Three Generations of Gardening in Utah: The Legacy of Lambert Growers
Lambert Growers has been a cornerstone for Utah gardeners since the late 1950s, when Barbara and Paul Lambert started a small backyard greenhouse that has now grown into a thriving, third-generation nursery in West Valley City. In this episode, Jana Francis chats with Kim Clark—who now runs the greenhouse with her husband Charlie—about the rich history of Lambert Growers, their unique growing practices, and the future of local nurseries in Utah. You’ll discover: 🌱 The history of Lambert Growers and its three generations of family ownership 🥬 What cool-season vegetables you can still plant in Utah this fall 🌸 How Lambert Growers expanded into medicinal herbs, houseplants, and unique perennial offerings 💚 Why supporting local nurseries keeps Utah’s gardening community strong 🧑🌾 Practical tips on hardening off plants, soil testing, and avoiding common gardening myths (goodbye eggshell trick!) Whether you’re a longtime Lambert customer or just discovering the value of local nurseries, this episode is filled with inspiration and practical advice you can put to use in your own backyard. 📍 Visit Lambert Growers at 3910 S Redwood Road, West Valley City, Utah 🌐 Learn more: lambertgrowers.com🌱 The absolute BEST garden tool: https://amzn.to/3Qc7cXo 🎙️ Follow us on Instagram: @gardeningutah
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Bloomin’ Easy Plants: Low-Maintenance Gardening for Modern Gardeners
Episode 89: Bloomin’ Easy: Low-Maintenance Plants for Modern Gardeners In this episode, I chat with Madison House and DeVonne Friesen of Bloomin’ Easy Plants, the creators of those fun blue pots you’ve seen at your local nursery. We explore: The origin story of Bloomin’ Easy and its connection to Van Belle Nursery How they're using tech like AR, apps, and chatbot Daisy Diggs to remove gardening fear New plant releases for gardens like Bouncy Hydrangea, Private Jet, and Pineapple Pop Rocks What it really takes to bring an improved plant to market (it’s a 10+ year journey) Garden trends from the Chelsea Flower Show: wildscaping, future-proofing, and bold color combos Why personal joy and nostalgia play a huge role in how we design our spaces Whether you’re a new gardener looking for foolproof plants or a seasoned plant nerd ready to discover what’s new, you’ll love this behind-the-scenes look at one of the most innovative plant brands out there. 🌿 Learn more: bloomineasyplants.com 🌱 The absolute BEST garden tool: https://amzn.to/3Qc7cXo 🎙️ Follow us on Instagram: @gardeningutah
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Gardening as a Love Language, Fruit Trees and Tomatoes with Sheriden Hansen Episode 88
In this episode, Jana sits down with horticulturist, educator, and gardening soul sister Sheriden Hansen to talk all things edible gardening — from planting and pruning fruit trees to the best varieties of garlic and tomatoes. Sheriden is a former tenured professor for Utah State University Extension, where she taught hundreds of horticulture classes across the state. With a background in both horticulture and health, she brings a deep understanding of plant science and real-life gardening strategies that work in Utah’s unique climate. We cover: Why pruning starts on day one The truth about eggshells and blossom end rot Creating a garden that gives back every day Her favorite heirloom tomato and garlic varieties Trellising tips for berries and raised beds Why gardening is her love language — and how she brings her family into it This episode is full of wisdom, laughter, and actionable tips. Whether you’re planting your first fruit tree or just need a reminder to stop and be in your garden, you’re going to love it. 👉 Follow Sheriden on Instagram: @utahfarmgal 🎙️ Follow us on Instagram: @gardeningutah 🌱 The absolute BEST garden tool: https://amzn.to/3Qc7cXo
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Smart Irrigation, Soil Secrets & Landscape Myths — with Mike Lorenc from Conservation Garden Park Episode 87
In this episode of Gardening Utah, we’re joined by Mike Lorenc, Lead Horticulturist at Conservation Garden Park in West Jordan, Utah. With over 15 years of experience helping Utahns create more sustainable landscapes, Mike returns to the show (he first joined us on Episode 54!) to share his top strategies for saving water, building healthier soil, and avoiding common landscape mistakes. We dig into: When and how to start watering in Utah — and why less is often more Why soil testing is essential before reaching for fertilizer The myth of landscape fabric and why it causes more harm than good How to design your irrigation system based on your soil type The best approach to planting trees for long-term success Mike’s favorite waterwise plants and what he's planting at home! Plus, we talk about bindweed battles, landscape design regrets, and Mike’s advice for every Utah gardener. Mentions: Conservation Garden Park USU Analytical Lab – Soil Testing Info Plant Select® Episode 54 – Mike’s first appearance on Gardening Utah Jana's favorite Garden tools on Amazon
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Bloom, Texture, and Foliage — Your Guide to Plant Selection with Cynthia Bee
In this episode of Gardening Utah, we dive deep into the art of plant selection with special guest Cynthia Bee! Whether you're refreshing your landscape or starting from scratch, Cynthia shares her expert advice on how to create a garden that's not only beautiful but also thrives in Utah’s unique climate. We cover: How to choose plants based on bloom timing, texture, and foliage. Why focusing on more than just flowers creates a richer, longer-lasting landscape. Tips for mixing colors, shapes, and plant heights for maximum visual impact. Resources to help you find the perfect plants for your yard. Links mentioned in the show: Slow the Flow Utah Plant Selector If you're ready to transform your yard into a stunning, water-wise paradise, this is the episode for you!
Be the envy of the neighborhood, when you listen to Gardening Utah with Jana Francis. Hear weekly tips on what you need to be working on right now. Plus local expert guests to help your yard stand out. It’s Gardening Utah with Jana Francis, where the grass really is greener!