PodcastsEducationThe Evergreen Thumb

The Evergreen Thumb

Erin Hoover, WSU Extension Master Gardener Program
The Evergreen Thumb
Latest episode

74 episodes

  • The Evergreen Thumb

    How to Make Gardens More Accessible In Every Sense with Monica Meyer

    04/28/2026 | 29 mins.
    Explore the development of a sensory garden designed to be accessible and therapeutic for neurodivergent individuals, veterans with PTSD, and others with sensory sensitivities. Learn about the design, purpose, and community impact of this innovative project. 
    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
  • The Evergreen Thumb

    Mastering Slug Control: Strategies for Gardeners in the PNW with Diana Wisen

    04/14/2026 | 24 mins.
    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, we're joined by Skagit County Master Gardener Diana Wisen to talk about why these pests thrive in our region, what role they play in the ecosystem, and how to manage them effectively in a home garden. We dig into slug behavior, life cycles, and the key moments when they're most vulnerable.
    You'll come away with practical, research-based strategies that focus on control rather than eradication, helping you reduce damage while working with the natural systems in your garden.
    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
  • The Evergreen Thumb

    Emerald Ash Borer: The Truth About A Hidden Threat to Washington's Forests

    03/31/2026 | 28 mins.
    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 urban trees. Learn about how it spreads, signs of infestation, and what communities can do to prepare and respond. 
    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
  • The Evergreen Thumb

    Top 10 Gardening Tips for 2026

    03/17/2026 | 15 mins.
    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 such as inconsistent water, pests, and changing weather patterns.
    You'll hear a mix of mindset shifts, common habits to stop, and a few practices worth adding to your routine. Topics include soil health, watering strategies, biodiversity in the garden, integrated pest management, and making site-driven plant choices.
    Rather than overhauling everything, the goal is simple: choose one meaningful change this season and observe the results.
    Referenced episodes and additional resources are available in the show notes on our website.
  • The Evergreen Thumb

    Free Public Gardens of Washington: Yakima Area Arboretum

    03/03/2026 | 47 mins.
    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 origin story as a community-driven initiative. She discusses the challenges and successes of curating a living landscape in a desert climate, the significance of various garden spaces, and the role of educational programs in fostering community engagement. Colleen emphasizes the importance of volunteers and community partners in maintaining the arboretum and outlines future aspirations for its growth and development. 
    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.

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About The Evergreen Thumb

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, organic pest control, and landscaping design, to tackling common challenges specific to our region. Discover the secrets to thriving vegetable gardens, vibrant flower beds, bountiful fruit trees, and breathtaking native plant landscapes. We'll also explore the intersection of gardening and sustainability, discussing topics like permaculture, composting, and water-wise gardening to help you create an environmentally friendly garden that nurtures both you and the ecosystem. So, whether you're tuning in from the urban jungles of Seattle, the rolling hills of Spokane, or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, get ready to dig deep, cultivate your knowledge, and connect with a community of fellow gardening enthusiasts.
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