In this insightful episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike kicks off with a warm welcome and a reflection on the recent Fourth of July weekend, before diving into a topic suggested by a listener—blossom end rot. With the recent heavy rains, many gardeners are facing the challenges of overwatered soil, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.

Mike explains the intricacies of blossom end rot, a common issue affecting tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, squash, and watermelons. He describes the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures for this frustrating condition, emphasizing the importance of calcium in preventing the disease. Mike offers practical advice on how to manage water and calcium levels to keep your plants healthy and productive.

The episode also features live calls from listeners dealing with various gardening issues. Linda from La Crosse shares her unfortunate experience with maggots in her raspberries, and Mike provides tips on washing and handling berries to avoid such problems. Fred calls in with a question about spiders in his raspberry patch, and Mike reassures him about the beneficial role of spiders in controlling other pests.

Jim from La Crosse seeks advice on dealing with mushrooms and dead grass patches in his yard. Mike explains the possible causes and offers solutions for both the mushrooms and the grass. Leo asks about his hydrangea that only produces one flower each year, and Mike gives detailed pruning advice to encourage more blooms.

Later in the show, Mike addresses a question about getting rid of wood violets in the lawn, recommending a specific herbicide and the best timing for application. He also touches on the importance of following product instructions to avoid damaging the lawn further.

Mike wraps up the episode by discussing Japanese beetles, their history, and effective methods for controlling them, including the use of pheromone traps and systemic insecticides. He stresses the importance of using these methods correctly to protect your plants without inadvertently attracting more pests.

Whether you're dealing with blossom end rot, pest infestations, or lawn care issues, this episode is packed with valuable advice and practical tips to help you maintain a thriving garden.