In this episode of the WGNS Action Line, host Scott Walker welcomes Justin Stefanski from the Rutherford County Agriculture Extension Service to discuss all things summer gardening. Despite the sweltering Tennessee heat, the conversation is bright and full of exciting local news, most notably the local Farmers Market at the Lane Agri-Park on John R Rice Blvd. in Murfreesboro. They have expanded the hours for the entire month of August on Tuesday's. In addition to the traditional Friday morning schedule (7am to 12 Noon), residents can now enjoy a special Tuesday evening market from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Stefanski explains that this new 2-to-7 sweet spot is perfectly designed for folks who work during the day, giving the whole community a chance to shop for fresh, local produce like sweet corn, tomatoes, and green beans. The duo also touches on the unique challenges of keeping lawns and plants hydrated when temperatures soar, offering practical advice to help your backyard thrive.
During today's program, they engage in a Q&A segment fueled by texts from curious listeners. Walker reads several texted-in questions that stand out, prompting Stefanski to share expert insights on a variety of niche gardening topics. One listener texted to ask about the viability of growing potatoes in Middle Tennessee, leading to a great discussion on using grow bags and raised beds with soft soil. Another standout text brought up a safety concern regarding the use of old railroad ties for garden borders, allowing Stefanski to warn listeners about the dangers of creosote seeping into the soil. The two also tackle the mystery of non-blooming hydrangeas, the benefits of mixing coffee grounds into compost, and how to safely manage grass clippings.
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