The Wexford Conservation District has partnered with a local Cadillac, Michigan radio station (Strong Tower Radio) to bring you the program "Good Growing with the Garden Gal".  Each month, listeners will be able to learn more about growing food in Michigan, and tips and tricks to help them be successful.

Please note:  ​The Wexford Conservation District  had no religious affiliation.  The programs and services  of the District are open to all. 

Introduction

Soil Conservation

How soil erosion happens and local help in working with your soils 

Healthy Soils

Components of healthy soils  - organic matter and pore spaces

Improving Soils

Raised beds, pH, soil testing, fertilizers, and compost can all help improve your soils

November 2017

To Do this Month:

Put Garden to Bed
Make a  Root Cellar

Taking the time in the fall to do a few simple chores will make for a healthy, inviting garden space in the spring.

In the Know:

Passive Solar Tunnels

The energy from weak sunshine in fall and in the spring can be captured to extend the growing season on both ends of the garden calendar.

Crop of the Month:

Winter Squash

Winter squashes come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.  Learn how grow and enjoy them through the winter months.
​

October 2017

To Do this Month:

Plant Garlic
​Test and Amend the Soil

Now is the time to plant garlic and to prepare your soils for growing next spring.

In the Know:

Soil Biology

Beneficial bacteria, fungi, insects and other organisms can build healthy soils and thus healthy crops.

Crop of the Month:

Apples

Apples are a favorite fall fruit.  Here are some tips and tricks for growing them.

September 2017

To Do this Month:

In the Know:

Crop of the Month:

Build a Compost Pile
​Plant Spinach

Spinach grows best when it is planted in late summer and harvested in the spring.  Compost can mature during the fall and winter months.

Take Care of Pollinators

Our native pollinators need sources of food during the autumn, and a place to overwinter.

Cauliflower

It's a bit finicky, and a space hog, but hone-grown cauliflower is a tasty treat.

August  2017

To Do this Month:

Plant Cover Crops
​Double Cropping

Cover crops can improves oil health dramatically.  Get more per square foot of your garden by growing two crops in the same space in one year.

In the Know:

Where Does the Water Go?

Runoff from rain or irrigation can cause soil erosion, and move certain types of fertilizers and pesticides into our lakes and streams.  

Crop of the Month:

Tomatoes

Big or little, red, green, orange or yellow, tomatoes are  a summer favorite and the number one crop for home gardeners.

July 2017

To Do this Month:

Managing Insects and Weeds

Weeds and insect management can be significant challenges in July.  Learn strategies for dealing with both.

In the Know:

Food Safety for Gardeners

Gardeners need to be aware of health hazards from manure, animals and birds in the garden, and from  pesticide residues.  Listen now to learn more about food safety strategies. 

Crop of the Month:

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are among the most refreshing of summer vegetables.  Info is provided about different types of cucumbers and how to grow them. 

June 2017

To Do this Month:

Managing Nitrogen
Fungal Diseases

June is the month to supply nitrogen to your crops.  It's also the month to take steps to prevent fungal diseases.  Strategies for managing both are presented in this segment.

In the Know:

The Laying Flock

Having your own flock of laying hens will enable you to produce incredibly tasty and nutritious eggs.  Listen to learn the basics.

Crop of the Month:

Strawberries

What says summer more than a red, ripe, juicy strawberry?  These plants will produce for years if cared for properly.

May 2017

To Do this Month:

​Garden Design Basics

Season length, sunlight, beds vs. rows, sun vs. shade, and irrigation are all discussed ​

In the Know:

​Managing for Challenges

Potato beetles, deer, and drought can all be a threat to your a garden.   Learn how to deal with these and about crop rotation

In the Know:

​Increasing Yields

Trellising, and season extension can increase yields.  Pros & cons of tillage  are discussed.