Teaming With Microbes

This week, Jeff and Jonathan explore the relationship between sounds and plants. Did you know that plants grow towards the sound of water?

Next, Jeff disagrees with a recent article he read (article),…

This week, Jeff and Jonathan interview Ted Hammers, co-owner of Alaska Wild Harvest.

They tap into the biology of Birch trees, discussing the process of making Alaska birch syrup, its different phases…

As Anchorage, Alaska is experiencing a record snowfall, there is some good news: The snow is storing a significant amount of nitrogen, which is sometimes referred to as "poor man's fertilizer" (12 lb…

This week, Jeff and Jonathan rekindle last week’s discussion about microplastics in the environment.  But this time, they dive into a new scientific article that states there is more microplastics in…

The days are finally getting longer in Alaska, and Jeff and Jonathan are getting excited for gardening in 2024!

This week, the guys start off by discussing the differences between ectomycorrhizal fung…

This week Jeff and Jonathan wrap up 2023 by encouraging folks to make sure and recycle their Christmas trees.  

Next, the team brings in 2024 by discussing some New Year’s gardening resolutions.  Thes…

Biochar is a black carbon compound produced through pyrolysis, enhancing soil fertility and plant growth in gardening. 

This week Jeff and Jonathan discuss some scientific studies about biochar, how s…

This week Jeff and Jonathan discuss more scientific studies. First, they consider how fungi and bacteria impact water freezing.  These “ice nucleators” are what cause ice crystals to form into snow a…

This week Jeff and Jonathan discuss a new scientific study that looks into how adding mycorrhizal fungai to certain types of farmland can increase the yield by more than 40 percent!

Later, the team di…

This week Jeff and Jonathan discuss the use of coffee grounds in the garden, as well as gardening in general. Apart from being one of the best drinks on the planet, coffee (or coffee grounds) can wor…

This week Jeff and Jonathan break down the garden science behind ramial chipped wood.  They discuss its French roots, how it’s made, as well as the benefits it provides for soil, insects and animals.

…

This week is all about science!

The team delves into some new studies that show plants can benefit from being exposed to sound.  For example, did you know that plants will grow toward the sound of wat…

This week Jeff and Jonathan continue their conversations about taking care of gardens and yards during the winter months.  For example, it’s good to protect your perennials by covering them with snow…

As southcentral Alaska endures its first snow storm of the season, the guys talk about a variety of indoor lighting systems to help your plants thrive during the winter months.  Also, did you know th…

Jeff and Jonathan dispel some common myths about caring for indoor plants during the winter season. They also talk about some solutions including testing soil, using a microbiometer and repotting pla…

As fall transitions into winter, Jeff and Jonathan discuss plants that don't require much light (short day plants), including Chrysanthemums, Poinsettias, and various cacti. Additionally, the duo dis…

This week Jeff and Jonathan put their gardens to bed before winter, as the first big frost is upon us!  

Other topics include how to protect your perennial garden areas during fall and spring, the rig…

The guys discuss various aspects of roots and their relationship with different soil layers.  Speaking of soil layers, did you know that during the winter months, microbial activity doesn't stop - it…

There are seasons to the soil food web. It operates differently in the fall and winter than it does in the spring and summer. And, it should be operating in your house plants as well.  Stay tuned til…

This week Jeff and Jonathan discuss more ways to prep the garden for winter.  Make sure and turn the outdoor water faucets off (so they don’t freeze)!  Other topics include prepping the shed, transpl…