About Prairie Yard & Garden

Prairie Yard & Garden, or PY&G for short, offers expert gardening advice from researchers, nursery professionals, educators, and backyard gardeners in the Upper Midwest who are passionate about cultivating beautiful gardens to discuss. Episodes range from specific issues in horticulture to landscaping and a host of topics in gardening.

There are multiple ways to watch episodes! Prairie Yard & Garden airs weekly on Pioneer PBS at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings. All episodes rebroadcast on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Mondays at 1 p.m. People living within Pioneer PBS's viewing area are able to live stream: pioneer.org/live 

Episodes are also available in multiple locations for online viewing:

• pioneer.org/pyg
• video.pioneer.org/show/prairie-yard-garden
• youtube.com/@PrairieYardAndGarden

1. Thompson Greenery - A Hometown Greenhouse - Barnesville

Thursday, January 16 | 7:30 p.m.

In the small town of Barnesville, Minn., Thompson Greenery stands as a prominent and expansive greenhouse that cultivates a wide variety of exquisite hanging baskets and planters. Renowned for both their stunning plants and experienced personnel, the establishment is celebrated for its commitment to providing top-quality greenery and beautiful floral arrangements.

2. Marla Spivak and the Health of Our Bees - St. Paul

Thursday, January 23 | 7:30 p.m.

Marla Spivak is renowned as one of the most knowledgeable bee researchers in the United States. Her work at the Bee Lab and Bee Squad at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, along with her coworkers, provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of bees and the plants they thrive on.

3. A Garden in Every View - Osakis 

Thursday, January 30 | 7:30 p.m.

Donna Uphus and her husband Tom of rural Osakis, Minn. have turned their home into a stunning oasis by creating flower and vegetable gardens, along with many antique items, placed throughout their wooded property, ensuring that the garden is visible from every angle of the house.

4. Lakota Made - Mankato

Thursday, February 6 | 7:30 p.m.

Megan Schnitker of Mankato, Minn. draws on her rich Native American heritage and expertise in native plant species to craft a range of skincare solutions, salves and various other products designed to enhance people's well-being.

5. Henderson Hummingbird Hurrah - Henderson

Thursday, February 13 | 7:30 p.m.

Each year, the community of Henderson, Minn. transforms into a hummingbird haven as people come together to honor this exquisite little bird with banding, plant education and many other activities.

6.  Gardens to Share and Remember - Mankato

Thursday, February 20 | 7:30 p.m.

Sue and Bob Olson of Mankato, Minn. have designed a beautiful yard that they enjoy sharing with others. The carefully nurtured flower beds and yard serve as a tribute to their loved ones and bring joy to all who visit.

7.  Putt and Pretty - Minnetrista

Thursday, March 13 | 7:30 p.m

At the Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden in Minnetrista, Minn. visitors are welcomed to immerse themselves in a truly unique experience. Bruce Stillman, owner of the tourist and artistic destination, has collaborated with a team of talented artists from both Minnesota and around the world to create an exceptional mini-golf course and adorn the surroundings with captivating sculptures. 

8.  Take A Garden Hike - Bismarck, ND

Thursday, March 20 | 7:30 p.m.

Kevin Hollatz has cultivated a truly remarkable yard that is a sight to behold. As a seasoned landscaper and avid plant collector from Bismarck, ND, Kevin's expertise shines through in the beauty of his garden. Now, as a YouTube educator, he generously shares his wealth of knowledge with others who are passionate about gardening.

9. Menoken Farm - Menoken, ND

Thursday, March 27 | 7:30 p.m.

Explore the nuances between dirt and soil as we delve into a place dedicated to soil health, garden companion plantings, tree research and more. Menoken Farm in Menoken, ND, near Bismarck, focuses on sustainable agriculture practices, education and conservation efforts. The farm offers and shares a wealth of knowledge and resources for those interested in cultivating healthy and vibrant ecosystems.

10. My Green Thumb - Herman

Thursday, April 3 | 7:30 p.m.

Nancy Larson, a skilled horticulturist, has leveraged her expertise to sculpt mesmerizing landscapes featuring meandering flower beds, meticulously crafted stone walls, captivating water features and an array of other enchanting elements at her home near Herman, Minn.

11. Growing Apples in a Big Way - Alexandria

Thursday, April 10 | 7:30 p.m.

Country Blossom Farm near Alexandria, Minn. is a popular destination that draws thousands of visitors each year. Visitors have the opportunity to witness how the farm produces the finest apples, enjoyed for their fresh and juicy flavor as well as their use in creating delicious pies and other delectable products.

12. Plants Around the World in Minnesota - St. Paul

Thursday, April 17 | 7:30 p.m.

Experience a fascinating range of plant life from different ecosystems such as Diverse Deserts, Mediterranean Scrubland, the Ancient Rainforest, and the Antarctic Forest, all in one place at the Conservatory in the U of M College of Biological Sciences. It's a captivating journey through the flora of the Southern Hemisphere without ever leaving Minnesota.

 13. 60 Years of Garden Tips - Tracy

Thursday, April 24 | 7:30 p.m.

Let's make a trip to Tracy, Minn. and visit Connie Anderson, a seasoned gardener with a wealth of experience. She's more than happy to share her valuable gardening tips, learned through years of hands-on experience.