Garden Basics with Farmer Fred

Fred Hoffman
  • 4.7 (257)
  • HOME & GARDEN
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Garden Basics with Farmer Fred

Tips for beginning and experienced gardeners. New episodes arrive every Friday. Fred Hoffman has been a U.C. Certified Master Gardener since 1982 and writes a weekly garden column for the Lodi News-Sentinel in Lodi, CA. A four-decade fixture in Sacramento radio, he hosted three radio shows for Northern California gardeners and farmers: The KFBK Garden Show, Get Growing with Farmer Fred, and the KSTE Farm Hour. Episode Website: https://gardenbasics.net

  1. 399 Understanding Seed Packets

    5D AGO

    399 Understanding Seed Packets

    Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: seed packets Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “Where are all the Ripe Tomatoes?”.  By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Botanical Interests Seed Company Glossary All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    37 min
  2. 398 Aromatic Plants, plus Roses!

    JUN 27

    398 Aromatic Plants, plus Roses!

    In this podcast, you’ll hear from these U.C. Sacramento County Master Gardeners and their favorite aromatic plants: Collete Armao - Scented Geraniums Dan Vierria - the Tuberose Kathy Hellesen - Lemon Verbena Greta Lacin - Sage (Salvia), especially sages for cooking Teri Van Airsdale - the banana shrub (Magnolia figo) And bonus audio - an interview with Master Rosarian Charlotte Owendyk about her 10 most favorite fragrant roses, including Julia Child Firefighter Francis Meilland Memorial Day Pope John Paul II Secret Princess Alexandra of Kent Mr. Lincoln Double Delight Beverly Falling in Love Golden Celebration Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Magnolia figo (banana shrub) 'Port Wine' Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “Aromatic Plants and Roses - More Info”.  By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Fair Oaks Horticulture Center All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  GardenBasics.net • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.   Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    31 min
  3. 397 Garden Lessons Learned (the hard way)

    JUN 20

    397 Garden Lessons Learned (the hard way)

    Master gardeners share lessons from their mistakes, covering topics like thinning fruit, plant spacing, and pest management, highlighting gardening as a continuous learning experience filled with humor and growth. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: crowded fruit on a donut peach tree Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “Gardening and Gratitude”.  By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Fair Oaks Horticulture Center “Sacramento Digs Gardening” newsletter All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    34 min
  4. 396 Cucumber Success Tips

    JUN 13

    396 Cucumber Success Tips

    Today, we dive into the world of cucumbers, the second most popular crop among backyard gardeners. Debbie Flower shares her expertise on cucumber varieties, growing techniques, and addressing common issues like bitterness. We discuss the importance of starting with fresh seeds, maintaining warm soil, and ensuring consistent moisture for optimal growth. Debbie also explains how to identify and manage male and female flowers, trellising for space optimization, as well as pest and disease management. (Originally aired in May, 2023) Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Cucumbers Growing on a Trellis Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “Should You Prune Off Tomato Flowers?”  By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Cucumber growing info from Sonoma County Master Gardeners Cucumber Pests Cucumber seeds All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    28 min
  5. 395 "Survival Garden" Basics

    JUN 6

    395 "Survival Garden" Basics

    We explore the concept of a survival garden, focusing on growing nutritious crops that enhance healthy living. We redefine "survival garden" as a means to reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods while improving dietary intake. Our discussion includes practical tips for cultivating calorie-rich vegetable staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, evaluating their yields and family preferences. The episode covers specific planting techniques for various vegetables, along with our personal gardening experiences, highlighting the adaptability needed for successful growth and storage of crops. Ultimately, we aim to inspire you to embrace gardening as a sustainable practice that enriches nutrition and well-being. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Heirloom Popcorn - Pennsylvania Butter Flavored Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “Growing Microgreens” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! “Growing A Survival Garden” - Modern Farmer, October 2024 Mushroom Growing Kits Microgreen Seed Sources - Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Harris Seeds Bean Seeds - Yellow Indian Woman (Buckeye Bean), Bingo Beet Seeds - Choggia, Golden Growing Sweet Corn Information (Iowa State) Sweet Corn Production in California (UCANR) All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    1h 8m
  6. 394 Home Weather Station Basics

    MAY 30

    394 Home Weather Station Basics

    Episode 394 features climate scientist Daniel Swain of Weather West and UCANR discussing the link between gardening and weather patterns. He provides tips on monitoring conditions, setting up weather stations, and adapting practices amid National Weather Service budget cuts. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Davis Vantage Pro Weather Station (Photo: Wikimedia Commons) Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: “What is a Grocery Store Vine-Ripened Tomato?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/ Daniel Swain / WeatherWest on YouTube Home Weather Stations Davis Instruments Weather Stations All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    49 min
  7. 393 Garden Pests - Whiteflies, Slugs, and More!

    MAY 23

    393 Garden Pests - Whiteflies, Slugs, and More!

    Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower share tips for managing pests like whiteflies and slugs, highlighting organic solutions and beneficial insects to help you reclaim your garden. Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Whiteflies on a Citrus Leaf (Photo: Flickr/epitree) Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: Controlling Slugs in Mulch. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/ Plants That Attract Beneficial Insects The Good Bug Hotel Beneficial Insects for Whitefly Control Whitefly Control Product - Bug Buster O Sluggo for Snail and Slug Control Sluggo Plus for Snail, slug, and earwig control Other Slug/Snail Control Products Earwig Control Tips from UCANR All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    33 min
  8. 392 I Did Not Know That! Garden Tips for Success, Live

    MAY 16

    392 I Did Not Know That! Garden Tips for Success, Live

    Debbie Arrington of the Sacramento Rose Society club introduces Master Gardener Farmer Fred and horticulture professor Debbie Flower at a recent meeting of the club. Fred and Debbie don't necessarily talk about roses, though. They share 10 essential tips to boost your overall gardening success—from innovative seed germination techniques to managing soil health and tackling invasive pests. This lively discussion emphasizes daily garden observation and sustainable practices, ensuring your garden thrives beautifully. Get ready to dig deep into the art of gardening! Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.   Now on YouTube (audio)  Pictured: Rose Show at the Sacramento Rose Society. Roses: Whirlaway, Marriotta, Magic Show, Dolly Parton Links: “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter  This week’s edition: Tips for more effective drip irrigation on raised garden beds. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You! Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/ Fair Oaks Horticulture Center The Force of Rainwater Hitting bare soil Hairy Bittercress weed exploding seeds All About Farmer Fred: GardenBasics.net “Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter Farmer Fred website:  http://farmerfred.com The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"  Instagram: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/ Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here. Got a garden question?  • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics • Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.  • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net • E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com  Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

    33 min
See All (399)

4.7
out of 5
257 Ratings

About

Tips for beginning and experienced gardeners. New episodes arrive every Friday. Fred Hoffman has been a U.C. Certified Master Gardener since 1982 and writes a weekly garden column for the Lodi News-Sentinel in Lodi, CA. A four-decade fixture in Sacramento radio, he hosted three radio shows for Northern California gardeners and farmers: The KFBK Garden Show, Get Growing with Farmer Fred, and the KSTE Farm Hour. Episode Website: https://gardenbasics.net

Information

  • Creator
    Fred Hoffman
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    399
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, Garden Basics Theme Music
  • Show Website
    Garden Basics with Farmer Fred

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