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The Evergreen Thumb

The Evergreen Thumb

Written by: Erin Hoover WSU Extension Master Gardener Program
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Since 1973, WSU Extension Master Gardeners have been developing programs to address the evolving needs of our communities. Each episode, we'll dig into the fascinating world of gardening, exploring a wide range of topics tailored to our unique climate and diverse flora. Whether you're an experienced gardener with a green thumb or a beginner eager to cultivate your own green oasis, we're here to inspire and educate. Join us as we invite expert horticulturists, seasoned Master Gardeners, and passionate plant enthusiasts to share their wisdom, practical tips, and hands-on experiences. We'll cover everything from plant selection and care, sustainable gardening practices, organic pest control, and landscaping design, to tackling common challenges specific to our region. Discover the secrets to thriving vegetable gardens, vibrant flower beds, bountiful fruit trees, and breathtaking native plant landscapes. We'll also explore the intersection of gardening and sustainability, discussing topics like permaculture, composting, and water-wise gardening to help you create an environmentally friendly garden that nurtures both you and the ecosystem. So, whether you're tuning in from the urban jungles of Seattle, the rolling hills of Spokane, or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, get ready to dig deep, cultivate your knowledge, and connect with a community of fellow gardening enthusiasts.2023-2025
Episodes
  • The Urban Tree Canopy: How Trees in Cities Keep Temperatures Low

    The Urban Tree Canopy: How Trees in Cities Keep Temperatures Low
    Oct 13 2026

    In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Erin Hoover talks with Tim Kohlhoff about the role trees play in creating healthier, more livable communities. They explore why urban tree canopies matter, the challenges communities face in protecting them, and how thoughtful tree planting can help shape the future of our neighborhoods.

    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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    31 mins
  • How to Grow Thriving Garlic in the Pacific Northwest

    How to Grow Thriving Garlic in the Pacific Northwest
    Sep 29 2026

    In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, Erin Hoover covers everything you need to know about growing garlic in Washington state. She explains the difference between hardneck and softneck garlic, shares her own growing experience, and touches on elephant garlic as well.

    Erin walks through site selection, sourcing seed garlic, regional planting timing, spacing methods, and mulching for winter protection. She covers scape removal in early summer and when to stop watering before harvest, then closes with guidance on curing garlic for maximum storage life and an overview of common garlic pests and diseases, including prevention tips like crop rotation and separating garlic from onions.

    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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    15 mins
  • Clean Plant Center Northwest: Protecting Fruit Trees, Grapes, and Hops

    Clean Plant Center Northwest: Protecting Fruit Trees, Grapes, and Hops
    Sep 15 2026

    What does it take to protect important crops from harmful plant pathogens? In this episode of The Evergreen Thumb, we explore the work of the Clean Plant Center Northwest at Washington State University with its director, Sudarsana "Sud" Poojari.

    Sud explains what clean plant material means, why it matters to U.S. agriculture, and how plant material moves through testing and treatment before being released as clean foundation material. We also explore how that foundation material is used by commercial growers and nurseries to help produce healthy fruit trees, grapevines, and hop plants.

    In this episode:

    • The mission and role of the Clean Plant Center Northwest
    • What "clean plant material" means and why it matters
    • The journey of plant material through testing and treatment
    • How clean foundation material supports fruit trees, grapes, and hops
    • How commercial growers and nurseries use clean plant material
    • What CPCNW's work means for home gardeners
    • The future of clean plant programs

    Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
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    39 mins
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