To celebrate Episode 400 of the Garden Basics podcast, we present the four most listened-to garden topics in the history of the podcast.

Topics include: starting a victory garden; growing caneberries; container gardening basics; and planting and growing shade trees.

This edition runs a bit (!) longer than normal...over two hours. Move over Joe Rogan, this one is worth a long summer road trip!

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: raised bed with peppers, raspberries, Pam Farley with containers, Crape Myrtle tree in bloom

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

National Garden Bureau Victory Garden Blogs

Growing Caneberries

Pam Farley website - Brown Thumb Mama

Pam Farley book - “Container Food Gardening”

American Society of Consulting Arborists

How to Plant a Tree

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: seed packets

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Where are all the Ripe Tomatoes?”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Botanical Interests Seed Company Glossary

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

In this podcast, you’ll hear from these U.C. Sacramento County Master Gardeners and their favorite aromatic plants:

Collete Armao - Scented Geraniums

Dan Vierria - the Tuberose

Kathy Hellesen - Lemon Verbena

Greta Lacin - Sage (Salvia), especially sages for cooking

Teri Van Airsdale - the banana shrub (Magnolia figo)

And bonus audio - an interview with Master Rosarian Charlotte Owendyk about her 10 most favorite fragrant roses, including

Julia Child
Firefighter
Francis Meilland
Memorial Day
Pope John Paul II
Secret
Princess Alexandra of Kent
Mr. Lincoln
Double Delight
Beverly
Falling in Love
Golden Celebration

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Magnolia figo (banana shrub) 'Port Wine'

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Aromatic Plants and Roses - More Info”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Fair Oaks Horticulture Center

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

GardenBasics.net

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Master gardeners share lessons from their mistakes, covering topics like thinning fruit, plant spacing, and pest management, highlighting gardening as a continuous learning experience filled with humor and growth.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: crowded fruit on a donut peach tree

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Gardening and Gratitude”. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Fair Oaks Horticulture Center

“Sacramento Digs Gardening” newsletter

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Today, we dive into the world of cucumbers, the second most popular crop among backyard gardeners. Debbie Flower shares her expertise on cucumber varieties, growing techniques, and addressing common issues like bitterness. We discuss the importance of starting with fresh seeds, maintaining warm soil, and ensuring consistent moisture for optimal growth. Debbie also explains how to identify and manage male and female flowers, trellising for space optimization, as well as pest and disease management. (Originally aired in May, 2023)

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Cucumbers Growing on a Trellis

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Should You Prune Off Tomato Flowers?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Cucumber growing info from Sonoma County Master Gardeners

Cucumber Pests

Cucumber seeds

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

We explore the concept of a survival garden, focusing on growing nutritious crops that enhance healthy living. We redefine "survival garden" as a means to reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods while improving dietary intake. Our discussion includes practical tips for cultivating calorie-rich vegetable staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, evaluating their yields and family preferences.

The episode covers specific planting techniques for various vegetables, along with our personal gardening experiences, highlighting the adaptability needed for successful growth and storage of crops. Ultimately, we aim to inspire you to embrace gardening as a sustainable practice that enriches nutrition and well-being.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Heirloom Popcorn - Pennsylvania Butter Flavored

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Growing Microgreens” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

“Growing A Survival Garden” - Modern Farmer, October 2024

Mushroom Growing Kits

Microgreen Seed Sources - Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Harris Seeds

Bean Seeds - Yellow Indian Woman (Buckeye Bean), Bingo

Beet Seeds - Choggia, Golden

Growing Sweet Corn Information (Iowa State)

Sweet Corn Production in California (UCANR)

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Episode 394 features climate scientist Daniel Swain of Weather West and UCANR discussing the link between gardening and weather patterns. He provides tips on monitoring conditions, setting up weather stations, and adapting practices amid National Weather Service budget cuts.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Davis Vantage Pro Weather Station (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “What is a Grocery Store Vine-Ripened Tomato?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/

Daniel Swain / WeatherWest on YouTube

Home Weather Stations

Davis Instruments Weather Stations

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Farmer Fred and Debbie Flower share tips for managing pests like whiteflies and slugs, highlighting organic solutions and beneficial insects to help you reclaim your garden.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Whiteflies on a Citrus Leaf (Photo: Flickr/epitree)

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: Controlling Slugs in Mulch. By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/

Plants That Attract Beneficial Insects

The Good Bug Hotel

Beneficial Insects for Whitefly Control

Whitefly Control Product - Bug Buster O

Sluggo for Snail and Slug Control

Sluggo Plus for Snail, slug, and earwig control

Other Slug/Snail Control Products

Earwig Control Tips from UCANR

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.