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 water?Later, Jeff dives into some recent work by MIT engineers who have created protective coatings that will protect bacteria from damage (which can potentially reduce the use of chemical fertilizers in the future).As always, Jeff and Jonathan wrap up the episode by answering some great listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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.Then, for all you science lovers out there, Jeff talks about the fascinating possibilities of growing plants and food on Earth’s Moon (and even Mars)!As always, Jeff and Jonathan wrap up the episode by answering some great listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 that snow has a little bit of nitrogen in it (poor man’s fertilizer)!?Other topics include indoor hydroponic gardening systems, as well as what to look for when purchasing LED lights.As always, Jeff and Jonathan wrap up the episode by answering some listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 plants.Plus, Jonathan tells a Halloween story that involves…Miracle Grow?**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 discusses various indoor lighting systems.Later, the guys talk about insects that might move indoors for the winter, and why you might want to keep some of them around!As always, the episode wraps up with some listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 right kind of snow shovel to use, as well as a curious garden riddle!Finally, some special guests drop by to ask inquisitive garden questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 just slows down!Other topics include recycling mulched leaves in your lawn or meadow, preparing raspberries and strawberries for winter, and taking care not to bring pests into your garage or greenhouse!Finally, the team answers some listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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 till the end for some listener questions and more gardening advice from the masters.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

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, transplanting perennials, and acting on soil test results.  As always, the guys wrap up the episode by answering listener questions.  **********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan talk about why leaves change colors in the fall.  They also discuss the benefits of leaving leaves on the lawn, using them for compost, or to enhance the health of your meadow.  Additionally, they talk about leaf mold (the product) and how it can be used in the garden.  Finally, the duo wraps up with some listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan hop into a stimulating conversation with Don Larson, an assistant professor at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks.  They discuss his research on the polar physiology of wood frogs, and consider setting up a habitat in their gardens next year.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan talk about the importance of soil microbes in gardening. They touch on planting garlic, tulips, and daffodils, but emphasize the need for early preparation. Additionally, they discuss how microbes help with plant health, nutrient cycling, and disease control. As always, the team wraps up with some listener questions!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan commiserate about the weather before diving into an entertaining game of “Myth vs Truth” for the organic gardener.After the break, they discuss Jeff’s book, Teaming With Nutrients, before wrapping up with listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

It is ‘shroom time. Jeff gets a bit crazy about his favorites and Jonathan reveals he has never eaten one! Who doesn’t like mushrooms, even in lawns?Of course, the duo also dips into some listener questions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan talk about ways to “firewise” your home or property.  They also discuss transplanting plants, shrubs or trees, as well as the abundance of mushrooms and fungi popping up around town.Finally, the duo addresses some listener questions, with a focus on composting!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

Jeff and Jonathan confront formidable garden foes: massive 4-inch slugs and the legendary 1-foot-long hammerhead worms. If they were vampires, maybe the garlic ordering and fall planting would ward them off! The guys also dive into soil testing, the intriguing world of kohlrabi, plus a grab-bag of listener questions!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan delve into the art of tree planting, sharing insights and techniques the 'Teaming With Microbes' way. They also discuss the impact of forest fires on gardening, discussing their implications for soil health, plant growth, and garden recovery. Finally, the team dives into a grab-bag of listener questions including managing daddy long legs and slugs effectively. **********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan discuss the undervalued potential of cover crops, moving beyond just clover - an unexpected ally in your garden, not a weed! Later, they talk about seasonal care for lilacs and other bud-prepping plants, sharing optimal times to prune and deadhead for a fruitful following year. They wrap up by answering questions about the shelf life of soil food web supplements, as well offering advice on the disposal of plant debris. **********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan discuss the diverse matter that falls from the sky, including: fireweed seeds, cottonwood seeds, and pollen. They explore these fascinating plant phenomena and how they impact our gardening perspectives. The duo also express their grievances about the frequent rain, offering advice on how to make the most of it and what pitfalls to avoid. In their meadow report, they discuss ways to manage a real lawn effectively.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan debunk the myth that soil feeding is a fall-only activity and discuss innovative soil nourishing options - one even involves urine! They also explore the beneficial role of the soil food web in heavy rain conditions.  Other topics include the relationship between daisies and dandelions, the importance of selective mowing, and  the challenging decisions around meadow creation and plant relocation. Finally, they explore the concept of second harvests, with the guys offering their top crop suggestions that require less effort than their predecessors. Remember, resist the urge to smell the daisies!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan share progress reports on converting lawns into meadows - highlighting sightings of violas, tiger swallowtail butterflies, false spirea, and more!They also discuss creating pathways in the meadow and share mowing patterns for regular lawns. Later, while exploring vegetable gardens, they discover the surprising fact that tomato flowers are both male and female and only need vibration for pollination. Additionally, they advise listeners to watch for fruit problems and mention the blooming of cucumbers. Finally, they suggest incorporating flowers in the vegetable garden and provide tips on mulching annuals and perennials.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

​​In this episode, Jeff and Jonathan discuss the influence of weather on plant growth. While annuals suffer from unfavorable conditions, perennials thrive in windy weather. They mention the importance of the soil food web's response to water and caution against excessive watering, which can lead to the production of unwanted alcohol.Additionally, the  team covers some brief tips for dealing with aphids in greenhouses and gardens, as well as touching on the Holy Grail of gardening: tomatoes!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan discuss how to care for your plants during unseasonably cool weather. They emphasize the importance of observing your plants to identify any issues such as pests, the need for remay cloth, aphid infestations (where ladybugs might not be effective), and dealing with delphinium and current defoliator (different control techniques required for fly larvae and caterpillars). They also mention the abundance of dandelions, chickweed, and clover, which can serve as cover crops and provide nutrients once they die. Finally, they encourage a change in attitude towards weeds, particularly dandelions and Bishop's weed.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, the team learns there is more than one way to say fungi!But just to be sure, Jeff introduces the show’s very first guest , none other than  the OG of all things mycorrhizal fungi, Dr. Mike Amaranthus.They discuss some science, some folklore, and even dive into Dr. Mike's excellent book Fry, Thrive, or Die: A Fun Pocket Guide to 50 Common, Delicious, Hallucinogenic, Medicinal, and Poisonous Mushrooms of the Western United States.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan delve into the fascinating world of lawn care and the soil food web. They discuss effective strategies to combat dandelions and decide whether the grass collector is right for your mower. Additionally, they talk about benefits of utilizing grass clippings for mulch and compost. Finally, they address listener queries about dealing with troublesome voles and their tunnels, conquering aphids, and helping plants adapt to windy conditions.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan emphasize the importance of exercising patience and caring for the soil food web as plants continue to grow. They delve into the issue of bark beetles invading trees, providing insights on how to address these challenges. Additionally, the episode explores the role of water and the application of the "Teaming With Microbes" rule with mulches. The team also touches on lawns, highlighting their ability to handle driveway gravel that eventually transforms into essential soil components. Finally, they address concerns related to moss, maggots, and offer suggestions for controlling slugs, providing practical advice for maintaining a healthy and thriving garden.**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

In this episode, Jeff and Jonathan explore a new vision for lawns, shifting away from the traditional weed-free grass obsession. They share practical tips for easier lawn maintenance, including regular watering, leaving clippings on the lawn, and applying compost to specific areas.Next, they delve into the art and science of composting. You'll learn about the benefits of a compost calculator and how to achieve the optimal 30:1 ratio in your pile. Later, Jeff and Jonathan impart essential knowledge on kickstarting your organic vegetable garden, including planting potatoes and initiating lettuce and peas. Additionally, they discuss the 'pinching' technique to stimulate plant branching and explain why it's crucial for encouraging abundant plant growth.Finally, they answer listener questions!**********************************************Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

In this episode, Jeff and Jonathan discuss spring organic gardening. They share tips on what to look out for during your spring inspection, from signs of emerging life to possible remnants of winter damage.  Next, they dive deep into the art and science of composting, including the right way to turn your compost pile.  Additionally, they discuss the critical process of 'hardening off' - a technique to acclimatize your plants, gradually introducing them to the outdoor conditions to minimize stress and maximize their resilience.  Finally, they take a closer look at the fascinating world of plant chemistry, explaining how the surge of phytohormones in spring assists plant development, providing resistance to environmental stress and promoting healthy, robust growth. Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week Jeff and Jonathan take a deep dive into the season's start to gardening in Alaska. They cover a range of topics from warming soils and hardening off starts, to the science of willow water and straw water, and the importance of appropriate soil temperatures for seed planting. The episode also highlights the natural phenomena guiding our gardening timeline, and the significant role of composting.Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Number 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostBig Foot MicrobesDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

This week, Jeff and Jonathan delve into the world of plant nutrition, focusing on the essential elements Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. We'll explore their functions, the consequences of their absence, and how gardeners can ensure their soil has an adequate supply for the benefit of microbial life. We'll also discuss the potential issues with using chemical fertilizers instead of organic alternatives. Finally, we answer questions from our listeners!  Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Thanks to our sponsors:Big Foot MicrobesNumber 2 Organics made in partnership with Malibu CompostDown To Earth All Natural Fertilizers The Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

We are giddy that Spring has sprung and reveal how the soil food web determines how to approach various  early season chores. It defines how we deal with lawns, how we approach planting beds and lot’s about weeds and those glyphosate products that appear every spring.  This week’s discussion will guide you down a soil food web highway as you tackle those early garden tasks.Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!

Using the soil food web entails feeding the microbes. This week's discussion centers around microbe food. What should you use? Along the way, learn about the newly discovered role of bacterial rhizophagy in which bacteria feed plants internally and what to use to start your season off right.Plant a row for the hungry/Read Teaming With Microbes, Teaming With Nutrients and Teaming With Fungi!Have a question? Let us know at [email protected] Teaming with Microbes Podcast is edited and produced with original music by Pod Peak.  Special thanks to the Anchorage Daily News for hosting the show!