In The Garden with Ron Wilson

In this hour of In the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron shares tips on how to care for your yard during the winter months. He discusses the benefits of snow as a natural insulator and how it can help protect plants from extreme temperatures. Ron also talks about the importance of planting spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips and daffodils, and offers advice on how to store them if you can't plant them in the ground. He also warns listeners about a scam involving multicolored hostas and the dangers of buying seeds online without verifying their legitimacy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Laura Konkle, the executive director of America in Bloom, a program celebrating 25 years of helping communities become their best selves. They discuss how America in Bloom connects communities with horticulture professionals to create vibrant and sustainable spaces. Laura shares the program's new initiative, Gardens Across America, which allows property owners to certify their properties for environmental stewardship and community vitality. Monica Brubaker talks about the importance of bird-friendly landscaping and how to provide for birds during the winter months. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron wraps up Saturday with your calls, tips and questions. We also hear from the one and only...Gary Sullivan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson is joined by the one and only Gary Sullivan, the most listened to home improvement show host in the Solar system. They dive into the latest Pantone Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, and share their thoughts on why it's not as exciting as expected. They discuss how the color trend is shifting towards lighter, cooler tones, and how it reflects the current design aesthetic. With a mix of humor and insight, they explore the world of color trends and what it means for homeowners and designers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Monica Brubaker from Wild Birds Unlimited about winter bird care. They discuss how birds are preparing for the cold weather and what we can do to help them. Monica shares tips on choosing the right bird feeders and seed, including her top pick for a high-protein food that's perfect for the winter months. They also talk about the importance of providing water for birds, even in freezing temperatures. With Monica's expert advice, listeners will be better equipped to support their feathered friends during the winter season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with Laura Conkle, the executive director of America in Bloom, about their mission to help communities become their best selves. Laura shares the organization's 25-year journey, from its humble beginnings to its current impact on communities across the country. They discuss the benefits of community beautification, the importance of economic development, and the role of horticulture professionals in making a difference. With a new program launching in 2026, Laura explains how communities can get involved and make their mark. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# From Greens to Garden Catalogs: Your Winter Gardening Guide Ever wondered how to extend your gardening season into the winter months? In this episode, we explore the surprising cold-hardiness of greens like collards and kale, which can thrive well into the holiday season with minimal protection. Host Ron Wilson shares nostalgic memories of his grandmother's open-hearth fireplace cooking that made even children crave collard greens, while offering practical advice for protecting plants as temperatures drop. ## Timestamps: - 3:45 - What to do with plants you haven't planted yet as temperatures drop - 8:30 - Final lawn fertilization timing and frozen ground warnings - 12:20 - Growing cold-tolerant greens through winter - 17:30 - Must-have garden catalogs for winter planning - 22:15 - Breaking up crusty mulch before winter - 25:45 - Tree protection against buck rubs and frost crack - 28:30 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer damage ## Key Takeaways: - Cool-season greens like collards, kale and mustard greens can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F without damage - Create simple protection using straw bales, plastic covers, or hoop houses to extend harvest into December - Johnny's Seeds catalog offers excellent resources for year-round greens growing, including microgreens for indoor winter production - Crusty mulch should be broken up before winter to allow water penetration - Install tree trunk protectors to prevent damage from deer, rabbits, and frost crack Don't let winter stop your gardening journey! Whether you're planning next year's garden with catalogs or harvesting fresh greens from your protected beds, there are plenty of ways to keep your green thumb active during the colder months. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Botanical Banter Podcast: Gardening Insights with Rita and Ron Step into the world of gardening wisdom as Rita Heikenfeld, an Appalachian herbal scholar and media personality, joins host Ron Wilson for a delightful conversation about seasonal gardening and cooking. From transforming holiday leftovers into gourmet salads to discovering the surprising year-round benefits of holiday spices like cinnamon and ginger, this episode offers practical advice for both your garden and kitchen. The conversation blooms with insights about growing and cooking collard greens, storing Jerusalem artichokes, and the surprising health benefits of common holiday spices that do more than just flavor your food. Rita shares her expertise on how these aromatic additions can boost your mood and support your immune system throughout the year. Later, arborist Ron Rothhaas joins to tackle tree care questions, offering expert advice on ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer damage, selecting the best street trees, and why winter is the ideal time for oak tree pruning. The episode wraps with a weather forecast that has gardeners preparing for potential winter storms. ## Timestamps: 04:13 - Rita's recipe for collard greens with "pot liquor" 07:32 - Jerusalem artichoke storage tips 09:15 - Leftover turkey Cobb salad recipe 12:30 - Holiday spices with year-round benefits 14:25 - Cinnamon varieties and health benefits 16:20 - Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties 27:45 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer 31:35 - Best trees for street planting 34:20 - Winter oak tree pruning benefits 38:30 - Winter weather forecast for gardeners Whether you're looking to make the most of your holiday leftovers, understand the medicinal properties of your spice rack, or prepare your trees for winter, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can use immediately in both your garden and kitchen. Subscribe now for more seasonal gardening wisdom! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your calls and tips with Ron. We also talk all things home improvement with Gary. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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# Dive into the Garden: A Seasonal Chat with Herbal Expert Rita Nader Hikenfeld Are you ready for a cozy, informative chat about seasonal herbs, holiday spices, and post-Thanksgiving culinary delights? Join host Ron Wilson and special guest Rita Nader Hikenfeld, an award-winning Appalachian herbal scholar and media personality, as they explore everything from collard greens to holiday spices with surprising health benefits. This episode takes you on a journey through winter gardening wisdom and festive cooking tips that will transform your holiday leftovers and boost your mood with aromatic spices that have been cherished for centuries. ## Timestamps and Key Takeaways: **2:15** - Rita shares her secrets for cooking collard and mustard greens the traditional way, with ham bones and red pepper flakes for a hearty winter dish **4:30** - Jerusalem artichokes storage tips: treat them like potatoes but use within a month for best results **5:45** - Post-Thanksgiving leftover recipe: Transform your turkey or ham into a gourmet Cobb salad with two dressing options including Nell's famous blue cheese dressing **10:20** - Holiday spices with year-round benefits: - Cinnamon: Supports blood sugar balance and boosts immunity - Ginger: Aids digestion and reduces inflammation - Cloves: Soothes toothaches and enhances immunity **13:45** - Tips for storing and testing spices for maximum flavor and health benefits Want to learn more about traditional cooking methods, how to repurpose holiday leftovers, or the surprising health benefits of your favorite seasonal spices? This episode is packed with practical wisdom that connects ancient traditions with modern wellness. Visit abouteating.com for more of Rita's recipes and herbal knowledge! Listen now and discover how these seasonal ingredients can transform your holiday cooking while supporting your health all year long. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Rita. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron is back taking your calls and questions. Also, what's the first thing you go for on the Thanksgiving table? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talking to Author Sandra Mao and also Gary Sullivan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your calls and Ron's expert advice and tips. We also talk to Dr AAA on his new book and what's going on in his world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You never know what Ron and Gary will talk about. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out the book, "Vibrant Harvest, Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden with Heirlooms, Modern Hybrids, and More". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out his new book, "The Common Sense Gardener". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron's expert advice along with your calls. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.