The Commencement of the New Season for 'Oklahoma Gardening' is Scheduled for February 11th

Thursday, February 09, 2023

The Commencement of the New Season for 'Oklahoma Gardening' is Scheduled for February 11th - Despite the adverse weather conditions that have affected much of Oklahoma in recent weeks, with freezing temperatures and hazardous road conditions, the team behind the television program "Oklahoma Gardening" produced by Oklahoma State University Agriculture has been hard at work getting ready for the upcoming season.

The show is set to premiere on Saturday, February 11th on OETA Host Casey Hentges has revealed that this season will feature a range of exciting content, including the debut of a new series on garden construction. In addition to the traditional how-to segments, viewers can look forward to monthly updates on the latest developments at the new OSU student farm.

According to Casey Hentges, the Host of "Oklahoma Gardening" and also an Associate Specialist for Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at OSU Extension, there has been a significant surge in gardening interest over the past three years, a trend that continues to be reflected in the demand for gardening products at the grocery store. In light of this trend, the show aims to explore the concept of self-reliance and demonstrate alternative food options beyond grocery stores.

To support this effort, the team has already started growing transplants in their greenhouse for later use on the show. While traditional crops will continue to be covered, the program will also showcase international crops, including those used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as grapes. Hentges is excited to highlight the diversity of crops that can be grown and harvested in Oklahoma.

The show will also feature a segment with Aaron Essary, the newly appointed Grape Specialist at OSU Extension, where they will track the grape production process.

In line with her commitment to a more natural approach to landscaping, Host Casey Hentges plans to showcase the beauty of an eco-friendly garden. While people have always been enamored by the aesthetic appeal of English cottage gardens or Japanese gardens, these styles are not naturally suited to the Oklahoma climate.

Therefore, instead of attempting to recreate foreign styles, Hentges believes there is a growing appreciation for a more natural approach. Prairie gardening has gained popularity in Oklahoma and is seen as a distinct style in its own right. Gardeners are becoming more conscious of the need for planting native plants and creating an ecosystem that supports local wildlife, including pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The show will address these environmental concerns and promote sustainable gardening practices.

Casey Hentges, now in her eighth season as the Host of "Oklahoma Gardening", is dedicated to finding innovative ways to keep the show relevant for both experienced and novice gardeners alike. With a growing number of first-time homeowners seeking advice on landscape and gardening, and a new generation of gardeners eager to continue the legacy of their grandparents, the show strives to meet the evolving needs of its audience.

Oklahoma Gardening" is broadcast on local OETA-TV channels across the state every Saturday morning at 11 a.m. and Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. For those unable to tune in to the television broadcast, the show is available for viewing on the "Oklahoma Gardening" YouTube channel, where full episodes and individual segments can be accessed.

The Oklahoma Gardening" studio garden is located at the Botanic Garden at OSU, situated to the west of Stillwater on the north side of State Highway 51. The show is a collaborative production between OSU Extension, the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at OSU, and Agricultural Communications Services.

The OSU Extension is committed to providing evidence-based solutions to the challenges and concerns faced by communities across all 77 counties in Oklahoma. By leveraging its research capabilities, the Extension aims to support leadership development and promote the wise utilization of resources in the state. The majority of its services and information are accessible at minimal to no cost.