In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Garden Gossip, gardener and author Sandra Mao us to talk about her vibrant new book, “Vibrant Harvest: Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden.” From purple tomatoes and magenta potatoes to speckled lettuces and edible flowers, Sandra shares how colorful vegetables can transform your garden, your kitchen, and even your kids’ eating habits.

We explore the beauty and benefits of growing heirloom and hybrid varieties, seasonal planting strategies, and simple ways to get children excited about gardening. Sandra also offers practical advice on seed starting, soil prep, pest control, harvesting techniques, preserving food, and creative recipe ideas using homegrown produce.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this inspiring conversation reminds us that vegetable gardens don’t have to be all green—they can be joyful, flavorful, and bursting with color.

📌 Resources & Links: 🔹 Follow Sandra: https://www.instagram.com/sandra.urbangarden/ 🔹 Get "Vibrant Harvest": https://www.quarto.com/books/9780760395110/vibrant-harvest 🔹 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Quality of Life" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" podcast, Dr. Amy L. Stark talks about her new illustrated children’s book, "A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs," which encourages kids and families to reconnect with nature. Based on a true story, the book follows young Jan as she discovers her room filled with ladybugs — and along the way, readers learn how these tiny garden helpers play a big role in our environment.

Dr. Stark discusses the importance of physical books, the balance between technology and outdoor play, and how gardening can inspire family connection and environmental awareness. She shares insights on how pollinator gardens support biodiversity, how nature can ease eco-anxiety, and why stories that celebrate the natural world are essential for today’s children.

📘 Learn more about Dr. Amy Stark and her books: https://www.dramystark.com/

This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s programming for National Children’s Book Week (Nov. 3–9, 2025) and National Young Readers Week (Nov. 10-14, 2025), and is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend," "Quality of Life," and "Garden Gossip" Shows. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of National Food Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Show features Rick Bickling, Master Gardener and spokesperson for the Square Foot Gardening Foundation. Rick shares how the innovative Square Foot Gardening method—developed by Mel Bartholomew—revolutionized small-space gardening with its raised beds, unique soil blend known as Mel’s Mix, and efficient planting system that makes gardening accessible to everyone.

Rick also introduces "The Square Foot Gardening Planner: A 3-Year Journal for Recording the Planning, Planting, and Care of Your Square Foot Garden" (Cool Springs Press, October 21, 2025). This official planner helps gardeners stay organized with design templates, planting logs, compost tracking, pest and disease notes, and yield records, all beautifully designed to make gardening productive and fun.

The discussion explores how square foot gardening promotes sustainability, food security, and community connection, empowering families, schools, and urban dwellers to grow their own organic produce—no matter how limited their space.

🌿 Learn more: https://squarefootgardening.org/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Big Daily Blend, Quality of Life, and Eat, Drink & Be Merry Podcast Channels. Explore the full Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork