47
Pollinators 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…
Jun 10, 2025 · 27:55
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…
May 27, 2025 · 28:56
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…
May 13, 2025 · 21:25
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…
Apr 29, 2025 · 32:34
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…
Apr 15, 2025 · 21:45
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…
Apr 1, 2025 · 31:48
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…
Mar 18, 2025 · 23:16
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…
Mar 4, 2025 · 21:04
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…
Feb 18, 2025 · 25:03
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…
Feb 4, 2025 · 45:49
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…
Jan 21, 2025 · 33:21
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…
Jan 7, 2025 · 22:36
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…
Dec 24, 2024 · 34:46
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…
Dec 10, 2024 · 21:46
In Part 2 of our "Gardening Myths" series, we're busting more common misconceptions about gardening and tree care. Is gravel at the bottom of pots really a good idea? Should…
Nov 26, 2024 · 26:42
Think you know the secrets to a perfect garden? In Part 1 of our "Gardening Myths" series, we're separating fact from fiction on some widely believed plant remedies and…
Nov 12, 2024 · 33:27
Bring festive cheer to your home with colorful winter-blooming houseplants! In this episode, we cover everything you need to know to keep popular holiday plants like poinsettias,…
Oct 29, 2024 · 25:16
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we explore how to prepare solitary bees for winter. From storing mason and leafcutter bee cocoons safely to managing moisture, pests, and…
Oct 15, 2024 · 37:04
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we take a deep dive into the fascinating process of growing shiitake mushrooms on logs. Cultivating shiitake mushrooms at home is a fun…
Oct 1, 2024 · 40:16
In today's episode, we're diving into the fascinating world of seed saving. Seed saving is a valuable skill that not only helps you create a sustainable garden but also preserves…
Sep 17, 2024 · 26:16
In this special episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we celebrate our first anniversary! Join us as we look back on a year filled with growth, learning, and community. We reflect on…
Sep 3, 2024 · 32:56
In this episode, we explore the concept of edible ecosystems, focusing on three key sustainable gardening practices: food forests, fedges, and plant guilds. These systems mimic…
Aug 20, 2024 · 39:36
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we delve into the essential topic of decoding pesticide labels. Understanding these labels is crucial for gardeners to ensure they are…
Aug 6, 2024 · 39:09
In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we dive deep into the art and science of growing tomatoes in Washington State. WSU Cowlitz County Extension Master Gardener Alice…
Jul 23, 2024 · 28:41
In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we delve into the world of noxious weeds in Washington State. Our guest, Anne Shuster from the Washington State Noxious Weed Control…
Jul 9, 2024 · 29:24
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we dive into the critical topic of identifying credible gardening advice. With so much information available online and offline, how do…
Jun 25, 2024 · 24:40
In this episode, we explore the impact of these invasive pests on our gardens and landscapes. Erin is joined by Cassie Cichorz, an Outreach and Education Specialist with the…
Jun 11, 2024 · 24:37
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we offer a comprehensive preview of the highly anticipated 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference. Join us as we…
May 28, 2024 · 41:28
In this episode, retired Assistant Chief of Pacific County Fire District #1 Mike Karvia discusses all things defensible space. We talk about: what defensible space is inexpensive…
May 14, 2024 · 51:44
In this episode, we try to prevent crimes against nature with PlantAmnesty volunteer Keith Dekker. Plant Amnesty is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing malpruning…
Apr 30, 2024 · 33:36
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb , we delve into the fascinating connection between geology and soil composition, uncovering the hidden secrets beneath our feet that…
Apr 16, 2024 · 37:31
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb podcast, we explore the joys and challenges of growing grapes at home. Gwen Hohiesel shares valuable insights, tips, and techniques to help…
Apr 9, 2024 · 13:56
Join us for a special episode of The Evergreen Thumb podcast featuring guests Jennifer Marquis and Chalayne Foster as we share our support for the Master Gardener Endowed Chair…
Apr 2, 2024 · 47:44
In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we uncover the secrets to successful spring gardening including soil testing, succession planting, and other essential techniques. Along…
Mar 19, 2024 · 36:08
In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we are joined by Laurel Moulton, an integrated pest management specialist with the WSU Regional Small Farms Program. Laurel sheds light…
Mar 5, 2024 · 40:21
Join us as we explore the wonderful realm of leafcutter and mason bees with our special guest, Thyra McKelvie from RentMasonBees.com . In this episode, Thyra shares her wealth of…
Feb 20, 2024 · 40:04
In this episode, Master Gardener Valorie Savisky joins us to chat about what successful rain gardens are and how to build them in the PNW. We discuss the technical aspects of…
Feb 6, 2024 · 51:33
Delve into the fascinating world of carbon sequestration, exploring how gardeners in can play a crucial role in environmental stewardship. Our expert guest, Doug Collins sheds…
Jan 23, 2024 · 22:38
In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," we delve into the world of xeriscape gardening, exploring the art of creating water-wise landscapes in the unique climate of Washington…
Jan 9, 2024 · 32:24
Soil is Alive! Today we talk about the basics of soil biology including: Understanding soil as a living ecosystem The "players" in soil biology Soil organic matter and nutrient…
Dec 26, 2023 · 38:46
Have you ever heard of permaculture? In this episode, I delve into the basics of Permaculture, a sustainable and holistic approach to gardening. I break down the fundamental…
Dec 12, 2023 · 46:02
Is winter really the best time to prune fruit trees? What do I do if my tree is damaged by wind or snow? Do I need to water in the winter? Tim Kohlhauff, certified Arborist and…
Nov 28, 2023 · 32:11
David James joins me today to talk about pollinators, particularly in winter. We discuss: Supporting Pollinators in Winter Protecting habitat for overwintering pollinators Mason…
Nov 14, 2023 · 40:25
In this episode of the Evergreen Thumb, Ann Amato shares her expert insights on house plants, providing practical tips on care and the benefits they bring to our indoor spaces.…
Oct 31, 2023 · 38:44
Today I talk with Todd Murray, entomologist and Director of WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center, about "creepy critters" and their value in the garden (or lack thereof in…
Oct 17, 2023 · 24:31
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Jonica Burkett explains indoor gardening essentials. She discusses the hows and whys of growing indoors, briefly touching on methods like…
Oct 3, 2023 · 42:14
In this episode, Bonnie Orr discusses various strategies for preparing gardens for winter weather. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your local environment,…
Sep 19, 2023 · 15:52
In this episode, I have a conversation with Alice Allison, a WSU Extension Master Gardener in Benton-Franklin Counties, about their work with the local juvenile justice center.…
Sep 5, 2023 · 16:45
Do you like to store some of your garden harvest for the winter? Do you wish you had a root cellar to store it in? In this episode of "The Evergreen Thumb," the focus is on how…
Sep 5, 2023 · 30:18
Have you ever wondered what a Master Gardener is? What exactly do Washington State University Master Gardener Program volunteers do? Our guest today is Jennifer Marquis,…
Aug 8, 2023 · 15:20
In this introductory episode of "The Evergreen Thumb" podcast, host Erin Landon, a Washington State University Extension Master Gardener, shares her background and gardening…
Aug 8, 2023 · 2:11
Welcome to The Evergreen Thumb, brought to you by Washington State University Extension Master Gardener program volunteers and sponsored by the Master Gardener Foundation of…
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