Shows
Good GrowingEp. 243 Looking toward spring: Our favorite spring flowers | #GoodGrowingSpring is on the horizon—even if the weather can’t quite make up its mind. In this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris and Ken do a little spring dreaming, sharing the flowers, plants, and woodland scenes they look forward to every year as the growing season begins.From early bloomers like crocus, daffodils, and spring ephemerals to peonies, magnolias, and everything in between, we flip through a mental (and visual) photo album of spring favorites. Along the way, we talk about why these plants matter to us, how they fit into home landscapes and natu...
2026-03-1341 min
Good GrowingEp. 241 Kicking Off the 2026 Grow Along: What We’re Growing and How to Join | #GoodGrowingGet ready to kick off the 2026 gardening season with the Good Growing team as we unveil this year’s Grow Along plant list. In this episode, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educators Chris Enroth, Ken Johnson, and Emily Swihart walk through the selection process and describe the six unique crops chosen for the 2026 Grow Along program.Register for the Grow Along: https://go.illinois.edu/GrowAlong2026Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XUGiBe3RrFwSkip to what you want to know:1:21 Decision-making process for choosing the 2026 Grow Along seeds6:55 Rebel St...
2026-02-2749 min
Good GrowingGardenbite: Boost Prairie Wildflowers with Winter Overseeding | #GoodGrowingJoin University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator Chris Enroth on a winter walk through the prairie as he demonstrates how to overseed an existing native prairie by hand. Learn why winter is the perfect time for prairie overseeding, how they select their seed that is spread, and how to mix seed with a carrier for even spreading. Chris explains practical tips for seed collection, hand sowing methods, using locally sourced seed from community seed shares, and how overseeding supports long-term prairie health. Perfect for native plant lovers or anyone curious about hands-on conservation work that ca...
2026-02-1310 min
Good GrowingEp. 236 Persimmon Growing Facts & Folklore | #GoodGrowingJoin us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of American persimmons (Diospyros virginiana)! In this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris, Ken, and special guest Nick Frillman explore everything from tree identification and growing tips to wildlife connections and seed stratification.We’ll bust common myths—like whether persimmons need frost to ripen—and uncover quirky folklore, including the famous fork, knife, or spoon winter prediction.Skip to what you want to know:00:33 Hey Ken!01:28 Where can we find persimmon growing naturally in Illinois?05:31 Sprouting persimmon seeds.07:51 What a...
2026-01-0222 min
Good GrowingEp. 234 Persimmon: Growing and Eating Illinois' Sweetest Fruit | #GoodGrowingPersimmons are sweet, native to Illinois, and sometimes astringent! In this episode of Good Growing, Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson sit down with Nick Frillman, Local Foods and Small Farms Educator, to uncover everything you need to know about persimmons. From American vs. Asian cultivars to tips for growing them in Illinois, we cover cultivars, pollination, pruning, and harvesting tricks to avoid that dreaded cottonmouth. Skip to what you want to know:00:39 Hey Ken! Have we ever eaten a persimmon?01:42 Welcome Nick!03:24 What is the difference between the Asian and American persimmon?08:10 Which t...
2025-12-1254 min
Good GrowingGardenbite: Cut Stump Herbicide Treatment to Control Bush Honeysuckle | #GoodGrowing It’s the most wonderful time of the year, if you’re battling invasive bush honeysuckle! In this Garden Bite, Chris from the Good Growing podcast walks you through effective late-fall control methods. Learn how to identify honeysuckle when everything else has gone dormant, why timing matters for herbicide applications, and the step-by-step process for the cut-stump treatment using glyphosate. From hand-pulling small plants to tackling large shrubs with saws and chainsaws, this episode covers the tools, techniques, and tips you need to reclaim your woodland understory. Grab your gloves and join us as we keep slaying that honeysuckle! W...
2025-11-2804 min
Good GrowingEp. 232 The Cranberry Story: Native Roots and Modern Agriculture | #Good GrowingDiscover the fascinating world of cranberries in this episode of Good Growing. Horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson explore the history, science, and cultivation of one of North America’s few commercially grown native fruits. Learn how cranberries evolved from wild bog plants to a global industry, why they float during wet harvest, and the unique challenges growers face in managing seasonal demand. From Indigenous traditions to modern farming techniques, this episode dives deep into cranberry botany, sustainability, and the economics behind your favorite holiday berry. Skip to what you want to know:00:39 Hey Ken! Ken...
2025-11-1455 min
Good GrowingEp. 231 New Additions to Illinois’ Invasive Species List | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of Good Growing, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive into the latest updates to the Illinois Exotic Weed Act, which now includes nine newly listed invasive plant species. From the notorious Tree of Heaven to the sneaky Sericea Lespedeza. Plus, a tree many people have been waiting to be added to the list - Callery pear!Skip to what you want to know:00:30 Hey Ken! Are we done gardening yet? What we're doing with all our ginger.03:03 News from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources on 9 new invasive plant...
2025-11-0744 min
Good GrowingEp. 229 Why Leaves Change in the Fall and Which Trees Do It Best | #Good GrowingIn this episode of Good Growing, Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive into the science and spectacle of fall foliage. From the pigments behind the seasonal color shift to their favorite underappreciated trees (sorry, maples), the duo explores what makes autumn leaves so dazzling—and why some years are better than others. Learn the difference between carotenoids and anthocyanins, discover native trees that deserve more love, and find out which species drop all their leaves in one dramatic swoop. Plus, a fun detour into the origins of the words “fall” and “autumn,” and a few honorable mentions that might surprise y...
2025-10-2442 min
Good GrowingEp. 227 Stink Bugs, Lady Beetles & Boxelder Invasions: Fall’s Uninvited Houseguests | #GoodGrowingAs temperatures drop and daylight shortens, many insects begin their annual migration—straight into our homes. In this episode, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson explore the biology and behavior of three common fall invaders: the brown marmorated stink bug, the multicolored Asian lady beetle, and the boxelder bug.Learn how these insects respond to seasonal changes, why they choose our homes for overwintering, and how to identify them accurately. The hosts also discuss the ecological impact of invasive species, like the stink bug and Asian lady beetle, and share practical, research-based strategies for keeping these pe...
2025-10-1040 min
Good GrowingEp. 225 Stormwater Solutions for Homeowners & Communities | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of the Good Growing podcast, hosts Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson are joined by Colleen Reuter, Environmental Compliance professional at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to explore the world of green infrastructure and stormwater management.From rain gardens and rain barrels to depaving driveways and even the surprising role of beavers in flood control, this episode dives into practical, research-based strategies that homeowners and communities can use to reduce erosion, manage runoff, and improve water quality.We also preview the upcoming Illinois Green Infrastructure and Erosion Control Conference, a free, public event...
2025-09-2640 min
Good GrowingEp. 223 Preparing for Fall Drought in the Garden and Landscape | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of Good Growing, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive into the challenges of gardening during Central and Southern Illinois’ increasingly dry fall season. From flash droughts and cracked lawns to watering strategies for trees, shrubs, and cover crops, they share practical advice for managing your landscape in low-moisture conditions. Plus, a timely reminder about fire safety and a segment they have dubbed "Hose Talk." Tune in for expert insights and seasonal tips to keep your garden growing—even when the rain won’t fall.Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/9PXCI5ddpBI
2025-09-1230 min
Good GrowingEp. 222 Monarch Butterfly Conservation: Should You Rear Them Indoors? | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth from University of Illinois Extension explores the adversaries of the monarch butterfly, including the controversial practice of captive rearing.Although we do not recommend captive rearing, there may be times when it is wanted for educational purposes. Can it be done responsibly? Chris shares best practices for raising monarch caterpillars indoors. Instead of captive rearing, support habitat conservation efforts! Learn how programs like Monarch Waystations and pollinator gardens can help restore critical habitat.Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/Yfzxnvpco0M
2025-08-2931 min
Good GrowingEp. 221 Compost your way: Passive and active composting styles | #GoodGrowingIn this episode, Chris and Ken delve into the complex world of composting. From their passive piles that simply sit and rot (no judgment!) to active setups that require thermometers, turning, and possibly even a chipper shredder. Learn what compost actually is (hint: it’s not soil), how to build a pile that works, and why moisture matters. Don't feed the landfill. Feed your soil!Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/LWrdiau0aiA Skip to what you want to know:00:37 Hey Ken! Do we compost at home?02:43 What is and is not com...
2025-08-2256 min
Good GrowingEp. 218 Midsummer Lessons: What’s Growing (and Dying) in Our Yards | #GoodGrowingIn this candid and photo-filled episode of the Good Growing Podcast, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson take you on a tour of their own backyards. You will see the good, bad, and pretty. Learn about battling verticillium wilt and jumping worms to celebrating volunteer wildflowers and thriving pollinator beds. During the show, Chris tries a cucumber melon for the first time, and Ken shares his ever-expanding front yard prairie project. They share what’s working, what’s not, and what they’ve learned during a hot, humid, and rain-soaked Illinois summer.Watch us on YouTube - http...
2025-08-0153 min
Good GrowingGardenbite: Spigelia a native plant for your landscape | #GoodGrowingIn this Gardenbite episode of the Good Growing Podcast, Chris Enroth kicks back over the Fourth of July weekend to flash back to a 2021 chat with Extension educator Elizabeth Wahle, who declares Spigelia her all-time favorite garden plant. Why? Picture a flower dressed for Mardi Gras with scarlet red petals, golden yellow tips, and a flair that hummingbirds can’t resist.Spigelia marilandica, also known as Indian Pink or Carolina Pink, might become your new favorite native plant!Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.eduKen Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Check out...
2025-07-1104 min
Good GrowingGardenbite: Dispelling Myths and Telling the Itchy Truth About Chiggers | #GoodGrowingIn this itchy edition of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth shares his annual run-in with one of summer’s most irritating pests—chiggers. Just in time for the Fourth of July, Chris dives into the myths, facts, and personal stories surrounding these nearly invisible arachnids. Learn what chiggers really are, how they bite, why nail polish won’t help, and what you can actually do to protect yourself. Whether you're gardening, hiking, or dodging fireworks, this Garden Bite will help you stay itch-free and informed.Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/D1Wkcf0qQaYG...
2025-07-0412 min
Good GrowingEp. 216 Chemical Trespass in Illinois: How Herbicides Are Impacting Native Trees and Ecosystems | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, hosts Chris Enroth and Emily Swihart are joined by horticulture educator Ryan Pankau to unpack a 2024 study from the Illinois Natural History Survey. The topic? Chemical trespass—how herbicides and other pesticides are drifting into Illinois’ natural areas and impacting native ecosystems, impacting a keystone group of trees - oaks.Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/44Ue4HbGS7YSkip to what you want to know: 00:33:12 Hello Emily!01:35:06 Welcome, Ryan Pankau!02:18:18 What report are we talking about? Understanding the extent and consequences of chemi...
2025-06-271h 09
Good GrowingEp. 215 Get to Know Asclepias (Milkweed) 2025 plant of the year | #GoodGrowingIn this episode of the Good Growing Podcast, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive deep into the fascinating world of milkweed—also known by its genus name, Asclepias. Whether you're a native plant enthusiast, pollinator advocate, or just curious about why this "weed" is the National Garden Bureau’s Plant of the Year, this episode is packed with insights.Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Qw24JnUOitQ Skip to what you want to know:00:46 Hey Ken! How do you say Asclepias?01:28 What's in a name? A scientific name!03:08 What is As...
2025-06-1354 min
Good GrowingEp. 213 Summer Mosquito Control: What Really Works to Keep Bites Away |#GoodGrowingTired of being a mosquito magnet? In this episode of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson bust common mosquito myths and dive into what really works to keep those pesky biters at bay. From citronella candles and bug zappers to the viral “Bucket of Doom,” learn which repellents are backed by science—and which ones are just buzz. Whether you're planning a backyard BBQ or just want to enjoy your garden in peace, this episode is your go-to guide for mosquito control that actually works.Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/dpAHAq...
2025-05-3056 min
Good GrowingEp. 211 Gardening Tips for Spring: Hardening Off Plants and Managing Pests | #GoodGrowingJoin Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson, horticulture educators with University of Illinois Extension, as they dive into the most pressing spring gardening questions. From getting seedlings ready for the great outdoors to how to water those newly planted Arbor Day trees and more, we've got some timely tips for the spring garden.Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/ymjesr8Z24ESkip to what you want to know:00:56 Hey Ken!01:29 How do I prepare my seedlings for planting outside? What does it mean to harden them off?03:48 What if the garden...
2025-05-0934 min
Good GrowingEp. 208 IPM: Techniques, Tools, and Tips for a Healthier Garden | #GoodGrowingJoin Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson on the Good Growing podcast as they dive into the world of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). In this episode, they explore the foundational principles of IPM, including cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical controls. Learn how to identify and manage pests effectively while promoting a healthy and sustainable garden environment. Discover practical tips for scouting, diagnosing plant problems, and using pesticides responsibly. Plus, hear fascinating insights about lightning-resistant trees and the role of beneficial insects in your garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable information...
2025-04-181h 09
Good GrowingEp. 205 Spring Ephemerals: Discovering Hidden Woodland Treasures | #GoodGrowingWelcome to another episode of the Good Growing podcast! Join horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson as they dive into the fascinating world of spring ephemerals. These early bloomers emerge before trees leaf out, adding blooms to the landscape after winter's dormancy. In this episode, Ken and Chris discuss these unique plants and their lifecycles, give tips on growing spring ephemerals in your garden, and describe detailed insights into common Illinois spring ephemerals. Skip to what you want to know:00:36 Hey Ken!00:45 Are the spring ephemerals emerging in our yards and around us?02:52 W...
2025-03-2855 min
Good GrowingEp. 204 Decoding Soil Test Results: What those numbers really mean | #GoodGrowingWelcome to the Good Growing Podcast! In this episode, horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson dive deep into the world of soil testing. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, understand how to unlock the secrets of your soil and boost your garden's productivity.Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/vJKpTfJabKkSkip to what you want to know:0:27 Hey Ken! Soil test reports have lots of numbers, what do they all mean?01:13 How do you collect a soil sample for testing? Do many gardeners test their soil in Illinois?
2025-03-2136 min
Good GrowingEp. 201 Chamomile: Discover 2025's herb of the year | #GoodGrowingJoin horticulture educators Chris Enroth and Ken Johnson from the University of Illinois Extension as they delve into the fascinating world of chamomile, the 2025 Herb of the Year. In this episode, Chris and Ken discuss the different types of chamomile, including Roman and German chamomile, and their unique characteristics. Learn about the benefits of chamomile, from its use in herbal teas to its role in beauty products and even baby diapers. Discover the best practices for growing, harvesting, and using chamomile in your garden and home. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious about this versatile herb, this...
2025-02-2832 min