Gardening Simplified

Gardening Simplified

Introducing Gardening Simplified, a new radio show and podcast from Proven Winners ColorChoice Shrubs. Hosted by life-long gardeners Rick Vuyst and Stacey Hirvela, the Gardening Simplified show is designed to share our love of plants and gardening. Whatever your skill or experience level, you’ll find something interesting, useful, and just plain fascinating in every episode.

Episodes

Embracing the Beauty of Unruly Gardens

March 28, 2026 • 56 mins
Some gardeners prefer their landscape to be tidy and well-kept, while others like their garden a little on the wild side. In this episode Stacey and Rick discuss what makes for an unruly garden and plants that can be the perfect rowdy contenders. In segment four, we interview Eric and Christopher from Grow For Me Gardening to talk about their very beautiful and very orderly garden. Plus hear about their new Hydrangea Handbook and d...
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Zone-Pushing | Pushing the Limits with Plants

March 21, 2026 • 43 mins
Zone-pushing is attempting to plant and grow a plant that is one or two zones different from your current planting zone. It refers to pushing the boundaries of what is considered an appropriate planting location. Learn what plants are good contenders for zone-pushing, and ways you can create micro-climates in your garden to help be successful zone-pushing.
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Understanding Invasive Plants

March 14, 2026 • 43 mins
The National Invasive Species Council and the Invasive Species Advisory Committee define an invasive species as “a species that is non-native to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.” Stacey and Rick dispel misunderstandings, highlight problematic plants, and talk about what you can do to help combat the spread of invasive plants...
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Been There, Killed That, Want it Back

March 7, 2026 • 43 mins
The more you garden, the more plants you kill, it’s an obligatory part of the journey. But just because a plant dies, doesn’t mean it isn’t worth another shot. Stacey and Rick discuss reasons why a first attempt may not be successful, but how you can learn and move forward from it.
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Plants That Help Save Energy

February 28, 2026 • 43 mins
We all know the benefits that come with gardening, but something we don’t often think about is how plants can help to save energy. Casting shade, providing windbreaks, and saving on water bills are just some of the ways you can utilize plants to help conserve energy. The best part? You can buy more plants with the money you save!
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How to Have Seed Starting Success

February 21, 2026 • 43 mins
Seed germination is the fundamental biological process by which a dormant seed wakes up and develops into a new, functional seedling under favorable conditions. We explain these ideal conditions and the best practices for creating and maintaining them. Plus, learn (and listen to) Stacey’s favorite seeds and seed pods!
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An In-Depth Look at Island Beds

February 14, 2026 • 45 mins
What is an island bed? An island bed is a freestanding garden, usually surrounded by grass and can be viewed from all sides. Hear design tips, including how to incorporate texture, color, and structure in these beds. And, of course, we give plant recommendations!
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Plants Make Great Gifts! Knowing How to Pick the Right Plants

February 7, 2026 • 48 mins
A reminder that flowers are symbols for expressing complex emotions and feelings. Flowers engage multi-sensory sight, touch, and aroma experiences! We recommend flowers year-round for you! In segment four, we interview Dr. Jessica Turner-Skoff about plant poaching, its impacts, and how you can help stop this practice. Featured shrub: Midnight Express redbud.
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The Charm of Cottage Gardens and How to Create Your Own

January 31, 2026 • 43 mins
Known for their whimsical and wild aesthetics, cottage gardens are a great for mixing texture and color. Not to mention, pollinators love the variety provided by this gardening style. Learn about plants that are perfect for cottage gardens, no matter where you live!
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2026 Houseplant of the Year and Tips for Making Terrariums

January 24, 2026 • 42 mins
Houseplants have gained traction in recent years, and for good reason! Bringing nature inside can help boost moral and give us plant lovers something to appreciate during off seasons. Hear all about the 2026 houseplant of the year and how to create your own lively terrarium. 
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2026 Annuals of the Year

January 17, 2026 • 46 mins
Annuals are the cherry on top in garden design. Not only do they provide color and landscape solutions, but they inspire creativity and leave room for gardeners to experiment. Hear all about the 2026 annuals of the year!
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2026 Perennials of the Year

January 10, 2026 • 56 mins
While we all dream and scheme for gardening season, hear all about the 2026 Perennials of the Year from Proven Winners. Cayla Olson, from Walter's Gardens and Proven Winners perennials, joins us to deep dive into these exciting perennials.
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2026 Shrubs of the Year

January 3, 2026 • 44 mins
New Year, new plants! Hear all about the 2026 Shrubs of the Year from Proven Winners ColorChoice shrubs.
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Celebrating Plants and a New Year

December 27, 2025 • 42 mins
The New Year is often brought in with various traditions and celebrations. In this episode, we talk about the plants used in these and the symbolism of each. Plus, a few garden resolutions for the New Year. Featured plant: Persimmon.
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The Botany Behind Christmas

December 20, 2025 • 44 mins
Christmas history and traditions are heavily influenced by plants, I mean, we bring a whole tree in the house for the holiday! Learn all about the plants behind this holiday.
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Jack Frost in the Garden | All About Frost and Freezes

December 13, 2025 • 44 mins
Is frost really a bad thing for plants? Find out the difference between a frost, and a freeze, and when to take action against them. Plus, hear the benefits of snow in the garden. Featured shrub, Oso Easy Ice Bay rose.
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Pushing the Boundaries in the Garden

December 6, 2025 • 45 mins
As Stacey says, real gardening starts once you’re not afraid to make mistakes. Sure, taking risks can be scary, but it can also be so rewarding! Whether you try to push the limits of spacing or hardiness, stepping out of your comfort zone is a big part of gardening. We discuss ways to push the boundaries in the landscape and the potential benefits of doing so. Featured shrub: Just Chill Red Tip camellia.
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The Beauty and Benefits of Broadleaf Evergreens

November 29, 2025 • 44 mins
Broadleaf evergreens, or as we like to call them, flowering evergreens, are powerhouses in the landscape. They give you interest, structure, privacy, and color every season. In this episode, we explore the wide variety of broadleaf evergreens and how to care for them. Featured shrub: Gem Box inkberry holly.
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The Botany of Thanksgiving

November 22, 2025 • 44 mins
There are many plants used as culinary staples when it comes to Thanksgiving. In this episode, we talk about the history, cultural impact, and nature behind these plants. Plus, you’ll never guess what Stacey picked for this week’s plant on trial, but you won’t want to miss it!
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Captivating Conifers | A Guide to Understanding Conifers

November 15, 2025 • 45 mins
Conifers, often mistaken for Pine trees, are and have been landscape staples throughout history. Not to mention a classic choice for the Christmas tree! We dive into what makes a conifer, a conifer, and talk about the wide variety of conifers in the world. Fun facts, care tips, and how to deal with Juglone (the chemical produced by Black Walnut trees) are just a few of the things you’ll hear in this episode. Featured shrub: Stonehe...
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