Good Growing

Spring has arrived, which means the gardening questions have started coming into Extension offices. Tune in to this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we answer some of the questions that have come into our offices. Learn about planting grass in the spring, managing invasive plants, fertilizing fruit trees, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2_8AUONLR44 Skip to what you want to know: 00:27 – Welcome, Ken. Have we gotten our garden seeds started, a Good Growing Grow Along seed update, and an anniversary. 05:28 - I have a bare patch of ground, when should I plant grass seed? 08:38 – What is this plant? 09:27 – What is causing the stippling on the rhododendron leaves? 13:13 – My African violet has mealy bugs. How do I get rid of them? 16:18 – Bradford pear is becoming invasive but can still be bought. What are you doing to stop it from being sold? 21:57 – Managing honeysuckle, can I spray now? 24:38 - Wintercreeper 26:35 – What do we do about our homes being invaded by the multi-colored Asian lady beetle? 30:18 – How much fertilizer should I put on my fruit trees? 33:59 - Will cicadas affect my trees this year? 37:14 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Management of Invasive Plants and Pests of Illinois Bush honeysuckle management Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Welcome to another episode of the Good Growing podcast! Join horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson as they dive into the fascinating world of spring ephemerals. These early bloomers emerge before trees leaf out, adding blooms to the landscape after winter's dormancy. In this episode, Ken and Chris discuss these unique plants and their lifecycles, give tips on growing spring ephemerals in your garden, and describe detailed insights into common Illinois spring ephemerals. Skip to what you want to know: 00:36 Hey Ken! 00:45 Are the spring ephemerals emerging in our yards and around us? 02:52 What is a spring ephemeral? 05:23 Where do we commonly find spring ephemerals? 08:14 Are Spring bulbs the same as spring ephemerals? 11:51 When do you commonly see spring ephemerals emerge in Illinois? 12:40 Can we plant spring ephemerals in our yards? 14:16 Can spring ephemerals be used under evergreens? 15:10 Should you buy bareroot or seed to start your spring ephemeral garden? 20:19 The interesting way many spring ephemerals have their seed dispersed. 22:23 Talking about specific species of spring ephemerals. 22:32 Skunk cabbage 24:46 Dutchman's Breeches 27:56 Jack in the Pulpit 32:25 Virginia bluebells 36:26 Yellow Trout Lily 38:40 Mayapple 42:36 Bloodroot 44:54 Forest debris and invasive species competing with spring ephemerals 46:45 Spring beauty 50:23 Don't dig up spring ephemerals from natural areas 52:46 Plan for a succession of plants to fill in the holes left by spring ephemerals when they are done for the year. 54:12 Thank you, and coming up next week Links to our articles on spring ephemerals Spring brings spring beauties to the landscape https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2021-04-15-spring-brings-spring-beauties-landscape A plant of many colors: Virginia bluebell https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2024-03-15-plant-many-colors-virginia-bluebell A favorite spring ephemeral: Bloodroot https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2023-03-17-favorite-spring-ephemeral-bloodroot Trillium: Good things come in threes https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2023-04-07-trillium-good-things-come-threes Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Welcome to the Good Growing Podcast! In this episode, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive deep into the world of soil testing. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, understand how to unlock the secrets of your soil and boost your garden's productivity. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/vJKpTfJabKk Skip to what you want to know: 0:27 Hey Ken! Soil test reports have lots of numbers, what do they all mean? 01:13 How do you collect a soil sample for testing? Do many gardeners test their soil in Illinois? 08:08 What do we do with our soil sample? Buy a home test kit? Use a soil lab? 08:56 How to find a soil lab. 11:27 Stick with Midwestern soil labs. 13:23 Showing our soil test results 14:01 Ken's soil test report from Lukeman Garden's Extension Demonstration Garden 17:11 Ken's soil test recommendations - corn, soybeans, grains, and legumes 19:12 Chris reads his soil test report (lawn) 31:08 Chris' soil test recommendations for lawn. 34:02 Thanks and coming up next week Illinois Extension Soils Website https://extension.illinois.edu/soil Soil Test Lab lists https://extension.illinois.edu/soil/soil-test-labs Testing Your Soil w/ Duane Friend https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv7iocI90os Collecting Soil Samples with Chris Enroth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1G1tso_N40 Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Native grasses are often overlooked when it comes to pollinators, but they can play a crucial role in supporting many different types of pollinators. Tune in to this week’s Good Growing Podcast to discover how native grasses provide nesting and overwintering habitats, serve as larval food sources, offer pollen, and much more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TCE-wQyjn38 Skip to what you want to know: 00:30 – Welcome, Ken. How often do we discuss grasses in pollinator presentations? 02:20 – What type of grasses are we talking about? 03:10 – Which native grasses do well in gardens? 06:15 – Native grasses as pollinator nesting and overwintering habitat 13:28 – Cleaning up plant debris from the garden 17:05 – Native grasses as larval food sources 23:20 – Native grass pollen as a food source 28:58 – Selecting and incorporating native grasses in the landscape 38:58 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Fall garden clean-up Spring garden clean-up Gardening with Native Grasses in Cold Climates and A Guide to the Butterflies They Support Role of grasses in a pollinator garden Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Welcome to another episode of the Good Growing Podcast! Join horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson as they delve into the fascinating world of garden peas, Pisum sativum. Explore the rich history of garden peas, from their origins in ancient agriculture to their role in the development of modern genetics. Get practical advice on planting, caring for, and harvesting garden peas, including tips on soil preparation, spacing, and dealing with common pests and diseases. From childhood memories of canned and frozen peas to the joys of growing your own, this episode covers everything you need to know about these humble yet delightful vegetables. Skip to what you want to know: 00:37 Hey Ken! What type of peas did we eat growing up? Canned, frozen, or fresh? 02:44 National Garden Bureau Plant of the Year - The Garden Pea 03:23 Is it time to plant garden peas in early March? 06:15 The history of the garden pea. Domestication 09:39 Why did humans pick the garden pea for domestication 10,000 years ago? 11:54 The dawn of a sweeter garden pea. 14:31 Talking about Gregor Mendel and the birth of modern genetics. 17:07 Growing garden peas 18:09 Shelling peas 19:03 Snow/Sugar peas 19:41 Snap peas 22:01 Growing requirements spacing, soil, trellising, etc. 24:16 What pea cultivars does Ken grow in his garden? 27:28 Using peas as a bioassay. 28:20 How deep do you plant pea seeds? 29:24 Garden pea problems 32:14 Thank yous and coming up next week.

Join horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson from the University of Illinois Extension as they delve into the fascinating world of chamomile, the 2025 Herb of the Year. In this episode, Chris and Ken discuss the different types of chamomile, including Roman and German chamomile, and their unique characteristics. Learn about the benefits of chamomile, from its use in herbal teas to its role in beauty products and even baby diapers. Discover the best practices for growing, harvesting, and using chamomile in your garden and home. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious about this versatile herb, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. Tune in to explore the wonders of chamomile and how it can enhance your garden and lifestyle. Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDqLJBDEogw Skip to what you want to know: 00:30 Hey Ken! Do you like to drink tea? 00:59 Herb of the year - Chamomile. Have we tried chamomile tea? 02:18 What is the proper way to pronounce "chamomile"? 03:22 The different species of chamomile, look-a-likes, and chamomile adjacent. 07:24 Pineapple weed 08:37 Stinking Chamomile 09:35 Dyer's Chamomile 10:53 The economics of chamomile 12:30 How is chamomile harvested commercially (past and present) 15:33 Recommended varieties of German chamomile 18:17 What is Roman chamomile used for? 19:45 Growing German chamomile 22:54 Recommended growing conditions for German chamomile 24:37 Harvesting German chamomile flowers 25:59 Chamomile is also attractive to pollinators 26:42 Drying and steeping times 30:38 Thanks yous and coming up next week Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Have you joined the Monstera craze? With their unique leaves and forms, Monsteras have become popular houseplants. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast to learn about Monstera plants, including their history, care, different species, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3xyQlbH-7ws Skip to what you want to know: 00:30 – Welcome, Ken. Have we spent lots of money on Monsteras? 01:15 – What are our experiences with Monstera? 04:00 – The history of Monstera and where do they come from? 07:10 – What is the growth habit of Monstera, and what do they look like? 09:25 – Why are there holes (fenestrations) in the leaves? 13:30 – Growing Monstera 18:35 – Monstera toxicity 19:15 – Monstera deliciosa 24:43 – Propagating Monstera 26:25 –Monstera adansonii 28:17 – Monstera esqueleto 30:50 –Monstera obliqua 34:05 –Monstera epipremnoides 35:55 –Monstera Peru 37:22 –Monstera standleyana (cobra monstera) 39:00 – Some more resources 40:50 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Year of the Monstera, National Garden Bureau A Revision of Monstera (Areaceae) Revision of Monstera (Araceae: Monsteroideae) of Central America The adaptive function of leaf fenestrations in Monstera spp (Araceae) a look at water, wind, and herbivory, May 2011 Flower and Fruit of the Monstera Deliciosa Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

In this episode of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth with University of Illinois Extension takes us on a deep dive into the controversial practice of tree topping. Often referred to as stubbing or hat-racking, tree topping involves cutting the canopy of a tree back to a uniform height, which can have disastrous consequences for the tree's health and safety. Chris rants, er...explains why this outdated method is harmful, detailing the science behind tree growth and the negative impacts of removing significant leaf cover. He also discusses the legal liabilities homeowners face with poorly managed trees and who to turn to when you need a tree care professional. Tune in to learn why tree topping is like giving your tree a bad haircut and discover better ways to care for your landscape investments. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/5YHneEN0zyA Skip to what you want to know: 01:58 Tree topping has been done for generations. Are you saying Grandma was wrong? 02:27 What happens when you top a tree? 02:59 The rise of epicormic shoots! 03:58 Epicormic shoots are WEAK! 04:20 Watch out for widowmakers! 04:54 Will I get in trouble for having widowmakers in my trees? 05:29 What can I do to avoid tree care people that top trees? 05:53 How do we prune shade trees without tree topping? 06:22 Topped trees are ugly! 07:28 What about this thing called pollarding? Is that the same as tree topping? Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk Chainsaw footage provided by Storyblocks -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Looking to try something new in the garden this year? You’re in luck because, back by popular demand, the Good Growing Grow Along returns with a fresh lineup of unique and beautiful plants for 2025. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast to learn about the plants we’ll be growing for this year's Grow Along, how you can participate, and more. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4pCC_Ndkkeg Skip to what you want to know: 00:30 – Welcome, Ken and Emily. What should we call this year’s Grow Along? 02:25 – What is the Good Growing Grow Along? 04:30 – What has changed from last year’s Grow Along? 07:15 – How can I register for the Grow Along? 09:55 – What will we be growing this year for the Grow Along? 10:25 - Papalo ‘Butterfly’ 15:40 - Sweet pepper ‘Christmas tree’ 19:40 - Melon ‘Kajari’ 23:18 - Tomato ‘Black Krim’ 27:02 - Toothache Plant ‘Bullseye’ 30:55 - Basil ‘Dark Purple Opal’ 34:50 - Celosia ‘Mega Punk’ 39:40 - Cosmos ‘Seashells Mix’ 43:50 - Zinnia ‘Old Mexico’ 48:23 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Join us for the Good Growing Grow Along: https://go.illinois.edu/GrowAlong Starting seeds at home: https://youtu.be/lNCwDYkdS50 Toothache plant: What is it and how to grow it: https://youtu.be/Z7ywlxrKWTM Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk Drumroll provided by Storyblocks -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

This week on the Good Growing Podcast, we continue our look at the 2025 year of plants with calendula. Known for its vibrant orange and yellow flowers, calendula is not just a beautiful addition to your garden but also a versatile plant with numerous uses both in and out of the garden. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rkYzhbt-7kU Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Welcome to the Good Growing podcast! In this episode, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson from the University of Illinois Extension delve into the 2025 Perennial Plant of the Year: Clustered Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum muticum). Join us as we explore the unique characteristics, growing tips, and ecological benefits of this native plant. Skip to what you want to know: 00:35 Hey Ken! It is very cold outside. 03:01 Does the cold affect Japanese beetle grubs? 05:22 The 2025 Perennial Plant of the Year is Clustered Mountain Mint 07:04 Native range 09:15 What does clustered mountain mint look like? 11:30 Pairing mountain mint with other plants. 12:34 Growth habit (form). 12:51 Full sun to part shade plant, but what happens if it gets too much shade? 13:42 Recommended locations to plant clustered mountain mint 15:05 Thoughts about potential aggressive behavior. 17:07 Why was this plant selected as perennial plant of the year? 17:45 The minty smell of clustered mountain mint. 19:52 Other mountain mints you may find in Illinois. 22:13 Mountain mint is a valuable plant for insects. 25:30 The seasonality of mountain mint. 27:12 Looking for mountain mint species at the garden centers. 29:34 Thank yous and coming up next week. Perennial Plant Association, Perennial Plant of the Year - Clustered Mountain Mint https://perennialplant.org/page/2025PPOY Characterization of Odorants in Clustered Mountain Mint Pycnanthemum muticum Assessing pollinator richness on urban-grown mountain mint (Pycnanthemum spp.) populations Variation in Insect Richness on Six Prairie Plant Species Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us 614?country=us

In this episode, horticulture educators Chris Enroth, Ken Johnson, and Emily Swihart dive deep into the fascinating world of dogwoods (genus Cornus). Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you'll discover the diverse beauty and versatility of dogwoods, from majestic trees to charming shrubs and even groundcovers.

This week on the Good Growing Podcast Ken and Chris reminisce about 2024. We look at you favorite episodes and share our favorite moments. From cicadas to using dynamite to blow up your landscape, you will enjoy this trip down memory lane. Skip to what you want to know: 00:39 Hey Ken! How was winter break? 02:01 How we assembled our year-in-review highlights. Top three YouTube podcast episodes 03:51 Third-most popular YouTube episode - More than monarchs YouTube https://youtu.be/cLvl96PpqOg Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/gardenbite-more-monarchs-insects-milkweed-goodgrowing 06:08 Second most popular YouTube video from 2024 - Plants We Wouldn't Plant Again YouTube https://youtu.be/XHqaxZPzlVU Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-179-plants-we-wouldnt-plant-or-would-think-twice-about-planting-again 07:52 Most popular YouTube video from 2024 - Plant problems we are seeing in 2024 YouTube https://youtu.be/7O96jjEbZ3o Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-181-plant-problems-we-are-seeing-2024-goodgrowing Top three audio podcast episodes 10:56 Third favorite audio episode - Native Grasses in the Prairie and Your Yard YouTube https://youtu.be/EaFf5zziNiQ Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-176-native-grasses-prairie-and-your-yard-goodgrowing 13:25 Second favorite audio podcast of 2024 - Monarch Butterfly Science with Dr. Andy Davis YouTube https://youtu.be/zIt-zkivDjI Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-174-monarch-butterfly-science-w-dr-andy-davis-goodgrowing 18:16 Favorite audio episode from 2024 - Growing Perennial Vegetables, Asparagus, Rhubarb, and More YouTube https://youtu.be/Q9PYXesCPXE Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-169-growing-perennial-vegetables-asparagus-rhubarb-more-goodgrowing Our favorite moments and episodes from 2024 20:23 Old Timey Remedies - Dynamite in the Landscape YouTube https://youtu.be/v64wU2PINS8 Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-183-old-time-garden-remedies-goodgrowing 22:27 Ken's favorite part of 2024 was cicada-mania YouTube https://youtu.be/U_0K70ajACM Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-175-eating-periodical-cicadas-goodgrowing 24:18 Thinking back on the Good Growing Grow Along YouTube https://youtu.be/aC0JUpFpYsQ Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/good-growing-grow-along-final-check-2024-goodgrowing 26:51 Attending the 2024 N.G Heimos Poinsettia Trial YouTube https://youtu.be/sPrESNYNOzk Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-194-more-red-many-colors-and-forms-poinsettias-goodgrowing 29:06 Our favorite gardening books episode YouTube https://youtu.be/RskDlYC8TRk Audio 31:14 A favorite moment - everyone eating toothache plant flowers YouTube https://youtu.be/Z7ywlxrKWTM Audio https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-193-our-favorite-gardening-books-winter-reading-gifts-or-anytime-year 33:44 Lessons from the garden for 2025 39:42 Thank yous and coming up next week! Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy -...

Illinois Extension's core mission is to be a source of research-based knowledge that helps community members solve challenges and improve their lives. On this week’s Good Growing podcast, Chris and Emily are joined by horticulture educators Sarah Vogel and Ryan Pankau to discuss the upcoming Community Tree Care series. This only learning opportunity is open to anyone who cares about trees or does the work of caring for trees. Listen to the end for a fun lightning round of tree questions with our guests. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/C01ODX3-7u8 Skip to what you want to know: 01:10 – Welcome, Sarah Vogel and Ryan Pankau. Introducing the Community Tree Care Series. 02:00 – Introductions. Who you are, where you are located, and how you became interested in trees. 08:47 – What is the Community Tree Care Series? 10:48 – Community Tree Care Series is open to anyone. 11:20 – Why we care about community trees. 14:00 – When trees face a natural disaster. 18:20 – How to sign up for the Community Tree Care Series. 21:53 – A summary of what topics are included in the series. 27:46 – Yet to be announced in-person sessions 32:08 – Lightening Round with tree people 33:09 – What is your favorite tree species and why? 37:28 – What is the most interesting tree fact that you know? 39:43 – What tree do you associate with your childhood? 41:41 – Do you have any tree related New Year’s Resolutions? 45:29 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! For more information or to register for the Community Tree Care Series: https://go.illinois.edu/CTC2025 Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinos.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Welcome to the Good Growing podcast! In this special gardenbite episode, horticulture educator Chris Enroth from the University of Illinois Extension revisits a fascinating 2021 webinar where the team delved into the world of tree nuts. This episode focuses on the beloved chestnut, featuring insights from horticulture educator Ken Johnson. Highlights: History and Significance: Discover the rich history of the American chestnut, once a keystone species in the eastern United States, and learn about its tragic downfall due to the chestnut blight. Chestnut Varieties: Explore different types of chestnuts, including American, Chinese, Japanese, and European chestnuts, and understand their unique characteristics and uses. Growing Chestnuts: Gain practical tips on how to grow chestnuts, including site selection, soil requirements, and pollination needs. Pest and Disease Management: Learn about common pests and diseases that affect chestnuts, such as chestnut weevils and phytophthora root rot, and how to manage them effectively. Harvesting and Storing: Get expert advice on the best practices for harvesting and storing chestnuts to maintain their quality and flavor. Culinary Uses: Find out how to prepare and enjoy chestnuts, from roasting them over an open fire to incorporating them into various recipes. Restoration Efforts: Hear about the ongoing efforts to restore the American chestnut through traditional breeding and transgenic approaches. Join us for an informative and engaging episode that will deepen your appreciation for chestnuts and their role in our ecosystems and culinary traditions. 01:16 Chestnuts - What are they? 02:36 Chestnut vs. horse chestnut 03:30 The different species of chestnuts 04:20 The history of the American chestnut. 06:34 The arrival of Chestnut blight 08:28 Chestnut growing recommendations 11:04 Chestnut cultivars 11:43 Chestnut pollination 13:29 Chestnut pests (insects) 16:11 Chestnut pests (critters) 17:41 Chestnut diseases 19:03 Harvest and storing chestnuts 21:21 How to eat chestnuts 23:08 Bringing back the American Chestnut 25:32 So long until next year! Watch the entire Going Nuts Over Tree Nuts webinar where we also discuss walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vd1ix1H3bco Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

When most people think of poinsettias, they think of red, but they can be found in a variety of colors and forms. On this week’s Good Growing Podcast, we discuss our trip to the N.G. Heimos Poinsettia Trial. Learn about the wide variety of colors and forms of poinsettias that were on display, some of our favorite varieties, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sPrESNYNOzk Skip to what you want to know: 00:30 – Welcome, Ken. What was the poinsettia trail like? 03:37 – Recap of last year’s poinsettia podcast 07:05 – A little more on the trial and how it was laid out. 09:55 – What we saw/our favorites 10:25 – Red poinsettias (Kayla Red, Roccostar Red, Gloria Red, Q-ismas Bond, and Advent Red) 18:30 – Marbled poinsettias (Amarena Early Glitter, Early Elegance Glitter, Tapestry, Ice Punch, Robyn Marble, Princettia Sparkling Rouge, and Freya series – marble) 30:56 – White poinsettias (Flurry White and Frozen) 33: 50 – Novelty poinsettias (Autumn Leaves, Viking Cinnamon, Q-ismas Cozy Oak, Orange Glo, Luv U Pink, Enduring Pink, Mars Pink, Princettia Queen Shell Pink, Golden Glo, Green Envy, and Q-ismas Qozy Mojito) 49:05 – A few more poinsettias we saw 51:25 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! All about Poinsettias: Myths, legends, how they’re grown, and more: https://youtu.be/0jY1dNYQG5Y Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

This week on the Good Growing Podcast, Emily Swihart joins Ken and Chris to discuss our favorite gardening and landscaping books. We discuss reference books, fiction and nonfiction, and even children's books. Beyond our favorites, we also interviewed our fellow horticulture educators to get their recommendations. This is a long episode this week. Be sure to utilize the timestamps below to skip to what you want to see. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/RskDlYC8TRk 00:31 Hey Ken! 01:00 Welcome Emily! 01:35 What are our reading habits? 03:38 How do we choose books to read? 07:13 Reading older books. 10:39 Horticulture references 10:55 Diseases of Trees and Shrubs by Wayne Sinclair and Howard Lyon 11:02 Bark: A Field Guide to the Trees of the Northeast by Michael Wojtech 12:26 Herbaceous Perennial Plants by Allan Armitage 13:53 The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants by Peter D'Amato 14:54 Caterpillars of Eastern North America by David Wagner 15:57 The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator by Timothy Winegard 16:37 Wicked Bugs by Amy Stewart 18:13 Bees: An Identification and Native Plant Forage Guide by Heather Holm 18:20 Pollinators of Native Plants by Heather Holm 22:25 How Plants Work by Linda Chalker-Scott 22:34 Botany for Gardeners by Brian Capon 24:26 The Informed Gardener by Linda Chalker-Scott 25:15 The History of the Garden in Fifty Tools by Bill Laws 28:22 Management of Invasive Plants and Pests for Illinois by Illinois Extension 28:41 Forest Trees of Illinois by Illinois Extension 29:27 Books by Doug Tallamy 29:43 Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy 30:03 The Nature of Oaks by Doug Tallamy 31:49 The Living Landscape by Doug Tallamy and Rick Darke 35:16 Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer 36:08 Gathering Moss by Robin Wall Kimmerer 36:58 The Sioux Chef by Sean Sherman 38:45 The Leaves on the Trees by Thom Wiley 40:51 Bug Hotel by Libby Walden 41:47 Colors of Insects by Laura Purdie Salas 42:14 Bugs A to Z by Caroline Lawton 42:39 As An Oak Tree Grows by G. Brian Karas 43:39 From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons 45:05 The Lorax by Dr. Seuss 46:31 A Perfect Red by Amy Butler Greenfield 49:40 Urban Forests: A natural history of trees and people in the American cityscape by Jill Jonnes 51:41 Hortus Curious by Michael Perry 52:29 Fifty Plants that Changed the Course of History by Bill Laws 54:38 The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson 56:52 Vascular Flora of Illinois by Robert Mohlenbrock 57:13 Circe by Madeline Miller 57:48 Floret Farm's Cut Flower Garden by Erin Benzakein 58:49 Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust 59:41 Nature's Best Hope by Doug Tallamy 59:57 Planting in a Post-Wild World by Thomas Rainer and Claudia West 1:02:53 Plants of the Chicago Region by Floyd Swink and Gerould Wilhelm 1:03:36 A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold 1:07:21 Illinois Wildflowers by Don Kurz 1:07:38 Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin and Harry Bliss 1:08:03 The Gardener's Guide to Prairie Plants by Hilary Cox and Neil Diboll 1:08:49 The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa Mason Ziegler 1:10:17 The Propagation Handbook by Hilton Carter 1:11:24 Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer 1:12:58 The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson 1:17:05 Closing thoughts 1:17:45 Thank yous, goodbyes, and coming up next week Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein -...

The holiday season is here, which means evergreens, poinsettias, amaryllis, and other holiday plants have arrived in stores. Plants are often at the center of our holiday decorations and traditions and are frequently given as gifts. Whether you’re buying them as gifts or for yourself, learn about what to look for when selecting your holiday plants and how to transport them to avoid cold weather damaging them so they can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yUWWqRRAjEk Skip to what you want to know: 00:35 – Tips on selecting holiday plants 00:44 – Poinsettias 02:20 – Christmas cactus 03:20 – Amaryllis 04:15 – Norfolk Island Pines 05:30 – Inspecting and transporting plants to avoid damage 07:50 – What to look for when selecting Christmas trees 09:19 – Wrap-up and goodbye! Need information on caring for your holiday plants? Check out these Good Growing articles: Poinsettias Holiday cacti Amaryllis Norfolk Island Pines Caring for Christmas trees Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/show/good-growing Tunein https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us Google podcasts https://bit.ly/3AiYjTD

This week, we have a Gardenbite excerpt from our webinar, in which we discussed wildlife damage in the home landscape. In this clip, Chris details two common rodents in Illinois that tend to pop up in the winter months around the outside and inside of our homes: the vole and the mouse. While the vole is an active pest outside during the winter, many Illinoisians also deal with mice in the home this time of year. Chris gives some tips and tricks for dealing with these two rodents and preventing their damage this winter. Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/Si2Q9HpKpFI Dealing with Winter Wildlife Damage - Good Growing Winter Webinar https://youtu.be/84aZvRWl9VA?si=FvcB7qDyZRzJLlcY 1:34 Voles 8:37 Mice Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

When cold weather arrives, it brings the end of the vegetable gardening season for many of us. That doesn’t have to be the case though. On this week’s Good Growing Podcast, we discuss how we can expand our growing season beyond what's normal by using season extension. Learn about what season extension is, why we would want to use it, the different techniques you can use, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/B2REiv1lFYc Skip to what you want to know: 00:31 – Welcome, Ken. What are our vegetable gardens looking like? 03:05 – What are our experiences with season extension? 04:25 – What is season extension? 06:20 – Effect of daylength on plant growth 10:25 – What kind of crops are we talking about when it comes to season extension? 13:26 – Cloches 16:27 – Temperature/heat management 17:55 – Floating row cover 22:00 – Low tunnels 24:05 – High tunnels and caterpillar tunnels 34:20 – Greenhouses (controlled environment) 37:20 – Cold frames 40:25 – Hot frame 41:46 – Starting seeds indoors 43:10 – Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Duration of Daylight/Darkness Table How to Build a Low Tunnel Part 1 - Bending low tunnel frames How to Build a Low Tunnel Part 2 - Installing greenhouse poly plastic Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies. Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk -- You can find us on most podcast platforms. iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-growing/id1446630377 Tunein - https://tunein.com/podcasts/Gardening/Good-Growing-p1187964/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/202u3siWExE1tTqrVgtmCR Vurbl - https://vurbl.com/station/good-growing-4pljnNlUtyG/ Listen notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/good-growing-chris-enroth-cHLPMWpvEOG/ Ivy - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us