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
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The Washington Bee Atlas: Discovering the Secrets of our Native Bees
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, guest Karen Wright from the Washington State Department of Agriculture tells us all about the Washington Bee Atlas and the importance of native bees. Karen explains the difference between honey bees and native bees. She talks about how Washington state has around 600 known native bee species, with many more still undescribed, and goes over how native bees are vital for pollinating about 80% of flowering plants, which is crucial for our ecosystems and agriculture. She explains what the Washington Bee Atlas is and how to get involved with their project of documenting native bee diversity, tracking their distribution, and promoting bee conservation efforts. Listeners will learn how the Washington Bee Atlas leverages collaboration among researchers, volunteers, and the public to gather data on native bee populations.
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The Fire-Ready Garden: How to Make Your Yard Safer
Wildfires are becoming more frequent and more intense—especially in areas where homes and wildlands meet. But your garden can be part of the solution. In this episode, I talk with Al Murphy, a national wildfire management expert and WSU Master Gardener, about how home gardeners can take simple, effective steps to reduce wildfire risk around their homes. Learn what it means to have a fire-ready garden, what to plant (and avoid), and how to create defensible space without sacrificing beauty or biodiversity. Whether you live in the wildland-urban interface or just want to be more prepared, this episode offers practical guidance rooted in research and years of field experience. Join us as we talk about What is the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI)? How your landscape choices affect wildfire risk Creating defensible space around your home Common landscaping mistakes that increase fire danger How communities can work together to become fire-adapted
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How to Choose Fire-Resistant Plants for the Landscape
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we’re joined by Jim Kropf, WSU Pierce County Extension Director, to explore how thoughtful plant choices can help protect your home and garden from wildfire. With fire seasons growing longer and hotter across Washington, understanding which plants are more fire-resistant—and how to maintain them—is essential for creating a safer, more resilient landscape. Jim shares the key characteristics that make plants less prone to ignition and offers tips on landscape design and defensible space. We also discuss how to balance fire resistance with water conservation. Whether you’re updating your landscape or starting from scratch, this episode will help you make informed choices that support wildfire preparedness. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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Conserving Water In The Garden: What Every Gardener Should Know
What does a truly waterwise garden look like in Washington, and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode, we’re joined by Spokane County Master Gardener Mason Neil to explore how home gardeners can make practical, research-based choices that reduce outdoor water use while creating beautiful, resilient landscapes. From choosing drought-tolerant plants to using more efficient irrigation, Mason shares tips and insights rooted in local experience and the WSU Master Gardener program’s Water Conservation priority. Whether you're redesigning your yard or just adjusting your watering habits, this episode will leave you inspired to grow with the climate in mind. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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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