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The Evergreen Thumb: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Erin Hoover, WSU Extension Master Gardener Program
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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- 1 weeks ago40 min
From Tubers to Blooms: A Practical Guide to Growing Dahlias
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk with Master Gardener Ed Adams about growing dahlias in Western Washington, including what it takes to manage a large collection of over 600 plants. Ed shares why dahlias thrive in Sequim's unique climate and walks through practical, research-based approaches to growing them successfully. The conversation covers getting started with tubers, seasonal care, supporting healthy growth, and managing common garden challenges using an integrated pest management approach. We also explore what changes when dahlias are grown at scale, along with tips for digging, dividing, and storing tubers for the next season. Whether you're growing a few plants or planning something larger, this episode offers grounded, field-tested insight into making dahlias work in a Pacific Northwest garden. There are a lot of resources mentioned in this episode. Find them on our website.
- 3 weeks ago39 min
The Hidden World of Insect Collections and Native Bees
In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk with Dr. Joel Gardner from the WSU M.T. James Entomological Collection about native bees, including Dialictus sweat bees, and how new species are discovered. Joel explains how insect collections support research on pollinators and biodiversity in Washington, and why preserved specimens remain important for understanding ecological change over time. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website. (link opens in new window)
- Apr 28, 202629 min
How to Make Gardens More Accessible In Every Sense with Monica Meyer
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.
- Apr 14, 202624 min
Mastering Slug Control: Strategies for Gardeners in the PNW with Diana Wisen
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.
- Mar 31, 202628 min
Emerald Ash Borer: The Truth About A Hidden Threat to Washington's Forests
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.
- Mar 17, 202615 min
Top 10 Gardening Tips for 2026
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.
- Mar 3, 202647 min
Free Public Gardens of Washington: Yakima Area Arboretum
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.
- Feb 17, 202626 min
Native Bees in Your Yard Are Doing Important Work
Most gardeners recognize honey bees, but in Washington, there are over 600 species of native bees doing much of the pollination work in our landscapes. In this conversation, Anne Bulger, a WSU Master Gardener, discusses the significance of native bees in gardening and pollination. She shares her journey into the world of native bees, emphasizing their efficiency as pollinators compared to honey bees. The discussion covers common misconceptions about native bees, the importance of supporting them in gardens, and the diversity of bee species, particularly mining bees. Anne also highlights the role of native bees in maintaining healthy ecosystems and offers practical advice for gardeners to create bee-friendly habitats. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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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The Evergreen Thumb covers topics including Leisure, Education, How To, Garden, Home & Garden. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
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