Episodes

Dec 12

Best of 2025: Vegetables, Part One In this episode, I continue my 'Best of 2025' series, sharing the results of my growing trials. I discuss what worked, what didn't, and what I'm changing for next year. Last week, I reviewed tomatoes, and today I move on to Part One of discussing vegetables. Additionally, I share tips for indoor seed starting and preparing your garden for winter. Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on the 2026 learning themes and class schedules. 00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast 01:08 Seed Shopping and Preparation 04:33 2026 Learning Themes 08:09 Reviewing the Best Vegetables of 2025 23:32 Indoor Seed Starting Tips 24:52 Garden Bed Transitioning 26:17 Conclusion and Final Tips RESOURCES MENTIONED: 2026 North Texas Garden Planner: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com Johnny’s Seeds Renee’s Garden Seeds MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: Sign up for our email newsletter: https://thedallasgarden.com/newsletter/ The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Dec 5

Best of 2025: Tomatoes or Lack Thereof This episode is the first in my Best of 2025 series and delves into a detailed analysis of my tomato trials for 2025, highlighting what worked, what didn't, and why. I share insights on disease resistance, specifically focusing on early blight, and the performance of different tomato varieties from various seed sources. I’ll also touch on my plans for 2026, new varieties to be tested, and tips for making educated choices for next season's garden. Plus, learn why I am having to say goodbye to a seed company that I’ve bought from for years. 00:00 Welcome and Winter Garden Update 00:33 Preparing for Winter: Clearing Summer Vegetables 03:05 Introducing the Best of 2025 Series 04:34 Tomato Trials: Successes and Failures 10:34 Micro and Container Tomatoes 12:33 Tomato Varieties: Hits and Misses 17:02 Seed Companies and New Trials 21:46 Black and Yellow Tomatoes: Fall Performance 23:06 Yellow Pear Tomato Review 24:32 Porter Tomato: Heat Tolerance vs. Flavor 26:42 Tomato Fest: A Mixed Experience 29:49 Fall Tomato Season Results 31:59 Planning for Next Year's Tomato Crop 33:39 New Tomato Varieties for 2026 39:24 Cozy Holiday Season and Final Thoughts RESOURCES MENTIONED: 2026 North Texas Garden Planner: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com Johnny’s Seeds Tomatofest.com MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: Sign up for our email newsletter: https://thedallasgarden.com/newsletter/ The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Nov 21

Beginner Tips for Transitioning from Containers to a Full Garden In this episode of the Dallas Garden School podcast, host Callie Works-Leary answers a listener's question about transitioning from growing plants in containers to creating a full-fledged garden in the yard without spending a fortune. Callie discusses essential factors to consider, such as selecting the ideal garden location based on sun exposure and proximity to water sources. She outlines the pros and cons of raised beds versus in-ground beds, recommending starting with two 4x8 raised beds if space allows. Additionally, she provides advice on soil amendment, irrigation methods, and dispels common misconceptions like the necessity of landscape fabric in raised beds. Tune in for practical tips to kickstart your gardening journey and maximize plant health and productivity. 00:00 Introduction and Listener Question 01:24 Choosing the Right Garden Location 04:16 In-Ground vs. Raised Bed Gardening 07:29 Building and Filling Raised Beds 12:18 Preparing In-Ground Beds 16:52 Irrigation Tips and Techniques 21:15 Final Tips and Announcements To calculate how much compost you need for a three-inch layer, measure the length and width of the bed in feet and multiply them to determine square footage. Convert three inches to feet by dividing by twelve (0.25 feet). Multiply the square footage by 0.25 to get the required volume in cubic feet. If you’re buying by the bag, divide that number by two and that’s how many bags of compost you need. For bulk orders, divide that number by twenty-seven to convert cubic feet to cubic yards, which is the standard unit for bulk compost orders. Buy the planner here: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com/products/2026-north-texas-garden-planner

Nov 14

In this episode, I introduce a new format that includes answering listener questions in addition to the usual lecture-style content. First, I discuss important gardening tasks for the week, such as transplanting brassicas, lettuce, and cool-season flowers like snapdragons and pansies. I also emphasize the need for consistent watering despite cooler temperatures. Next, I address Angela's question about growing cut flowers in partial shade, providing detailed recommendations on suitable perennials and annuals, including oak leaf hydrangeas and dianthus. Don’t forget to check out our 2026 garden planner, now available for purchase. 00:00 Introduction and New Format Announcement 00:52 Weekly Gardening Tips: Transplanting and Winter Annuals 03:13 Angela's Question: Growing Cut Flowers in Partial Shade 05:13 Understanding Light Levels for Plants 07:02 Perennials for Part Shade Cut Flower Gardens 10:00 Annuals for Part Shade Cut Flower Gardens 12:14 Encouragement and Final Thoughts 12:49 Conclusion and Announcements RESOURCES MENTIONED: 2026 North Texas Garden Planner: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Nov 7

In this episode, I introduce a new interactive podcast format that focuses on answering listener questions. Today, we're addressing a question from Morgan about pruning her overgrown Texas Rock Rose and Salvia greggii. I explain the science behind pruning, including the role of the hormone auxin, and offer detailed advice on when and how to cut back these plants to promote healthier, fuller growth. I also discuss seasonal gardening tips, the importance of timing in pruning, and provide additional advice on plant maintenance and management. Listeners are encouraged to submit their gardening questions for future episodes. 00:00 Introduction and New Podcast Format 02:05 Listener Questions: Overgrown Plants 03:26 The Science of Pruning 05:58 Pruning Techniques for Woody Perennials 08:22 Seasonal Pruning Guidelines 10:05 Winter Care for Perennials 12:45 Planting and Dividing Perennials 14:01 Housekeeping and Announcements 15:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Mentioned Leave me a question, and be featured on the podcast! Subscribe to emails The 2026 North Texas Garden Planner Bigger, brighter, spiral-bound, and packed with new tools: sample layouts, color-coded months, a twelve-month succession plan, and more. The Dallas Garden School Website and Blog Instagram Online Classes Shop Amazon Store If you like the episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform of choice! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙

Oct 31

In this episode, we delve into the critical role of record keeping in gardening success. I share my personal experiences and tips on how detailed records have significantly enhanced my gardening skills over the years. I cover the types of information to track, such as planting dates, varieties, sources, and productivity, and explain how these details help in planning and improving garden performance. 00:00 Introduction to Record Keeping in Gardening 00:54 Why Keeping Records is Crucial 01:28 How to Keep Planting Records 02:53 Essential Information to Record 04:08 Tracking Planting Dates and Maturity 06:43 Germination and Harvest Tracking 08:30 Advanced Record Keeping Techniques 10:13 Inspection Reports and Performance Evaluation 13:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 15:06 Outro and Additional Resources RESOURCES Get the planner: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com The Dallas Garden School: https://thedallasgarden.com Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com

Oct 24

Ditch the pumpkin patch, and grow your own! Learn how to grow pitch-perfect pumpkins in your own North Texas backyard with these simple and easy-to-implement tips and tricks. I cover how to pick the right varieties, how to prep your garden beds for success, how to care for your plants like a pro, and when to harvest. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:28 Personal Memories and Pumpkin Varieties 02:03 Tips for Growing Pumpkins in North Texas 02:30 Selecting the Right Pumpkin Seeds 07:03 Understanding Pumpkin Growth Habits 09:30 Preparing Your Garden for Pumpkins 10:32 Common Pumpkin Problems and Solutions 14:45 Watering and Harvesting Pumpkins 16:36 Curing and Storing Pumpkins 17:55 Conclusion and Final Tips RESOURCES Subscribe to emails Free One-Page Fall Planting Plan Download your printable plan for what to plant and when, perfect for posting in your gardening space. The 2026 North Texas Garden Planner Bigger, brighter, spiral-bound, and packed with new tools: sample layouts, color-coded months, a twelve-month succession plan, and more. Plus, early buyers get a free gift with purchase! The Dallas Garden School Website and Blog Instagram Online Classes Shop Amazon Store SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Oct 17

Are your pumpkin and squash plants mysteriously wilting and dying just when they're getting established? If you've ever lost plants to squash vine borers, this episode is your complete guide to prevention and early intervention! Squash vine borers are one of the most frustrating pests for home gardeners, but with the right preventative strategies, you can protect your plants without expensive treatments or fussy techniques. In today's episode, I share my proven system that has kept my garden squash vine borer-free for over 10 years, including: Why prevention (not treatment) is the key to successful pest management The critical importance of crop rotation - even in small garden spaces How floating insect mesh can be your secret weapon against borers The right way to use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as both prevention and treatment Why accepting imperfection in your garden leads to greater success My accidental experiment that proved these methods really work Simple daily garden checks that can save your plants What "fussy" techniques to skip (and what actually works!) 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Mindset Shift in Pest Control 02:02 Prevention Strategies for Squash Vine Borers 03:01 Effective Use of Insect Mesh 03:40 Accidental Experiment and Results 04:38 Preventative Measures Recap 06:05 Treatment for Squash Vine Borers 09:07 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 11:22 Conclusion and Farewell PRODUCTS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Check out my detailed Instagram post with step-by-step squash vine borer prevention guide: https://www.instagram.com/p/DOPq-GokzNr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Floating insect Mesh : Lightweight cover that lets in light and water without trapping heat Support Hoops: Available from Johnny's Seeds for supporting insect mesh Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Organic treatment specifically for caterpillars and worms in larval stages MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Website: https://thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more gardeners who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in! Now get out there and share the love of gardening with someone else - whether it's sharing your homegrown produce or encouraging them to start their own garden journey. See you next week!

Oct 10

Hey, Texas Gardeners! Today, we're diving into how to start and improve your cut flower garden. I'll be explaining why a cut flower garden is different from a traditional flower garden and how to lay it out with intention. We'll also cover selecting the right plant varieties for our seasons here in Texas, like snapdragons, cosmos, and zinnias, and I'll share tips on indoor seed starting and advanced techniques like succession planting to extend your harvest. Plus, I'll give you a heads-up on our upcoming class enrollments and the exciting launch of our 2026 planner with special early bird gifts. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to get started on growing beautiful cut flowers. Let's get growing! Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:56 The Importance of Thinking Like a Farmer 01:23 Exciting Planner Launch Announcement 02:10 Getting Started with Growing Cut Flowers 03:05 Designing Your Cut Flower Garden 06:16 Selecting the Right Flowers for Each Season 11:39 Indoor Seed Starting: A Gardener's Superpower 15:04 Advanced Techniques: Succession Planting 17:13 Recap and Action Steps 21:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Resources Mentioned Subscribe to emails Blossom Brilliance Class Free One-Page Fall Planting Plan Download your printable plan for what to plant and when, perfect for posting in your gardening space. The 2026 North Texas Garden Planner Bigger, brighter, spiral-bound, and packed with new tools: sample layouts, color-coded months, a twelve-month succession plan, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the launch and your chance at a free gift with purchase! The Dallas Garden School Website and Blog Instagram Online Classes Shop Amazon Store

Oct 3

October is a major turning point for North Texas gardeners. If you have felt frustrated by September’s heat and dry spells, this is when the garden finally starts to bounce back. In this episode, I walk you through exactly what you should be doing right now to set your garden up for success, both this fall and into the spring. We’ll cover: Why October matters so much in North Texas and what you need to do to take advantage of it. The specific vegetables, herbs, flowers, and perennials to plant this month. How to time your plantings so you do not miss your window with brassicas, garlic, or fall flowers. Simple soil prep and compost strategies, plus fall lawn care. Which perennials and annuals are worth planting now and which to hold off on. If you need a reason to get back in the garden, this episode will give you a clear, practical plan for October. My goal is to help you avoid the most common mistakes and make gardening a little easier. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome and what to expect 00:33 – Why October is important for North Texas gardeners 03:43 – Understanding our two growing seasons 05:17 – What to plant right now: vegetables, garlic, and direct-sown crops 07:36 – Cool-season herbs and how to grow them 09:29 – Lettuce, annual flowers, and indoor seed starting 10:28 – Planting hardy annuals and transplanting tips 10:57 – The best time to plant perennials 12:21 – Annual flowers to plant now and what to wait on 13:21 – Maintenance tasks: fertilizing, compost, soil prep 14:51 – Building soil health and composting 16:22 – The 2026 North Texas Garden Planner and free printable 17:52 – Closing thoughts and encouragement Resources Mentioned Free One-Page Fall Planting Plan Download your printable plan for what to plant and when, perfect for posting in your gardening space. The 2026 North Texas Garden Planner Bigger, brighter, spiral-bound, and packed with new tools: sample layouts, color-coded months, a twelve-month succession plan, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the launch and your chance at a free gift with purchase! The Dallas Garden School Website and Blog Instagram Online Classes Shop Amazon Store

Sep 27

Do you love garlic in your favorite dishes but wonder how you can successfully grow it in North Texas? If you’ve ever been intimidated by growing garlic or simply aren’t sure where to start, this episode is exactly what you need! Garlic is one of the most rewarding vegetables you can plant. It’s easy to store, incredibly versatile in the kitchen, and surprisingly fun to grow. In today’s episode, I share all my best tips and tricks to make garlic growing a breeze, including: Why mid-October is your garlic planting sweet spot (and how to nail the timing). Where to find high-quality seed garlic and why supermarket garlic just won’t cut it. Shopping resources and tips. How to choose the right garlic varieties, including hard neck types you’ve probably been told you can’t grow (spoiler alert: you totally can!). Smart soil prep strategies, including why compost from big-box stores is a gardener’s worst enemy and how expanded shale can completely transform your clay soil. The secret to spacing and clove selection for the biggest, best bulbs you've ever grown. Ready to become a garlic-growing expert and make this one of your most successful gardening seasons yet? Listen in and let’s get growing! 00:00 Welcome to the Texas Gardening Podcast 00:33 Preparing for October: Planting Garlic 02:06 Choosing the Right Garlic for Your Garden 03:22 Where to Buy Seed Garlic 04:47 Types of Garlic: Hard Neck vs. Soft Neck 08:15 Preparing Your Garden Bed for Garlic 11:42 Planting Garlic: Tips and Techniques 12:29 Additional Resources and Conclusion RESOURCES MENTIONED: Awesome Alliums eBook: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com/awesome-alliums-ebook Your complete step-by-step guide for growing amazing garlic and onions in North Texas. Discover detailed planting, care, harvesting, and curing instructions to ensure a bumper crop every season. MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Sep 19

How to Divide and Propagate Perennials: Tips for Texas Gardeners In this episode of the Dallas Garden School podcast, I address a question from my student Debra about dividing her Salvia 'Mystic Spires Blue'. I offer insights on the best time and methods to divide perennials and explain the reasons for dividing plants, such as improving performance, reducing overcrowding, and propagating new plants. Learn the difference between woody and herbaceous perennials and the step-by-step process for how to properly divide and transplant these plants to minimize shock and ensure healthy growth. 00:00 Introduction to Dallas Garden School Podcast 00:13 Deborah's Question on Dividing Salvia 01:04 Why and When to Divide Perennials 01:42 Signs Your Perennials Need Dividing 03:26 Techniques for Dividing Perennials 05:15 Dividing Woody vs. Herbaceous Plants 08:00 Tools and Methods for Dividing Plants 09:35 Propagating Woody Perennials 10:54 Conclusion and Gardening Tips RESOURCES: The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Sep 12

When we talk about plants in the garden, the words we use matter. Too often, gardeners describe a plant as “invasive” when they really mean “fast-spreading” or “self-seeding.” But the distinction is critical—both for accurate communication and for protecting our ecosystems. In this episode, Callie breaks down the differences between: Reseeding plants : Normal and often beneficial, with easy ways to manage volunteers where you don’t want them. Aggressive plants : Spreading quickly (often by rhizomes or stolons), but manageable with simple containment strategies. Invasive plants : Non-native species officially recognized as ecological threats in Texas, such as Bermuda grass, Nandina, and Chinese wisteria. By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to use the right terminology, why it matters, and how to manage plants that spread more than you’d like—without confusing them with true invasives. Resources Mentioned Texas Invasives Database: texasinvasives.org Upcoming Class: Low-Maintenance Gardening with Perennials and Self-Seeding Annuals (replay available if you missed the live session)

Sep 5

Fall is For Perennials In this episode, I talk about the common pitfalls beginner gardeners face when buying and planting perennials and how relying solely on nursery stock can be limiting. Fall, especially here in North Texas, is actually the best time to plant perennials because it allows for robust root growth, leading to better performance in the spring. I'll guide you on how to source perennials beyond the typical nursery selection—like starting seeds indoors and checking out local organizations such as the Native Plant Society of Texas. I'll also cover how to divide your existing perennials to get new plants and discuss the benefits of self-seeding annuals. Plus, don't miss out on my upcoming class on low-maintenance gardening, where I’ll delve deeper into the best plants for our area and share my top tips for growing them. Thanks for joining me! 00:00 Introduction to Beginner Gardening Challenges 01:36 The Importance of Planting Perennials in Fall 04:45 Challenges with Nursery Stock and Plant Selection 05:06 Starting Perennials from Seed and Finding Alternatives 06:20 Dividing and Propagating Existing Perennials 08:52 Utilizing Self-Seeding Annuals 09:55 Conclusion and Upcoming Class Information RESOURCES MENTIONED: Low-Maintenance Gardening with Perennials & Self-Seeding Annuals https://learn.thedallasgarden.com/low-maintenance-gardening Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Classes and more: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Blog: https://thedallasgarden.com

Aug 29

In this episode, we're diving into the intriguing mystery of what's eating our plants. Join me as we decode the clues left by various pests and learn how to identify the culprits behind the damage. We'll explore different types of pest damage, from caterpillars to rabbits, and share effective prevention and treatment strategies specific to each pest. Whether you're dealing with chewed leaves, sticky secretions, or missing seedlings, this episode will guide you to the right solutions. Plus, get science-backed tips for maintaining a healthy, balanced garden ecosystem. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 01:00 Understanding Pest Clues 02:28 Types of Plant Damage 05:03 Identifying Specific Pests 09:55 Effective Pest Solutions 12:29 Preventative Measures 16:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 18:17 Seasonal Gardening Tips RESOURCES: Fall Planting Guide: https://grow.thedallasgarden.com/fall Upcoming Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Get on Waiting List for the 2026 Planner: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com/pages/2026-planner-notification Read the blog: https://thedallasgarden.com Follow on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool

Aug 22

In this episode, I dive into the wonderful world of zinnias, a charming and super easy-to-grow flower. I cover everything from the various types of zinnias and their unique characteristics to how to plant, care for, and harvest them in North Texas. Plus, I share my favorite zinnia varieties that thrive in North Texas! 00:00 Introduction to Zinnias 00:04 Why Zinnias Are Trending 00:45 Growing Zinnias: A Beginner's Guide 02:36 Varieties of Zinnias 03:09 Where to Buy Zinnia Seeds 03:59 Zinnias as Pollinator Plants 04:37 Choosing the Right Zinnia Variety 11:32 Planting and Growing Zinnias 16:51 Maintaining Healthy Zinnias 21:02 Dealing with Common Zinnia Problems 24:04 Encouraging Zinnias to Reseed 24:45 Upcoming Classes and Resources 25:30 Conclusion and Final Tips RESOURCES MENTIONED: Low-Maintenance Gardening with Perennials and Self-Seeding Annuals Class: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com/low-maintenance-gardening 2026 Planner Waiting List: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com/pages/2026-planner-notification Upcoming classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: https://grow.thedallasgarden.com/subscribe

Aug 15

Unlock the secrets behind the most common — and confusing — gardening terms! In this episode of the podcast, I break down gardening lingo that can sometimes be confusing like “deadhead,” “transplant,” “pinch,” “bolt,” and more. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, you’ll gain practical tips and clear explanations to help you grow your best garden ever. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming classes and resources to take your gardening to the next level. Tune in and grow your gardening confidence! RESOURCES: Next class: Low-Maintenance Gardening with Perennials and Self-Seeding Annuals, September 13 Download the free Fall Garden Plan Shop our Amazon Store - (all the gardening supplies I swear by!) Check out our blog and build your garden know-how. Take a class. Follow me on Instagram @thedallasgardenschool SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more gardeners who need these insights. See you next week!

Aug 8

Essential Gardening Tools and Supplies for North Texas Gardeners In this episode of the Dallas Garden School podcast, I'm sharing my must-have gardening supplies and walking through the critical tools and materials I keep in my garden bag. Throughout the episode, I'll offer practical advice and personal recommendations to help you choose effective tools and products for your gardening needs. 00:00 Introduction to the Dallas Garden School Podcast 00:20 What's in My Garden Bag? 01:29 Essential Garden Tools and Supplies 08:02 Fertilizers and Plant Care 14:17 Seed Starting Mixes and Final Tips 17:25 Conclusion and Farewell HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: 1️⃣ If you want to get professional results, you need to use professional supplies and techniques. 2️⃣ When selecting gardening tools, it's important to take into consideration our region. For example, our soils are naturally deficient in nitrogen, so the best fertilizers for us are high in nitrogen compared to phosphorus and potassium. 3️⃣ Sun protection supplies ARE gardening tools! We usually think about apply sunscreen when we're headed to the beach or pool, but applying sunscreen is an important pre-gardening ritual as well. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Dallas Garden School Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ MORE FROM THE DALLAS GARDEN SCHOOL: Classes: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Shop our store: https://shop.thedallasgarden.com SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more North Texas gardeners who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Dallas Garden School Podcast! See you next week!

Jul 26

Mastering Liquid Fertilizer Application for Your Garden In this episode of the Dallas Garden School podcast, host and North Texas gardening expert Callie Works-Leary answers a question from a student about the proper application of liquid fertilizer. She explains the importance of following the instructions on fertilizer packaging, differentiates between granular and water-soluble fertilizers, and provides detailed steps on how to mix and apply fish emulsion liquid fertilizer. Callie also discusses the potential risks of foliar feeding and the benefits of directing water and nutrients to the roots. The episode wraps up with recommendations on when to use granular versus water-soluble fertilizers and tips for indoor seed starting. 00:00 Introduction to the Dallas Garden School Podcast 00:51 Understanding Fertilizer Instructions 02:05 Liquid Fertilizers: Usage and Tips 04:21 Watering Techniques for Optimal Plant Health 06:33 Granular vs. Water Soluble Fertilizers 08:05 Special Tips for Indoor Seed Starting 08:31 Conclusion and Additional Resources Instagram : https://instagram.com/thedallasgardenschool Website : https://thedallasgarden.com Classes : https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_

Apr 12

In this episode of The Dallas Garden School Podcast, host and North Texas gardening expert Callie Works-Leary shares her personal list of the top 10 best-performing perennials for our unique climate. These aren’t just any perennials—these are the tried-and-true varieties that bring color, resilience, and pollinator support to North Texas gardens year after year. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your perennial beds or just getting started, this list is packed with expert insight and real-world experience. 🌿 Featured Perennials: Salvia ‘Mystic Spires Blue’ Salvia nemorosa Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) Jerusalem Sage (Phlomis fruticosa) Farfugium gigantea Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) Turk’s Cap (Malvaviscus drummondii) Rudbeckia hirta Texas Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala) 🎧 What You’ll Learn: Which perennials thrive in North Texas heat and humidity The visual appeal and bloom habits of each plant How to use these plants in your own landscape designs Tips for maintenance, pruning, and seasonal care Looking for more North Texas gardening resources? Visit www.thedallasgarden.com to find classes, downloads, and expert tools to help you grow with confidence. 📬 Want More Tips? Join the email list for exclusive North Texas gardening advice, planting reminders, and special offers.

Apr 11

Coco coir is everywhere these days—from seed-starting kits to trendy potting mixes. It's often hailed as a sustainable alternative to peat moss, but is it really as eco-friendly and effective as it sounds? In this episode, North Texas gardening expert and educator Callie Works-Leary breaks down what coco coir actually is, why it’s become so popular, and the major drawbacks you need to know before using it in your garden. From hidden sustainability concerns to nutrient imbalances and overwatering risks, we’re digging into the dirty truth about this common soil ingredient. Whether you're starting seeds, mixing your own potting soil, or building healthy raised beds, this episode will help you make an informed choice—and avoid some common pitfalls. What You’ll Learn: - What coco coir is and how it’s made - The surprising environmental impact behind its production - Why poorly processed coir can sabotage your plants Links & Resources: 🌱 Learn more or sign up for classes at: www.thedallasgarden.com Find products mentioned in this episode: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedallasgardenschool_ Connect with Callie: Instagram: @thedallasgardenschool

Apr 11

Are mysterious holes appearing in your garden plants overnight? You're not alone—and chances are, caterpillars are the culprits. In this episode, we're diving into how to identify caterpillar damage, recognize the most common garden offenders, and take simple, effective action to protect your plants—without harming the rest of your garden ecosystem. Whether you're growing kale, tomatoes, or flowers, this episode gives you the tools you need to fight back the right way. What You’ll Learn: How to tell if caterpillars are behind the holes in your leaves The most common caterpillars in home gardens Safe and organic ways to manage caterpillar damage Why a few holes might not be a bad thing Resources & Links Mentioned: My favorite organic caterpillar control: https://amzn.to/4icNQyZ Join an upcoming class or workshop: https://learn.thedallasgarden.com Let’s Connect: Follow me on Instagram @TheDallasGardenSchool

Mar 26

In this episode, Callie answers a thoughtful question from a student named Paula, who’s puzzled by a common indoor seed-starting dilemma: why did most of her tomato and pepper seedlings thrive—except for two specific heirloom tomato varieties? Callie dives deep into: The difference between heirloom and hybrid seeds Why some varieties (or even specific strains) may underperform How small differences in light, water, or tray placement can affect seedling growth Why it's not your fault when a few seedlings don’t make it Tips for troubleshooting seedling issues and improving your results next time Whether you're a new seed starter or a seasoned gardener, this episode is full of helpful insight into the art and science of growing strong, healthy seedlings indoors. 🌱 Resources Mentioned: Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds Johnny’s Selected Seeds Learn more at The Dallas Garden School 💬 Have a question for Callie? Leave a voice message at speakpipe.com/thedallasgardenschool and your question could be featured on a future episode! 📩 Stay in the Loop Join the newsletter at thedallasgarden.com to get gardening tips, free resources, and updates on upcoming classes.