Smart Irrigation, Soil Secrets & Landscape Myths — with Mike Lorenc from Conservation Garden Park Episode 87

In this episode of Gardening Utah, we’re joined by Mike Lorenc, Lead Horticulturist at Conservation Garden Park in West Jordan, Utah. With over 15 years of experience helping Utahns create more sustainable landscapes, Mike returns to the show (he first joined us on Episode 54!) to share his top strategies for saving water, building healthier soil, and avoiding common landscape mistakes.

We dig into:

• When and how to start watering in Utah — and why less is often more

• Why soil testing is essential before reaching for fertilizer

• The myth of landscape fabric and why it causes more harm than good

• How to design your irrigation system based on your soil type

• The best approach to planting trees for long-term success

• Mike’s favorite waterwise plants and what he's planting at home!

Plus, we talk about bindweed battles, landscape design regrets, and Mike’s advice for every Utah gardener.

Mentions:

• Conservation Garden Park

• USU Analytical Lab – Soil Testing Info

• Plant Select®

• Episode 54 – Mike’s first appearance on Gardening Utah

• Jana's favorite Garden tools on Amazon