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Free Pruning Shears, Free Memberships!

Last updated : January 9, 2017
Free Pruning Shears!

Free Pruning Shears!

We are having two Drawings.

Details on how to enter the contest are at the bottom of the page.

On January 3rd, 2017 we’ll draw two names for the pruning shears.  We are giving away two pair of these Corona Pruning Shears.  These are the exact shears that we use a Mike’s Plant Farm to make tens of thousands of cuttings each year.

21 Plants That Are Easy to Grow and Sell Like Crazy

The two winners for the pruning shears have already been notified by email this morning (1/3/2017).

And . . .

Two Free Memberships!

Then on January 8th we’ll draw two more names for the Free Memberships to Our Private Members Area!

Recommended: Free eBook Reveals 21 Plants That Are Easy to Grow and Sell Like Crazy

The two winners for the Free Memberships have already been notified by email this morning (1/9/2017).

The Free Memberships are Valuable!

A permanent membership to our Private, Members Area sells for $497 if paid in one installment so I’m not kidding when I say the memberships are extremely valuable.

Why is a membership so expensive?  Because it’s worth it.  Not only can you interact with me and other very experienced growers who are determined to make you successful as a grower, a plant propagator and a plant seller, but we also have a Buy/Sell Area that is awesome!

And of course when we open our Members Area to new members we let you take a 30 day test drive for only $7.00 just so you can experience the value of the members area.

In the buy sell area the members buy and sell plants to and from one another.

Look what I found in the buy/sell area in just one hour;

Unrooted Grape Cuttings

Concord Grapes, 25 unrooted cuttings only $12.00 for the entire bundle.  Need more?  A bundle of 100 is only $45.00 for $12.00 per bundle.
100 unrooted cuttings for $45.00

New: Video Reveals a Simple Way to Root Plants from Cuttings (Watch Now!)

Niagra Grapes, a bundle of 25 unrooted cuttings, only $12.00, a bundle of 100 cuttings $45.00.

Catawba $16.00 per bundle of 25 unrooted cuttings.

Fredonia Grapes, only $16.00 per bundle of 25 unrooted cuttings.

Cayuga Grapes, only $18.00 for a bundle of 25 grapes.

Vidal Blanc only $18.00 for a bundle of 25 unrooted cuttings.

And of course complete instructions for how to root these cuttings in available in the members area as well.

Hydrangeas!

Breaking: Veteran Landscaper Shares 38 Secrets to a Beautiful Landscape for FREE

Bluebird Laceap Hydrangea $1.50 each

All Summer Beauty Hydrangea $1.25 each

Kardinal Lacecap Hydrangea $1.25 each

Variegated Lacecap Hydrangea $1.25 each

Forever Pink Hydrangea $.150 each

Black Stem Hydrangea $1.50 each

Free: Download This FREE eBook, "The Gardener's Secret Handbook" Today

Nikko Blue Hydrangea $1.00 each

Lilacs!

Miss Kim Lilac  Rooted Cuttings only 89 cents each

Arborvitae!

Emerald Green Arborvitae Rooted Cuttings only 69 cents each

Japanese Red Maple Tree Seeds!

100 Japanese Red Maple Seeds $7.00

500 Japanese Red Maple Seeds $26.00

1,000 Japanese Red Maple Seeds $46.00

Free Today: Download These Simple Potting Bench Plans and Simple Hoop House Plans

Eastern Redbud Tree Seeds!

100 Eastern Redbud Tree seeds $7.00

500 Eastern Redbud Tree seeds $29.00

1,000 Eastern Redbud Tree seeds $52.00

Chinese Dogwood Tree Seeds!

100 Chinese Dogwood Tree seeds $7.50

500 Chinese Dogwood Tree seeds $29.00

Canadian Hemlock Tree Seeds!

100 Canadian Hemlock Tree seeds $6.50

Free: Download This FREE eBook, "The Gardener's Secret Handbook" Today

200 Canadian Hemlock Tree seeds $9.99

Huge Selection of Rhododendrons $2.50 each  way too many to list!

Plus all of these wonderful plants . . .

Gold Mound Spirea $1.75 each

Blue Prince Holly $2.00 each

Winterberry Holly $2.40 each

Sky Pencil Holly $2.00 each

Sponsored: Sign Up To My Free Gardening Newsletter and Get 10 Free Gardening Gifts

Really nice Burning Bush $1.60 each

Dark Night Spirea $2.40 each

Silver Dollar Hydrangea $2.50 each

Rabiteye Blueberry Bushes!

Austin, Brightwell, Premier, Powderblue, Rabbiteye Blueberry Plants $2.25 each

And of course a Donkey Pic, can’t do a post without a donkey pic.

How to Enter the Contest . . .

To enter yourself into these drawings all you have to do make a comment below to be considered for the drawings.  The winners are picked at random so anybody that leaves a comment is eligible.

Comments

  1. Vin & LuAnn says

    Hi Mike,
    Thank you for your free membership offer. We look forward to hearing from you.
    Thanks Again Vin & LuAnn from Southern New Hampshire

  3. Mark Hagedorn says

    Hi Mike,
    Really enjoy all your suggestions on how to grow the right way. I don’t have the cash to enroll in the Backyard Growers now. So it would be a blessing to win so I can move on. Thanks Make.

  9. Kim says

    Hi Mike,

    The information that you share with all of your readers/subscribers is invaluable! After watching your videos I took hardwood cuttings from various fruit trees on our property (as some are quite old and we already lost some types). Some of them are now starting to get leaves on them but I noticed that a few have this fuzzy white stuff that looks like mold growing on them…should I spray them with a peroxide-water mix or just leave it be? I tried googling it but didn’t find much…someone mentioned something called “barking” but I don’t know what that is.

    God bless and thank you for all of the wonderful information!

  10. Bill Maitland says

    THOSE PRUNERS WOULD LOOK GOOD IN MY POCKET. THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO MIKE..

    BILL MAITLAND

  11. Shannon Alfano says

    I love you blogs. I wish I could have a copy of your brain!! Your knowledge of plants is amazing!!! You are awesome and seem to be a very kind man. Thank you for all the virtual help!!!
    Shannon A.

  12. P Unger says

    Would like to be entered into the drawing for the Private Member area membership. Thank you for the opportunity.

  13. Paris says

    I would love to be considered for the membership. Thank you!
    I want to get to the point of no longer having a desk job; I think my chickens would agree.

  14. Jerry kalka says

    I hate moles. I have killed lots of them but they just keep coming.. Watching my little plants die because their roots got torn off by tunneling moles. Grrrrr! Love your emails mike. Happy NewYear to all.

  15. Ron Munger says

    Thanks Mike for your faithfulness and your love of gardening and your willingness to share so freely what you know with us!

  16. Charles Green says

    I have kept you’re news letters on here several years now. I have been waiting on retirement so that I can have more time to apply to it. I am interested on ways to have more income to help pay bills and have extra spending money. I intend on checking into you’re post on here.

  17. Matthew says

    I would be excited to be chosen for the free membership! Rooting cuttings is a passion of mine and it would be great to be a part of a community that does this and sells them for profit!

  19. wyndham owens says

    I have been watching and reading for years. learned a lot and it is still fun. .I liked the donkeys, I have horses, ponies, chickens, dogs etc. had a wild donkey once. nice. sometimes the owner and the donkey start to look and act alike. I could not be led either. can they plant yet? keep up the fun. thank you, wyndham owens

  23. Valerie says

    Thank you Mike for all the great info you provide. Please sign me up for the giveaways! Thanks

  24. Gary Mikkelsen says

    A man can always use another pair of cutters and this man could definitely use a membership too. Have followed you for a long time and have loved all that I have learned. May you have a blessed New Year.

  25. Daniel Wentworth says

    Mike,
    Want to say thanks for all you do and the encouragement you give. I’m retiring at the end of 2017 and going to get started this summer with growing plants and hope to turn it into a way to supplement my retirement.I live in upstate NY around the Cooperstown area and figure they can use another plant guy. Hope the new year brings good things for all here.

  26. Love Gardening says

    Hi Mike i absolutely love this site it is so informative i would love to be a permeant member i have a pair a pruning shears but i would love to use the one that you think is best because i learn so much from all of your articles thanks for everything

  27. carl goldscheider says

    hey Mike. you recomended waitin till a hard frost to take hard wood cuttings, so i did and then the winter hit vancouver island hard. my cutting beds are frozen solid and will be for a couple more weeks.
    the snow has turned to ice, and i am itching to stick “mock orange” an blueberrys.
    i.ve read all your comments re. pruners. but my favorite are FELCO> from switzerland. costly but they
    are indestructable. i’ve gotten a lot of good out of your site thanks Carl

  29. Bev Mundy says

    I have officially become a cutting addict since finding your site! I’m in my first year of growing so would love to learn more! Thank you for all your very special efforts for the world!

  33. Haylie Tesiere says

    Hi Mike
    I’ve been a follower of yours for years, learned a lot from your University, Great stuff. It would be really nice if you had a board membership in Canada. I’m planning of starting a plant nursery for Permaculture plants in New Brunswick Canada next year, those sheers would come in handy!

    Keep up the great work
    Haylie

  36. Lana Goff says

    I’ve been bitten by the propagation bug, but having trouble with which method should I go with for which plant. So much misinformation on the internet and then there is the missing information. I believe I could really benefit from a free membership, Pruners a bonus!

  37. David Rutledge says

    I’m looking forward to growing more plants this spring.Japanese maples ,blueberries,rhododendrons and many other plants will be on my list.Thanks for all the growing tips.

  39. Jesse Taylor says

    Mike is one heck of a great guy and an incredible inspiration to those of us wanting to make money at home. I eagerly look forward to his postings and review all his material on a regular basis. Especially, I enjoy his personality. It comes across in his videos. There’s an air of confidence and professionalism, blending with an ease of delivery, that lets the honesty of the man shine through. Meeting him in person proves that this is no act. Thank you, Mike. Thank you for just being you and for allowing us to share in that. Hope this new year brings good health for you and all your loved ones. Sincerely, -Jesse

  40. john says

    I ve been enjoying your member emails for some time now & been contemplating a driveway nursery sale, but havent done one yet. once I start I ll never stop.

  43. Mary Card says

    I love your website. I have learned so much you. Thank you so much for all your knowledge that you pass on to us all..

  44. Karen Donovan says

    Thanks for your tips and tricks. Now that I am retired i can put them to good use.

  48. Valleri Roberts says

    Finding your site is a true blessing! I can’t thank you enough for all that you share…God bless!

  49. Kathy Driskell says

    Mike, I have learned so much from you over the years. I know it comes from experience and practicality. It is honest and it works!

    I like that you show me what to do and what not to do.

    I finally got my second knee replaced and healed, so next spring I’ll be able to kneel and get down to the ground like I haven’t been able to do in over five years. I am so excited! I’m starting now by studying up on some of your advice that I have been saving for years about what to grow and how to do it.

    Thanks so much for all the advice and encouragement you have given to so many people through the years. We really appreciate you.

    Thanks,

    Kathy

  50. Kelley Rowles says

    I love your site! I really like that you share all your valuable information with those of us who need your help!

  51. Norman Osborne says

    Happy New Year Mike and fellow gardeners

    Our planet earth needs “green”

    Thanks

  52. Roy Houseman says

    After retiring early to take care of Mom until she passed last September, I finally have time to garden as I have always wanted to. I just built a small (8×10) greenhouse for my tender plants to winter in. I have laid out a 30×30 area with raised beds for veggues and herbs. I have a half acre in front and a half acre in back to landscape as I dont want a bunch of lawn. I want trees, shrubs, and flowers and I would like to grow them myself. I have, following your advice, already rooted some chlerodendrom frim branches broken due to recent hurricane. Being a member would be greatly appreciated as it would guve me access to info and prodycts that I need.

  53. Juha says

    Happy new year.
    I wish all of you good health, wealth and prosperity. God bless you americans. Greetings from Finland. This is our jubilee year celebrating 100 year independence.
    Have a nice day.

  56. Raw Dawg Ron says

    Alright Mike, Looking for a pair of those pruning shears you keep in your pocket? This one looks a little different than what I remember you using in some informative videos. Thanks for many tips!

  58. Ken faulkner says

    I have found my calling. Humanity owes you a debt of gratitude for the information that you share,thanks Mike!

  59. Kristin says

    I’m excited to have found your site while you have this going on! I found you researching some seedings that I found and don’t recall what I planted. Anyway I’ll be back around for sure!!

  60. Marla wetterling. Fernley, Nevada says

    Enjoy all the information you share. I’ve tried some of your suggestions. Hopefully I’ll get a cance to do some more before spring. Happy new years everyone. If

  61. John Hurley says

    Today is December 31 almost Jan 1 , I hope in the new year to be able to do more now with some additional help I will have a little more time to take care of my wife with her alzimer and hope to get her out in garden

  66. Pam Walton says

    Thanks for all your inspiration, Mike. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and successful New Year.

  69. Gordon Wolf says

    Thanks Mike, for a wonderful year of good information. Your encouragement is catching and spurs one on to do more and to do it better. Wishing you and your family a prosperous New Year!

  70. Ron Wood says

    Ireally get a lot of good info. from you. I could use a pair of youe shears for my place. I always giving my plants a hair cut.

  71. josephe kehoe says

    i havent been able to get into the backyards growers club yet but nonetheless the money i spent getting your membership to the site and the books were thus far the best money i ever spent. i have learned so much. thanks mike and happy new year

  75. Don says

    Mike, Thank you for all your insight and sharing on your nursery site. We visit the site often, and enjoy taking on new projects, mainly to develop richer habitat for birds, butterflies and bees.
    Cheers for a good 2017–

  78. Nina says

    Thanks, Mike, for all the great information and how-tos. We are life-long gardeners, and this helps us keep moving to try new ideas and techniques.

    Happy and healthy 2017!

  81. M. Harris says

    I appreciate all your advice about growing & protecting plants, etc. Happy New Year & God Bless.

  82. Aaron Decker says

    I would like to be considered for the Free membership and shear drawings. Thank you and I hope you have an awesome new year!

  83. Corky Campbell says

    Mike, your newsletters, advice, and tips make me sound like a pro when talking to my neighbors!! I love your site and adore the donkeys! On the deer eating your plants, plant herbs around them. Deer don’t like herbs. I have a lot of mint so I used that.

  86. Samantha Gastineau says

    Hi, Mike. I live in the Tehachapi Mountains in California. I am retired and ill with kidney disease. But I still garden and start cuttings, just on a much smaller scale than you. Years ago, I paid for a now unknown level of membership in your Backyard activities. Is it possible for you to tell me if anything is still active? And, of course I would love to win the clippers. Thank you for reading.

  87. Susan says

    Hi Mike, I am getting up in years and have trouble walking now, so my landscape is beginning to suffer. We are going to be removing several Ornamental Grasses this Spring to help us cut down on having to do so much trimming. We have a hedge row of Boxwoods along side our driveway and Azaleas across the back of the driveway and down the side of our house. A total of about 60 scrubs that have to be trimmed and shapes several time a year. Do you have any ideas as to what to replace the Ornamental grasses with, that will not need cutting,trimming or pruning.
    I have been replacing some shrubs with Blue Fescue Grass and Hosta’s, and ferns but again you have to gather up the dead leaves of the hosta & fern at years end. Any HELP is greatly appreciated.

  88. Penny Parker says

    Winning a membership would be great! I could use the punning shears too! Thanks for the chance to win.

  89. Marsha Torello-LaVere says

    My new plant room that I established this past summer faces the south. Other day when I went in to get something it was quite nice even thought it is winter here in Kimball Mi. Hope my cuttings don’t get the idea that its ok to sprout!

  90. Mary says

    Love your website! Say hi and give a big hug to all your animal family, (and the human family too!)

  91. Jon & Toni Pettigrew says

    Do not own this type of pruning shears and have been saving up for that premium membership. It takes awhile when you working from social security. Until then, we find your emails are extremely informative. They have helped us very much.

    Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!

  92. Mary says

    To all: Happy Holidays and a Blessed Year!
    I spend hours reading and watching your videos. I am retired and on a fixed income, Can’t afford to buy mature plants. You have helped me to propagate and I donate a lot to our church plant sale.

    say Hi to Fergie &Finn for me as the posts wouldn’t be complete without all your kids. Love the goats and all.

  94. Laura says

    Dear Mike, I look forward to your informational emails everyday. I have learned so much from you. Thank you.
    Best and Happy New Year,

  96. April says

    Love all your practical gardening advice and tips. Please enter me in the contest!
    Happy New Year!

  97. Evelyn F Yearty says

    We also have two mini donkeys. Jenny and Penny. We love them. I love your posts. Thank you for all the information you pass on. It is very helpful.

  99. Gary anderson says

    Happy New Year Mike and All in snow country.. Just got back from Florida to my ranch in the Hill Country of Texas.
    Never miss your email and love to get them…save most of them, Mike.
    I was born in OHIO and feel as though you are a brother…..so I listen-up when you talk!
    Look for more good advice and ‘friendship’ from you & your family in 2017.
    Best,
    GT Anderson

  100. Ren says

    Best Wishes to you Mike, and Family. Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year ! Thanks for giving away some memberships, that is very generous. Thanks for helping to ‘bring back Eden’ as you teach all your tips to everyone. Peace.

  101. Karen Smith says

    Thanks Mike, for all the information you provide! You have inspired me and I am opening my nursery this spring.

  102. Marty says

    Mike, I have enjoyed all of your great ideas. I look forward to an incredible New Year.
    Blessings to you and your family.

  104. M. LaHue says

    Your content is always informational and fun. And freebies are always appreciated =o)
    Thanks for everything!

  107. Barbara Crankshaw says

    Thanks Mike for all the great, invaluable information. My husband and I are now retired and looking forward to continuing to the next step with our cuttings.

  111. Brenda Pell says

    I would love to be a winner of your contest. I so enjoy reading all your help for various things. It would be awesome to be a winner

  112. Stacy says

    I’ve gotten EMAIL about 2 years now. Love all the different was of planting. Keep the Mail coming. Have a Blessed Week.

  113. Elsy Martinez says

    I hope you and your loved ones had a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Thanks for all of your support

  117. Anonymous says

    Hi Mike,

    The donkeys look like so much fun. I love the bib overall, because they remind me of my dad. Thanks for all the wonderful gardening advice!

  118. Pam says

    What’s a good organic spray for cherries? Had way too many worms in them last year! The wild turkeys were even flying up into the trees

  119. Bill says

    , I have the worst luck with my strawberries must be the soil., what’s a good garden mixture of soil ?

  121. Michael Colley says

    Happy New Year Mike, and the donkeys are cute too. Can’t get them to help pot the plants? Or do they just supervise? (LOL)

  126. Jerry Ahnert says

    Love your insight and willingness to share. Thanks. I just wish there was more info that dealt with the northwest.

  129. Rusty says

    Hello Mike! I want to thank you for all your videos and advice you have put out! You have a great team and you all inspire me! Always had a green thumb and you guys helped me take it to the next level.

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours!

  131. Cindy says

    Thanks for all the information!
    I can’t wait to get started, I’m a newbie to this but I live on five acres and have a real green thumb!

  134. Mike little says

    Mike I’ve been landscaping for thirty years now, and enjoy your knowledge. I have said as I get older and can’t do it like I can now, I’d love to work at a nursery. So much to learn and I feel you can never learn it all. Maybe now I’ll just start my own nursery. Thanks mike

  137. Gerardo says

    How’d, greetings and happy new year for y’all, I’m on my way to start and give it all to this pursuit , as the Bible says : with all my heart, soul, and strength.

  138. Judith Collins says

    Great inspiration, humor and tons of value…. Happy New Year Blessings for all you do! Love the donkeys!

  139. Barbara McCord says

    Used your plans for a potting bench to help raise funds for our horticulture therapy program. Thanks for the freebie.

  143. Nancy Wright says

    Please enter me in the contest for the pruning shears. Thank you and happy holidays to you and yours!

  144. cheryl Williams says

    Hi Mike, I truly enjoy the info and the teaching you provide. You are really gifted. Thank you, Cheryl Williams.

  145. Joe Martin says

    I’ve followed many of your procedures. I’ve had success with some of the plants. I am considering taking the thirty-day trial membership when the window opens, but, I am concerned I can make enough money to cover the expense of starting up a small business.

  148. Vickie Ferrell says

    hey yall, i sure could use some gardening help. alabama is still in a drought situation. so we need your prayers and a membership to Mikes program. I love your donkeys, we have many in ala.

  150. Shona says

    Please enter me in the contest (would LOVE to win one of the free memberships!).

    Finnegan is so adorable! Makes me miss my own little Jenny Girl (RIP) even more. There is nothing like the sweet sound of donkey braying hello to greet you when you pull into the drive.

  155. James A Martin says

    i have always loved to growing things, and enjoy your emails very much… if i win i would be very appreciative but not counting on it. i will retire in 2017 and hope to spend more time with my hands in the dirt…
    thanks again for the opportunity and Happy New Year

  161. Deborah Mirdamadi says

    Happy Holidays Mike and everyone!
    I love this drawing and I am hoping for the free membership. Fingers crossed X

  163. Clifton Harmon says

    Mike I don’t know how many times we can leave comments hoping to win. the shears sound great, but the membership sounds so much greater.
    since I’m on Social Security and the money is a little tight, I don’t see any way to swing a payment like what it takes to join your membership. I’d love to be in it tho, cause I’d probably be able to buy and sell a few plants.

    Thanks for giving us this opportunity to try to win.
    Hope you and your family have a safe and fun filled New Year.
    Thanks again

  164. Daryle in VT says

    I was moving a tray of apple wood cuttings I was rooting when a friend asked what I was doing. “I’m growing sticks,” I said. The look on her face was worth a bit more than a small fortune.

  165. Kenneth Beers says

    Mike I love to see your donkey’s. I was raised on a farm and we used horse’s every day.
    Great job. Thanks for all of your tips.

  168. Marilynn Teel says

    I enjoy all the plant news you send and love seeing pictures of the donkeys.
    I would love to have pruning shears and more opportunity to learn about how best to grow plants and trees.

  169. Janet brady says

    I commented earlier but can’t find it, so here we go again. … I really enjoy reading all of your emails. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and encouragement with us all! Have a blessed 2017!

  178. William Trantham says

    I would love to have a membership. I am trying to grow Japanese red maples from seeds and by rooting too.

  181. donnie oneal says

    Hi mike, I have a down syndrome son who loves to help, this is definitely something he can do. Thanks Donnie.

  183. Samuel Jernigan says

    Hi Mike, I enjoy your emails so i keep them and look at them over and over i have keep them for years still enjoy looking at them from time to time. Thanks Sam

  185. Sister Mary Elizabett says

    Merry Christmas and Blessed Happy New Year to you and yours. Thank you for all the good you do and are being in the world

  186. Donna Henthorn says

    I don’t see my comment from last week so I will ‘fry. fry a hen’ as they say! ;>)
    I would enjoy a nice pair of shears, but LOVE a Membership to your group, Mike.
    Thanks for all the info!

    Donna

  187. Toni Allen says

    Hi Mike,
    Thanks for always keeping us inspired with all your tips, tricks and stories of the trade and much more. It’s like connecting with a good buddy who speaks my language! Keep up the great work and Happy New Year!

  190. Jim Wilson says

    Mike, thanks for all the good advice this past year.

    Oh, with all the nice photos, I’m ALMOST ready to get my own donkey and name him…. MIKE!

    Happy New Year
    Jim

  193. Janet says

    Mike, I always enjoy your emails! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and encouragement with us all. Have a Blessed 2017!

  196. Anette says

    I have been reading your column for many years and have learned so many things from you. Instead of making money on my little plants I have chosen to gift them to a local garden club. They raise money on the sales for beatification in our county by adding garden spots for all to enjoy. Keep up the good work and great tips!

  198. Becky says

    Will these work for “pruning” out the white flies in the greenhouse? I can’t seem to get rid of these pests and they’re driving me nuts! Thanks for the opportunity to win. Happy New Year too!

  199. Anthony says

    I’m just getting started but I have learned so much from your emails and your book that I recently purchased

  200. Cari Sumile says

    I so look forward to your awesome emails every week! They are very welcomed especially now when there’s a foot of snow on the deck, and dreams of spring & summer are distant. It’s all about the planning Right!! Happy Holidays & God Bless you folks!

  201. Mike K says

    Great information and looking for land in North Georgia to follow your ideas of a home business. Like the idea of having a donkey too.

  202. Michael Oden says

    Can we enter more than once? I have a need to win. I see how this opportunity could be another income stream for me. Thanks for what you are doing for people.

  205. Susan S. says

    Thank you for including the dockeys in the pictures and thanks for the information. I am a married college student wanting to use my love of growing things to make some extra money. First for our acres and then start selling once my landscape is finished so I have cutting to harvest. Living in Central Texas and having clay soil I am learning to grow all over again.
    Thanks Mike and family for posting the videos and slide shows.

  207. Rachel Regan says

    Hi Mike! Count me in for the pruning shears drawing! Thanks for continuing to educate, inspire, and urge us on!

  210. John Perry says

    Have always wanted a nursery! Now I have some land and am about to get started! A membership would be awesome!
    John

  211. Patricia Polichronopoulos says

    I hope you will consider me for the pruning shears. I am already a member of the Private Members area but I can ALWAYS use a nice pair of shears. Please and Thank you

  213. Craig Ingram says

    Thanks Mike for all the great backyard nursery tips! I’ve been inspired by you and started growing Japanese Maples. Have about 1,000 Red Japanese Maples seedlings growing in my field.

  214. Rohn Stearns says

    I love your donkeys. Winning the free membership would sure be a blessing to me and my family.

  216. John Wesley says

    I’ve heard that most grapes don’t like alkaline soil, which I have.
    Can you suggest some varieties that would do well?
    12″ annual rain, USDA 6B
    Thanks!

  218. J. Dale Reedy says

    I will soon be 77 and probably too old to be wishing for a membership in your buyers club nursery. I don’t have too many regrets but I do wish that I had encountered a Mike McGroarty 50 years ago.

    Jay Dee

  221. Andrea Croft says

    Hello. Thank you for all the helpful information., Even though I live in a different area and have slightly different issues in my garden (west coast), many of the things you have posted in your emails have helped me. Thank you.

  223. Sharon says

    Your articles keep me motivated!! Looking forward to implementing so much of what you teach in 2017!

  225. Norman Parker says

    I have joined the Backyard Growers group, but if I win could maybe exchange it for the automatic misting system. Let me know. This is a great opportunity for anyone. If I win, but can’t exchange it, could I give it as a gift to someone I choose? Thanks, and best to all.

  226. Tom Siewiorek says

    Have been a fan of yours for years and years. You are a great teacher. Looking forward to what you have on your agenda for the new year. Have a Happy New Year!

  228. George Griffith says

    I see that one donkey survived the election – better looking than most of them (sarc).

  231. John says

    Would love to win. I have been trying to convince the wife in trying this. Thanks for all the info and chance to win.

  232. Elaine says

    Your generosity in sharing all that you know about running a nursery is deeply appreciated. I enjoy your video’s immensely! Have a happy, healthy New Year!

  234. Jo Welden says

    Mike, I love all that you say and do! You have almost convinced my husband that I need a hoop house!!! I have a small greenhouse but it never holds all that I plant! I have seen a hoop house at a neighbor’s place just begging for a new home! Lol it has not been used in yrs, so now I have my husband thinking that maybe I should have more space, I share everything I read on your site with him and I think we (you and I) have him convinced to talk with the folks down the road!! Keep those fingers crossed!!! Have a great day and thanks for all the great info!!! Keep it coming!!!

  235. John Rockers says

    Please enter me in your give-aways. Thanks for all the advice & how-to videos. Have rooted some semi-hardwood cuttings last fall–hoping for good results in 2017.

  239. Kay McElveen says

    Hi I’m in south Louisiana and I have tried 2 different times to plant seeds from my Japanese red maple but have failed each time. just collected more seeds, will try again.

  241. Velma Kornegay says

    I could really use some advice on effective ways to keep my greenhouse warm during the winter. Thanks.

  242. Scott McBurney says

    I have two pairs of shears and am not happy with either of them. I’d love to try your kind. any growers in NE Kansas?

  243. Sandy Redd says

    Just bought a new house so any new gardening tools or plants would be helpful. Love all your tips. Thanks. Hope you have a Happy and Safe New Year.

    Sandy

  244. David Mackey says

    Mike,

    Those look like a dandy pair of pruning shears!

    Thanks for sharing your wit and wisdom and keeping the fun in gardening. It would be great to meet you in Perry sometime. I’m sure your place is entertaining for more than just your grand-kids….

    Best wishes for a healthy and happy New Year!

    Dave

  245. Jennifer Vallot says

    I came across your sites via a video on propagating wysteria. What you had to offer was so amazing and has me making plans for doing some props of my forsythia and viburnum. I can’t wait to try my hand at it. I am hoping to start some props to sell at our local farmer’s market and perhaps my yard to help support my little single parent family and my pets. I am a teacher by trade and a passionate gardener in my off time. Starting some HW props now would be a wonderful way to garden during the winter, which I miss so much when winter comes. I also have what I believe is a camilia and a quince, but am unsure how to prop them or when. Anyway, I am glad to have come across your site and am hoping to get together enough money for a membership.

  246. Kathy Jo says

    I love your videos, donkeys and the family involved in the business. I can’t wait to get started
    Merry Christmas

  249. Barbara Dickey says

    I love reading all the information you sent me about plants and flowers. I learned a lot of things I never knew. Information you don’t find in gardening books. I need new pruning sheers, so I hope I am the winner.

  250. Kevin Moxness says

    Mike, your free website is packed with an incredible amount of valuable information. Thank you very much for your time and knowledge. Belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

  252. Joe Pace says

    Mike,
    Thank you for of the advice over the past many years. I hope you had a healthy and merry Christmas and may next year be full of the same!!

  254. Gayla Mitchell says

    Thank you for the opportunity for a chance at the prizes and Happy New Year and a Blessed One, too!

  256. Lorie Pawley says

    Hello mike thanks for opportunity to win these great products. Would like to win a pair of pruning shears.

  260. sheila murray says

    Mike, I don’t remember how I stumbled onto your site, but I know it was around the time my son passed away. I work alot of hours by myself and would often be so depressed and cry alot. Somehow God blessed me with your site and it helps to lift me out of my depression. I love to garden, inside-outside-here at work-anywhere a plant needs me!!! Reading all your stuff just kinda puts me in a different spot, depending on what your writing about. Alot of your info I have been doing since I was a kid at home (I’m now 59). Anyway, I just love it when I see something from you in my e-mails. I have never purchased anything, cause I just don’t do much of that for myself. I have too many others on my list. So that being said, I love the opportunity for a chance to maybe “WIN” something. Either way, I hope you will read this and know how very much you have helped a heart-broked mom. I pray that God will keep you & your family safe and healthy for a very long time!!! Sheila in Napoleon, Mo.

  261. Kyle Nicholas says

    That would be so cool
    Used to live in Corona where the shears are from.
    The membership is something that I would use all the time.

  262. Carrie Ellingworth says

    Please enter me. Someday I might win. Would love to be part of your community! Love to garden.

  263. Lonnie Hillis says

    Mike, THANKS for sharing all of your tips on cuttings. I have tried yours and have many plants (new) from cuttings from my existing landscape. I love your HUMOR; and you stay inspired.

  266. Melinda Masters says

    Merry Christmas Mike to you and your family. I always learn so much from your articles.
    Thank you!!

  267. Danelle says

    Thank for a great 2016 gardening year of videos and helpful how-tos. Happy New Year, Mike and crew!!

  268. Lyle Batey says

    Love your videos and hope to get to your place this spring. Everyone have a safe and blessed New Years.

  270. Arndrea says

    Hi Mike, wow what a year. I’ve been studying level 3 horticulture this year and have following your post for a few years now. You have definitely given me valuable information and techniques to achieve great results here in New Zealand. Thank you and Season Greetings to you all.

  274. Bill Lyman Sr. says

    Thank you Mike for all the free information you have given this 80 year old man, I have I think about all of your videos that I look at all the time.. Seems like I should know you. After all these years.. Thanks again Mike, have a great New Year.

  276. Roxie Corbin says

    I thought I had left a comment but I can’t find it.
    I have learned a lot from reading your articles. Thanks so much for your time and effort to teach us what you know.

  277. Dale Onisk says

    Merry Christmas and an a Great New Year!

    Keep on planting…………………….

    Thank you for all the great advice over the years.

    Dale

  279. Scott says

    Thanks Mike for all the great information you continue to offer others. Appreciate what you all do.
    Merry Christmas and Happy, productive New Year!

  280. Beth Langdon says

    Dave, I would love a chance to win a membership. Thank you for giving us all a chance at winning one. Hope your New Year is a healthy and happy one.

  281. Connie says

    HI Mike,
    I am from your neck of the Ohio woods in Madison, but have been a NJ transplant for over 20 years. Love getting a little Ohio intel once in awhile from your posts. Merry Christmas!

  282. Glen says

    Thanks Mike for all you do. You are a wonderful guy, spending so much time assisting us all with your shared knowledge. Happy New Year!

  284. Kathy Knauff says

    Happiest of the holidays Mike,
    Love to receive your emails and I save them to my folder for further references.
    Do take care and give those donkeys a extra carrot.
    Happy and healthy New Year to you and your family
    Kathy

  286. R. Kevin Wierman says

    Sure would love a membership and I appreciate the opportunity. Thanks – Merry Christmas and …

    Be Safe! – Kevin

  287. Rich Bartlett says

    I love your site and emials. ALways look forward to reading them. Please enter me in your contest.

  289. Susan says

    Happy New Year to you and yours! I’m so glad I stumbled on your videos! Thanks for all you share

  290. Tracey H says

    I have learned a lot from the emails and watching the videos. I have been taking notes and making a notebook with all your information. Took my first cuttings this fall and waiting as patiently as possible for spring to get here. Was researching shears but I will wait until after the drawing now before making a purchase and can only dream of receiving the membership for the Private Members Area. Either one would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for all the valuable information, most people are not as generous as you in sharing this information with other people especially when it pertains to their personal business affairs. I hope the New Year brings you many blessings.

  292. Donna Yach-Cisewski says

    Hi Mile and happy and prosperous 2017
    Please enter my request in the drawing.
    I could use the info and advice that you provide Long Term…Thanks

  295. Pat says

    I hope you had a Merry Christmas Mike! I really enjoy getting your emails. I learn something every time I visit your site. Happy New Year!

  298. Lillian says

    Mike,
    Have enjoyed all your posts, emails and the information within them. I have a very small space for gardening, but do the best I can with that space.

  299. Eloise McKeon says

    I am thrilled with your homemade squirrel traps as this past summer I was overwhelmed with squirrels Thank You Mike and a very Happy and Healthy New Year…..

  300. Donna Nelson says

    Mike, I always enjoy reading your emails. Although I don’t think I will ever adopt any donkeys, I do enjoy seeing the way your donkeys interact with you.
    I have chickens and cats at my place, and they are a neverending source of joy—although I have to admit that the chickens, ruled by their stomachs, would eat every tasty plant on the place if I didn’t put up fences to protect the plants.
    Looking forward to growing more plants from cuttings this year—thanks for the advice and inspiration!

  301. George P. Leshanski says

    I never delete your emails until I give them a full review. More often than not there is something to learn.

  302. Margaret Michel says

    Hi Mike,

    Please enter my in your drawing!! Enjoy all the post & emails. I have learned a lot and plan on learning more. Have land, water, time & now knowledge from yourself!

  303. JOHN LINCOLN-LOVELY says

    Happy New year!!!….I have learned More by Accident from this man, than I have learned On Purpose from All before him….thanks to Mike’s Gentle info & insights, 2017 looks Bigger & better than Ever!!!…..Here’s to Long Life, Mike!!!….

  305. Robert Tombaugh says

    I enjoy your emails, I have .Gotten slot of good ideas from you. Look forward to more hints and adviçe

  306. Donna Yahnke says

    I would love being able to make money selling cuttings. I have been able to sell rooted plants on a small scale but would love to make it a career. I am never happier than when my hands are elbow deep in sweet fresh soil!!!

  308. John says

    Mike, I just finished reading your life story. My life is sooo similar! I just bought an old home with 2 old barns that are falling down. (probably worse than your out buildings). The house needs a lot of work too. It was built in 1899! It is on 7 acres. I have done landscaping all my life. Worked at a nursery for awhile also. I have owed the IRS and have a lot of debt. No bankruptcy yet thank God! I plan on turning this place into a nice little growing farm/nursery. I am 46 years old and landscaping has taken it’s toll on my back and joints. I work all the time just to pay the bills. Growing plants at home will help me to relax and spend time with my 7 year old boy. Thank you for giving me a little push to do something different! Would love to meet you someday.
    John Perry

  309. Amy says

    Thanks for all of the great information you share. I have learned so much by using your methods! Love the donkeys too!

  310. Wanda Pfief says

    Thank you for doing the contest! You are so generous! I continue to learn from you and appreciate your sharing.

  313. Debbie says

    Mike,
    We hope you and your family had a great Christmas, and will have a fantastic New Year!
    Thanks for all the great info!

    Ed & Debbie

  314. Peter says

    I stuck a bed full of hardwood cuttings a few weeks back. They are now under a foot of snow. Looking forward to spring here in Northern Ontario.

    Merry Christmas

  319. Linda says

    Started many years ago watching your post.. Still have VCR’s of yr propagation videos. Always enjoy your work. Also, have learned a lot. Thanks

  320. todd jackson says

    Thank you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. Lots of valuable and practical information.

  324. JENNIFER WILSON says

    Mike, thanks for all your positive inspiration. I was very down after my father died. Now I get up at 5am and pot plants and make lots of “baby plants”,then I fell like I have achieved something for the day.Not ready for 1st sale yet, but it will happen.

    All the best to you and your family for the comming year,
    from your Aussie,
    Magpie

  326. Deanna Vazquez says

    Thanks for the opportunity. I would love either of these prizes. What you’ve set up is truly inspirational and has opened doors for me in my horticulture endeavors. Would love to be a member!

  332. Pierre Desforges says

    I have been a member for abit each time and eventualy regardless i win or not i will be back

    Thank you !

  335. narhan ray says

    Thank you for being such an inspiration , because of you , I have learned so much about plants ..
    would love to win either one , but even if I don’t , sincerely , thank you

  337. Sharon Bowen says

    I thought I knew gardening until I started listening to you! I then realized there was so much more to learn! Thank you for all of your tips, short-cuts, and powerful information! I have learned so much and I’m truly grateful you are a part of my life! I LOVE the little donkeys! They’re simply adorable and have such affectionate personalities. Merry Christmas to you, your family, and the whole gardening family reading this.

  338. Butch Swaine says

    Mike, I am retired 74 old that loves gardening. I live in Miami Florida and one year I grew tulips in my garden. Witch I was told by many people that it couldn’t be done. They were huge and beautiful.
    I am hoping to win a membership for me and my wife.

    Thanks

  340. Charles Lindsay says

    Mike, I wish for you and yours a wonderful New Year!! You have a great organization and I thoroughly enjoy all your really good information. I’m the son of an old Mississippi delta sharecropper and I can’t keep my hands out of the dirt!!

  341. David B. Brantley says

    I have learned a lot from reading your e-mails & watching your videos . Please keep up the great work . I don’t sell anything yet , I give away a lot of what I start to my neighbors who help me out some . Many thanks for your help .

  346. Deane Hoffman says

    You are truly an inspiration. Thank you for all the info you put out there. Merry Christmas to you & your wife!!

  349. Bridget O'Malley says

    A Very Merry Christmas to you and yours!

    Thank you very much for all the valuable information you so generously share with us budding gardeners.

  350. Diana Anshakov says

    This is a timely reminder for me that I have options for making a living – thank you, and Merry Christmas!

  353. Jaclyn Funderburk says

    Thank you for a way to increase my family’s income.
    Right now we live disability check to check.
    My spouse requires 24 hour care so working away from the property is not possible.
    Both the shears or the free membership would be a blessing.
    Thank you again for the opportunity.

  355. Teresa Richardson says

    Love your blog and your knowledge you so willingly share. All of it do practical and down to earth. I have my favorite hints from you starred and refer back to them before I try to root something or make fudge. Keep up the good work.

  357. Lynn Howdeshell says

    I tried to enter but can not find where I did. Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years. The best to all. It would be nice to win one of the wonderful prizes.

  358. Janet Hickman says

    I would be so lucky to receive either the pruners or the membership. Although the membership would be awesome!

  360. Sandy Mahoney says

    Your videos make it all seem so easy. Its hard to believe but I like to garden and you have taught me many things. Thanks

  364. jim the grinch says

    PS Just looking at the pic, I think the Coronas are the better shears, Yes, I own two sets, different sizes.

  368. ruth burnette says

    Mike, I have been a fan of your site for a long time now thank you for all the information you share, i have learned a lot from you and your site.

    Merry Christmas to you.

  370. Linaka says

    Merry Christmas, Mike,, you are like an old and dear friend. I have been following your posts for years. Many thanks for pouring out your gardening expertise to all of us around God’s green earth! Sure could use some decent shears, just sayin’……

  371. Mary Caroline Stewart says

    You are an inspiration, and a hoot to boot. I have been reading and enjoying your garden tips for years.
    I wish I had more time to spend in the garden. The best to you and yours in the New Year.

  372. Jesse Morrison says

    With sub=zero temps (w/out the wind), gardening is the LAST thing on my mind right now…lol… However, I am trying to look forward to if and when it begins to warm a bit….Thanks for the opportunities Mike!!

  375. Donna says

    I have always wanted to buy a pair of your pruning shears but they are a little expensive for my blood so WINNING a pair would be better yet!
    Thanks for your articles which always inspire me as I’ve been flower gardening for years now with my nephew in a greenhouse! I”ve learned so much from you as has many others!
    Keep it up Mike!
    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!!

  377. Bob says

    I love the info you provide. I have the course. I plan on having a plant sale this spring. My problem is I live in California so most places cant ship to me.

  378. Myrna Pitts says

    Omigosh I have a pair of my Grandpa’s pruners like these! LOVE ’em, don’t ever want them to break!
    I also buy a pair of side cutter pruners every year and break them! Need at least three pairs of pruners, loppers and 4 hand trowels and have them scattered front yard, back yard and in the car. Yes, car, I gather where I travel. Make bouquets of any plant material I can dry and enter them in the state fair competitions. Me and hand tools, I grew up with them more than toys. My Dad worked at a hardware store and later had his own compressor repair business. LOVE TOOLS!!!

  381. Pam Olson says

    Hello Mike , Please enter me in your contest.
    would really be a happy person to win either prize. I follow you and enjoy all of the info. I live not to far from you just south of Erie,Pa.

  382. Brad Gray says

    Add me to the list. I appreciate everyone that propagates to sell to us who don’t have the time. The buy/sell area is genius. Merry Christmas to all.

  383. Annie Cole says

    Hi Mike; I always enjoy your informative, entertaining videos and post. Happy Holidays to you and your family. Annie

  385. Anne Wells says

    I’m slightly ashamed and a little bashful. I live on a farm and have plenty of space and I am a 65 year old female. I have a little trouble with my hips and am also the caretaker for my 86 year old mother.
    I have been looking at this website for a couple of years. I have purchased the original books Mike put out and watched his business grow. My tiller died last year at the beginning of the spring and I sadly grew what garden I could in pots. It was okay, what I grew did thrive and I presently have green tomatoes ripening on my table and peppers in the frig. “where there is a will there is a way”.

    I’m not adverse to hard work, but taking care of Mother takes time and I never know when we are leaving to take care of my 87 year old aunt in Alabama.

    You could say I’m making excuses, which I probably might be. I desperately need some income other than SS.

    I appreciate all you say and do, the donkeys, and your dilligence. I hve made some efforts, but feel overwhelmed with the idea of trying to sell to people.

    Well, this is my comment. Thanks for everything that you do so generosly and cheerfully. Sharing your lovely family is certainly a blessing.

    Hope you have a Merry Christmas and Blessings above all you can ask or think for the New Year. Sincerely, Anne Wells

  386. joanne dulwick says

    Planting and growing is so rewarding in so many ways. It appears the membership provides an outlet to sell seedlings and this is what one needs to sell plants. The more sales, the more one can grow. Start small and grow as time goes on. One can start in one square foot and grow to a greenhouse size project. Once I outgrow my back yard, I can grow with a small greenhouse on my sister’s acreage.

  389. Steve, Anderson, Indiana says

    Thanks Mike for all the info. I’ve learned quite a bit reading your emails over the years.

  390. Teresa says

    Thanks for your videos and website. I’m trying lots of new things because of you. Merry Christmas!

  402. Bassramy says

    This is just to say thank you for all your amazing work and to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas .

    Regards .

  404. Dorothy Shotwell says

    Give Finnegan a kiss for me! Keep the great instructions coming. And wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a healthy happy new year!

  406. mary says

    Learned a lot ‘growing with you’ over the years. Definitely enjoy your donkeys! Happy holidays to all. Mary

  411. David says

    Anyone with such an inspiring relationship with miniature donkeys can’t be all that bad. LOL Thanks, Mike for all the great suggestions. May you and yours have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

  413. Susan Mirise says

    Thanks for all of the valuable information! I just completed training as a Master Gardener and have been able to share a LOT of great info from you with my gardening friends!! Christmas Blessings to you and your family…including the furry ones.

  414. Frans F. Muller. says

    Hallo Mike,
    I am living in South Africa so I am not sure if I can enter into the draw. I have a shear or two but not that quality. If I am legeble then I wil enter the draw.
    Thanks for all your advice for all our gardeners.
    Frans Muller.

  415. Victoria says

    I have enjoyed the website and emails for years. I have ordered what I could and have learned so much ..TY ..I hope I win…

  416. TerraSue Brittell says

    Looking forward to starting this as a business rather than just enjoying it myself! Thank you for your tips and advice!

  417. Meighan C says

    Mike, thanks so much for the newsletter, I look forward to it every week! I’d love to be entered in the drawings. Thank you for all you do!

  419. Cheryl says

    You are doing an awesome thing here Mike! My daughters and I have learned lots. Here’s to the next generation who love gardening and plant propagating!

  420. Jayne Jones says

    Hoping to grow and sell Plants but so far have enjoyed your posts and learned lots. Thanks! Wishing you and yours and all your fans a blessed Christmas and prosperous new year! From Florida

  424. Sheila says

    Enjoy your website and learning how to propagate so many plants. I look at plants at the big box stores and the area nurseries a bit differently now. You’re always onthe cutting edge of what the new, popular plants will be. You presented Tiny Mouse Ears hosta, and suddenly it appeared at our local nursery.

    Thanks for keeping me inspired . . . in everything!

  428. Anna Yutzy says

    Thanks for the valuable information. enjoy learning about plants ,how to grow and propagate them. Last summer I propagated my first rose plant. Very exciting!! Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!

  431. B. Orton says

    Love your articles. So informative and easy to understand. I could use a pair of pruning shears! and a private membership!!

  432. Max says

    Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

    I have Ducks & Chickens that take care of the yard. And a Chihuahua that is the yard boss. …. So I’ve been wanting to add an Alpaca (black). Aren’t those the same as a donkey, just with a fur coat?

  437. Sam Mort says

    Sorry about the repeat comments
    I couldn’t find the previous comment till i left another comment earlier, and suddenly found all 3….
    (expect this one)
    Sam Mort

    MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU GARDEN LOVERS :))

  438. Jon Vulcano says

    I’m 25 years old and I’m literally obsessed with taking cuttings…I only discovered about rooting cuttings, how to and why to, about 2 years ago. But if I could turn that passion into something that will make me $$ in the long run, I would be very happy..

  440. Dan says

    Mike,had been trying to do cuttings all last year with no success until I saw one of ur online video’s. I would have never thought course wet sand in a trash bag would be the thing to do.
    8 out of 10 rooted Rose of Sharon & 7 of. 10 mulberry as a trial this past June 🙂

  442. Gerri Griffin says

    Thanks so much for your website. I have learned so much from you.
    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

  444. Dawn Weger says

    I’ve never done cuttings, always started everything from seed. I love growing though, so I’ll give it a shot….I’ll need me a pair of those pruners tho lol

  446. Karla says

    I have a large back yard that I’m trying to landscape or setup an outdoor business. It is sloped so I am having difficulty determining where to start. So read your emails for ideas to assist in this endeavor.
    Thanks

  449. Sandy Brown says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family, Mike.
    Thank You Mike for sharing your knowledge.
    So far I have taken cuttings of burning bush, azaleas, and boxwood for propagation.

  450. Ashley Passino says

    An the membership would help me so much, I am a Prepper, and any way I can up my food securing game would help in soo many unexplainable ways!!

  451. Mark says

    I’m qn old gardener but newbie to uour great website…never get tired of taking gardening advice…thanks much

  452. Ashley Passino says

    I would love a pair of pruners, I am currently stuck with having to use regular scissors for garden upkeep and maintenance, it is not the same as a real pair of shears!

  455. Alice Herrin-Ray says

    Love to hear all your good advice, You sound like a real nice person and wish i would win could win a membership . it would really be a help to our little Herrin Gardeners club, I would share all I learn (Just like a Master Gardener)

  458. John says

    Been reading emails since Feb 2008, have over 300 I’ve saved. Always enjoyed them and you book and pamplet. Have a great Holiday Season and keep the info flowing.

  460. John VG says

    My very first hydrangea propagations are looking wonderful in California climate Still green and vibrant.

  464. Greta says

    Hey Mike! This giveaway could answer my prayers in changing my life. Thank you for the opportunity of the giveaway.

  468. Sharon H says

    I love being a BYG’r, Mike and I really could use a good pair of pruners. Thank you for the opportunity. And I really enjoy all,these extra tidbits from you.

  472. Julia Schrandt says

    Thanks for all your free advice over the years. Plant propagation is what really sealed my interest. Now I can’t stop and the major problem is finding enough pots! You provide a valuable service to a big community. I really love your down-to-earth manner and hope you continue giving advice for a long while!

  475. Clifton Harmon says

    Hi Mike………….I know my name won’t be drawn but I don’t like missing the chance of bragging on you for all you have already taught me concerning on taking twigs and getting roots started on them.
    Back in the summer I tried the trial for a month, lil did I know that once you sign up for the trial, you actually are signing for the whole thing. but I called and talked to your son and let me out of it. ohhh how I wish I could afford the membership but being on Social Security I just can’t afford it. But while on the trial basis I bought 25 (what you call sticks) sticks, I wanted to see if I could get them thru the mail and actually get them to root-guess what? They did root! My 87 years old mom helped me do it! She too was amazed! Thank you again……….hope you & your family have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS & a safe & fun filled NEW YEAR………………GOD BLESS

  476. Vinny says

    Hey Mike,

    I am just starting out and looking forward to developing my farm for a little profit 🙂 Thanks for all the great information and have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

  479. Jim Eddins says

    Mike
    Thanks for your website. I have learned a tremendous amount of information and I have put a lot of this new information to work!

  480. LILLIAN HUNTER says

    Merry Christmas to you and family from Georgia. I have been enjoying your posting’s for a long time. So many great ideas but to little time……when I retire though… Thank you for sharing your expertise.

  481. Ben Allen says

    Thanks Mike for all the information that you share and have shared over time. I have enjoyed reading it and using all that I can. again thanks, and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

  482. Carol Whiting says

    Mike I love your emails always something new to try . The donkey pic are great. Enter me in the contest. Thank you

  483. Mitch says

    Mike–I’m spending more and more time soaking in your valuable knowledge. Thank you, so much!

    Mitch in Missouri

  484. Barbara Windsor says

    I’ve enjoyed your articles and products for years now. You are truly genuine. If I ever get a chance to come to one of your gatherings I want to bray with your donkey.

    Thanks for all that you do. Seasons best to you and your family.

  485. carrie says

    Merry Christmas from south florida where I am constantly clipping trees and shrubs to hold back the ever encroaching jungle.

  486. Lady Rose says

    I have enjoyed your posts as well as the donkeys. Close to retirement and I get inspired every time I read your e-mails. I hope to start my yard nursery soon.

  487. Marcia says

    Last year I didn’t plant my vegetable garden. I really want to plant one this year. Thanks for the tips and inspiration!

  490. Cheri says

    Your videos on rooting cuttings are a real time and money saver. Grapes are one of my favorite plants to grow (they are only second to basil), but they are expensive to buy at the store. You have inspired me to grow plants from cuttings and seeds. Your videos have done wonders in my gardening skills!! Thank you.

  491. Lisa the Happy Gardner says

    I just love reading your stories on *How To* do just about anything in the Garden, all your trick of the trade for a successful plantings. I have saved all your stories to my computer so that I can go back to read them if I’m having problems with something and I need your advice.
    So, with that…….have a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to you and your whole Family. (even your Fur-Babies).

  493. Tisa Watts says

    I could use the free membership to help generate income for a horticulture program for low-income teens, ex-felons, or other needy-but-willing-to-work groups! Learn one / teach one, I always say.

  494. Tiffany says

    Hi Mike! LOVE everything you do and all the help and inspiration you provide through your website! I know it’s not easy trying to run a business and have a substantial online presence and with a website of my own, I know how time consuming it can be as well. Props to you for making the magic happen!!
    I hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year!!

  495. Debbie D M says

    I love your website. I have learned so much from you. I took the Master Gardener course in my area to learn as much as I could, as I have always loved gardening, But I have learned so much more from you, and I always return to your website or literature when I have a question. Thank you for all you put into this project of yours!! I love propagation, and making baby plants, thank you again. Wishing you and your family a joyous Merry Christmas!

  497. Wilma Yvy says

    Dear Mike:
    I’ve been registered to your newsletter for years. What I’ve learned is priceless.
    You are such a kind soul.
    I wait eagerly for your mail.
    Will love to have the special subscription.
    Thanks so much for all you offer.
    Greetings from Toronto, Canada. Have a Merry happy Holidays, you and family.
    Wilma Yvy

  498. June says

    You guys are a constant inspiration to us as we try to eek our plants to grow in the volcanic rock on our N California land! Thank you for your encouraging ideas and helps! Many times they come in the nick of time!

  502. Tim Dobrynski says

    Merry Christmas to all the BYG’rs. Really appreciate the variety of information provided. Love the BYG group.

  503. John Elias says

    Hi Mike,I would like to win your shears, I see that you use them all the time. Thanks and Merry Christmas to you, Pam, and the rest of your family. I also hope Santa brings the the donkeys a treat.

  508. Deb Mirdamadi says

    Love your donkey pics.
    Great drawing too.
    Thank you for all the inspiration and guidance you give us.
    Merry Christmas!

  509. Kathy Berry says

    I love all the things you have to tell, it seems so easy when I”m reading about it but when I go to
    execute I don”t always remember. That’s why I keep the ones that interest me so I can refer back
    to them. I’ve learned so much and would love to have my own greenhouse. Ihave the land. One step
    at a time..Maybe if I get a membership that will move me closer.. Thanks for all your time!!

  511. Tony Jarmusz says

    Mike, winning a lifetime membership would be Awesome, but learning how to propagate my mosquito plant would be an amazing Christmas gift too! Numerous attempts with no luck. 🙁

    An tips would greatly appreciated.

    Thanks,

    Tony from Tennessee

  513. Bill Johnson says

    Five years of following Mike’s site and perhaps 120 cuttings later and I have only five successful rootings. Hoping to do better in the future. The eternal optimist…

  514. Arthur Owens says

    Thanks Mike. I live in the very northeast of Louisiana and I have a very small orchard, 25 various peach trees, several plum tress, apple trees, and pear trees. I also have 25 various muscadine grape vines, which keep me pretty busy. I would love to win the shears or the membership. Thanks for “helping to keep me inspired”. Your advise and tips are great.

  516. Daniel Wyles says

    Merry Christmas to you and all the BYG family including the donkeys. It would be a blessing to have a membership. Would really start the year off right for my wife and I. Love your emails

  518. Marilyn Swanson says

    Hi Mike, really enjoy all your posts and tips. I don’t have any room to try most of them but look forward to your emails. Merry Christmas to you and family, donkeys too..

  519. gary whited says

    i want to take this time to thank you for all your great advice and to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year!

  522. Rhonda Niekamp says

    We’ve been a fan of yours for a couple of years. Unfortunately, we are very limited with what we spend monthly, keeping us from becoming permanent members. We had the privileged of obtaining a 32 x 70 foot High Tunnel this past summer, and visit our Amish neighbors for plants and seeds for growing inside this tunnel as well as growing almost 3 acres of vegetables in my husbands garden. We also have 1/4 an acre of strawberries growing yearly, and 50-ish fruit trees. I’ve learned a ton of information by visiting your wonderful emails, and thank you for the knowledge you’ve shared with us! We check online in all kinds of areas when to grow certain things, if I’ve missed your email with hints. Being a member would be so very helpful and would save time searching for information on growing/maintaining/fertilizing/and bug control, etc.

  524. Dee Pelotte says

    AHH…sitting here looking at the snow and cold…and daydreaming about Spring and green growing things!! Would absolutely love to win, but would definitely like to tell you how much I enjoy reading EVERYTHING YOU POST!!! So informative and so much fun (LOVE those donkeys!!) GOD BLESS and wishing you all A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

  525. Rita Griebel says

    Everyone need a good pair of pruning shears. I know I sure could. Have a couple already but a third one would come in handy.
    Wish you a very happy Christmas with your family

  526. Mel Weber says

    Enjoy your emails & website. I have shared it with friends & family members. Always good ideas out there for my home gardening.

  527. Montie Pitts says

    Hey, Mike and family. Thanks for the very informative newsletters and this great give-away. Count me in!

  534. Bonnie Hatfield says

    Hey Mike and Family, have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am proud to be a member of the Backyard Growers Club. It is a good thing.

  535. Sarah Casey says

    Mike
    What a useful and down to earth site. I have been inspired to try my first Penstemon cuttings this autumn. I would love to win a full membership

  536. Peter says

    I am a relatively new gardener just starting out with propagating with clippings. So happy I found your website – thanks for sharing!

  539. Sherry Hoover says

    Mike,
    The pruners shown are my most useful and my favorite. Great for deadheading and small cuts. They are perfect for small hands like mine.. Trouble is that I lose them in the garden and find them again all rusted the following spring. Ha!
    I have been getting your emails for sometime now and even though I live in a Northern California Mediteranean climate, I love them all.
    Happy holidays to your family and four-legged friends!
    Sherry

  545. Marie Wilson says

    Hi Mike,
    MERRY CHRISTMAS ???
    I am just starting out in gardening. I have always lovedone the idea of it but never had the know how. I have learned so much from you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
    This year my plan is to start a butterfly habitat area, especially for the monarchs. Knowing when and what to plant and the layout has always been a challenge for me. But I’ve done my research.
    I would love to be entered into your drawings.

  546. Jeremy P says

    I enjoy your informative posts and thanks for the great opportunity to get the shears and membership. I have been throwing around starting a nursery business for about a year now just having trouble deciding how to start. Merry Christmas.

  547. Helena Wald says

    I love reading all you write, Mike, and I’ve always thought I would eventually start growing plants for profit. I hope to stay in one place and have at least a tiny yard soon!

  553. Ivey Loftin, Jr says

    Merry Christmas Mike & your family. Still hate I had to stop me membership. I can say you are a man if your word & I thank you. I’m still rooting & trying out things you show & talk about. I’m trying for the free membership. Thanks for a chance at it. Ivey Loftin, Jr

  555. Dot Konarski says

    Love your donkeys (and all your great gardening hints!). Today we went to a Christmas Tree Farm that’s nearby and saw the 4 reindeer that they are licensed to raise! Very cool!

    Dottie K.

  558. Donald Cox says

    Starting an Aronia Berry Farm and could use some pruning shears and a membership couldn’t hurt. Merry Christmas. Don

  562. Thomas Chance says

    Hi Mike, I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your website! You have inspired me to get down and dirty! I enjoy working in my yard more than I have ever before. I”m sure you have thousands of grateful people like myself who have discovered the joy of gardening because of your sharing of your years of expertise in gardening and landscaping. We need more Americans like you! Thank you always! Tom C. R I.I.

  563. Mary Jo says

    Mike, Thanks for all you do. I really admire you. You are honest and sincere and down-to-earth…Literally! I think you have the greatest job on earth, and in your videos you look like you are really enjoying yourself. Thanks to your son and your wife and all who contribute to keeping us entertained, informed and inspired. (That includes the donkeys.)
    I have been a fan since you made the cover of OG.
    Looking forward to next year!!

  564. Karron says

    I love getting the information you share to grow great plants. It is a blessing to have someone with your knowledge being so kind to help snd share with others. Thank You!

  565. Gary Niemeyer says

    Hi and Merry Christmas.Those shars look awesome and they would look even better hanging in my
    work shed.

    Thanks

  566. Russell Dutson says

    HiMike and crew,
    I would like to be entered in your January drawings.
    Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
    Russi

  568. Kathy Doyle says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family !!
    Thank you for all the valuable information you send out to all of us !!

  572. Lynn Howdeshell says

    Please enter me into the contest. Thank you for all the help you have given us all over the years. Merry Christmas.

  573. Lana says

    Love the videos especially with your precious little donkeys! Wonderful tips and great instructions. Thanks for doing what you do.

  577. John Burger says

    Only 5 days left until I’m totally retired, at which time, I should have plenty of time to make good use of that membership. It will make a very nice Christmas gift. Thank you Mike, and Merry Christmas.

  578. Steven JapaneseMaples says

    Dear Mike, Merry Christmas to you and your family.
    Eight years ago when I discovered your site and continued receiving your helpful emails since; especially all the tips about growing JMs. Thanks to you, I am now collecting over eighty different cultivars of Japanese Maples.

    Happy Growing,

  579. Ellen Marvel says

    I love you, Mike ? Thank you for all your information to help us learn how to propagate and grow plants. It is a dream of mine to prove to my husband that there is money to be made in our plants

  583. Joe Lentner says

    Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Thanks for all your helpful information. Keep growing!

  585. suze says

    I’ve long enjoyed your program and information. I’ve finally had success rooting forsythia!!! Wok hoo!!! Thank you for all you’ve done to help educate us in gardening!

  587. Pastor Jeff lilly/diamond says

    Mike I am disabled as you know.And on a very limited budget .This would help me to live again.I am a Pastor of The great Spirit native American church. {Internet Church} but have a building in Pa.Our members don’t pay anything to join.But if they do they can make a $25 donation . We have a food pantry and help who ever needs help in a lot of different ways. Our main goal is for all to become more self eff. and live and protect Mother Earth . #1 way GARDENING and canning. we are looking to sell our home /office/parsonage and get a small farm.This way we can help more people with food.It is so hard to keep going with the little money I have.Your site is wonderful and I think would be a big plus for our Church. Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. Pastor Jeff/ Metal Hawk

  588. Roger Blair says

    Mike your the best. I get a kick out of your calm demeanor and great I have gleaned alot of info from you and I have to thank you for it all. One question I have is; How long does it take for the “sticks” to produce roots that will allow the plant to be transplanted into pots? I will be propagating peach, pear, apple and other dwarf trees I have in my yard. Thanks for everything you tell us…

  589. Bernice Hillman says

    Mike, Can I do Grape cuttings with the Burrito style, just like the Roses? Would it work? Then place out in the Spring.

  592. Delores Nelson says

    Mike you inspire so many people. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year!

  593. Jack Coffman says

    Merry Christmas Mike and your family! Enjoy reading your articles! Thanks for all you do,have a happy New Year!

  595. Tonya Adams says

    Mike,
    Receiving you emails help me believe that one day I may actually be a successful gardener instead of a “groupie” to the many gardeners I so admire.

  600. Larry Brymer says

    I love watching vegetables and flowers grow. The vegetables are great and make people feel good. The flowers brighten people’s day. This way it will be fun and healthy.

  602. Carole Miernik says

    I have enjoyed getting your videos so much and have learned a lot from you. Thanks for all that you do.

  604. Donna Ulrich says

    Hi Mike,
    I love your emails, videos, and many tips for growing, pruning, and anything else needed to know about gardening! I would love the pruning shears! And an a years free membership, well, I could only be so lucky!
    Merry Christmas from our family to your family

  605. Ruthi Sauer says

    Have a Merry Christmas and Happy, Happy New Year Mike! Thanks for all the tips and news during the year!

  606. Nancy C. Stewart says

    Mike, I very much enjoy your newsletter emails, Informative & entertaining, can’t beat that combo! Have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year…

  608. Jan Blough says

    Mike: Can’t pass up the opportunity to wish you and your’ a very “Merry Christmas” and to say, “God bless us, every one!” I could really use a new pair of pruners AND the free membership. Hope you draw my name!

  609. Bronwyn v says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family.
    I enjoy reading all your posts and emails, We live on the other side of the world so our seasons are opposite but it gives me lots of time to plan what cuttings etc I can take several months in advance.

  611. Jim Sipes says

    Mike may you and your family have a Merry Christmas. I have enjoyed your emails with your information.

  614. Matt Webb says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family. Looking forward to the new year with all the great ideas and information you have been providing. You are worth your weight in gold. May
    god richly bless you in the coming year a all your members

  615. Donna Tatsch says

    Thanks for your continued passion and all the sharing you do. Love your emails and I still enjoy the wheel barrow I bought upon your recommendation. Best and longest lasting I have ever had,

  616. Donna Tatsch says

    I have enjoyed your email for many years now. I really appreciate your passion and sharing. Thanks for continuing the good work.

  617. Anna Denk says

    Thank you for all the great info and tips you give to us!
    Merry Christmas to you and your family.

  618. David Plohr says

    Mike, hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a very Blessed New Year.
    Thanks for all the wonderful advice.

  619. Ann says

    Mike, Your contests are always fun-your information is always inspiring-and your website is just a joy. All of the best to you folks in the new year!

  620. Anthony Newson says

    Hey Mike

    Wishing you and your family many growing seasons.
    And by the way. I’m residing in Texas and take heed to your growing methods. You should host a seminar here about your proven methods to gardening. Will you?

  621. Deana says

    Thank you for all the down to earth information you share. You write in a way that is easy to understand and very entertaining.
    I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday!

  625. Sam Smadar Mort says

    Hi Mike
    Happy holidays to you
    and you extended family (include the donkeys)
    Sam
    San Antonio, TX

  627. Smadar (sam) mort says

    Hi Mike,
    I love your posts
    Happy Holiday to you and your extended family (include the donkeys)
    Sam

  629. joseph m.bo says

    Mike,
    I don;t know it you got my first msg.; it came back error.
    Again – Enjoy all your articles; very helpful; on the rose bud one
    Keep them coming
    Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year

  630. Janice says

    Gardner Mike,
    I’ve enjoyed and learned from your website for years now, and I want to thank you for the unlimited information and tips you’ve shared with your readers! I’ve been rooting cuttings and landscaping like crazy these past few years because it’s my therapy from working in a financial office all day. So now I’m gearing up for a lifestyle change, give up the corporate BS and focus on selling cuttings, established containers and hosting a stand at the farmers market. Hopeful and scary, but hey – we need to live our dreams. Please enter me in your contest and merry Christmas to you, your family, and your magnificent donkeys!
    Cheers,
    Janice

  631. Emily Pennington says

    Mike, thank you for your informative emails. Please enter me in your give-away. I would love to win one of your pruning shears!

  632. Jim says

    Mike,
    I wish you and all your ‘followers’ a very merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous, and sucessful New Year!

  635. Judy Arythur says

    I have gained so much information from your knowlege on such a wide variety of plants

    Thanks and Merry Christmas

  636. Sue Carpenter says

    Please enter me for a free pair of pruning shears and a gardening membership with this post. Thanks and appreciate all you do for the rest of us poor gardeners.

  639. Ray Morro says

    Mike thanks for your ongoing information. I love , well lets call it farming. I have been soaking up all your info and only got started in a small way by giving away herb plants. But I have promised myself to get bigger this coming spring.

  640. Jimmy Hoppen says

    Just bought my business license – “Jimmy’s Backyard Nursery”. Original, don’t you think?

    Haven’t seen any one in the member’s area from Mississippi, so that name won’t have any competition, in my neck of the woods.

    My plan is to build a propagation table 30″ high X 48″ wide X 16′ long and use 5 1/2 x 12 x 22 wood propagation trays (filled with sand) that will hold 200 cuttings – total – 30 @200 = 6,000. With your misting system, I hope to successfully, root two rounds per year, pot, plant in grow out beds or sell as RCS at least 8,000 per year ( allowing for 1/3 failure before making it to market as premium plants). When this vision materializes I will send you some photos – I am inspired ! ! ! Thanks to you.

    Merry Christmas to ALL and a prosperous growing New Year.

  641. Kat says

    There are many of us who are motivated and so am I! I have been wanting to be a member for years but just can’t find the funds to do so.

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

  642. Carol Thomas says

    Hi, you guys….zone 8 here in Texas….I am OCD about growing plants, shrubs, etc. Of course, none of us could grow anything if God did not intervene…..I have been working my acre for about 38 yrs……toiling….hard work….not enough tools or money….I just talked to God and told him if He would help me build something out of nothing I would give him all the Glory…….and, of course…..all we have to do is ask Him…..I have a gorgeous place here……I have propagated many things over those 38 yrs. to see wonderful, blooming plants later…..just give your plants, trees and shrubs LOVE…..they are all living things as we are, and will respond to your positive comments and love just as we do. Thank you, Mike, for your site……it is so good to read just down to earth…regular kind of “stuff”……in gardening….I love gardening!!!! It fills my soul……

  645. Richard Keiter says

    I want to enter your giveaway contest. I am already a lifetime member of the private group. Thank you Richard

  646. Robin Platt says

    I am also a miniature donkey lover, in fact I raise them. My plants love donkey manure so it’s a good excuse to have some just to have a constant supply. I sure could use new pruning shears, as mine are old and I’m constantly losing track of them!

  647. Linda Drew says

    Hi Mike, you have encouraged me to take advantage of the plants I already had at the house when we bought it…hostas and rose of Sharon. I have sold and gave away many of both. It’s a rewarding hobby & I continue to learn from the information you share and hope to expand this coming year since we have quite a bit of yard to work with. Thanks so much for sharing! Merry Christmas to you & yours & blessings on your New Year!

  648. Jenny Meade says

    Hi Mike,
    Love reading all your gardening hints and info. You make it all sound so easy and your passion for gardening really shines in your posts. I have learned so much from you and the tips you have shared. Thanks! Merry Christmas to you and your family!

  649. Gerry Saint Laurent says

    Mike: I started following your blogs and emails since you first talked about your dad’s Tomatoes bumper crops and since then its been a pleasant journey with all the information Ive d gleaned from your writings.
    Merry Christmas and a great New Year. All the best.
    Gerry Saint Laurent

  650. Adam says

    Thank you for this great opportunity Mike. It’s blue skies and white ground here in Mn but I’m already planning for the spring!

  656. Thomas says

    Hey there!

    Will a cutting from a Red Japanese Maple make a tree? I have heard that some tree branches will only know how to be a branch, rather than come up with an apical meristem to truly become a tree.

    Keep on Plantin’!

  657. Paul says

    I was laid off from my job of 37 + years in December of 2015. All winter and spring I kept looking for a similar job. I started seeds in the early spring in my house for a vegetable garden. The garden was a success. Our fall weather lasted up to about Thanksgiving when it turned to winter almost over night. So I was still trimming flowers and bushes in the yard. My pair of pruning shears was stolen when I left them outside on my deck one night. One night, that’s right.
    Merry Christmas to Mike and his family!! And a Happy New Year!!

  660. Barbara Billingsley says

    I always look forward to your informative and fun emails – please put me in your drawing!

    Thank You

  661. kari says

    have a wonderful Christmas & new year. I am hoping that I am commenting in the right spot to enter to win. I need new shears badly lol. thank you.

  662. Lew Mullen says

    Tanks you for your ideas and encouragement. It seems easier now to keep my plants alive.
    I have a couple of dozen, various cuttings cuttings under plastic now; can’t wait to see the buds in the spring.

  663. Phil Eroh says

    Merry Christmas, Mike, family and friends
    I also have miniature donkeys, Bobby and Cocoa.
    Phil

  665. Deb Olson says

    Hi Mike
    I have no pruning shears. I’ve been using aviation snips but I think these pruning shears would work fantastic!
    I really enjoy all your stories and great advice!
    Happy New Year!

    Deb O

  667. Wendy Lowry says

    Merry Christmas Mike to you and your family. I enjoy your postings throughout the year and am always learning from you. Many Thanks!

  668. Suzanne Chambers says

    Hi Mike,

    Wishing you and your family a delightful Christmas and a New Year full of comfort and joy!
    Thank you for all the wonderful information and advice about gardening.

  670. Tammy Taggart says

    I am always so encouraged by your descriptions of what to do when – it all seems so possible!

  671. Jodi says

    My pruning shears were old with a leather holder too. The spring popped out and nothing I’ve put in has worked as well… no figuring. Been wanting to join your membership site for a long time. Your published material changed my life. Please pick me!!! 🙂

  674. Nancy Weaver says

    Thanks for all the free info you share. I have many of your books . Nice gifrs you are prizes you are giving away, as well. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!!

  678. Rick Harris says

    Merry Christmas to Mike and everyone!
    I love the Corona Shears I got this summer from Mike’s recommendation so would be happy to have another pair, but I’m really hoping to win the membership.
    Thanks for all the great information and products you share.

  679. Wes Meyerholtz says

    First off Happy Holidays to you and your family. You’ve given some great advice. I’d certainly like a chance at the gardening shears, even though out of a couple I have there is only one I always use. And of course a chance for a membership. That would be a valuable prize. And this so-so gardner could use all the extra help I can get.

  680. Bea Stump says

    I AM 78 YEARS OLD AND STILL WORKING. I HAVE BEEN READING ALL OF YOUR ARTICLES AND AM PLANNING ON FOLLOWING YOUR ADVICE AND BEING ABLE TO START OUT PART TIME WITH THE CUTTINGS AND RESALES, HOPING TO EVENTUALLY HAVE A FULL TIME BUSINESS

  681. Harry Stuimer says

    Mike, I’ve enjoyed reading your informative articles for many years. Always amazed at the results you achieve.

  685. Debra Mersnick says

    I would love to have my name entered into the drawings for the shears and the membership!!! Thank you Mike for all the information and videos. The donkeys are always cute too.

  686. Cathy Deschu says

    Would love to have an entry for the highly recommended pruning shears to replace my cheap ones.
    Merry Christmas to you and all your family.
    I love reading your tips and info and videos, etc! Thank you so very much!

  687. Janet Brodeur says

    Hi Mike,
    I have been propagating plants for 30 years and selling perennials and small shrubs for about the last 5 years. I definitely do not do this on the same large scale that you do but, with more time and energy, I plan to try to expand. What I really wanted to tell you is that, even though I think that I am quite good at it, I have learned some things from you that have surprised me. Thank you for your videos because I want to continue to learn and be inspired.

    Merry Christmas to you and your family.

  690. Linda L Lee says

    Thanks Mike for all the awesome information you give me. Can’t get enough gardening. I Love plants.

  695. Nuella Luther says

    Merry Christmas, Mike thanks for your support, I can’t wait till spring to see if all my efforts pays off. This hobby has given me so much joy!

  696. Gloria Gallardy says

    Thank you for all of your gifts of knowledge throughout the year! Have yourself and your family the most wonderful Christmas of all!!

  697. Patricia and Timothy Berrier says

    Everyone should enter the drawing for a free membership to Mike’s Private Members Area. It is without any doubt whatsoever, THE BEST money that we have ever spent. It is worth more than my college education, and I do not exaggerate in the least.

    Mike doesn’t do this very often, so get in on the drawing. Even if you do not win, you should highly consider the test run for $7.00 for 30 days. I guarantee you that you will be astounded at what Mike offers us as members.

    Do yourself a favor and join in the drawing. Then join, if necessary, and experience an education that will last you a lifetime.

    Mike, If you draw our name please give the pruners to someone on the board in need.

    Thanks
    Tim and Cookie

  700. Nancy Savusa says

    I love getting your newsletter on all the different things to take care of in the yard. Very informative. Thanks Mike and have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. =)

  702. Yvonne Zadonia says

    Enjoy your emails so much. I have learned a lot of ideas from you. Especially enjoyed the pics of your backyard. Wish I had one like it. I feel exhausted thinking of all the work you do to make it so lovely and productive.
    Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
    Yvonne

  703. John w Harris says

    Mike, may you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a very very Happy New year.
    Keep growing and teaching. Thank you very much. John Harris.

  704. Julie Fike says

    Hey Mike, you need to pick me I really want a membership but cant seem to be able to get if. So pick me
    Julie

  705. Roberta DeFord says

    Thanks for all I’ve learned from you, Mike. Have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!!

  709. Diana Brown says

    I love getting your gardening tips in my email every week! Thank you for all the great info!

  712. Barbara says

    The pruning shears would be a great addition to my gardening tools. Also, a membership would be great. Have a blessed Christmas and New Yea;r.

  713. Nancy Duffy says

    Mike, maybe you have an idea of how a Vermont resident can have a cold storage area for dahlias without a space within the house. They’ll freeze in my barn and in my garage.

    Merry Christmas to you and yours!

  714. Randy Paul says

    Hey Mike I am a life time member already, one of the better investments I have made! The membership and the family within the group is PRICELESS. I could always use a new shears
    Merry Christmas to all!

  715. Monique says

    Mike, you are famous round these parts for the work you do. Growing perennials is important work that everyone should have their hands in anyway. AND…we all wish that we lived next door! Thanks for being a good motivated caring teacher….who’s also passionate about growing. You got us to get into the habit of posting….thank you! I won already! Now I know the best shears to use!

  716. Angelica says

    Thanks, Mike, for all the information and advice you provide throughout the year(s). Extra thanks for this opportunity to win great prizes. May you (& family) enjoy a Merry Christmas and a flourishing new year. 🙂

    Peace on Earth Goodwill to All!

  717. Judy and Dan Berge says

    Hey, Mike, I really appreciate ;your website and all of its information. We are in our 60s and 70s looking to move out of the Rocky Mtns. to a lake lot in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Still too many projects to compete before selling. Have been fighting pocket gophers for two years now. Tried traps which didn’t work out, and have used lots of containers of gopher bait placed about two feet down their tunnels. Still have the buggers. So much for having over 100 asparagus plants and over 40 Siberian elm trees. There are what I call gopher condos outside the fence. Have fed bait to them, also. My garden area looks like a minefield. I am hoping I do not have this problem when we move. Could use a new pair of pruning shears, too. Mine get dull way too often. Merry Christmas to you and your family, got to go feed the fire again, it is about 30 deg. and snowing.

  719. Sandy Holmes says

    Mike, As always you make me smile with your Critter pics too! Finnegan, Fergus and Ally complete the family! Thanks for sharing, Sandy

  720. Barbara Ramah says

    Merry Christmas Mike to you and your family. ( and the donkeys). You inspire a lot of people!!! Keep up the good work .

  721. sarah says

    Mike, what u do is my dream life. thk u for all the valuable information u have shared. haha and it made my day to see the donkey pic haha because I have always wanted a donkey too!!
    happy holidays thx again!

  723. Denise Gaitan says

    HO! HO! HO! Mike
    Wishing you and your family a Very Merry Christmas. Those shears would be a nice gift too have.

  724. Cherie says

    Thank you, Mike, for all your money making info and for your giveaways. You truly love what you do and want others to have that same joy in gardening. I have learned a lot through the years from you and still I learn new things from your posts. Haven’t had the extra money for membership but am hoping this year will be the year. Keep up the good work!

  726. Amanda edgeworth says

    Merry Christmas and happy new year!! I think it’s great that you share your love of gardening and knowledge with us all. 🙂

  729. Nicole says

    Hey Mike! I have enjoyed your website and look forward to your emails.. This year I sold my cafe and moved. I’ve decided that plants will be my next venture. I’m a serial entrepreneur! Cooking and
    Gardening are my two gifts. Thank you for your knowledge. Love the donkeys and the overalls! You keep it real. Please enter me!!

  731. Karen Owen says

    Even though I haven’t taken the plunge yet to be in the rooted cuttings business, I always enjoy your newsletters and that looks like a great pair of shears!

    Thanks for all the good information you share!

  732. mary Fedderson says

    I love “waste not, want not” with all my “free cuttings”
    I love it all. Thanks for all you do for us “farmers”

  734. June Sukolics says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family, Mike!

    I love gardening and appreciate all the info on your website!

  735. Mike Yocum says

    Mike, Thanks for sharing your ideas and expertise in 2016. Best to you and yours for the holidays and throughout the new year..

  737. Linda Miracle Yates says

    I would really enjoy new pruning shears. I have used mine to death. Merry Christmas and Happy New year

  741. Gail Schwartz says

    Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family.
    Thank you for all of the wonderful information.

  742. Elsie W. says

    Merry Christmas to you and your family, including the donkeys! I’m not growing for profit, but I love sharing my plants. You inspire and educate me, Mike! Just rooted an oak-leaf hydrangea for a friend, who was delighted.

  743. Candace Gosselin says

    Hi Mike,
    I love your site and I get your all your helpful emails. Would love to have a really big garden but Hubby does not share my love of planting and growing things even though he has a fairly nice little tractor. Maybe it should be mine 😉
    Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
    Kisses & Hugs for Finnegan and Fergus – would love some mini donkeys of my own 🙂

  745. Thielsen says

    Mike you should post more videos! We all miss you showing us around your plant farm and giving us quick tips, seems like ages since your last video.

  755. Betty Bail.ey says

    Thank you very much, for all the Free information! I love watching new plants grow, taking cuttings, trying grafting, and reading your columns. Have a great Christmas!

  757. Mary W. says

    Mike — I love reading your articles and getting great ideas. You are truly wonderful and very “down to earth” — pun intended!

    Happy Holidays from Maryland.

  758. Kathy McCartney says

    This past August/September we looked for your place. From Texas just traveling; Could not
    find the street so we stopped at the pub on Main street for a break. The friendly people in there told us the street sign were not yet updated. The pub friends had good things to say about you and your backyard business. Ok, with their directions we still could not find your location so we just kept
    traveling through backroads and finally found a main highway and started toward Texas. A four
    months trip and now much to still do in the yard. I love to read your website. May you and all of
    yours have a Merry Christmas and a God Blessed New Year. Oh 2017 … gosh how life flies by.

  761. Brett Jeross says

    Happy Holidays to you and your family! I enjoy your posts and tips. Can’t wait for the warmer weather.

  762. Dale Jordan says

    Mike – love your site full of great info. As a Master Gardener I appreciate the straight forward great instructions you provide.

  766. noele wimmer says

    merry Christmas Mike to you and your whole family ,especially those two wonderful donkeys.it makes me so happy when i see them “giving you a hug” i sure whish i had found your web sight when we lived in north ridgeville ohio then i could have come to the nursery and maby gotten a hug from them. well again Merry Cristmas ,and a blessed new year to the whole crew!!!!! noele wimmer

  768. Kathy McCartney says

    Wow! thought I would never get to the comment section. From Texas we tried to find your place this past August but could not locate your nursery. So we stopped at the Hub on main street and had a drink with the friendly people. They told us about the street signs being outdated and we still could
    not find your place. The people had good things to say about your business. and I really like reading your website. Have a Merry Christmas and God Bless you in the New Year. Gee already 2017 life
    goes flying by.

  770. noele wimmer says

    Merry Christmas Mike and to your whole family too. but especially to those two deliteful donkeys i get such a happy feeling when i see them “giving you a hug” !!!! agaiin merry Christmas and a very blessed new year noele wimmer

  771. Amy says

    My winter project will be the wrap around planter. I cannot wait to get back into growing plants. Thank you and Merry Christmas.

  775. Lisa Northcutt says

    Thank you for your generous give aways! I would love either prize! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
    Lisa

  776. Rose Fadness says

    Thank you for all the informative information you share with us. Please consider me for the shears or the membership.

  777. ..Kent Staff member says

    Merry Christmas To Mike and family and to all our members!
    I was out shopping and noticed someone selling rosemary Christmas trees. They had three rosemary plants in a 8 inch decorated pot trimmed like Christmas trees.
    They looked great. I wondered if this is something worthwhile to try. What kind of rosemary, cutting starts or seeds.

  778. Cathy M. says

    Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year to you and your family. I enjoy reading your stories and have learned so much. Thank you!

  779. Gladys Hall says

    Hi Mike,

    What do you mean when you said rhododendrons $2.50 each way? What do you sell rhody liners for? I’m still experimenting with my cuttings.

    Merry Christmas

  780. Lonnie Hillis says

    I love gardening and making new plants for my yard from cuttings. I have done it for years. I enjoy your articles as it helps me with new plants to take cuttings . I have a lot of plants in my landscape that came from your advise. THANKS!!!!!!

  782. Bill York says

    The plants I have planted so far will be needing pruning shears soon. They need new shears because my old one no longer makes clean cuts. You can save them from pain by pulling my name out of the hat for those new pruning shears..

    Merry Christmas

  783. Marty Arnold says

    Hi Mike, I love your site, I love to garden and when I can’t actually be out digging in the dirt, I’m online reading & watching videos about digging in the dirt! 🙂 over the years I’ve been to many sites and yours is by far the most informative. Thank you for all that you do and Merry Christmas!

  789. Jim Christensen says

    Thank you Mike and all of your family for the great info through out the year.

    MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU!

  791. Greg Cutrone says

    Mike,

    Thank you so much for all your information you provide! You have been a big help and I’ve learned a ton!

  793. Mary Henderson says

    Mike, You bless us with your plant insight and wisdom all year. Thanks to you I have learned a lot through the years. Merry Christmas to you and yours and Happy gardening in 2017. May your Christmas be focused on the true meaning of this special season.

  794. Pauline says

    Merry Christmas to all of my fellow Gardeners!! May the Light of Christ Shine brightly on your family.

  803. Peggy says

    .Would love a new pair of pruning shears. Love reading all your articles. I learned about plants from my grandfather, he had a nursery many years ago when I was a child. He is the reason I am always collecting seeds and growing flowers for my enjoyment Merry Christmas.

  804. bobbi says

    thank you for the opportunity again for the drawing. Merry Christmas to you and your family and to everyone.

  805. Freddy rendon says

    Very good information I am currently working on growing my herb and vegetable farm and looking into expanding into the plant farm

  806. sherrie wilder says

    I am so glad that I stumbled upon your YouTube Videos one day while trying to learn about plant propagation….My Granny was an expert at it and she wanted to show me so many times but I was young and stupid then and now she’s passed away and I’m older and I want to know….I want tons of plants in my yard just like she had….Roses were her speciality….She rooted some plants for me right before she passed away and I still have them growing in my yard today……. I think you are awesome and I sincerely hope that I can learn to do this.

  807. Bryan says

    Mike thanks for all the information you share
    Hoping to use this knowledge much more into my retirement years
    Love the Donkey and every time I see yours I miss the one I had years back.

  808. Emily Mc Grath says

    we have so much clay and we have put black dirt in the yard but we also have water problems as we live at the end of the road. Your information has help me but at my age I have to back off so I just do certain areas like edge of my property. You information on planting as been very helpful. Thank you, Have a merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

  809. RobertNoble says

    I love falling you blog wood love a member ship I believe in what your doing lve benn on some of the thing that you teach
    Also love the shears they are one of the best but it keeping where when you need them

  811. Pat says

    What an informative website! I love this place and pruning shears would remind me every time I use them how great it is!

  812. terry says

    Merry Christmas to all. Hope this New Year is better than last year. Lost so many trees due to no rain here & my well went dry when I needed it the most, my mom at 83 is not doing well so a lot of traveling to visit her along with her hospital visit.
    May the Lord be with all of you this holiday season & the coming year.
    God Bless you this& yours.
    Terry @ happy hill farm & my 5 mares

  814. Fred T Ennenga says

    Christmas Greetings!

    I pray you and all of your family have a blessed Christmas Mike. I do look forward to being very active in your world in 2017. Take care my friend!

  815. Diane says

    I would love a pair of Corona pruners they are great pruners. I used them when I worked at a couple nurseries in Ohio. I had a pair but lost them. I have been following you for about 20 yrs I think and would love a membership.

  817. CMoore says

    Hi Mike, Love your tips, videos and donkeys. Would love to be entered and win either pruning shears or the membership would be fantastic. Merry Christmas to You and Yours! CMoore

  818. frank rubenstein says

    mike, i have 2 pixie grape plants. how can i winter them over in the basement, water and light? thank you and have a great holiday. frank

  819. Michael Averill says

    I have been a fan of you and your postings for years. Someday going to get the nerve to take the big step. Thank you for all your articles and advice. I truly value them.

  822. Michael Gerber says

    Mr. Mike,
    Just wanted you to know, we are planning to use your knowledge and techniques to change our lives! Thank you for doing what you do!

  823. dobdavid says

    If you would please add me to the list. Hope you and yours have a Merry Christmas Mike and thanks for all you do!!!

  824. Laurel El-Khatib says

    I have learned so much from the information you have provided and although my health prevents me from taking full advantage of all the knowledge. Just being able to keep gardening has added so much satisfaction to my life. Thank you Mike!

  825. Joy T Miller says

    Mike, Hi!! Merry Christmas to you all!
    First, I live in central Alabama. My tomato plant grew in a pot this year where I had planted a flower in compost, it grew bigger & bigger & finally this fall it grew flowers. I have gotten lots of tomatoes off it! Winter finally came to our area so, I put my plant in the garage. It’s still producing tomatoes. I hope this is an incentive for someone else to try something new..

  826. Leone Quigley says

    I enjoy your backyard nursery. It is always full of helpful gardening and planting tips. Keep up the good work. Merry Christmas

  828. Richard Nelson says

    Greetings Mike,

    Thank you for the opportunity to enter the drawing.

    Merry Christmas to you and the backyard growers.

  829. Debbie Bond says

    I look forward to your emails, they are so informative. I live in Saskatchewan,Canada so some tips don’t apply here .Our conditions are very different than yours.I would love to win the prises you offered.

  834. Bea Taylor says

    Hi Mike, Our little farm is growing and we are so encouraged by your posts and videos. Thank you and have a very Merry Christmas!

  836. Nancy IAK says

    Dear Mike,

    I appreciate being on your membership list and receiving your emails for the past few years, because I’ve learned such a lot. Thanks for sharing what you’ve learned. I’ve got the propagation box ready for the cuttings I am planning to make soon. Thanks for making gardening so much fun!

    Merry Christmas and happy new year to you and yours!

    Best,
    Nancy

  837. Kristen says

    Hi Mike.

    I always enjoy your posts and your links to more of your posts.
    Thanks a bunch for having a holiday giveaway. I’d like to enter both, and would be excited to win 🙂
    Hope you and your family have a great Christmas & New Year’s.
    Stay Warm
    Kristen

  844. Diane Rogers says

    Thank you for this chance, it’s fun even for those that don’t win :). I also didn’t know cuttings could be started this time of year so I’m going to try and start that right away. I’ll first read up on your recommend posting about it. I appreciate you and your family Mike. Merry Christmas and God’s Blessings to you and yours

  846. Susan Treanor says

    Mike, Season greetings to you and yours and as usual great information and thanks for the chance to win such great gifts. would love to have any of them.

  847. Mark B says

    I’m hoping I win a membership or shears. I have rooted wildlife shrub cuttings for elderberry and black chokeberry . Planning on doing redosier dogwood and trying spruce next. Mike’s tips and videos are very helpful and informative.

  848. Vicki Pulford says

    Love your site and Finnegan too. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours.

  849. Norma Law says

    Hey Mike. Am interested in information on growing in the challenging climate of central New Mexico. I have an acre of land that I wld love to start a small business on. Free membership wld be a wonderful asset to my endeavor. Thanks for the opportunity!

  850. Bob Hambrick says

    Merry CHRISTmas and a Growing Joyful New Year. Day after membership drawing I have surgery but I’ll still enjoy the benefits of membership. It hasn’t stopped me before, it won’t stop me now.

  851. Cathy Hansen says

    Happy Holidays to you and yours! Not much of a grower YET, but enjoy reading the wealth of free information you provide in your emails.

  852. Odene Simpson says

    Hi Mike,
    I have been getting your emails for a few years now and I love them. I love your videos, too. I use many of your tricks and techniques to make my yard more beautiful and to propagate gifts for friends.
    Thank you for that.
    I would like to enter the drawing for the free membership. I have always wanted to join, but money has always been an issue.
    Thanks for the opportunity!!
    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

  853. Vicki Pulford says

    Love it when I get your emails about everything to do with plantings and love Finnegan. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours.

  855. Ellen McCrindle says

    One can never have too many pruning shears! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Love the donkey pics.

  858. Jeanne Werth says

    Dear Mike,

    Thank you for sharing so much information with all of your viewers!

    I feel like you read my mind! I have questions and in a few days you post something that addresses those questions!

    God bless you in the new year!

    Jeanne

  859. Stephen Blajian says

    Just wanted to say Thank You.
    You sent me some free Japanese Maple seeds last year here in Jacksonville Fl and some of them came up and are growing.
    Thanks again.

  861. Linda DeLano says

    Hi Mike,
    I would love to be entered in your contest for pruning shears and membership.

    Thank you for all the information and tips you provide and I love the Donkeys.

  862. Thomas Perez says

    Have enjoyed Mike’s website for many years now because of Mike’s expertise and all those that share their knowledge I have become a better backyard gardener thank you Mike you and all your friends have helped me be the guy in the neighborhood that people come to for help it’s because of you thank you again no

  864. Mandy Mclendon says

    Mikes member’s only site is fantastic. I joined about one year ago. I have 4 kids and received a medical diagnosis that stopped my life as a massage therapist and fitness instructor dead in its tracks. I studied and studied under Mikes University and last year decided to join the members only panel and begin bringing in income once more instead of accepting disability. Until, my oldest son got into a small amount of trouble that completely drained our banking accounts..Since then The Mcgroerty Family has generously choosen to placed my account on hold instead of just causing me to loose my investment. I’m so greatful for the hard diligent work you guys have put in to lead families and ambitious minded gardeners toward success. Merry Christmas Mcgroerty Family and thank you for all you do.
    Mandy McLendon
    McClark Family Farms

  865. Anya Paradiso says

    I seem to be too absorbed with health problems last couple years, but I still read your posts and hope to get back to gardening soon. Thanks for your inspiration.

  869. Sheila Blevins Johnson says

    Oh what a Christmas/New Year’s gift either the pruning shears, as my are so old I can’t get sharpened or membership as I enjoy your posts sooooo much! Wishing you and your family a truly wonderful Christmas and a New Year Blessed with health and happiness!!! Thanks!

  870. Barbara says

    I have enjoyed reading the comments. Would like to get some seeds for growing the donkeys…. didn’t see them listed. 😀
    Merry Christmas to you and your whole family! May you be blessed more in the new year.

  872. Chuck M says

    I put several sticks in the ground a couple years ago and have one 3 foot tall tree now. I probably didn’t take the cuttings at the right time but I did it without having read much of your site yet. I may try many more soon since the temperature will be back into the double digits.

  874. Ray says

    Merry Christmas to all and to 2 a pair of shears and 1 a free membership.

    You should do the 12 days of Christmas with a give away each day next year.
    First could be 12 rooted cuttings, then 11 pampered chickens, and so forth and so on.

    Would be tons of fun for everyone.

    Merry Christmas to all and to all a Its a Wonderful Life.

  875. Nina Kirkland says

    Been following you and getting your emails for a long time, even had a small partial membership at one time. Wishing you and your family continued health and success in the new year. Wishing I win one of your prizes!

  877. Susan says

    May your Christmas bring you and your family many Blessings

    Please help this poor college student.

  879. Anonymous says

    Merry Christmas Mike!…Thanks to your tips, I now have a nice variety of plants and trees to share and a few left over to sale.

    Judy P

  880. Jocelyn Hart says

    Mike,

    I wish you and yours a very merry Christmas and the best of new years. Thanks so much for all the helpful articles and all the wonderful pictures. That donkey is just too cute.

    J

  883. Christine Thompson says

    Merry Christmas, to you and your Family… I would love to be a permanent member, and enjoy doing what I love to do.

  886. Suellen Wilder says

    Hi, I would love to win one of your items your giving away.

    Also, I would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.

  887. Robert David says

    Mike, just would like to say thank you so much for providing this resource. I’ve learned so much from your emails and website. Thanks and have a great Holiday and Nee Year!

  888. Carol says

    Mike, you have such a ‘down to earth’ (pun definitely intended) way with words! I hope I will be able to use some of your help and hints in Spain!

  890. Mike says

    Mike,
    Who couldn’t use a nice new pair of pruning shears?
    More importantly however, I’d like to take a moment to say Thank you. Thank you for being the kind and caring person you are. You have helped, guided and educated so many of us in our attempts of beautifying our surroundings with beautiful plants and trees. Your knowledge is astounding.and you are to be commended!

    Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year!

  891. Ann Marie says

    Mike, I am so sorry to hear about your Ally’s passing. She has many beloved dogs to romp in pet heaven with, including our Phineas and Mattie.
    I enjoy your great, down to earth, gardening tips! Those pruning shears would be a great addition to our gardening tools, and the membership? Wow!! That would be amazing!
    May you and your people and donkey family have a truly beautiful Christmas and New Year!

  892. Steve McCue says

    Hi Mike, you have a great thing going here, keep it up! I appreciate all of the tips and advice,
    Merry Christmas and
    Happy New Year to you and your family!
    Keep doing what you are doing, thank you

  894. Marie Darmanin says

    Merry Christmas Mike!
    Wishing you and yours a peaceful Christmas and a fantastic New Year!
    Would love to win as I need to get started doing something now that I’m retired.
    God Bless!
    Marie

  899. Mary Jo Von Ewegen says

    Hey Mike,

    Would love to have a pair of those pruning shears, or even better, a membership!

    Keep up the good work! Those donkeys have it made!

  901. Derek Fisher says

    I have purchased read and watched you program and I really really need this! I’m sick of my job and this will give me the push I need to get my home business started.

    Thank you so much!
    Derek

  904. Frank Mitchell says

    I’ve learned a lot reading your posts and hope to learn more.
    Good luck with your plants in the New Year!
    Frank

  907. Paula Bridges Monette says

    Hi Mike and family

    I am already a member of the Backyard growers group and I love the plants that I have bought they are beautiful. I would love a pair of the pruning shears since I have never had a nice pair, mine come from the dollar store.

    Have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
    Thanks Paula

  908. Karen Wallace says

    Id just like to say that I’ve loved all the great tips you’ve shared over the years. Great job Mike!

  910. Ralph says

    I like what you do, your helpful insight on plants, and all the training that I get from your know how information you put out!
    Thanks Mike!!

  911. Bruce says

    I have found the information on your websites to be completely accurate. I am trying live oak tree cuttings along with crape myrtle cuttings. I also do hibiscus. So far I have had mixed results because I can’t find coarse sand in north Florida that is neutral in ph. Most of the sand is limestone and that kills everything.

    I give my plants to people and they always smile.

    Have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.

  913. Kitty McEvoy says

    Thank you for all the interesting information. I would love to win ANYTHING!!!
    Merry Christmas!!

  914. Bob says

    Great information on your site. I look forward to each information full e-mail. I’ve not really thought much about the backyard growers membership, but have used several of your rooting and growing methods with great success.

    Merry Christmas to you and yours.

    Bob

  915. Mike Buturla says

    Hi Mike, Just want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.
    Yaaaaaaaaaa Go Trump for the next 8 years!
    Mike Buturla
    Voluntown, CT

  916. Grace says

    I’ve enjoyed reading your blog so much! It has really inspired me to try harder on my garden. I think I’m getting my husband excited, too 😉

  918. Marga Huban says

    Hi Mike: Thank you for providing gardening information in a realistic and humorous manner. Your site is the one I reference many times because your explanations are so clear and straightforward. Your positive approach is both helpful and motivating! Many Blessings to your family. Marga Huban

  920. Cliff says

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Is this thing on I cant tell . Just going to go plant something can tell when something there is on Thanks Mike for all the info!!!!!!

  922. Meredith Goehring says

    Thank you, Mike, for being such an inspiration. Gotta love the spirit of abundance arising from your maximizing outlook on life.

  923. Bill Harbour says

    Merry Christmas to you and yours! Just to let you know I save all your newsletters, so I can refer back to them throughout the year..

  925. Donna Henthorn says

    Hey Mike, I have enjoyed your posts for many years. I especially enjoy the info for roses, and all things fruit related. Would LOVE to win a Membership, but the shears would be a great addition to my stash of plant care tools as well! Thanks for the opportunity!

  926. Cliff says

    Have retired from cutting grass . So I’m back for more of Miknowledge!!! Just wanna plant something!!!

  930. Lelou Copon says

    will totally make my day special if I win this shear/membership. Good luck to all who will join and Merry Christmas to all.

  931. Carl Nicely says

    I really enjoy the articles and information…haven’t got started yet but planning for this year.

  934. Lelou Copon says

    Blessed Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all!!! Good luck to whomever will be chosen for this contest. Peace LOVE and GOD bless us all.

  936. Linda Charron says

    Merry Christmas Mike! Love these emails and love the donkeys! I’ll be ready to plant my garden anytime after New Years, but in NH I’ll need to wait closer to Memorial Day…I’d love some new pruners! ~~ Linda

  938. Erik says

    Love the newsletters Mike. I’m a golf course superintendent that found your videos when I was looking for affordable ways to upgrade the decorative plantings on the our course. Since I started getting your newsletters, my wife and I have been considering places where we might start growing plants for both the course and to sell. We’re hoping to win the membership to speed things along. Thanks for the opportunity and happy holidays

  940. Greg Hornsby says

    Wow! What a site! I’m an amateur green thumb that found a nursery in my back yard thanks to you. Starting my first hardwood cuttings this winter. Being just down the road in southern Ohio, I found all your information useful and relevant. Keep up the good work!
    Greg

  942. Rick Carter says

    I have really appreciated information I get from you. I am only beginning to have time to garden like I want to. i am recently retired and could really use a little extra income. Looking forward to trying some of your tips. Thank you for all the help.
    Sincerely Rick carter

  943. Melissa a hodgins says

    Hey Mike I want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and happy new year! I look forward to your emails next year with tips…. Thank you for all u do. Will you enter me into the drawing please. Thank you!!!

  944. Connie Brinning says

    I really enjoy receiving your emails. Please keep them coming!

    Merry Christmas to you and yours.

  946. Mary Ronge says

    I’ve been reading your blog for a long time but never had the time to do anything – I do however use pruning shears all the time, so I would cherish a pair of yours. A membership might just be the thing to get me moving, or keep me spellbound at the computer which would not be a good thing! I’ll leave it in higher hands. Merry Christmas and wishes for a blessed New year.

  947. DEE says

    YOURE A WALKING ENCYCLOPEDIA ABOUT PLANTS, AND IM SO THANKFUL TO HAVE FOUND YOUR WEBSITE WAY BACK WHEN! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE AND MAKING ME FEEL LIKE YOURE MY NEIGHBOR WITH ALL OF YOUR DOWN-TO-EARTH REMARKS! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOOD HEALTH TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

  948. William Sprague says

    I enjoy all of your articles. I learn so much. Thanks for all the time and effort you put into your articles and videos. Thanks for all your help.

  950. Allen says

    Mike – You have lent your talent and supported us patiently with all your knowledge for your fan – fellow growers and gardeners – for all of these years. You are truly blessed and we thank you for all of that knowledge. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

  951. Jim says

    Lost my job, need to find a way to make some money, sounds like a membership to your nursery might be a solution?

  956. Judith Teegardin says

    Your down to earth sensible gardening tips are jewels for me!!! Please enter me into the drawing. Cannot wait to here the final drawing winners.

  957. Rene Taylor says

    I thought I’d be bored when I retired, but came across your website and I’m busier than ever now. Love your tips and suggestions but most of all like your videos. Getting my 5 yr old great granddaughter hooked on growing plants from cuttings.

  958. Bob Battista says

    I’m already a lifetime member, but would love to win the pruning shears. The membership has been even more valuable than I ever imagined. Thanks, Mike!

  960. Judith Farmer says

    I like the fact that you are so generous with all your knowledge. You show us how to do what you are talking about.

  962. Susan Coleman says

    I tried to comment earlier but I don’t see my comment so maybe it didn’t save. Thank you for all you do and all you share. I’m going to commit to starting my backyard growing business in 2017. I will retire after 30 years with the State at the end of 2017 so I want to take the year to get my business up and running. I love the opportunity to possibly win a membership to the Backyard Growing Business Center. I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Hugs to all, especially the donkeys 🙂

  965. Larry Hummell says

    I really enjoy the instructions and tips you send in the emails.

    Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and continued success in the coming year.

  966. Chuck Tess says

    Mike , family ,your crew and the donkeys also. Thanks for all the pictures and advice. And Merry Christmas

  967. Mary Johnson says

    What a great Christmas idea! Keep up,the great work, Mike! Your posts are always inspiring to all of us who are just getting started. Thank you!

  969. Ted says

    I snowbird to Belize. How do I tell when it is the best time to take cuttings.

    If you answer will it be to my email or general response area.

  970. Rhonda Howle says

    Thanks Mike! I really enjoy reading your tips and I love to see pics of Finnegan! I think I’d like to invite you to SC for a mean burger on the grill… or maybe some Eggplant Pizza. You never know what we might come up with, but I guarantee it will be good!

    Rhonda and Joey Howle and Lucky Dog

  971. Rich S. says

    Thanks for all you do. Your articles and videos have been very helpful. Enjoy the Christmas season.

  972. Melanie Malone says

    Mike,

    First and foremost I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and the best of a New Year. You inspire and amaze. Thanks for sharing you wisdom.

  973. Elita P. says

    Mike, I have read and learned from your newsletters for many years. So much useful information. Happy Holidays to you and your family!

  974. Stephen A. Vickers, Sr. says

    I am so glad I stumbled across Mike’s Backyard Garden site a few years ago. I was a little dubious at first, but now I believe it is one of the best investments I have ever made. This place is great! Merry Christmas to everyone, and Happy Birthday, Jesus!

  975. John Geist says

    Actually, Mike, I’m more intrigued by your donkeys than the plants, but I’m willing to try plants-for-profit.

    Please enter me into your drawing.

  977. Roger Morehouse says