The Dallas Garden School – Details, episodes & analysis

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_

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.

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

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

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

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Leave a voice message at speakpipe.com/thedallasgardenschool and your question could be featured on a future episode!

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