Hort Culture

If you want to grow healthy plants, you need to know what's in your soil. That's why taking a soil test is one of the best things you can do for your garden and fields. In this episode, we'll discuss how to take a soil test sample and submit it through your local Extension office  for analysis. You'll learn what kind of information you'll get from the test results, and how to use it to improve your soil and your plants.  Taking Soil Test Samples Taking Soil Samples for Horticulture Crops Soil Testing Through the University of Kentucky Extension ServiceQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

If you're looking for a way to save water, money, help your plants grow, you might want to consider installing a rain barrel in your backyard. A rain barrel is a simple device that collects and stores rainwater from your roof, which you can use for watering your plants.  In this podcast episode, we'll talk about the benefits of rain barrels, how to choose the right one for your needs, and how to set it up and maintain it.  So grab your umbrella and join us as we dive into the world of rain barrels!Building a Rain BarrelHomeowner’s Guide to Rainwater Harvesting: Rain Barrels and BeyondRain Barrel TipsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode, we will be taking a closer look at options to help you extend your growing season both in the fall and in the spring.  Whether you're growing flowers, vegetables, herbs, or fruits, you'll want to know how to protect them from frost, pests, and diseases. We'll share some information on using  season extenders  such ground covers and low tunnels to create a cozy microclimate for your plants, and how to choose the best materials and methods for your garden and fields. High Tunnel OverviewGreenhouses, High Tunnels, & Low TunnelsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

Join  the Hort Culture regulars  (Alexis, Brett, Josh and Ray) as they talk about fall cover crops for your gardens and fields.  Thanks for listening!Cover Crop CalculatorCover Crops for Kentucky Gardens and FieldsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

 In this episode, we'll share some tips and tricks for fall garden and landscape cleanup. Whether you have a small balcony garden or a sprawling backyard, there are some things you can do to prepare your plants for the winter and make your spring gardening easier. We'll cover topics like pruning, mulching, composting, and more. 

In this episode of Hort Culture, we talk about a serious issue that can affects producers and market gardeners: stress and burnout. Producer burnout is the feeling of exhaustion, frustration and lack of motivation that comes from trying to keep up with the demands of growing, harvesting and selling your horticulture products. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, producer burnout can take a toll on your mental and physical health, as well as your relationships and your passion for plants. Join us as we talk about this important topic.  Farm Stress and Rural Mental HealthQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

On this episode of Hort Culture we'll talk about some of the tools and gadgets that make gardening easier, more fun, and more productive. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, you'll find something here that suits your needs and budget. From smart irrigation systems to compost tumblers, from pruning shears to plant sensors, we'll cover it all. So tune in and get ready to discover some amazing garden gadgets!Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode, we're going to dig into the topic of mulch. What is it, why do you need it, and how do you use it? Whether you have a big backyard a tiny balcony, or a commercial operation mulch can help you keep your plants healthy and happy. So grab your shovel and let's get started!Mulch MythsMulches for the LandscapeGarden MulchesQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode of Hort Culture, we will be closing out Kentucky flower month with two amazing floral artists, Kathy from Ephemeral Floral Sky and Sarah from Drury Floral. They share their stories on the industry, why they value local blooms and how it inspires their wedding, event, and everyday arrangements. We also talk about some of the challenges and joys of working with flowers, and how they balance their passion and business. Tune in to hear more!Kathy @ephemeralfloralskySarah @druryfloralQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

Welcome to another episode of Hort Culture, the podcast where we talk about all things green and growing. Today we have a very special guest, Kayla Carey, who is the co-owner of The Kentucky Flower Market. She will be providing the exciting details on what The Kentucky Flower Market is all about. So join us for this fun and informative conversation with Kayla Carey on Hort Culture!The Kentucky Flower MarketInstagram: The Kentucky Flower MarketRooted FarmersQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode, we'll share some tips and tricks for fall gardening, such as crops suitable for fall planting, specific planting dates, and how to protect your crops from frost. No matter your situation you can enjoy the beauty and bounty of fall gardening with some of these tips and tricks.Home Vegetable Gardening in KentuckyFall Vegetable GardensQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode, we're going to explore the cut flower industry in Kentucky, where farmers are producing beautiful blooms for local markets and beyond. We'll learn about the challenges and rewards of growing flowers in this region, and get some tips on growing and marketing. Tune in and let's get floral!Center For Crop Diversification Cut Flower ResourcesKentucky Commercial Cut Flower Grower DirectoryKentucky Horticulture Council Cut Flower ResourcesQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

On this episode of Hort Culture, we explore the world of container plants. you can grow beautiful and healthy plants in pots, baskets, boxes and more. We will talk about containers, soil, water, fertilizer and more! Tune in and discover how to create your own mini plant oasis with container plants!Gardening In ContainersContainer GardeningQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode of Hort Culture, we'll talk about heat stress in plants and how it affects their growth and development. It can happen in summer, during heat waves, or in greenhouses. Some signs of heat stress are curling leaves, brown edges, dry soil, and reduced growth. To avoid heat stress, you should water your plants regularly, mulch the soil, shade them from direct sunlight, and choose heat-tolerant varieties. Tune in to learn more tips and tricks on how to keep your plants cool and happy.Heat wave in the garden: How to identify and prevent heat stress in plantsHigh Tunnel Planting Date CalendarsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

Welcome to Hort Culture, the podcast where we dig into the science and art of growing plants. Today we're going to dive into some common garden myths. Tune in and learn how to grow your garden smarter, not harder.Horticultural Myths-Washington State UniversitySome Garden Myths and What Science Has To SayQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode, we'll talk about all the possible ecosystem services that can be provided by landscape plants. What are ecosystem services? How do they benefit us and our local communities? And how can we design and maintain landscapes that provide them? Tune in and discover how landscapes can enhance your living spaces!Ecosystem Services of Landscape Plants PublicationQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

Join us on this episode of Hort Culture as we talk about the many reasons we have for growing plants other than for money. Plants are more than just a source of income for many people. They can also provide food, exercise, beauty, comfort, and even companionship. In this episode, you’ll hear from your podcast regulars as we share stories and insights on how plants enrich our lives in different ways. So, grab your headphones and join us as we dive into the wonderful world of plants.Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

Welcome to another episode of Hort Culture, the podcast where we talk about all things green and growing. In this episode, we're going to discuss summer insect IPM, or integrated pest management, which is a way of controlling pests using a combination of methods and techniques.  We'll learn about the different types of pests and how to manage them using cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical methods. And we have a special guest joining us today: Dr. Jonathan Larson, an assistant professor and extension entomologist at the University of Kentucky.  So tune in and get ready to learn more about summer insect IPM on Hort Culture!Kentucky IPM ManualsKentucky IPM Picture SheetsIPM Video GalleryKentucky Pest NewsArthro-PodKentucky Bugs on FacebookQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

In this episode of Hort Culture, we'll talk about summer cover crops and how they can benefit your plantings. Cover crops are plants that you grow in between your main crops to improve the soil, suppress weeds, and attract beneficial insects. Some examples of summer cover crops are buckwheat, cowpea, sunflower, and sorghum. We'll discuss how to choose the right cover crop for your situation and soil type, and how to incorporate them into your garden plan. Tune in to learn more!Cover Crop CalculatorMidwest Cover Crops Field Scout Mobile AppS.A.R.E Cover Crop ResourcesManaging Cover Crops in High TunnelsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

Crop rotation is a practice that involves changing the type of plants grown in a specific area each season or year. This can help prevent soil depletion, pest build up, and disease outbreak, as well as improve soil fertility and crop yield. In this episode, we'll explain the benefits of crop rotation, how to plan your rotation scheme, and some examples of crops that work well together in different rotations. Whether you have a larger production field or a small raised bed garden, crop rotation can make a big difference in your horticultural success.Home Vegetable Gardening in KentuckyQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

In this episode, we explore the different marketing channels for horticulture products. We will get into some of the advantages and disadvantages of each channel, including direct sales, farmers' markets, online platforms, wholesalers and retailers. As well as share some tips and best practices on choosing the right market for your horticulture business and optimizing your sales and profits.What to Think About Before You PlantCenter for Crop Diversification Marketing ResourcesQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

In this episode, we'll talk about finding funding for your small and large commercial horticulture projects. We'll also have a special guest, Maddie Grider, communications and marketing associate with the Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD). She'll share some tips and resources on how to apply for grants, loans, and other financial assistance. Tune in and learn how to grow your green dreams with Hort Culture!Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD)KCARD contactsMaddie Grider, Communications and Marketing Associate:  [email protected] Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

Welcome to Hort Culture, the podcast for plant lovers! In this episode, we'll explore the benefits of interplanting and companion planting, two techniques that can help you maximize your garden space and productivity. Interplanting is when you grow two or more crops together in the same area, such as lettuce and radishes, or corn and beans. Companion planting is when you choose plants that have beneficial effects on each other, such as repelling pests, attracting pollinators, or improving soil quality. We'll share some tips and tricks on how to plan and implement them in your own plantings. Whether you have a small raised bed  or a large field plot, interplanting and companion planting can help you grow crops with less work and more fun. Tune in to Hort Culture and get ready to learn and grow!WVU Companion Planting PublicationHome Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky ManualTHE "NEW" COMPANION PLANTING: ADDING DIVERSITY TO THE GARDENQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

In this episode of Hort Culture, we talk about how to set prices for your horticulture crops. No matter what horticulture crops you are growing, pricing is a key factor in your profitability and sustainability. We discuss some of the factors that influence pricing, such as supply and demand, production costs, market trends, and customer preferences. We also share some tips and tools to help you calculate your break-even point, compare different pricing strategies, and communicate your value to your customers. Tune in to learn how to price your horticulture crops with confidence and success!USDA Agricultural Marketing ServiceCenter For Crop Diversification Price ReportsCenter For Crop Diversification BudgetsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

In this episode of Hort Culture, we talk about succession plantings for your farm and home.  Succession planting refers to several planting methods that increase crop availability during a growing season by making efficient use of planting dates, space, and variety selections. By using succession plantings concepts and practices you will maximize your harvest and minimize your waste. We share some tips and tricks on how to plan, prepare, and execute your succession plantings to get the most out of your production efforts!  Whether you have a large farm or a small backyard garden, succession plantings can help you enjoy more fresh produce throughout the growing season.Publication ID-128 Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky Gardening Seasons/Succession Planting (audio)Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

Welcome to Hort Culture, the podcast for plant lovers. In this episode, we'll talk about integrated pest management, or IPM, a holistic approach to dealing with pests on your farm and in your garden. IPM combines different methods of pest control, including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical, to reduce the impact of pests on your plants. We'll discuss the benefits of IPM, how to implement it in your growing situation, and some common examples of IPM practices. Regardless of what you are growing, IPM can help you keep your plants healthy and happy. Tune in to learn more about this eco-friendly way of working with plants.University of Kentucky IPM ProgramsQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

If you're thinking about growing horticulture crops for profit, you might be wondering how to choose the best ones for your situation. In this episode, we'll talk about some factors to consider before you start planting, such as market demand, production costs, climate suitability and pest management. We'll also introduce you to a handy tool called PRIMER that can help you evaluate different crops and make informed decisions. PRIMER stands for Profitability, Resources, Information, Marketing, Enthusiasm and Risk. Tune in to learn more about how to use PRIMER and grow your horticulture business!P.R.I.M.E.R toolQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] us out on Instagram!

On this week's episode we will be discussing the importance of taking a 'soil first' approach in all of your home and production plant activities.  Is soil just the cold dead substrate under your feet or something more?  Just don't call it dirt!  Listen in to hear more about this important topic.  USDA Soil SurveyUniversity of Kentucky Soil Testing ServicesTaking Soil Test SamplesQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected]

So, you bought a farm.  Now what? Join us for a conversation on things to think about when purchasing a farm or with newly acquired land.  From marketing to soil testing and everything in between.  PRIMER for Selecting New Enterprises for Your FarmGeographic Horticulture Directory of KentuckyUSDA Web Soil SurveyQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: [email protected] Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.Reasonable accommodation of disability may be available with prior notice. Program information may be made available in languages other than English.Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and other related matter should be directed toEqual Opportunity Office, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Room S-105, Agriculture Science Building, North Lexington, Kentucky 40546,the UK Office of Institutional Equity and Equal Opportunity, 13 Main Building, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0032 orUS Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410.