2024 Prairie Yard & Garden

Season 37 Episode Descriptions

All episodes rebroadcast on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Mondays at 1 p.m. immediately following their air date (unless noted with an *). 

3701 – Creating a Monarch Waystation - Morris (Thursday, January 18 | 7:30 p.m.)
Vicky Dosdall of rural Morris loves to garden and grow flowers. She also cares for nature and  has established a Monarch Waystation to benefit the monarchs and other pollinators.

3702 – Sustane Fertilizer - Cannon Falls (Thursday, January 25 | 7:30 p.m.)
Craig Holden came up with the idea of using turkey litter to create a natural fertilizer that is good for plants and the environment.

3703 – Selecting and Growing Hostas - Brainerd (Thursday, February 1 | 7:30 p.m.)
Hostas are one of the most popular perennials in the United States. Jackie Froemming of Brainerd explains why they are such a great plant and shares the many ways people can use them in their yards.

3704 – Barb’s Blossoms - Alberta (Thursday, February 8 | 7:30 p.m.)
Barb Tomoson has both annuals and perennials in her yard in Alberta. She has also incorporated some unique landscaping touches to dress up and show off those flowers.

3705 – Round Lake Vineyards and Winery - Round Lake (Thursday, February 15 | 7:30 p.m.)
What is the difference between a vineyard and a winery? Find out, with the PY&G crew, as you explore a great place in a beautiful setting near Round Lake and Worthington, MN.

3706 – The Shakespeare Garden - Wessington Springs, SD (* Thursday, February 22 | 7:30 p.m.)
How in the world did Shakespeare end up in South Dakota? If there are flowers or gardening involved, join the PY&G crew to find the answer.

3707 – Cherrywood - Baxter (Thursday, March 14 | 7:30 p.m.)
This show combines fabric, natural dyes, an art contest and monarch butterflies. See how it all ties together as we visit a place called Cherrywood.

3708 – Making Maple Syrup - Long Prairie (Thursday, March 21 | 7:30 p.m.)
Mary has wanted to learn how to make homemade maple syrup for many years. She finally gets her wish when Ken Hovet of Long Prairie shows his process to extract this sweet and delicious treat.

3709 – What is a CSA? – Lida Farm - Pelican Rapids (Thursday, March 28 | 7:30 p.m.)
Ryan Pesch has a CSA growing operation near Pelican Rapids. He produces many kinds of herbs and vegetables to supply his customers with great and healthy food all summer long.

3710 – Learning to Grow in Barrett - Barrett (Thursday, April 4 | 7:30 p.m.)
Eric Sawatzke and his students at West Central Area School in Barrett are on the grow. They are learning how to raise flowers and food to benefit themselves and many others in the community as they help stock the area's food shelves with fresh produce.

3711 – The Destination Garden - Brainerd (Thursday, April 11 | 7:30 p.m.)
Whether by hiking trail or by car, people come from miles around to see the beautiful yard that Crow Wing Master Gardener Coralee Fox has created in Brainerd. 

3712 – Growing and Selling Hemp - Parkers Prairie (Thursday, April 18 | 7:30 p.m.)
So many people are confused about hemp, CBD, THC and the many products in the hemp industry. We visit R Bottled Gold near Parkers Prairie to learn what is involved with growing the plants and processing the oils used in many products. 

3713 – Minnesota – Land of 11,842 Lakes - Grant County (Thursday, April 25 | 7:30 p.m.)
Water and water quality are especially important to Minnesotans. Jared House, of Grant County Soil and Water Conservation District, talks about how water moves, water quality and conservation issues and what we can do to help.

PY&G 3701 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Cut Flowers (Tips and Tricks: How to Cut Flowers Like a Pro)

Creating a bouquet from fresh, cut flowers creates a stunning statement. Anyone can create these lovely arrangements according to Mary Solbrekken of Rustic Design Flower Farm near Belgrade, Minn. There are many cut flower farms throughout Minnesota where customers can cut their own flowers to make these colorful centerpieces. 

PY&G 3702 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Goat Products (Goats Milk Skin Care Products)

Goat milk is known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, making it a popular ingredient in skin care products. There are a variety of goat milk skin care products available on the market, including soaps, lotions, creams, and balms. These products may be especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, as goat milk is gentle and soothing. Some potential benefits of goat milk skin care products include improved hydration, reduced irritation and inflammation, and a brighter, more even complexion. Country Sunshine 

PY&G 3703 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Alternative Cooking Oil (From Field to Kitchen: Cooking with Sunflower Oil)

Sunflower oil can be a great alternative to traditional cooking oils like vegetable or canola oil. It has a high smoke point, meaning it can be heated to high temperatures without burning or smoking. Tom and Jenni Smude of Smude's Sunflower Oil and shares how sunflowers, low in saturated fats and high in unsaturated fats, make a healthier option for cooking. Sunflower oil also has a mild flavor, which makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used for a variety of dishes. 

PY&G 3704 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Bison Meat Products

Bison meat products are a great choice for those looking for a healthy and lean source of red meat. Bison meat is low in fat and cholesterol, while being high in protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Additionally, consuming bison meat supports the sustainable and healthy management of grasslands, as bison grazing helps to promote the growth of native plant species and maintain a healthy ecosystem. So not only is bison meat a healthy choice for you, it also contributes to a healthier environment. Breen Enterprises

PY&G 3705 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Pollinator Gardens

Establishing a pollinator garden is a great way to attract and support bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators. These gardens are designed to provide a habitat for these essential creatures, which in turn helps to promote healthy ecosystems and maintain biodiversity. By creating a space that is rich in nectar and pollen sources, you can help to ensure that these vital pollinators have the resources they need to thrive.

Gene Stark, owner of Glacial Ridge Growers in Glenwood, Minnesota, is a leading expert in growing plants that are specifically designed to attract and support pollinators. He understands the critical role that these creatures play in ensuring the health of our ecosystems and food systems, and he is passionate about helping people create pollinator-friendly gardens that can make a real difference.

Overall, establishing a pollinator garden is a great way to give back to the environment and support the health and wellbeing of our planet. By working with experts like Gene Stark, you can ensure that your garden is optimized for the needs of pollinators and can make a meaningful impact in your community.

PY&G 3706 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Pure Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup collected from trees in Minnesota is renowned for its high quality, unique flavor, and health benefits. Minnesota's ideal climate, soil conditions, and traditional methods of collection and processing make it one of the best places to get pure maple syrup. Its rich, complex flavor and smooth texture make it perfect for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. Camp Aquila Pure Maple Syrup

PY&G 3707 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Local Fiber

Kathy Sletto of Shepherd's Bay Farm in Alexandria, Minnesota raises sheep and rabbits to produce natural, locally-sourced fiber for weavers and creative individuals. Focused on sustainability and ethical practices, the farm provides high-quality wool and yarns as a wholesome alternative to mass-produced fibers.

PY&G 3708 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Medicinal Herbs

Connie Karstens of the Lamb Shoppe in Hutchinson, Minnesota shares the advantages of medicinal herbs and natural approaches to wellness. As an expert in the field, Connie shared her extensive knowledge on the benefits of medicinal herbs, including their ability to help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health and well-being. Connie emphasizes the importance of using high-quality, organic herbs to ensure maximum potency and effectiveness.

PY&G 3709 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Alternative Bee Products

Alternative bee products, such as beeswax candles and single-source honey, are specialties of Ames Farm, led by Brian Fredrickson. The farm is known for producing high-quality beeswax candles, which are prized for their clean and long-lasting burn. Additionally, they offer single-source honey, which is harvested from specific floral sources, resulting in unique and distinctive flavors. These alternative bee products are popular among consumers who appreciate natural and sustainable goods, as well as those seeking high-quality and ethically produced honey and beeswax products.

PY&G 3710 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Organic Whole Grains

Organic whole grains, such as those grown at Askegaard Organic Farmnear Moorhead, Minnesota, offer numerous benefits. They are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making them healthier for both people and the environment. Additionally, whole grains are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and various nutrients, contributing to improved digestion, heart health, and overall well-being. Askegaard organic farm's commitment to organic agriculture ensures that their grains are produced sustainably, supporting biodiversity and soil health for future generations.

PY&G 3711 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Farm Wineries 

Farm wineries in Minnesota offer a delightful and enriching experience for wine enthusiasts. One such destination is Carlos Creek Winery, where Tamela Bredeson shares the challenges and rewards of winemaking. Visitors can immerse themselves in the labor of love that goes into each bottle of wine while enjoying the serene surroundings. It's a perfect place to relax and savor the fruits of the labor while taking in the beauty of the winemaking process.