Episodios

  • 467 - Planting Day: Tomatoes – when to plant and exactly what to do step by step
    Apr 14 2026

    Struggling to know when to plant tomatoes without risking frost?
    Wondering how deep to plant or what actually matters on planting day?
    In this episode, you'll learn a step-by-step tomato planting process so you can start strong and grow a healthy harvest.

    Tomato planting day can feel exciting… and a little uncertain. In this episode, I walk you through exactly how I decide when it's safe to plant, how I prep my planting holes, and what I do right after planting to give my tomatoes the best start possible.

    Free Download: Tomato Diseases Guide
    Quickly identify common tomato problems and learn what to do next so you can protect your harvest.
    👉 http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide

    Key Takeaways
    • How to decide the right time to plant tomatoes
    • What nighttime temperatures really matter
    • How deep to plant tomatoes for stronger roots
    • How spacing impacts airflow and disease
    • What (if anything) to add to the planting hole
    Resource Links
    • Tomato Diseases Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide
    • Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
    • Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
    • Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
    Sponsor for This Episode

    Cozy Earth
    Premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and better sleep. Use code JILL for a special discount. 👉 http://cozyearth.com

    Garden in Minutes
    An easy-to-install garden irrigation system that saves time and ensures consistent watering. Use code Jill for 7% off.
    👉 http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    43 m
  • 466 - Soil: What to Do Before You Plant Anything
    Apr 7 2026

    Struggling to figure out what your garden soil actually needs?
    Confused by compost, topsoil, and raised bed mixes?
    In this episode, you'll learn simple, practical soil basics to grow healthier plants and improve your garden naturally.

    Dream to Garden (Now Open!)
    My step-by-step garden planning course with optional monthly coaching calls to help you plan and grow with confidence.
    👉 https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden

    Key Takeaways
    • Understand the difference between topsoil, compost, and raised bed soil
    • Learn how to build healthy soil for raised beds or in-ground gardens
    • Know how and when to add compost for best results
    • Avoid common mistakes when buying bagged soil
    • Discover why feeding your soil matters more than feeding plants

    Resource Links

    • Dream to Garden
    • https://journeywithjill.net/dreamtogarden
    • The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault (free):
      http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
    • Friday Emails (newsletter):
      https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
    • Recommended Brands & Products:
      https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
    • Complete Garden Planner:
      https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
    Sponsors for This Episode

    Cross Country Nursery
    A trusted source for high-quality plants, especially if you're looking to expand your garden with reliable varieties.
    👉 http://www.chileplants.com/jill

    Garden in Minutes
    An easy irrigation system that helps you water your garden efficiently without the guesswork.
    Use code Jill for 7% off:
    http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    37 m
  • 465 - Companion Planting While You're Actually Planting Your Garden
    Mar 31 2026

    Feeling unsure about companion planting when you're actually standing in your garden? You're not alone. It's one thing to read charts, but another to decide what goes where in real time.
    In this episode, you'll learn how companion planting really works, including spacing, timing, and practical garden layout strategies that make sense.

    Free download: Companion Planting for Pest Control
    A simple, practical guide to pairing plants that help naturally reduce pests.
    👉 http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest

    If companion planting has ever felt confusing or overly complicated, this episode will walk you through step-by-step principles you can actually use in your garden today.

    Resource Links
    • Companion Planting for Pest Control (free): http://journeywithjill.net/companion-planting-for-pest
    • Beneficial insects episode: https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/235-attracting-beneficial-bugs-to-your-garden-with-jessica-walliser
    • Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/
    • Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    Recommended Brands & Products:
    https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Sponsor(s) for this Episode

    Garden in Minutes – Simplify your irrigation setup with an easy-to-install system designed for raised beds.
    Get 7% off with code Jill: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes

    Cozy Earth – Premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and better sleep.
    Use code JILL for a special discount: https://cozyearth.com

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    32 m
  • 464 - Planting Day: Potatoes – how to plant and what to expect as they grow underground
    Mar 24 2026

    Struggling with poor potato harvests or slow growth? You're not alone.
    In this episode, you'll learn how to plant potatoes step-by-step for stronger plants and better yields.
    From choosing seed potatoes to soil prep and spacing, this potato planting guide will set you up for success.

    Potatoes are one of the most rewarding crops you can grow, but planting them correctly makes all the difference. In this episode, I walk you through exactly what to do before planting day, including how to choose the right seed potatoes, whether to chit them, and how to prepare your soil. I'll also share what's worked in my garden over the years, including mistakes I've made so you can avoid them.

    free download: Seasonal Garden Task List
    Know what to do each month—no more guessing.
    https://journeywithjill.net/seasonal-task-list

    Key Takeaways
    • Choose certified seed potatoes to protect your soil and improve yields

    • Match potato varieties to your cooking goals and growing season

    • Prep soil with organic matter and balanced fertilizer

    • Plant at the right depth and spacing for strong growth

    • Use mulch or light hilling to protect developing potatoes

    Resource Links
    • Seasonal Garden Task List (free): https://journeywithjill.net/seasonal-task-list

    Connect:

    • Newsletter: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/

    • Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    Recommended Brands & Products:
    https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/

    Complete Garden Planner
    Plan and track your season with my all-in-one downloadable planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Sponsor(s) for this Episode

    Garden in Minutes – Simplify your watering system with easy-to-use garden grids. Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes

    Cross County Nursery – A trusted source for quality plants to support your garden success.

    Wood Prairie Family Farm – Certified organic seed potatoes in a wide range of varieties. Use code JILL5 for 5% off: http://journeywithjill.net/woodprairie

    As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    40 m
  • 463 - Planting Day: Carrots - how to plant and what to expect the first few weeks
    Mar 17 2026
    Struggling to get carrot seeds to sprout or size up well? In this episode, you'll learn how to plant carrots with better timing, spacing, watering, and thinning so they grow straight, sweet, and strong. If carrot germination has felt unpredictable, this step-by-step planting guide will help you start with confidence. Carrots can feel simple until you plant them and wait... and wait... and still see bare soil. In today's Planting Day episode, I'm walking you through exactly what to do before and after sowing carrot seeds so you can improve germination, avoid common mistakes, and set yourself up for a better harvest. We'll cover timing, soil prep, spacing, moisture, thinning, and what to expect in those first few weeks so you know your carrot planting is on track. Free Download: Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide Get my Free Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide and quickly learn how to grow straight, sweet carrots in your garden without the guesswork. You'll also get complimentary access to my Beginner's Garden Resource Vault. http://journeywithjill.net/carrot-guide Key Takeaways Learn the best time to plant carrots in spring Improve germination with better soil moisture Choose carrot varieties that perform reliably Thin seedlings the right way for bigger roots Know what early carrot growth should look like Resource Links Carrot Quick-Start Growing Guide: http://journeywithjill.net/carrot-guide Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Complete Garden Planner: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. Sponsors for this Episode Cozy Earth Cozy Earth offers ultra-soft bamboo sheets, pajamas, and skincare products designed for everyday comfort. Use code CozyJill to get up to 20% off at CozyEarth.com. Discount terms may vary. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes Garden in Minutes offers garden grids and watering systems that make spacing and irrigation simpler in raised beds. Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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    41 m
  • 462 - How Early Is Too Early? Planting Cool-Season Crops With Confidence
    Mar 10 2026

    Spring weather can make planting decisions confusing. Should you plant your cool season crops now, or wait a little longer?
    In this episode, you'll learn how to decide the best time to plant lettuce, broccoli, carrots, peas, and other cool season crops with confidence.
    If you've ever worried about planting too early or too late, this practical guide will help you read the signals your garden is giving you.

    free download: Garden Cheat Sheet

    New to edible gardening or restarting after a break? Download my free Garden Cheat Sheet—a simple path to plan, plant, and stay on track.
    https://journeywithjill.net/gardening/when-to-plant/

    Key Takeaways
    • Understand the temperature range cool season crops prefer

    • Learn how frost forecasts influence planting decisions

    • Know the soil temperature thresholds for direct sowing seeds

    • Avoid common mistakes with soggy soil and early planting

    • Gain confidence in reading weather patterns in your own garden

    Connect

    • Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup

    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/

    • Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/

    Complete Garden Planner
    Plan and track your season with my all-in-one downloadable garden planner.
    https://shop.journeywithjill.net/

    Sponsor(s) for This Episode

    Garden in Minutes
    Garden in Minutes offers a simple irrigation system designed specifically for raised beds, helping you water efficiently and consistently without the hassle of hand watering.
    Use code Jill for 7% off your order.
    http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes
    As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Cross Country Nursery
    Cross Country Nursery is a plant nursery that helps gardeners get quality plants delivered so you can get growing faster and with less guesswork.

    Use code JILL for 15% off your order. http://www.chileplants.com/jill

    Disclaimer

    Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.

    Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    34 m
  • 461 - Seedlings Not Growing? Why Mine Stalled (and the Fix)
    Mar 3 2026
    Struggling with indoor seed starting because your seedlings stopped growing? Are they stuck with only seed leaves, turning yellow, or just frozen in time? In this episode, I share how a simple seed starting mix mistake stalled my broccoli, cabbage, and lettuce—and exactly how I fixed it. Free download: Seed Starting Troubleshooting Guide Clear, simple fixes for common indoor seed starting problems. Download it here → http://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-troubleshooting-guide After 13 years of starting my own seeds, I made a mistake I didn't even realize—until my brassicas refused to grow for nearly two weeks. What looked like a nitrogen issue turned out to be something completely different. In this episode, I walk you through what happened, how I diagnosed the problem, and the step-by-step seedling triage that brought them back to life. If your seedlings are stunted, pale, or just not progressing like they should, you're not alone. And in many cases, you can fix it quickly. Key Takeaways How to identify true stunted growth vs. normal slow growth The most common seed starting mix mistake beginners make Why roots need oxygen just as much as water When transplanting seedlings can actually save them How to research potting mix labels before you buy Resource Links Seed Starting Troubleshooting Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-troubleshooting-guide Lettuce Quick-Start Growing Guide (free): http://journeywithjill.net/lettuce-guide Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Sponsor for This Episode Garden in Minutes makes simple, efficient irrigation systems that take the guesswork out of watering. If you're tired of dragging hoses or wondering whether you're overwatering or underwatering, their systems make it easy to water evenly and consistently. Use code Jill for 7% off. Shop here: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes Cozy Earth creates premium bedding and loungewear designed for comfort and quality. Their bamboo sheet sets are incredibly soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating—perfect for getting better rest during busy garden seasons. Visit Cozy Earth to shop their products and check current promotions. Use code COZYJILL for a discount up to 20% off on your purchase (discount amount may vary based on current sales). Shop here: http://cozyearth.com As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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    30 m
  • 460 - How to Grow Better Potatoes: What Matters Most (and What Doesn't) with Jim & Caleb Gerritsen of Wood Prairie Family Farm
    Feb 24 2026
    Struggling to get a big potato harvest, especially in heat or grow bags? In this episode, Jim and Caleb from Wood Prairie Family Farm break down what actually matters for growing potatoes successfully. You'll learn practical potato growing tips for choosing seed, watering, fall planting, and avoiding common beginner mistakes. If you've ever felt unsure about which potatoes to plant, how to store them, or why your yields were disappointing, this conversation will clear it up. We talk certified seed vs. grocery store potatoes, how to think about short-season varieties (especially in the South), what makes fall potatoes possible, and the biggest "make-or-break" factors when growing in containers. Wood Prairie Family Farm (Seed Potatoes) Certified seed potatoes shipped at the right time for your region, plus grow bags and organic potato fertilizer. Use code JILL5 for 5% off: http://journeywithjill.net/woodprairie. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. free download: Seed Starting Guide Start seeds with confidence. Know exactly when and how to begin. https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Key Takeaways Start with certified seed potatoes to reduce disease risk and improve yields. For hot climates or tight windows, choose short-season varieties to finish before heat or frost. In grow bags, watering is the #1 success factor (often 3x per week). Better soil and the right fertility plan can increase yield without adding complexity. Mulch strategies (even cardboard + straw) can reduce weeds and help moderate soil moisture. Sponsor for this Episode Organic REV Organic fertilizer blends made for gardeners who want healthier plants and better harvests. Use code JILL10 for 10% off: http://journeywithjill.net/organicrev As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Garden in Minutes A simple, efficient watering system that helps you stay consistent (especially in summer). Use code Jill for 7% off: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Resource Links Free Seed Starting Guide: https://journeywithjill.net/seed-starting-guide Connect with Jill Friday Emails (newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/ Podcast archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/ Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy: https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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    51 m