In The Garden with Ron Wilson

Ron discusses the importance of knowing your hardiness zone when it comes to planting trees and shrubs in your yard. He talks about how the current cold weather is affecting plants on the hardiness borderline for zone six, and shares his concerns about crape myrtles and laurels. Ron also mentions the benefits of using witch hazel, a low-maintenance shrub that's often underused in landscaping. He also shares a recipe for homemade hot chocolate and takes calls from listeners, including a conversation with Dick from Dayton about the recent snowstorm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Dr. Greg Wanger, the founder and chief technology officer of Oberlin Agriscience. They dive into the fascinating world of insect frass, also known as bug poop, as a natural fertilizer. Ron's curiosity is piqued as Dr. Wanger explains how this unique product is made from the larvae of black soldier flies, which are raised on food waste. The conversation covers the benefits of this sustainable approach, including its organic and natural properties, and how it can be used in gardens, containers, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Dr. Alan Armitage about the latest trends in gardening. They dive into the world of native plants, discussing their benefits and popularity. Dr. Armitage shares his favorite native plants, including the coral bark maple and the native deciduous azalea. They also talk about the importance of repurposing waste, like banana peels, to create a soil amendment. With Ron's signature humor and Dr. Armitage's expertise, this episode is a must-listen for any gardener looking to stay ahead of the curve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with Dr. Alan Armitage about the latest trends in gardening. They dive into the world of native plants, discussing their popularity and the benefits they bring to gardens. Dr. Armitage shares his insights on the importance of native azaleas, which he believes are often overlooked, and the beauty of their buds. They also talk about the resurgence of hellebores and the new varieties available. With Dr. Armitage's new book, The Common Sense Gardener, set to be released, this conversation is a must-listen for any gardening enthusiast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Dr. Greg Wanger, the founder and chief technology officer of Oberlin Agriscience. They dive into the world of insect frass, a natural fertilizer made from the waste of black soldier flies. Dr. Wanger shares the process of turning food scraps into a valuable resource, and how it's being used to create a more sustainable gardening practice. They discuss the benefits of this eco-friendly fertilizer, its availability, and how it's being marketed to gardeners.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Ron Wilson, your personal yard boy, welcomes the Arbor Doctor, to share his winter weather prediction. Ron's forecast is based on his unique approach to meteorology, which considers the start of meteorological winter. He predicts six more weeks of winter-like weather, with some areas potentially experiencing even colder temperatures. Ron also discusses the importance of choosing the right plants for your hardiness zone and how snow can be a great insulator for plants. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about winter weather and gardening tips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the garden with Ron Wilson, we're talking about yarding and getting ready for the big event. Ron's sharing tips on how to prepare for the upcoming snowstorm, from stocking up on essentials to protecting your plants. He's also chatting with guests about the importance of soil health and the latest gardening trends. Plus, we're diving into the world of hot peppers and learning about the new "Year of the Hot Pepper." With expert advice and engaging conversations, this hour is a must-listen for any gardener looking to stay ahead of the game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In The Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with certified arborist Ron Rothhaas about tree care. They dive into common mistakes homeowners make when planting and pruning trees, including planting too deep and topping trees. Ron shares his expertise on how to properly prune trees to ensure their health and longevity. They also discuss the importance of mulching, staking, and treating trees for diseases like ash borers. With Ron's guidance, listeners will learn how to give their trees the best chance to thrive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron's chatting with certified arborist Ron Rothhaas about trees. They're discussing common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to tree care, like planting too deep and topping trees. Ron shares his expertise on how to prune trees structurally, emphasizing the importance of considering the tree's future growth and not cutting off too many branches at once. They also talk about cabling and filling holes in trees, and how to handle winter issues like frost cracks and bronzing. It's a valuable conversation for anyone looking to learn more about tree care and maintenance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Jerry Rose, a world-class giant pumpkin grower from Ohio. They discuss the upcoming snowstorm and how to prepare for it, including tips on protecting plants like fig trees and boxwoods. Jerry shares his expertise on growing giant pumpkins, from the importance of soil quality to the process of selecting the right seeds. They also talk about the Ohio Valley Giant Pumpkin Growers club and upcoming seminars for beginners and advanced growers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with Jerry Rose, a world-class giant pumpkin grower with 45 years of experience. Jerry shares his expertise on growing massive, award-winning pumpkins, including his record-breaking 258-pound pumpkin. They discuss the importance of high tunnels, soil quality, and the basics of getting started with giant pumpkin growing. Jerry also talks about the Ohio Valley Giant Pumpkin Growers club, upcoming seminars, and the process of selecting and purchasing seeds. If you're interested in giant pumpkins, this episode is a must-listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the garden with Ron Wilson, Ron dives into the importance of soil temperatures when planning your garden. He discusses how soil temperatures can make or break the success of your plants, especially when it comes to tender annuals like tomatoes and peppers. Ron shares tips on how to check soil temperatures using thermometers and online resources like GreenCast, and explains why it's crucial to wait for the right conditions before planting. He also talks about dormant seeding, a technique that can give your lawn a head start in the spring.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Rita Hikenfeld about edible flowers. They dive into the world of flowers that are safe to eat and how to incorporate them into your cooking. Rita shares her expertise on the importance of proper identification and the differences between edible and non-edible flowers. They discuss the benefits of growing your own edible flowers and the various ways to use them, from salads to desserts. With Rita's guidance, listeners will learn how to make the most of their garden's hidden gems and add some excitement to their meals. Ron is talking to southern gardener Gary Buckman about what's going on in the garden during the coldest week of the year. He shares his experiences with microgreens, hydroponic towers, and micro tomatoes, which are perfect for small spaces. We also discuss his passion for heirloom varieties and the importance of saving old genetics. With a focus on the Deep South, Gary gives us tips on what to grow during the winter months and how to prepare for the upcoming season. It's a great conversation for gardeners in the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Kori, the public outreach coordinator for the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District in Columbus, Ohio. They dive into the importance of soil and water conservation, discussing topics like road salt and its impact on the environment. Kori shares her expertise on salt-tolerant plants and the district's efforts to educate the public on sustainable practices. They also touch on the "Pick Up Your Poop" program, which aims to reduce water pollution. This conversation is a great resource for homeowners looking to make a positive impact on their community. Ron chats with his buddy Gary Sullivan about home improvement. They discuss the importance of preparing for winter, specifically with snowblowers and lawn care. Ron shares a personal experience with a snowblower and the dangers of not properly maintaining it. They also touch on the topic of lawn care, including fertilizing and preparing for the changing seasons. With a mix of humor and practical advice, Ron and Gary cover the basics of home improvement and the lessons learned from their experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with his buddy Gary Sullivan about home improvement. They discuss the importance of preparing for winter, specifically with snowblowers and lawn care. Ron shares a personal experience with a snowblower and the dangers of not properly maintaining it. They also touch on the topic of lawn care, including fertilizing and preparing for the changing seasons. With a mix of humor and practical advice, Ron and Gary cover the basics of home improvement and the lessons learned from their experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Kori, the public outreach coordinator for the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District. They dive into the importance of soil and water conservation, discussing topics like road salt's impact on the environment and the benefits of salt-tolerant plants. Kori shares her expertise on how to reduce pollution and promote sustainability in our communities. They also talk about the "Pup Pick Up Poop" program, which aims to encourage responsible pet ownership and protect our waterways.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron is talking to southern gardener Gary Buckman about what's going on in the garden during the coldest week of the year. He shares his experiences with microgreens, hydroponic towers, and micro tomatoes, which are perfect for small spaces. We also discuss his passion for heirloom varieties and the importance of saving old genetics. With a focus on the Deep South, Gary gives us tips on what to grow during the winter months and how to prepare for the upcoming season. It's a great conversation for gardeners in the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Rita Hikenfeld about edible flowers. They dive into the world of flowers that are safe to eat and how to incorporate them into your cooking and gardening routine. From dandelion leaves and violets to nasturtiums and violas, Rita shares her expertise on the edible flowers that are easy to grow and delicious to eat. They also discuss the importance of proper identification and where to find these flowers, making this conversation a must-listen for gardeners and foodies alike.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Scott Beuerlein from the Cincinnati Botanical Garden and Zoo about innovative ways to improve your garden. They dive into the benefits of wool pellets as a natural soil amendment, discussing how they can reduce watering needs and deter pests. Ron also shares his own experiences with biochar and its potential to improve soil health. With a focus on sustainable gardening practices, this hour is a must-listen for anyone looking to take their garden to the next level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson is joined by The Arbor Doc. They dive into the world of meteorological seasons, discussing how they're more relevant to gardening and horticulture than astronomical seasons. Ron shares his expertise on the importance of considering temperature and climate when determining the start of winter and summer. They also touch on the benefits of using meteorological seasons, including a more accurate representation of the climate and a better understanding of plant behavior.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie Nardozzi shares his expertise on creating a continuous vegetable garden. Ron and Charlie dive into the benefits of letting plants bolt and self-seed, reducing the need for repeated annual plantings. Charlie's new book, The Continuous Vegetable Garden, offers practical tips on how to achieve a perpetual food garden that sows and grows itself. They discuss the importance of working with nature, using techniques like no-till gardening and companion planting. Charlie also talks about perennial vegetables and herbs, and how to incorporate them into your garden for a continuous harvest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Gary Sullivan about indoor air quality. They discuss the importance of ventilation and how house plants can help clean the air. Ron shares his own experience with a new vent he's considering for his basement but raises some valid concerns about its effectiveness. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing indoor and outdoor air quality, especially during humid summer months. With a mix of humor and expertise, Ron and his guest explore the complexities of creating a healthy indoor environment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie Nardozzi shares his expertise on creating a continuous vegetable garden. Charlie, a regional Emmy Award-winning gardener, talks about his new book, The Continuous Vegetable Garden, which shows listeners how to have a perpetual food garden that sows and grows itself. He discusses the benefits of no-till gardening, perennial vegetables, and using wild edibles like chickweed and dandelions. Charlie also shares his passion for experimenting with these plants and how they can be used in cooking. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to take their gardening to the next level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson's back in the garden, chatting with the Arbor Doc, They dive into the world of meteorology vs. astrology in weather forecasting, with Ron explaining the benefits of using meteorological seasons, which align with plant growth and temperature patterns. Scott's still learning, but Ron's expertise shines through. They also discuss tree care, with Ron sharing tips on pruning and root systems, and even touch on a potential side business idea – turning hollowed-out tree trunks into unique furniture pieces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron and his Joe into the new year with a focus on trends and resolutions. They discuss the importance of being realistic about time commitments and the need to factor in failures when setting gardening goals. Ron shares a personal anecdote about a tree that didn't thrive, despite ideal conditions, and emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence. The conversation also touches on the upcoming trends in gardening. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Barbie Bletcher, a retired state apiarist and queen bee. They dive into the world of honey bees, discussing the decline in bee populations and the importance of pollinator-friendly gardens. Ron and Barbie explore the impact of habitat loss, pesticide use, and the varroa mite on bee colonies. They also touch on the benefits of beekeeping classes and the role of education in promoting bee conservation. With Barbie's expertise and Ron's curiosity, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the fascinating world of bees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of "in the Garden with Ron Wilson," Ron shares tips and advice for a successful gardening year. He discusses the importance of knowing your soil and how to adjust the pH levels for optimal plant growth. Ron also talks about the trend of growing plants in moss-covered balls, known as Cokie Dama, and how it's becoming a popular way to garden indoors. Additionally, he answers listener questions on topics such as transplanting Rosa Sharon bushes and dealing with moles in the yard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Queen Bee Barbee Bletcher, a retired state apiarist with a wealth of knowledge about bees. They dive into the importance of pollinator-friendly gardens and the decline of bee populations. Barbie shares some startling statistics, including the fact that Ohio had 260,000 bee colonies in 1940, but that number dropped to 22,000 during the colony collapse disorder. They discuss the impact of habitat loss, pesticide use, and the role of nutrition in bee health. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in bee conservation and sustainable gardening practices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the Garden with Ron Wilson, it's the final Saturday 2025. Ron's reflecting on the past year and looking forward to 2026. He's talking about the importance of planning ahead, especially when it comes to indoor gardening. Ron's sharing tips on growing microgreens and recommends checking out Johnny's Seeds and Burpee's catalogs for inspiration. He's also discussing the history of mistletoe and how it's become a rare sight in gardens. Plus, he's taking calls from listeners and answering questions on everything from sunflowers to Amarillas ALSO - Dr Z calls into the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Scott Beuerlein from the Cincinnati Botanical Garden and Zoo. They dive into the garden's best picks, featuring a list of top-performing plants that have been trialed in the garden's unique conditions. Scott shares the process behind creating this list, from selecting and growing over 600 varieties of plants to evaluating their performance. They also discuss the importance of pollinator gardens and the garden's efforts to promote sustainability and conservation. With Scott's expertise and Ron's enthusiasm, this conversation is a must-listen for any gardening enthusiast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In The Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Scott Beuerlein from the Cincinnati Botanical Garden and Zoo. They dive into the latest gardening trends, including rewilding your landscape and the importance of native plants. Scott shares his expertise on the benefits of native species and how they can be incorporated into suburban gardens. They also discuss the pollinator program and the upcoming symposiums at the botanical garden. With a dash of humor and a sprinkle of gardening wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for any gardening enthusiast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron and Gary help tackle Scott's home improvement question about a water heater issue. Scott's water heater is leaking sporadically through the overflow vent, and he's wondering if an expansion tank could be the solution. Ron shares his expertise, explaining that an expansion tank can help relieve pressure and prevent leaks. They also discuss the importance of checking water pressure and replacing old water heaters. With Gary's guidance, Scott's problem might just be solved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of The Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with his guests about the holiday season. He shares a tip on how to save Christmas poinsettias with a creative hack using evergreen branches. Ron also discusses the importance of horticulture during the holiday season, mentioning the various plants and decorations that are popular this time of year. He also talks about the history of grave blankets and how they're not as commonly used as they once were. Additionally, The Arbor Doc shares his thoughts on the upcoming weather, predicting a warmer Christmas Day in the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in the Garden with Ron Wilson, we're talking about what's new and what's next in gardening. This week, we're joined by Rita Hikenfeld, a CCPCMH Award-winning syndicated journalist and Appalachian herbal scholar. We're discussing the latest trends in gardening, from fusion plants to functional foods. Rita shares her insights on the resurgence of old-fashioned plants like comfrey, perilla, and tallow, and how they're becoming increasingly popular in modern cooking and gardening. We're also talking with Em Shipman about the importance of getting kids involved in gardening and how organizations like Kids Gardening are making a difference.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of the show, Ron Wilson chats with Katie Stagliano, the founder of Katie's Crops, a national youth-based nonprofit empowering kids to grow fresh produce for their communities. Katie shares her incredible journey from growing a single cabbage as a 9-year-old to building a movement that's donated over 900,000 pounds of produce to those in need. They discuss the impact of gardening on kids, the organization's growth, and the importance of community support. You'll be inspired by Katie's passion and the difference she's making in the lives of young people across the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Gary Sullivan about home improvement and holiday prep. They dive into the world of snow blowers, with Ron sharing his excitement about his new purchase and the benefits of a two-stage model. They also discuss deck maintenance, with a focus on using wet and forget and oxygenated bleach for a quick and easy clean. The conversation is filled with humor and helpful tips, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to tackle their holiday to-do list.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with Katie Stagliano, the founder of Katie's Crops, a nonprofit empowering kids to grow fresh produce for their communities. From humble beginnings with a 9-year-old's cabbage seedling to a national movement, Katie shares her remarkable journey. She talks about the impact of her organization, which has donated over 900,000 pounds of fresh produce and served over 130,000 meals to those in need. With a focus on community and sustainability, Katie's story is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives and the difference one person can make.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Rita Hikenfeld about the latest trends in gardening and cooking. They dive into the world of functional foods, discussing the resurgence of old favorites like comfrey, turmeric, and tallow. Rita shares her expertise on using these ingredients in cooking and their benefits for health. They also explore the growing popularity of fusion plants, edible flowers, and herbs like anise hyssop and bergamot. With Rita's insights, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of food, health, and sustainability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with EM Shipman, the executive director of Kids Gardening, a national organization that's been helping kids connect with nature for over a decade. They discuss the growing demand for gardening with kids, and how Kids Gardening is meeting that need with resources, grants, and community support. From creating lesson plans to connecting educators, EM shares the impact of their work and how every dollar donated can reach eight more kids. It's a heartwarming conversation about the power of gardening to transform lives and communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Wilson chats with the Arbor Doc as he shares his expertise as a certified arborist and amateur meteorologist. He discusses the upcoming winter season, predicting a roller coaster of temperatures with warm weather expected around Christmas, followed by a return to cold and snowy conditions in January and February. Ron also touches on the importance of watering evergreens, noting that the ground is currently wet due to recent precipitation, but areas in the northeast Ohio and northern Indiana are still experiencing drought. He emphasizes the need for careful watering in these regions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Joe Strecker about snowblowers and the upcoming winter season. They discuss the importance of being prepared for snow and the benefits of using a gas-powered snowblower. Ron shares his experience with a handheld snowblower and the satisfaction of clearing his driveway. The conversation also touches on the topic of gardening catalogs, including Burpee's 150th anniversary commemorative seed collection and the history of gardening in the US. Ron also takes calls from listeners and shares tips on how to make winter easier to deal with.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of "in the Garden with Ron Wilson", Ron chats with Pete Richmond, co-owner of Rich Life Farm, about the fascinating world of mushroom farming. From Pete's early days of growing oyster mushrooms in his laundry room to the success of his farm, they dive into the process of cultivating these delicious and nutritious fungi. They discuss the unique conditions required for mushroom growth, the importance of natural habitats, and the variety of species Pete's farm offers. With a focus on sustainability and locally sourced products, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of agriculture and food systems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this hour of In the Garden with Ron Wilson, Ron chats with Anthony Need of Flowering Lawn dot com about transforming your yard into a flowering lawn. They discuss the benefits of reducing maintenance, helping pollinators, and creating a beautiful and sustainable space. Anthony shares tips on how to get started, including dormant seeding and using bird feeders that also distribute flower seeds. They also dive into the new product, Flawn Seed Feather, which combines bird feed and flower seeds for a one-stop solution.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.