Good Growing

In this episode of the Good Growing podcast, hosts Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson are joined by Colleen Reuter, Environmental Compliance professional at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to explore the world of green infrastructure and stormwater management. From rain gardens and rain barrels to depaving driveways and even the surprising role of beavers in flood control, this episode dives into practical, research-based strategies that homeowners and communities can use to reduce erosion, manage runoff, and improve water quality. We also preview the upcoming Illinois Green Infrastructure and Erosion Control Conference, a free, public event packed with expert speakers, hands-on solutions, and professional development opportunities. Conference Info: October 28 at the iHotel in Champaign, IL Register at: ccstormwater.org Registration deadline: October 14 Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OpiuAlNO1As Skip to what you want to know: 00:43 Hey Ken! It rained...a little. 02:18 Welcome Colleen Ruhter! 03:05 Who are the partners for the Green Infrastructure and erosion control conference, and what is green infrastructure? 04:38 Why is managing stormwater important? 06:44 How does an impervious surface affect stormwater runoff? 11:25 What is depaving, and why is it a good idea for people to depave their landscape? 16:10 How do rain gardens help manage stormwater? 19:52 Are rain barrels effective when dealing with typical amounts of stormwater runoff? 23:37 Why are fall leaves a problem with stormwater management? 25:09 Is it useful for communities to work together to reduce pollution in the stormwater system? 29:03 Separating combined storm sewer and sanitary sewer systems. 32:01 Are there any good examples of communities that have incorporated green infrastructure into their stormwater system? 32:56 One of the conference topics is going to be about beavers. Are beavers considered a good stormwater management tool? 35:10 Where can people go to learn more about the conference and about stormwater management? 37:57 Thank you 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

Even though it’s been dry, that hasn’t stopped the garden questions from coming in. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we answer some of your questions, as well as some of the most common gardening questions on the internet! From watering lawns and planting bulbs and perennials to dealing with ants, black spots on maple leaves, and more! Plus, we celebrate National Houseplant Week and pawpaws. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FI0D5Z2mfYQ Skip to what you want to know: 01:17 – It's still dry outside and National House Plant Week 04:05 - Getting houseplants ready to bring back indoors 05:39 - Pawpaws are ripening! 11:09 - Lightning round: questions from the internet and you 12:14 – How do I keep ants out of my yard? 13:36 – What are the black spots on my maple leaves? 14:36 – Can I still plant perennials and trees in the fall? 15:23 – Is it too late to sow fall vegetables? 16:44 – Should I cut back my perennials now? 17:58 – My annuals look bad right now. What should I do? 19:00 – Can I collect seeds now for next year? 20:28 – How often should I water my lawn in the fall? 21:57 – Is now a good time to aerate and fertilize my lawn? 23:09 – Should I treat crabgrass right now? 24:56 – Is it time to plant spring bulbs? 26:30 - Should I test my soil in the fall? 27:51 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye! Monstera: From the rainforest to must-have houseplant: https://youtu.be/3xyQlbH-7ws Growing Pawpaws in Illinois with Doug Gucker: https://youtu.be/m_cCkGqjp80 Illinois Extension Soil Testing website: https://extension.illinois.edu/soil/soil-testing 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 Good Growing, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive into the challenges of gardening during Central and Southern Illinois’ increasingly dry fall season. From flash droughts and cracked lawns to watering strategies for trees, shrubs, and cover crops, they share practical advice for managing your landscape in low-moisture conditions. Plus, a timely reminder about fire safety and a segment they have dubbed "Hose Talk." Tune in for expert insights and seasonal tips to keep your garden growing—even when the rain won’t fall. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/9PXCI5ddpBI 00:33 Hey Ken! It is dry. 01:37 How dry is it? Drought levels and recorded precipitation amounts. 04:34 Dry conditions in southern Illinois and a flash drought. 07:32 NOAA predictions for the next three months. 09:13 How does a fall drought affect our gardening this time of year? 11:59 Fall lawn planting. To seed grass or not to seed grass? 16:44 Watering trees in preparation for winter is a critical fall drought task. 19:26 Hose talk! 22:27 Planting fall cover crops during dry weather. 24:44 Fires during dry fall weather. 28:26 Thank you, and see you next week. US Drought Monitor: Illinois https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?IL NOAA Drought Forecasts https://www.drought.gov/forecasts Blog posts by Illinois Climatologist Trent Ford: Sept 4, 2025, August Ushered us From Summer to Fall https://stateclimatologist.web.illinois.edu/2025/09/04/august-ushered-us-from-summer-to-fall/ Sept 11, 2025, Drought is Intensifying in Illinois https://stateclimatologist.web.illinois.edu/2025/09/11/drought-is-intensifying-in-illinois/ 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

If you’ve driven along any interstates or highways in Illinois, there’s a good chance you’ve seen tall plants with spiky flower heads. Teasels have become an increasingly common sight across Illinois. While they may appear attractive, especially for cut flower arrangements, these troublesome plants can form large colonies that outcompete and choke out native plants. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_wKeJ61A20o ‌ 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 from University of Illinois Extension explores the adversaries of the monarch butterfly, including the controversial practice of captive rearing. Although we do not recommend captive rearing, there may be times when it is wanted for educational purposes. Can it be done responsibly? Chris shares best practices for raising monarch caterpillars indoors. Instead of captive rearing, support habitat conservation efforts! Learn how programs like Monarch Waystations and pollinator gardens can help restore critical habitat. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/Yfzxnvpco0M 00:32 The dangers encountered by monarch butterflies 02:07 Predators! 02:17 Disease! 03:18 A historic shift in habitat for monarch butterflies 04:04 Introducing the concept of captive rearing of monarch butterflies 07:17 Why captive rearing is not recommended 07:27 A loss of fitness 09:21 Artificially overpopulating an area with monarch butterflies 10:38 If you are STILL going to captive rear monarch butterflies, here are some tips. 11:44 What to feed your monarch caterpillars (cats) 14:21 What type of container to use 14:57 Placement of rearing cage 15:14 Check and clean containers daily 15:42 The stages (instars) of the caterpillar 16:11 The walkabout and final molt into a chrysalis 18:19 Emergence of the adult butterfly from the chrysalis 18:51 Releasing the adult 19:00 Not everything works out with the rearing process 19:19 Don't handle monarch caterpillars 19:51 How many caterpillars are responsible for rearing? 21:53 If captive rearing is discouraged, what can be done to help monarch butterflies? 23:49 efforts to support monarch butterfly habitat 24:32 Monarch Waystation Program 29:15 Upcoming Monarch Migration Festival. Thank you and see you next week! Monarch Migration Festival, Sept 6, 2025 https://extension.illinois.edu/events/2025-09-06-11th-annual-monarch-migration-festival Xerces Society Keep Monarchs Wild https://www.xerces.org/blog/keep-monarchs-wild Monarch Butterfly Science w/ Dr. Andy Davis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIt-zkivDjI Monarch Butterfly Status Update w/ Brodie Dunn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmqQlyPY1TA University of Illinois Extension Pollinator Pockets https://extension.illinois.edu/cfiv/pollinator-pockets University of Illinois Extension Pollinator Website https://illinoispollinators.org/ 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, Chris and Ken delve into the complex world of composting. From their passive piles that simply sit and rot (no judgment!) to active setups that require thermometers, turning, and possibly even a chipper shredder. Learn what compost actually is (hint: it’s not soil), how to build a pile that works, and why moisture matters. Don't feed the landfill. Feed your soil! Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/LWrdiau0aiA Skip to what you want to know: 00:37 Hey Ken! Do we compost at home? 02:43 What is and is not compost? 06:51 How do we go about making compost? 07:09 Types of composting. 10:52 Where is a good spot to locate a compost pile? 14:13 How big should a compost pile be? 15:09 Materials to go into a compost pile. Talking about the carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio 18:27 Building your compost pile. Measuring materials and layering. 20:21 Tables listing C:N ratios of different compost materials https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g6956 22:13 Different styles of compost bins 23:23 Compost bin plans https://learningstore.extension.wisc.edu/search?type=article%2Cpage%2Cproduct&q=G4020-01* https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/designs_for_composting_systems.pdf 24:53 Is it allowed to compost in your area, or what rules do you need to follow? 25:23 Reduce the mass of the compost materials. 27:28 Can you compost in the winter? 28:54 Holding compost materials over winter for use in spring. 30:27 Counter-top composter 32:30 How do you know when compost is ready to be used? 35:18 What's happening in the compost pile when decomposition is occurring? 36:50 Tips for and tools for turning compost and measuring interior temperature 41:12 Sifting Compost 42:35 Ways to use your compost 44:37 What moisture level should we keep our compost piles? 45:25 Compost tea 49:04 Compost vs. fertilizer 54:13 Thank you and see you next week! Illinois Extension’s soil and composting website (includes links to soil testing labs) https://extension.illinois.edu/soil 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

Thinking about building raised beds, but not sure where to start? Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast as we discuss the benefits and challenges of raised bed gardening. From building materials to filling beds, get tips for construction, irrigation, and maintenance. Learn how raised beds can improve accessibility, reduce compaction, and what plants to grow in them. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5ooWAxzir6g Skip to what you want to know: 00:48 – Welcome, Ken. How are our tomatoes looking? 03:13 - Why would we want to go through the effort to build a raised bed? 08:43 - What are some drawbacks of raised beds? 11:09 - What materials can be used to build raised beds? 09:57 – Wood: untreated, treated, logs 16:30 – Composite lumber 18:11 – Metal 20:52 – Stone/rock, bricks, and concrete 22:35 - Raised bed construction tips 28:04 - What should raised beds be filled with? 36:38 - Can you put stuff in the bottom of a raised bed so you don't have to fill it as much? 38:53 - Do you need to kill grass before filling raised beds? 40:40 - Raised bed maintenance - settling soil and irrigation 48:10 - What can be (or what do we) grown in raised beds? 55:21 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye! Oregon State University - Pressure-treated wood for raised bed construction: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/soil-compost/pressure-treated-wood-raised-bed-construction-willamette-valley Evaluation of substrates in constructed, raised-beds for vegetable culture: https://openscholar.uga.edu/record/12578 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

Ever wondered how to tell one tree from another—or why it even matters? Check out this week’s Good Growing podcast, where we dive into the magical world of tree identification with horticulture educator Sarah Vogel. From leaf shapes and bark textures to Latin names and mnemonic tricks, learn how recognizing trees can help you care for them better, diagnose problems, and deepen your connection with nature. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_7IMFXaOqNc Skip to what you want to know: 01:20 – Welcome, Sarah! 02:28 - Why is tree identification important? 05:53 - Do you remember the first tree you learned to identify? 11:09 - What are the basics when it comes to identifying trees? 15:44 - Are there tools to help with tree ID? 22:37 - Is learning Latin names necessary? 29:30 - Any upcoming tree ID walks? 31:53 - Tree ID recap, process to identifying an unknown tree. 34:41 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye! Forest Trees of Illinois: https://pubsplus.illinois.edu/products/forest-trees-of-illinois Tree Owner’s Manual: http://www.treeownersmanual.info/ Illinois Trees: English: https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/publications/documents/00000696.pdf Spanish: https://dnr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnr/publications/documents/00000702.pdf Illinois Extension - DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties: https://extension.illinois.edu/dmp Community Tree Care Series: https://extension.illinois.edu/plants/community-tree-care-series 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 candid and photo-filled episode of the Good Growing Podcast, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson take you on a tour of their own backyards. You will see the good, bad, and pretty. Learn about battling verticillium wilt and jumping worms to celebrating volunteer wildflowers and thriving pollinator beds. During the show, Chris tries a cucumber melon for the first time, and Ken shares his ever-expanding front yard prairie project. They share what’s working, what’s not, and what they’ve learned during a hot, humid, and rain-soaked Illinois summer. Watch us on YouTube - https://youtu.be/RYNgQSKxXxc Skip to what you want to know: 00:39 Hey Ken! 01:12 The growing conditions up to this point in our 2025 gardens 04:11 A dead tree and confirmed diagnosis: Verticillium wilt. Dealing with Verticillium wilt of trees and shrubs. 08:37 Checking out how things are growing in Ken's backyard 13:15 Chris found the invasive jumping worm in his landscape bed 20:27 Checking in on Ken's vegetable garden 29:16 Is this a melon or a cucumber? It's a cucumber melon! 31:55 Passive tick control - tick tubes 34:04 Ken's passive mosquito control - mosquito bucket of doom! 36:07 What's growing along Ken's driveway? 37:09 Check out our hydrangeas 40:57 Ginger midsummer update 45:00 Ken’s summer wildflower display - Kill your lawn! 51:37 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 - https://ivy.fm/podcast/good-growing-167902 Castbox - https://castbox.fm/channel/Good-Growing-id4302614?country=us

Wasps often get a bad reputation for being aggressive and painful pests. However, they play important roles in our gardens. From pollination to pest control, wasps are more helpful than many people realize. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast to learn more about the benefits of wasps and how to safely manage them in your landscape. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uw7BSf9kUQ0 Pollination Success Following Loss of a Frequent Pollinator: The Role of Compensatory Visitation by Other Effective Pollinators - https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plx020. Yellow Jackets May Be an Underestimated Component of an Ant-Seed Mutualism - https://www.jstor.org/stable/3877985. ‌ 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 ever wondered if trees and crops can grow together and actually benefit each other? Or maybe you've heard the term "agroforestry" and aren't quite sure what it means. Check out this week's Good Growing Podcast as we dig into the world of agroforestry with MJ Oviatt from the Savanna Institute. From windbreaks and riparian buffers to growing nuts, berries, and more, learn how blending trees with agriculture can boost biodiversity, protect soil and water, and even support your bottom line! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/l0oVLH5i9Us Skip to what you want to know: 00:35 - Welcome back, Ken. What's our agroforestry experience? 02:45 - Welcome, MJ Oviatt 06:34 - What is agroforestry? Does it work in Illinois? 10:29 - Is agroforestry focused on economics? Or ecology? 14:06 - What benefits does agroforestry provide to a farm or property? 17:42 - Are there barriers that keep property owners from incorporating agroforestry? 22:52 - What kind of plants can be used for windbreaks? 27:32 - Is there a wrong way to create a windbreak? 33:12 - What are riparian buffers? What are the benefits of these? 42:47 - Does the Savanna Institute have examples of agroforestry in practice? Do you provide education for landowners? 49:31 – Savana Institute's work on hazelnuts 54:18 - MJ, what species would you want in your own agroforestry project? 57:46 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye! Savanna Institute: https://www.savannainstitute.org/ Perennial AF Podcast: https://www.savannainstitute.org/perennialaf/ MJ Oviatt: https://www.savannainstitute.org/staff-mj-oviatt/ 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 Gardenbite episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris Enroth kicks back over the Fourth of July weekend to flash back to a 2021 chat with Extension educator Elizabeth Wahle, who declares Spigelia her all-time favorite garden plant. Why? Picture a flower dressed for Mardi Gras with scarlet red petals, golden yellow tips, and a flair that hummingbirds can’t resist. Spigelia marilandica, also known as Indian Pink or Carolina Pink, might become your new favorite native plant! 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 itchy edition of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth shares his annual run-in with one of summer’s most irritating pests—chiggers. Just in time for the Fourth of July, Chris dives into the myths, facts, and personal stories surrounding these nearly invisible arachnids. Learn what chiggers really are, how they bite, why nail polish won’t help, and what you can actually do to protect yourself. Whether you're gardening, hiking, or dodging fireworks, this Garden Bite will help you stay itch-free and informed. Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/D1Wkcf0qQaY Good Growing Blog Post https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2019-07-02-unseen-menacechiggers Kansas State University https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news-and-publications/news/stories/2025/03/entomology-chiggers-in-kansas.html University of Missouri https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7398 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, hosts Chris Enroth and Emily Swihart are joined by horticulture educator Ryan Pankau to unpack a 2024 study from the Illinois Natural History Survey. The topic? Chemical trespass—how herbicides and other pesticides are drifting into Illinois’ natural areas and impacting native ecosystems, impacting a keystone group of trees - oaks. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/44Ue4HbGS7Y Skip to what you want to know: 00:33:12 Hello Emily! 01:35:06 Welcome, Ryan Pankau! 02:18:18 What report are we talking about? Understanding the extent and consequences of chemical trespass for Illinois ecosystems 02:57:12 How has the landscape of Illinois changed historically to where we are today? 10:16:15 What is chemical trespass? 12:58:18 What organizations conducted this study? 16:49:15 What type of data was collected? What species seemed to be most impacted? 19:14:23 What is the ecological impact of pesticide trespass in our forests? 24:30:24 Does this just impact trees on the edges of fields or throughout a forest? 25:20:02 What did the data show in the collection samples? 27:31:09 What was the percentage of chemical trespass observed? 29:56:00 Can we solely rely on visual assessment to determine levels of herbicide trespass? 33:32:06 What they didn't find much of - dicamba and neonics 34:46:00 What does a tree that has been impacted by herbicide drift look like? 40:32:17 The importance of the lab tests in this study. 41:02:16 What do you do when your tree is impacted by herbicide trespass? 48:50:01 Can you prevent this damage or is there a way to protect trees and gardens from being damaged? 56:51:03 While there seemed to be a big focus on herbicide trespass, the study found a lot of fungicide in the later season samples. What is the impact of fungicide? 1:01:12:15 Our key takeaways from this report Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Emily Swihart eswihart@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. All photos by Chris Enroth 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

Roses are grown in many gardens for their large, showy, often fragrant flowers. If you grow roses, you may have noticed something eating the leaves of your plants, causing them to become unsightly. While various insects will feed on roses, one of the most commonly encountered pests is rose roseslugs. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast to learn more about these rose pests and how to manage them. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Fo836_3pgl8 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 educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive deep into the fascinating world of milkweed—also known by its genus name, Asclepias. Whether you're a native plant enthusiast, pollinator advocate, or just curious about why this "weed" is the National Garden Bureau’s Plant of the Year, this episode is packed with insights. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Qw24JnUOitQ Skip to what you want to know: 00:46 Hey Ken! How do you say Asclepias? 01:28 What's in a name? A scientific name! 03:08 What is Asclepias (milkweed), and how many species of Asclepias are out in the world? 04:11 History of Asclepias. 07:37 Uses of milkweed outside of the garden 09:30 The negative image of milkweed in the agricultural community 12:02 Milkweeds for the garden. Listing the species of Asclepias native to Illinois. https://dnr.illinois.gov/education/wildaboutpages/wildaboutplants/wildaboutplantsmilkweeds.html 13:28 The most common milkweeds we often see in a home landscape 15:17 Our favorite milkweeds that we grow 21:32 Key identifying characteristics of Asclepias 23:05 Milkweed and pollination: who is the best pollinator for the job? 24:41 Milkweed pollination biology https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/nvpmctn12764.pdf 27:39 Milkweed toxicity and monarch butterflies 28:34 All the other insects using milkweed besides the monarch butterfly 30:16 What is the best milkweed for monarch butterflies? 30:44 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ecology-and-evolution/articles/10.3389/fevo.2018.00169/full Monarch Butterflies Show Differential Utilization of Nine Midwestern Milkweed Species 37:35 Talking about honeyvine milkweed 42:19 How do you harvest and grow milkweed seeds? 45:56 Transplanting milkweed 47:09 milkweed maintenance 48:45 Mowing for monarchs https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2018-08-28-mowing-monarchs 52:08 Who decreed 2025 the year of Asclepias? 53:34 Thank you and see you next week! Photos: Ken Johnson, University of Illinois Extension Chris Enroth, University of Illinois Extension Chris Evans, University of Illinois Extension 5347031 - William M. Ciesla, Forest Health Management International, Bugwood.org 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 ever dreamed of harvesting your own grapes right from your backyard? Or maybe you have a grape plant or two and are unsure of how to care for them. Check out this week's Good Growing Podcast as we demystify the art and science of growing grapes at home with commercial agriculture specialist Dr. Elizabeth Wahle. From selecting disease-resistant cultivars to growing and training grape vines, managing pests, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AUxI1tupXNI Skip to what you want to know: 00:23 - Welcome, Ken. What's your favorite way to consume grapes? 02:17 - Welcome, Elizabeth. 03:47 - What are the key things someone should consider before planting grapes in their backyard? 05:40 - Are there specific grape varieties that are best suited for beginners or small spaces? 08:27 - Can people grow grapes in containers? 10:55 - How big will a typical grape plant get? 12:01 - How important is climate and soil type when choosing grape varieties? 16:31 - When is the best time of year to plant grapevines? 19:11 - What kind of support structures do grapevines need (e.g., trellises, arbors)? 22:25 - Herbicides and the problems they can cause on grapes 24:10 - Do we need more than one type of grape for pollination? Are they self-pollinating? 25:26 - What are the most common mistakes new growers make? 29:07 - How do you prune grapevines, and why is it so important? Plus, a few more common grape growing mistakes. 34:31 - What pests or diseases should backyard growers watch out for? 40:20 - Growing grapes organically in Illinois 43:10 - What should someone do if their vines aren't producing fruit? 45:53 - Are there any low-maintenance grape varieties - "plant and forget"? 49:03 - How do you know when grapes are ready to harvest? 50:56 - Any tips for storing or preserving grapes after harvest? 54:15 - Elizabeth, what's your favorite way to consume grapes, what is your favorite grape variety, and why? 56:56 - Any final words of encouragement for someone thinking about starting their grape-growing journey? 58:00 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye! 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

Tired of being a mosquito magnet? In this episode of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson bust common mosquito myths and dive into what really works to keep those pesky biters at bay. From citronella candles and bug zappers to the viral “Bucket of Doom,” learn which repellents are backed by science—and which ones are just buzz. Whether you're planning a backyard BBQ or just want to enjoy your garden in peace, this episode is your go-to guide for mosquito control that actually works. Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/dpAHAqJ2WhM Skip to what you want to know: 00:40 Hey Ken! 03:20 What makes people attractive to being bitten by mosquitoes? 05:55 Mosquito control that doesn't work 07:50 Purple Martins 10:40 Mosquito sonic repellents. 11:59 Bug zapper lights 16:49 A pan of soapy water. 17:49 Using mouthwash 21:38 Stuff that kind of works 21:44 Mosquito-repelling plants 24:46 Citronella candles 26:51 Mosquito control that can work 27:03 Fogging/spraying an area 30:56 Mosquito bucket of doom! 36:30 Habitat modification 41:47 Stay inside 44:03 Wear light colored, loose-fitting clothing 45:44 CO2 Traps 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

Peonies are a springtime showstopper, fragrant, full, and beloved in gardens across the world. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast and explore the history of peonies, their flower forms, and tips for growing, dividing, and relocating them. We also discuss why ants are drawn to their buds, what might be keeping your peonies from blooming, and how to make the most of their short but spectacular bloom season. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_CB0qzCxJ5Q Skip to what you want to know: 00:33 - Welcome, Ken. How do you pronounce peony? Peonies and the rain. 02:12 - History and types of peonies 07:27 - Peonies as cut flowers 13:48 - Bloom times and cultivars 17:02 - Flower forms 22:20 - Why do we see ants on peony flowers? 25:38 - Peony diseases 30:33 - Moving and dividing peonies 35:52 - Breeding your own peonies 40:57 - The story of Peonydale 47:23 - Why aren't my peonies blooming? 50:17- Wrap-up, thank yous, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Read more about it: Peony flower forms: https://americanpeonysociety.org/learn/herbaceous-peonies/flower-types-anatomy/ Peonydale and the Wettengel Family Story: http://wimuseum.org/peonydale-and-the-wettengel-family-story/ 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

It’s late spring, which means buffalo gnats are back and biting. This week on the Good Growing Podcast, we take a look at buffalo gnats, where they live, their lifecycle, what you can do to avoid their bites, and more! Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/i0Hq-hZ6fFU 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