The Sunshine Gardening Podcast

Kristin G. Hildabrand
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The Sunshine Gardening Podcast

The Sunshine Gardening podcast covers research-based information from the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service to help inspire and encourage gardeners in the Kentucky garden and landscape. Kristin Hildabrand, Warren County Extension Agent for Horticulture, shines the light on various gardening topics from fruit and vegetable production, gardening techniques, care and maintenance tips, pests, insects, and more to help the sun shine brighter over the Kentucky garden!

  1. 15/11/2024

    How to Winterize Your Lawn Mower

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes guest Chris Schalk, the Barren County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources. The topic is how to winterize lawn mower equipment properly. Discussion on the Importance of Lawn Mower Winterization: * Chris Schalk explains the significance of winterizing and preserving gardening tools from a functional perspective and protecting financial investment in the equipment. Practical Steps to Winterize Lawn Mower: * Chris recommends starting with the owner's manual for specific manufacturer recommendations and stresses the importance of adding a fuel stabilizer to the equipment. * They then discuss thoroughly cleaning the equipment, including under the deck of lawnmowers, which is crucial to prevent moisture and debris from causing damage. * Mention that taking care of other equipment, like pressure washers, is important, emphasizing the different care needed to prevent freezing damage. Mistakes to Avoid: * Kristin and Chris discuss common mistakes people make while winterizing, like neglecting battery maintenance and proper storage conditions. Maintenance Tips for Other Equipment Components: * The discussion includes tips for maintaining batteries, checking and airing up pneumatic tires properly, and handling mower blades—whether cleaning, sharpening, or replacing them. Engaging Younger Generations: * The conversation wraps up with Chris advising listeners to involve young people in the maintenance processes to teach them valuable skills and possibly ignite interest in mechanical-related fields. Conclusion: * Kristin thanks Chris for his insights. He wraps up by encouraging listeners to prepare their tools for winter, promising readiness for the next gardening season. * She concludes with an invitation for feedback and suggestions, ensuring continuous engagement with the gardening community. References: Considering the Environment in the Maintenance of your Kentucky Lawn, ID-222, the University of Kentucky Extension Service publication: https://publications.ca.uky.edu/files/ID222.pdf .

    18 phút

  2. 14/10/2024

    How to Prune Trees in the Kentucky Landscape

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes Jared Weaver, the City Arborist for Bowling Green. The episode focuses on the critical gardening skill of pruning trees, which is especially pertinent as the community celebrates "Tree Week." Jared begins by detailing his role as a city arborist and his responsibilities, which include planning, planting, monitoring, and pruning trees within city parks. His day-to-day tasks involve ensuring the health and longevity of the urban forest in Bowling Green. To locate a certified arborist, visit the International Society of Arboriculture: https://www.treesaregood.org/. Pruning Trees Kristin dives into specific questions about the best practices for pruning trees, initiating a conversation on the optimal timing for pruning different types of trees. Jared explains that the best general time for pruning is during the tree's dormant stage, often in winter, to minimize stress on the trees. He highlights that the type of tree, deciduous or evergreen, slightly adjusts this timing due to their biological cycles. The discussion shifts towards the appropriate techniques for tree pruning. Jared emphasizes the practice of "pruning by prescription," which involves understanding the specific reasons and goals for pruning each tree. He outlines a typical procedure that begins with a "crown cleaning" to remove dead or problematic branches. The explanation covers how the pruning should reflect the tree's function within the landscape. It introduces the "directional pruning" concept to encourage tree growth away from structures and other obstacles. Kristin and Jared discuss improper pruning methods, especially "topping," and how they can negatively impact a tree's health by leaving it vulnerable to pests and decay. They also discuss the tools recommended for homeowners, emphasizing safety and proper maintenance to ensure clean cuts. Jared underlines critical safety precautions during pruning, with specific gear advised for different pruning heights and tasks. For more severe tree management tasks like tree removal, Jared strongly suggests employing professional services, particularly stressing safety concerns when using chainsaws. Wrap-Up: Pruning Trees Finally, the podcast wraps up with Jared providing resources where listeners can find more detailed information on tree pruning, including websites and engaging in nature observation as an educational tool. The episode serves as an educational deep dive into the art and science of tree pruning, timed aptly with Bowling Green's tree week. It is packed with expert advice on maintaining tree health and ensuring landscape aesthetics, enhancing urban and residential environments. Additional Resources: https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/files/forfs_17-07_pruning_trees.pdf https://www.bgky.org/tree/maintenance https://www.bgky.org/tree/topping

    26 phút

  3. 23/09/2024

    How to Grow Garlic in the Kentucky Garden

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening Podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand, a horticulture extension agent for the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, is joined by guest Dennis Morgeson, the Horticulture Extension Agent for Washington County. Together, they delve into the specialized topic of how to grow garlic in the Kentucky garden. The episode begins with Kristin welcoming listeners and introducing the topic and her guest. Dennis jumps into the discussion by addressing various types of garlic that can be grown in Kentucky, particularly highlighting the differences between hardneck and softneck varieties. He mentions specific varieties like Spanish Roja, Chestnut Red, Music, Romanian Red, and Susanville and advises on which types are more suited for Kentucky’s climate. How to Grow Garlic: Selecting Varieties Hardneck Garlic Varieties Other Hardneck Garlic Characteristics Softneck Garlic Varieties Kristin queries about the sources for acquiring garlic bulbs, to which Dennis recommends ordering online from specialized garlic growers. He emphasizes that local varieties are limited and that securing a suitable variety is crucial before the planting season, ideally between late September and late October. How to Grow Garlic: Planting Tips The conversation shifts to planting techniques and soil preparation. Dennis stresses the importance of conducting a soil test to determine the exact amendments needed for optimal growth. He notes the benefits of growing garlic in different settings, such as ground beds, raised beds, or large containers, and discusses planting depth and spacing. Dennis also explores proper garlic care through the seasons, including mulching techniques to insulate the plants during winter and how to adequately water them. As the plants mature, they discuss the signs that indicate garlic is ready for harvest, typically around mid to late June. How to Grow Garlic: Harvesting Tips After harvest, Dennis explains the curing process, advising gardeners to allow garlic to dry in a cool place for about three to four weeks. He also covers storage solutions and potential pest issues, specifically the onion maggot, providing tips to mitigate this problem. Harvesting Tips for Garlic More Harvesting & Curing Tips Finally, Dennis and Kristin discuss the kitchen—how to cook with garlic, the flavorful benefits of freshly harvested bulbs, and even some unique uses for health and cooking.

    25 phút

  4. 16/09/2024

    E37: How to Best Establish and Renovate the Kentucky Lawn

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand introduces Kenneth Clayton, an extension associate from the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Kentucky. The session was recorded on September 9, 2024, as part of their home lawn improvement series. Kenneth shares his expertise on the best practices for lawn establishment and renovation for cool-season grasses in Kentucky, particularly during the fall season. Lawn Establishment & Renovation Kenneth discusses when and why someone might consider renovating their lawn, mentioning scenarios such as over fifty percent of the lawn covered by undesirable turf or persistent weed issues that warrant a complete renovation. He emphasizes that the optimal time for lawn renovation in Kentucky is the fall due to favorable soil temperatures and the reduced risk of summer weed competition post-renovation. Renovation Considerations Fall versus Spring Renovation Transitioning to the specifics of lawn establishment, Kenneth details two methods: traditional establishment, which involves total removal and reseeding of the lawn, and no-till renovations that minimize soil disturbance. He provides a step-by-step guide for each method, covering everything from killing existing vegetation with non-selective herbicides to selecting and applying the right seeds. Special attention is given to the type of grass suited for Kentucky climates, and turf-type tall fescue is strongly recommended for its durability through seasonal variations. Traditional Establishment vs. No-Till Renovation Kenneth also touches on the finer points of maintenance post-establishment, highlighting the importance of frequent watering, using high-quality seeds, and appropriate fertilizing and mowing practices to ensure successful lawn establishment and development. Evaluation Survey We want to thank Kenneth Clayton for sharing his valuable insights. We'd love to hear from you if you've tried any of the tips we mentioned or have any new experiences to share. We have created an evaluation for you to share your thoughts and experiences. The evaluation survey link for the Lawn Establishment & Renovation Program is https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bIMZOK6pC0ie9iS. If you enjoyed today's episode, we would be incredibly grateful if you could leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your reviews help us connect with more people and provide valuable feedback for improvement. Also, feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Other Resources: Lawn Establishment in Kentucky, AGR-50, University of Kentucky Extension Publication: https://publications.ca.uky.edu/files/AGR50.pdf Renovating Your Lawn, AGR-51, University of Kentucky Extension Publication: a href="https://publications.ca.

    49 phút

  5. 12/08/2024

    Uncovering Cicada Killer Wasps: Unsung Heroes in the Garden

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes Dr. Ric Bessin, an entomologist with the University of Kentucky, to discuss the Cicada Killer Wasp. Due to its size and appearance, this species is often mistaken for more aggressive hornets. Cicada Killer Wasp Introduction Dr. Bessin explains that Cicada Killer Wasps are midsummer insects that emerge to hunt cicadas, particularly the dog day cicada, during the peak summer heat. Despite their intimidating size, these wasps are beneficial as they control cicada populations, which can be noisy and detrimental to young trees. He clarifies that the female wasps, capable of stinging, are generally non-aggressive and do not defend their nests as hornets do. This reduces the likelihood of humans getting stung unless direct contact occurs, like stepping on a wasp. Cicada Killer Wasp Cicada Killer Wasp Characteristics Dr. Bessin also differentiates Cicada Killers from European hornets and other wasps by their physical features, like reddish eyes and black coloration, as opposed to the yellow-dominant palette of the hornets. He stresses that, unlike the public's fear driven by media about murder hornets, Cicada Killer Wasps pose minimal risk and should not be a concern, especially since murder hornets are not seen in Kentucky. Other Stinging Insects Photo Source: University of Kentucky Extension Cicada Killer Wasp Lifecycle Further into the conversation, Dr. Bessin details the life cycle of the Cicada Killer Wasp, explaining how females construct underground nests, paralyze cicadas with their sting, and lay eggs on the immobilized cicadas to provide food for the emerging larva. The larvae feed on the cicadas, growing into adult wasps that will continue the cycle the following year. He mentions that males do not hunt but instead focus on finding females to mate with, and unlike females, males cannot sting. Dr. Bessin suggests ways to discourage nesting in unwanted areas, such as maintaining a thick lawn and using mulch in garden areas. He reiterates that Cicada Killer Wasps contribute positively by aerating the soil and recycling nutrients, though their tunneling might be unsightly. Environmental Benefits By the end of the podcast, Kristin and Dr. Bessin discuss the environmental benefits provided by Cicada Killers and encourage listeners to minimize pesticide use, which will benefit these natural pest controllers. For further information, Dr. Bessin directs listeners to a fact sheet on Cicada Killer Wasps, available on the University of Kentucky's entomology website. This discussion educates listeners on the critical role of Cicada Killer Wasps in ecosystems, aiming to reduce unwarranted fear and promote appreciation for these garden allies. References: Cicada Killer Wasps, ENTFACT-004: https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/files/ef004.pdf

    28 phút

  6. 29/07/2024

    Unveiling the Backyard Biology Video Series with Colby Dye

    In this episode of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes Colby Dye, a summer extension intern, who discusses his Backyard Biology video series project. The episode starts with Kristin introducing the podcast and setting the stage for an engaging talk about local wildlife and gardening in Kentucky. Kristin shares her excitement about the insights Colby's project brings to home gardeners through his deep dive into the wildlife commonly found in local backyards. Colby shares his background, explaining that he grew up in Warren County and attended the University of Kentucky, where he majored in environmental science. He discusses his initial contact with the extension office through his involvement with agriculture and natural resources in high school and FFA, which led him to seize the internship opportunity. Colby preparing the Turtle Pockets- Cook Wild recipe. Colby explains his project, the Backyard Biology video series, in detail. He describes the motivation behind the project, which was to educate locals about the wildlife in suburban areas of Warren County, particularly as these areas expand into natural habitats. The project includes videos featuring different classes of animals, such as insects, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, each providing helpful wildlife management tips and identification guides. Kristin and Colby discuss each video topic, starting with the insect video, where Colby highlights invasive species and pollinators. They then discuss the birds' video, emphasizing the utility of the Merlin app for bird identification and a DIY project for hummingbird feeders. Colby shares his passion for amphibians and reptiles, explaining a fun project called the Frog Hotel, which garnered significant attention and engagement from the audience. https://videopress.com/v/ykED9xLp?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&posterUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fwarrencountyagriculture.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F07%2FIMG_9880.JPG&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Tutorial on How to Assemble the Frog Hotel Colby describes the mammals' video, pointing out the interesting case of the nine-banded armadillos appearing more frequently in Kentucky. He discusses the educational aspect of these videos, including handling the potential health risks from such wildlife. Towards the end of their conversation, Colby reflects on the success of the Backyard Biology series. He is particularly impressed with the audience engagement and the educational impact of the giveaways linked to each video, such as bee hotels and frog hotels. He is thrilled by the response and notes the significant number of people who reported learning from these resources. Backyard Biology Poster Highlights As the episode closes, Kristin expresses gratitude for Colby's contributions to the extension office and his effective educational outreach. They encourage listeners to check out the complete series on Warren County Agriculture's YouTube page and other social media platforms. This podcast episode reviews the crucial interplay between local wildlife and gardening. It provides listeners with educational resources and DIY projects emphasizing ecological awareness and practical engagement with backyard biology to foster a more vibrant and diverse ecosystem in...

    26 phút

  7. 19/07/2024

    How to Control Bermudagrass in the Kentucky Lawn

    In episode 34 of the Sunshine Gardening Podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes Kenneth Clayton, an Extension Associate in turfgrass from the University of Kentucky. Together, they discuss bermudagrass's challenges to Kentucky lawns and share practical strategies for controlling this aggressive and pervasive grass. Kenneth begins by explaining the nature of bermudagrass, pointing out its rhizomes and stolons, which facilitate quick spread and difficult eradication from lawns. He emphasizes that bermudagrass is desirable for some due to its hardy nature and ease of care in warm seasons, but it becomes problematic when homeowners do not want it in their lawns. He shares bermudagrass's growth habits and environmental resilience, contributing to its dominance over cool-season grasses like tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, particularly in Kentucky's climate. Source: Clemson University The conversation shifts to practical methods for controlling bermudagrass, involving both cultural practices and possible chemical interventions. Kenneth recommends raising mowing heights and adjusting fertilization timing and practices to suppress bermudagrass growth without inadvertently promoting it. He also suggests overseeding in areas where bermudagrass is dormant during cooler seasons and outlines specific chemicals and strategies for those seeking more aggressive control measures. These include the use of glyphosate and multiple applications of selective herbicides documented in the UK publication "Bermudagrass Control for Kentucky Lawns" (AGR-278). Kristin and Kenneth discuss the importance of setting realistic expectations for the eradication process. They note that completely removing bermudagrass often requires an integrated approach involving persistently weakening the grass through repeated cutting and chemical applications until colder weather assists in its control. In conclusion, Kenneth reiterates that while cultural practices alone will not fully eradicate bermudagrass, they are crucial when combined with chemical methods for managing its growth. Furthermore, he stresses the importance of following label directions and safety guidelines when using herbicides to ensure environmental safety and maximize treatment effectiveness. References: * Bermudagrass Control for Kentucky Lawns, AGR-278 Publication: https://www2.ca.uky.edu/agcomm/pubs/AGR/AGR278/AGR278.pdf * Horticulture Webinar Wednesday, Controlling Bermudagrass in Tall Fescue Lawns: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWOYZsSUj9Y

    26 phút

  8. 17/06/2024

    Kentucky Pest Alert: Watch out for the Spotted Lanternfly

    In episode 33 of the Sunshine Gardening podcast, host Kristin Hildabrand welcomes Dr. Jonathan Larson, an entomologist from the University of Kentucky Extension Service, to discuss the invasive species spotted lanternfly. This episode delves into the pest's characteristics, impact, and management strategies, first identified in Pennsylvania and now present in several states, including Kentucky. Introduction to Spotted Lanternfly * Dr. Jonathan Larson outlines the unique nature of spotted lanternflies, members of the fulgorid plant hoppers, and explains their invasive status and the threat they pose to over seventy plant species by feeding on them and excreting sticky honeydew, which leads to sooty mold. Identification and Life Cycle: * * The spotted lanternfly starts as black and white nymphs, transitioning to adults with striking patterns and colors that can sometimes be mistaken for butterflies or moths. Dr. Larson emphasizes their distinct appearance at various life stages, including a detailed description of adult lanternflies when their wings are displayed. Adult Lanternfly Surrounded by Older Nymphs Impact on Local Ecosystems and Agriculture: * * While primarily harmful to grapevines and the invasive tree of heaven, the spotted lanternfly does not generally kill other trees but significantly impacts the enjoyment of outdoor spaces and has potential economic effects on agriculture, particularly the grape industry. Spotted Lanternfly Spread and Detection: * * Dr. Larson discusses the pest's introduction to the U.S., likely via imported goods, and its ability to spread by attaching to vehicles. He also advises on monitoring efforts and how the presence of the tree of heaven can indicate potential spotted lanternfly populations. Management Strategies: * * Management strategies include using contact insecticides, systemic treatments like dinotefuran (for professional use only), and creating trap trees treated with insecticides to control large populations in contained areas. * To find a certified arborist in your area, visit the International Society of Arboriculture website at https://www.treesaregood.org/. Preventative Measures and Community Efforts: * * Eliminating the Tree of Heaven and participating in monitoring efforts like Kentucky Keepers are recommended. Dr. Larson stresses the importance of public awareness and community involvement in reporting sightings through designated channels. Tree of Heaven Photo Source: Chuck Bargeron, University of Georgia Resources and Further Support: * * Various resources are available, including fact sheets and websites provided by state and educational institutions. Dr. Larson also encourages engagement with local extension...

    25 phút
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The Sunshine Gardening podcast covers research-based information from the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service to help inspire and encourage gardeners in the Kentucky garden and landscape. Kristin Hildabrand, Warren County Extension Agent for Horticulture, shines the light on various gardening topics from fruit and vegetable production, gardening techniques, care and maintenance tips, pests, insects, and more to help the sun shine brighter over the Kentucky garden!

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