In The Garden with Ron Wilson

# From Greens to Garden Catalogs: Your Winter Gardening GuideEver 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 crackDon'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 tips09:15 - Leftover turkey Cobb salad recipe12:30 - Holiday spices with year-round benefits14:25 - Cinnamon varieties and health benefits16:20 - Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties27:45 - Ash tree regrowth after emerald ash borer31:35 - Best trees for street planting34:20 - Winter oak tree pruning benefits38:30 - 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.

# The Yard Boy's Winter Garden WisdomSettle in for an insightful journey through winter garden preparation with Ron Wilson, your personal "yard boy." In this episode, Ron tackles essential seasonal tasks from protecting trees against winter damage to deterring hungry wildlife from your prized plants. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just looking to keep your landscape thriving through the cold months, Ron's practical advice will help you prepare for whatever winter brings.Ron shares his expertise on protecting thin-barked trees from frost damage and critter attacks, emphasizing the importance of proper trunk guards and mulching techniques. You'll learn about innovative natural repellents including wool pellets with lanolin that research shows outperforms many commercial options for keeping deer at bay.**Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**- 3:45 - Tree protection strategies: trunk guards and proper mulching techniques- 8:20 - Effective deer and critter repellents, including the surprising effectiveness of wool pellets- 15:30 - Overwintering arborvitae and troubleshooting common issues- 22:15 - Growing fig trees in containers and winterizing techniques- 35:40 - Christmas tree selection and care tips for maximum freshness- 42:30 - Using sheep wool as a garden amendment for moisture retentionFrom fig tree overwintering to Christmas tree selection, this episode is packed with seasonal wisdom to help your garden thrive. Ron even shares insights about innovative gardening products like sheep wool amendments that not only improve soil quality but also help repel pests naturally.Ready to make the most of your yard even as temperatures drop? Tune in to learn how small efforts now can protect your garden investment and set you up for success in the spring!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# The Gardening and Home Improvement Show with Ron Wilson and Gary SullivanStep into the world of gardening and home improvement with Ron Wilson and special guest Gary Sullivan. In this engaging episode, Ron reveals the plant pick of the week - the Poinsettia, once America's #1 potted plant with a rich history as both a holiday decoration and landscape specimen. Gary Sullivan joins to share expert insights on home maintenance, discussing everything from the proper use of spray foam insulation to the importance of annual attic inspections. Their casual, friendly banter creates an informative yet entertaining atmosphere as they exchange Thanksgiving stories and seasonal home care tips.## Key Moments and Takeaways**3:15** - Poinsettia history: Learn how this holiday favorite was once the most produced potted plant in the United States and grows as a perennial "weed" in southern countries**8:40** - Spray foam insulation discussion: Gary explains whole house encapsulation trends and warns about improper DIY foam application**14:20** - Attic inspection importance: Why checking your attic annually can reveal problems from poor ventilation to animal nests**16:30** - Winter weather tips: Using windy days to identify drafts and energy loss points in your home**19:45** - Seasonal planting reminder: Despite colder weather, it's still a good time to plant treesReady to tackle your own home and garden projects? Tune in for practical advice from these seasoned experts who make home improvement accessible and enjoyable. Call in with your questions at 1-800-823-TALK and make this weekend your most productive yet!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# A Weather-Watching Arborist Shares Tree Wisdom and Winter Forecasts In this engaging episode, renowned arborist Ron Rothhaas brings his expertise to the garden, discussing everything from the fate of recovering ash trees to the best choices for street tree plantings. With his unique combination of tree knowledge and meteorological insight, Ron offers practical advice for homeowners while sharing his predictions for an unusually snowy December across the Midwest and Northeast. ## Episode Highlights: **3:15** - Emerald ash borer update: Ron explains that while the insect remains present in smaller numbers, treatment protocols have been extended from every two years to every three years, and some untreated ash trees show surprising resilience. **9:20** - Street tree selection: Discussion of infrastructure damage from tree roots, with recommendations for black gum and ginkgo over red maple in limited planting spaces. **12:05** - Winter pruning benefits: Why arborists prefer dormant-season pruning for oaks to prevent oak wilt disease, plus structural pruning tips for young trees. **18:40** - Winter weather outlook: Detailed forecast of an active storm pattern bringing significant snow to the Midwest, with Cincinnati potentially facing accumulating snow by Tuesday morning. **21:30** - White Christmas predictions: Ron breaks from his usual "50% chance" stance, suggesting significantly higher odds this year for the Ohio Valley and Northeast regions. Whether you're managing trees on your property or preparing for winter weather, Ron combines scientific knowledge with practical experience to help you make informed decisions. Listen now to benefit from his decades of expertise in both arboriculture and meteorology!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Dive into the Garden: A Seasonal Chat with Herbal Expert Rita Nader HikenfeldAre 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 benefitsWant 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 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.

The Queen Bee and Author Jeremy Hill. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wrapping up the show with your calls. Plus, a chat with the guy who is all about easy, Gary Sullivan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron and Gary chat about the yard, garden, in and around the home and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out more at https://www.gooseberrybridge.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron talks with Barb Bee! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A cup of Joe to kick things off. Also, your calls, questions and tips with Ron!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rita joins the show. Also, your calls, tips, and questions with Ron.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

THE last Buggy Job Boggs report of the year. Also, we check in with our friend Gary Sullivan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron and Gary chat. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The final Buggy Joe Boggs report of the year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron chats with Rita about a variety of thingsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your calls and quesitons with The Yardboy.

The Arbor Doc and MORE wool talk.

The Woolets and Buggy Joe!

The Arbor Doc talks about his trip and much more!

A cup of Joe to kick things off.  Also we hear from Joe's good friend, Dick in Dayton.

Rita and AAA!

Your calls.  Also Gary Sulilvan and Buggy Joe.  

Your calls and expert advice with Ron.

Greg Niewold and Niel Bevilacqua.  

Your calls along with Gary Sulilvan and Buggy Joe!

Mr all about easy checks in!