The Evergreen Thumb

18/06/2024

In our very first episode of Garden Chat, we explore the best ground cover options for Washington gardens. Discover how to enhance your garden with these versatile and low-maintenance plants.

14/06/2024

Early registration for the 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference is open now! Early bird rate expires on June 30. This conference is open to ALL garden enthusiasts, not just master gardeners. Visit www.mglearns.org for a class list and registration details.

11/06/2024

Tune in to "The Evergreen Thumb" for an exclusive preview of the 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference! 🎙️✨

Join us as we delve into the conference’s exciting lineup featuring the keynote speaker and in-depth sessions designed to enhance your gardening expertise.

🎧 Listen Now at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode023/

AEC Co-Chairs Cathi Lamoreaux and Debbie Benbow give us a preview of the 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference

11/06/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : 2024 Advanced Education Conference Preview: Gardening in a Changing Climate

Copyright © 2024 - Master Gardener Foundation of Washington StatePowered by Master Gardener Volunteers, Big River Photo Solutions &Computer Resource And Information Group

04/06/2024

We have a new video live on our YouTube channel.

I took a soil sample for testing and I'm showing you how on Soil Sampling Fundamentals: Steps to a Vibrant Garden

I walk you step-by-step through the soil sampling process and explain some of the different requirements for soil samples based on the labs that may do the testing.

Today, we're diving into the essential process of taking a soil sample. Soil testing is crucial for understanding your soil's health and optimizing plant gr...

28/05/2024

Learn how to create defensible space around your home with tips from Mike Karvia, retired Assistant Chief of Pacific County Fire District #1. Protect your property from wildfires – start today!
https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode022/

28/05/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : Defensible Space: Practical Steps to Wild Fire Resilience - Episode 22

Retired Assistant Fire Chief & Master Gardener Mike Karvia joins us to discuss how to create defensible space to help homeowners be more resilient against fire.

22/05/2024

Some interesting research on slugs from Oregon State University

Research from OSU found the most successful attractant for slugs is bread dough. Rory McDonnell, associate professor and Extension gastropod specialist collaborated with scientists from other states on a study that published in a special 2021 issue of “Insects” that focuses on slugs and snails. “We gave them a choice of food and they consistently went for the bread dough,” Mc Donnell said. “They really, really like it. They went bonkers for it. Bread dough outperformed everything.” In one instance, over 18,000 snails were trapped in 48 hours.
How can you apply this research at home? You can make a bread dough using the researcher’s recipe and hand-pick the slugs from the dough or turn it into a slug slurry to attract the slugs who then drown in the liquid.
Let’s make slug slurry!
A bread dough slug trap
You will need:
1 cup flour
2 cups water + more as needed
1 packet yeast
Small container (recycle a yogurt or cottage cheese container, for example)
Mix together the flour, water and packet of yeast. Add more water as needed to make a slurry. (There isn’t an exact measurement because the water will evaporate and fresher yeast may cause the dough to rise in the container. You need it to be in a liquid form to trap the slugs with this method.)
Pour the slurry into a small container.
Dig a shallow hole in the area where slugs may be living in the garden.
Place the container of slurry in the hole, with the edge of the container at or just above ground level. Fill in the dirt around the container.
Check the container every morning and remove slugs. Refresh slurry as needed. Notes: The dough works best when it is moist. Stir daily and add water as needed.
If you prefer to make the dough and not the slurry, reduce the water by half and plop your dough blob in the garden. Be ready to handpick the slugs out daily and keep the dough moist.
Keep dogs away from bread dough in the garden.

Interested in hearing more? Slug Chat with OSU slug expert Rory McDonnell is live on zoom this Thursday at noon. https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/events/slug-chat-osu-slug-expert-rory-mcdonnell

Resources:
https://today.oregonstate.edu/news/slugs-and-snails-destructors-crops-and-gardens-could-be-controlled-bread-dough
https://ask2.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=769554
https://source.colostate.edu/pet-health-common-household-items-may-toxic-pet/

21/05/2024

A teaser for our next episode on Creating Defensible Space with retired Assistant Fire Chief Mike Karvia. Look for the full episode on May 28th!

14/05/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : How to Prevent Crimes Against Nature with PlantAmnesty with Keith Dekker - Episode 21

Keith Dekker, a Clallam County Master Gardener and PlantAmnesty volunteer, joins us to discuss how to prune your plants to prevent crimes against nature.

14/05/2024

Curious about the best practices for pruning your plants? In this episode, we try to prevent crimes against nature with PlantAmnesty volunteer Keith Dekker, and he has the answers! Join us as we uncover the key benefits of proper pruning for plant health and growth and learn essential pruning techniques for trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Tune in to gain expert insights and transform your garden into a lush paradise. Happy pruning! 🌿

Listen in on your favorite podcast app or at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode21/

Show notes, resources, and a transcript are available too!

07/05/2024

How does a deeper understanding of the geological history and formations specific to our local area contribute to our knowledge of soil properties, and how can this knowledge inform successful gardening practices?

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we delve into the fascinating connection between geology and soil composition, uncovering the hidden secrets beneath our feet that influence gardening success. Our guest shares insights into how the geological history of Washington State has shaped the diverse soil profiles found across the region and provides practical tips for gardeners to leverage this knowledge.

https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode020/

02/05/2024

It is Plant Sale season! Support your local WSU Extension Master Gardener Program by visiting their annual plant sales. You can find a complete list of plant sales and other EMG-sponsored events at https://mastergardenerfoundation.org/overview/plant-sales/

30/04/2024

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we delve into the fascinating connection between geology and soil composition, uncovering the hidden secrets beneath our feet that influence gardening success. Our guest shares insights into how the geological history of Washington State has shaped the diverse soil profiles found across the region and provides practical tips for gardeners to leverage this knowledge.

https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode20/

30/04/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : Digging Deeper: Exploring the Link Between Geology and Soil Composition with Mark Amara - Episode 20

Mark Amara, a retired soil scientist and current WSU Extension Grant-Adams Master Gardener joins us to talk about geology and soil composition.

26/04/2024

Your gifts make a difference! We are grateful for the generosity of everyone who supported the WSU Master Gardener Program by giving to the WSU Master Gardener Endowed Chair fund. With two leadership challenge gifts, we raised over $26,000 during this one-day event on April 17th, bringing the total to over $140,000 to establish the first-ever faculty chair fully dedicated to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program.

CougsGive is now over, but you can still make a gift by clicking the link below.

Go Cougs!

Support the Endowed Chair Fund There are many ways you can support the Extension Master Gardener Program WSU Extension > Master Gardener Program > How to donate Throughout this site there are links to documents of various file types. Please contact our Statewide Program Leader if you require this in...

23/04/2024

In our latest episode of The Evergreen Thumb podcast, we dive deep into the art of growing grapes in your backyard. Tune in now to learn about choosing the right grape varieties, essential planting and care techniques, pruning tips, dealing with pests and diseases organically, and much more! Our special guest, Gwen Hoheisel, shares her knowledge to ensure your grape-growing journey is successful.

Click the link in our bio or check out https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode019/

22/04/2024

This Earth Day, let's sow the seeds of change together! Whether it's planting native species, composting, or reducing water usage, every action counts towards a greener tomorrow. Share your sustainable gardening goals with us! 🌿🌎

Check out some of the impacts WSU Extension Master Gardeners have had on Climate Change in their communities at https://mastergardener.wsu.edu/priorities/impact/climate-change/

17/04/2024

Only a few hours left to unlock our challenge gift of $10,500! https://cougsgive.wsu.edu/amb/EvergreenThumb

Nearly 4000 volunteers across Washington give 300,000 hours of their skilled time valued at $11.3 M delivering gardening information education for a resilient Washington -- for healthy plants, people, and communities. I am one of those volunteers.

https://cougsgive.wsu.edu/amb/evergreenthumb

17/04/2024

I’m committing to make a gift to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Endowed Chair Campaign today during !

I am proud of what the WSU Master Gardener Program accomplishes, and I want to see us grow under the auspices of an endowed professor.

I challenge you to make a gift of your own and then share on your page!
The first 50 gifts to the Master Gardeners will unlock $6,000 to the Master Gardener Endowed Chair Fund, thanks to the WSU Master Gardener Leadership Team and the Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State!

https://cougsgive.wsu.edu/amb/EvergreenThumb

16/04/2024

In our latest episode of The Evergreen Thumb podcast, we dive deep into the art of growing grapes in your backyard. Tune in now to learn about choosing the right grape varieties, essential planting and care techniques, pruning tips, dealing with pests and diseases organically, and much more! Our special guest, Gwen Hoheisel, shares her knowledge to ensure your grape-growing journey is successful.

Gwen Hoheisel, a WSU Perennial Fruit Crop and Sustainable Pest Management Extension Specialist joins us to talk about how to be successful when growing great grapes in home gardens and beyond.

16/04/2024

Tomorrow is CougsGive! Join me in giving to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Endowed Chair fund. https://cougsgive.wsu.edu/amb/EvergreenThumb

I support this with both my time and money because I am passionate about producing The Evergreen Thumb and teaching people in my community how to grow their own food.

As a dedicated gardener and host of The Evergreen Thumb podcast, it is so rewarding to share the stories, tips, and research-based insights that fuel our gardening community across Washington. 🎙️💚

Our podcast isn't just about growing plants; it's about nurturing a love for nature, fostering sustainable practices, and connecting gardeners with resources that empower them to thrive.

Where will you make a difference?

16/04/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : From Vine To Table: What You Need to Know About Growing Great Grapes in Your Backyard with Gwen Hoheisel - Episode 19

Gwen Hoheisel, a WSU Perennial Fruit Crop and Sustainable Pest Management Extension Specialist joins us to talk about how to be successful when growing great grapes in home gardens and beyond.

15/04/2024

Save the Date: is April 17, 2024! I am making my gift to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Endowed Chair Campaign. Will you join me?

Learn more about the Master Gardener Program endowed professorship on our website

Help advance the mission Cultivating plants, people, and communities since 1973! Support the Master Gardener Program WSU Extension > Master Gardener Program > Get Involved > Endowed Chair Campaign Throughout this site there are links to documents of various file types. Please contact our Statewide P...

13/04/2024

🌿 Happy International Plant Appreciation Day!

Let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty and benefits of plants in our lives.

Share your favorite plant photos or gardening tips with us today!

12/04/2024

Extension Master Gardener plant sales are coming soon to most counties across Washington state. Find one near you and you'll help support the many educational events and demonstration gardens in your community.

Find a WSU Master Gardener plant sale near you Local plant sales fund many of our educational and community events Find your county Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State > Overview > Plant Sales Chapter foundation hosted plant sales Upcoming Events Apr 24 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Thurston Count...

12/04/2024

Where are my Cougs at? This year is on April 17, 2024, & I want you to be part of the celebration. I am making my gift to the WSU Extension Master Gardener Endowed Chair Campaign. Will you join me?

Learn more about the Master Gardener Endowed professorship at https://mastergardener.wsu.edu/get-involved/endowed-chair-campaign/

10/04/2024

Calling all Cougs! This year is on April 17, 2024, & I want you to be part of the celebration. I am advancing the mission of WSU Extension Master Gardeners by supporting the Master Gardener Program Endowed Chair. Will you join me?

Learn more about the Endowed Chair campaign here:
https://mastergardener.wsu.edu/get-involved/endowed-chair-campaign/

09/04/2024

Today we have a special episode for you! Cougs Give is coming April 17 and the WSU Master Gardener Program needs your help.

Listen to find out what Cougs Give is all about and the goal we're working toward. Since this episode was recorded, the challenge match amount has increased to $10,500! Help us unlock that match on April 17!

Listen to this short episode at https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/CougsGive24/

09/04/2024

The Evergreen Thumb : Cultivating Tomorrow: A Special Episode for Cougs Give 2024

Copyright © 2024 - Master Gardener Foundation of Washington StatePowered by Master Gardener Volunteers, Big River Photo Solutions &Computer Resource And Information Group