NC Extension might be the best-kept Secret for better Gardening. Learn how soil tests, Master Gardeners, and local experts can save you time and money.

In this episode of Gardening with Daddy Pete, Melvin York sits down with Laura Elmore, County Director for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Iredell County (locals say "Ardle"). Together, they break down what Extension really does for home gardeners, homeowners, and small farms, and why it's one of the easiest resources to use when you're stuck.

You'll hear practical tips and real examples, including: • Why research-based advice matters for North Carolina growing conditions (and beyond)

• Soil testing basics, what $4 can save you before you buy fertilizer

• How pH affects nutrient uptake, and why "throw triple 19 on everything" can backfire

• Where Master Gardener volunteers can help with plant problems, even if you only have one tomato plant

• Food preservation support, pressure canner gauge checks, and safe canning guidance

• 4-H programs, youth clubs, and hands-on learning for kids (including homeschoolers)

• Local events and ways to connect with your county Extension office

Local note for Iredell County viewers: The Extension office is at 444 Bristol Drive in Statesville, NC. Their annual Garden Fair is the last Saturday in April (April 25 this year), and it's packed with vendors, plants, food, and education.

More from Daddy Pete's Plant Pleaser®: https://daddypetes.com

Watch, share, and drop your questions in the comments for the next episode. This Podcast is all about helping you grow.

#Gardening #NCExtension #SoilTesting #MasterGardener #Podcast

Homegrown Strawberries taste better, smell better, and turn red all the way through. In this episode of Gardening with Daddy Pete, Melvin York walks you through how to grow Strawberries in your home garden, especially if you're dealing with red clay or sandy soil.

You'll learn where to plant for best results (full sun matters), how to prep a raised mound or raised bed for good drainage, and why the strawberry crown needs to stay above wet soil. You'll also get practical notes on planting times, spring planting expectations, and how runners can help you build next year's bed.

Along the way, Mel shares varieties that tend to do well in North Carolina, plus simple tips to avoid common problems like overwatering and weak-flavored fruit. If you want better berries for fresh eating, jams, preserves, smoothies, or strawberries and cream, this one's for you.

Helpful resources and products mentioned are at: daddypetes.com Check the product usage chart, podcast, and gardening info, and send your questions through the "Ask a Question" box. Questions get answered directly, and many will be shared on the show so others can learn, too.

Next up: raspberries and blackberries, including thornless types and color options you might not expect.

#Gardening #Strawberries #HomeGarden #RaisedBedGardening #DaddyPete

Plant Blueberries the right way this season, soil prep, pH targets, best varieties, and simple steps that lead to heavy harvests.

In this Gardening Podcast episode, Daddy Pete walks through home blueberry production using guidance from the NC State Extension. You'll learn how to prep a sunny, well-drained bed, why blueberries need acidic soil (about pH 4.5 to 5.0), and how to use organic matter and pine bark fines to improve clay or mountain soils. He also covers when to plant in late winter, why you should grow at least two bushes for better pollination, and how to protect ripe fruit from birds with netting.

You'll also hear the difference between highbush and rabbiteye Blueberries, plus variety suggestions by region so you can match the plant to your climate. Expect tips on harvest timing, realistic yields, and easy ways to freeze berries for year-round use.

More free resources and archived episodes: daddypetes.com

Got a question, submit it on the website and it may be featured in a future show.

#Blueberries #Gardening #BlueberryGrowing #BackyardGarden #NCStateExtension