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 discuss how soil structure—how mineral particles and organic matter form aggregates—affects water retention, air flow, and plant health. Deirdre explains the difference between soil texture and soil structure. Key tips include protecting soil with mulch or cover crops, adding organic matter to feed beneficial microbes, and avoiding compaction by not working the soil when it's too wet or dry. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website. Â
-------- Â
28:19
--------
28:19
Gardening for Clean Water: How Everyday Choices Impact Water Quality
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 How our everyday gardening practices impact water quality Gardening and landscape choices to protect clean water Clean water and Integrated Pest Management Key aspects of Integrated Pest Management How Integrated Pest Management practices help safeguard clean water Integrated Pest Management approaches for common pests and plant problems Common pest management misconceptions Resources for Integrated Pest Management and water-friendly gardening How to support clean water in your community  Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website. Â
-------- Â
27:37
--------
27:37
How Climate Shifts Are Changing Our Pest Problems
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 their interactions with humans and tend to thrive in disturbed environments, often reproducing rapidly. Climate change, especially shifting rainfall patterns and warmer temperatures, is stressing plants, making them more vulnerable to native and non-native pests such as beetles and aphids. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website. Â
-------- Â
34:45
--------
34:45
Soil Health Secrets: How to Build Resilient Garden Soil
Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving garden. đŸŒ± In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Erin explores the key principles of soil health and how gardeners can apply them to create resilient, productive soil at home. What you'll discover in this episode: The core principles of soil health and why they matter for your garden How to keep soil covered, reduce disturbance, and maintain living roots Ways to encourage diverse soil life for stronger, healthier soil Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.   Â
-------- Â
27:19
--------
27:19
Soil Health Made Simple: A Practical Guide
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, serves as a habitat for countless organisms and even supplies antibiotics. Humans depend on soil for waste management, water purification, and as a foundation for infrastructure. In part eight of our Program Priority Series, guest Tessa Halloran goes over soil health. In this episode, Tessa covers: What is the soil health program priority? What is soil health? The Soil Food Web Simple steps to care for your soil Components of soil texture Ways to evaluate your soil for improvement Common soil challenges in Washington Â
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.
USA