In this podcast I thought I'd focus on a few award winning plants as well as a few new introductions.  I'll talk blue false indigo, the Perennial Plant Association's Perennial Plant of the Year for 2010.  I'll also discuss the 2010 Hosta of the Year, 'First Frost' and also the 2010 Herb of the Year, dill. I'll answer a gardeners' question on caring for poinsettia through the year and spider mites on hibiscus.

I'll offer tips on how to create an outdoor party with the help of colorful plants and containers. Then I answer a gardener's question on lupine seedlings.  I'll talk strategies for dealing with rose slug. I finish with container ideas from Proven Winners and Ball Seed Company.

I'll talk topiary, which is the art of sculpting or training plants into ornamental shapes. Then I'll answer gardeners' questions on compost tea and miracle fruit tree that needs help. I'll finish with a wonderful book, Secrets of Disney's Glorious Gardens by Kevin Markey (ISBN 0-7868-5552-5)

Gardening is more than growing pretty flowers or vegetables, it's about sharing and caring with family and friends. I'll discuss what to do when cuttings fail to root. I'll then finish with an explaination of patented and trademark plants.

Are you overwhelmed about starting a new garden? I'll offer five easy steps to make this gardening season a snap! Then I'll answer a gardener's question on moving daffodils. I'll finish with information on European pine sawfly.

Spring break is a good time for family fun in the garden! Gardening questions will be posted in next week's podcast. Pest Tip: Bugs! Only 3% are harmful. New Product/Plant: Lois Ehlert from Children's Literature Independent Info and Reviews.

Let's jump start the season.  I'll talk about planting and hardening off transplants. Gardener's questions: What type of small shrubs can I plant in Zone 5? Pest Tip: Corn and seed maggots. New Product/Plant: Wall-o-Water.

Homemade from the gardener is still possible even if your garden is under snow.  Tips on gifts that are sure to please novice and advanced gardeners and fit into every price range from seeds to cuttings, plants and indoor gardens. The key to affordable gifts everyone will love is sharing your gardening know-how, resources and creativity. Plus, tips on seed saving, problem gardens and dealing with pesticides.  Visit www.wbu.com for directions on making simple bird feeders to give as gifts or make for fun family activities.

Are your perennials overcome with too much growth? Do your annuals need a bit of deadheading? Let's grab the pruners and get to work!  I'll finish with a mention of the Cut and Hold - developed for roses and other prickly shrubs.