The Hidden World of Insect Collections and Native Bees

How to Keep Gardening Fun and Safe As We Age

Gardening changes as we do. Tasks that once felt easy may take more planning, different tools, or a new approach. In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk about practical ways gardeners can adapt their spaces and routines to keep gardening comfortably and confidently over time. King County Extension Master Gardener Sally Bagshaw shares ideas for reducing physical strain, improving accessibility, and rethinking garden design to better fit changing needs. We discuss raised beds, pathways, ergonomic tools, lower-maintenance planting choices, and strategies that help gardeners stay connected to the activities we enjoy most.

Gardening When Water is Scarce with Lisa Taylor

In this episode, Lisa Taylor returns to share tips on saving water while gardening. Lisa focuses on how being intentional with water use improves soil health, efficient watering techniques, and drought-tolerant practices for thriving plants. She shares some of her favorite high-quality tools to make saving water easier. Listen to learn how to build resilient gardens that thrive with less water, perfect for hot summers and adapting to climate change.

From Tubers to Blooms: A Practical Guide to Growing Dahlias

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk with Master Gardener Ed Adams about growing dahlias in Western Washington, including what it takes to manage a large collection of over 600 plants. Ed shares why dahlias thrive in Sequim's unique climate and walks through practical, research-based approaches to growing them successfully. The conversation covers getting started with tubers, seasonal care, supporting healthy growth, and managing common garden challenges using an integrated pest management approach. We also explore what changes when dahlias are grown at scale, along with tips for digging, dividing, and storing tubers for the next season. Whether you're growing a few plants or planning something larger, this episode offers grounded, field-tested insight into making dahlias work in a Pacific Northwest garden. There are a lot of resources mentioned in this episode. Find them on our website [https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode073/].

The Hidden World of Insect Collections and Native Bees

In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we talk with Dr. Joel Gardner from the WSU M.T. James Entomological Collection about native bees, including Dialictus sweat bees, and how new species are discovered. Joel explains how insect collections support research on pollinators and biodiversity in Washington, and why preserved specimens remain important for understanding ecological change over time. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website [https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode072/]. (link opens in new window)

How to Make Gardens More Accessible In Every Sense with Monica Meyer

Explore the development of a sensory garden designed to be accessible and therapeutic for neurodivergent individuals, veterans with PTSD, and others with sensory sensitivities. Learn about the design, purpose, and community impact of this innovative project. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website [https://evergreenthumb.mastergardenerfoundation.org/episode071/].