Best WPTF Podcasts (2025)

1
Weekend Gardener – Live from the Raleigh Greek Festival (Part 3) 43:21

2d ago43:21

43:21

The final hour wraps with discussion on lemon trees, hydrangeas and hummingbird plants. Monica Wood checks in from the State Farmers Market. The team takes calls about composting, deer deterrents and ground covers, then signs off with thanks to Holy Trinity and the Raleigh Greek Festival organizers.

1
Weekend Gardener – Live from the Raleigh Greek Festival (Part 2) 41:26

2d ago41:26

41:26

The show continues with advice on root rot, yellowing leaves and mole problems. Rufus recounts past visits to the Greek Festival, and Mike shares tips for tomatoes, squash and improving soil quality. Festival sounds and Greek hospitality add energy to the show as more callers chime in with questions.…

1
Weekend Gardener – Live from the Raleigh Greek Festival (Part 1) 42:36

2d ago42:36

42:36

Mike Raley and Rufus Edmisten kick off the show live from the 41st Annual Raleigh Greek Festival at the NC State Fairgrounds. They open with stories of the Dambalis family and the church’s community roots. Listeners call in with questions about peonies, crepe myrtles and controlling invasive plants. The team also shares weather-related tips for ear…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Bell's Carpets and Floors (Part 3) 44:40

9d ago44:40

44:40

The crew reflects on WPTF’s broadcast history and shares memories of NASCAR great Junior Johnson. Monica Wood reports from the State Farmers Market with updates on fresh produce, blooming plants, and garden must-haves. Listener Stephen talks daylilies and warns about invasive plants. Carter Q calls in to thank Rufus for a tour of his garden.…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Bell's Carpets and Floors (Part 2) 42:43

9d ago42:43

42:43

Fred Gaines returns with Memorial Day flooring advice, including allergy-friendly carpet options and the latest on waterproof laminates. Rufus checks in from the road toward Boone, and the team answers listener questions about turfgrass, weeding, and garden planning.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Bell's Carpets and Floors (Part 1) 36:06

9d ago36:06

36:06

Mike Raley, Ann Clapp, and Rufus Edmisten kick off the show live from Bell's Carpets and Floors in Raleigh. They welcome guest Fred Gaines to talk about summer home projects, and discuss plant stress, watering, and weather. Listener calls cover black spot on roses, mole problems, and composting tips.…

1
Weekend Gardener (Part 3): Live from Altis at Serenity by Tri Pointe Homes 42:38

16d ago42:38

42:38

Mike, Rufus and Phil wrap up the morning with Greenfield Communities president Matt Brubaker, who shares details on the Altis at Serenity launch, builder partners like Tri Pointe Homes, and community amenities. Dan the Flower Show Man checks in from the Got to Be NC Festival, and the hosts close the show with garden updates and hydrangea advice.…

1
Weekend Gardener (Part 2): Live from Altis at Serenity by Tri Pointe Homes 42:04

16d ago42:04

42:04

The show continues live from Altis at Serenity with more gardening questions from listeners and special guests discussing the area's unique landscaping. The team highlights the new clubhouse, upcoming walking trails and the rural charm of this growing Triangle-area community. Mike also reminisces about his early days at WPTF during a special tribut…

1
Weekend Gardener (Part 1): Live from Altis at Serenity by Tri Pointe Homes 40:17

16d ago40:17

40:17

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten and Phil Campbell broadcast live from Altis at Serenity, the new 55+ community by Tri Pointe Homes in Harnett County. They talk gardening with callers, share plant advice for May, and speak with guests from Greenfield Communities about the vision behind the development. Phil offers tips for summer vegetables, and Rufus sh…

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from Campbell Road Nursery (Part 3) 41:08

23d ago41:08

41:08

WPTF celebrates Mike Raley’s 50th anniversary in broadcasting with a nostalgic montage of past voices. Phil and Monica spotlight specials on tomatoes, tropicals and handmade gifts, and share how supporting the nursery helps mountain communities. The show wraps with sausage talk, grilling tips and heartfelt tributes.…

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from Campbell Road Nursery (Part 2) 40:58

23d ago40:58

40:58

The crew takes listener calls and discusses everything from hibiscus care to fig trees and hydrangea blooms. Phil shares news about Venus flytraps, and Monica Wood from the State Farmers Market calls in with updates on seasonal produce and market events.

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from Campbell Road Nursery (Part 1) 40:34

23d ago40:34

40:34

Mike Raley, Phil Campbell and Rufus Edmisten kick off the Weekend Gardener live from Campbell Road Nursery with plenty of plant talk, gardening advice and special guests, including Tom Campbell. Topics range from veggie starts and perennials to early Mother's Day gift ideas.

1
Weekend Gardener Live from Rescue Wood Rehab in Fuquay-Varina (Part 3) 44:38

1M ago44:38

44:38

Craftsman Richard Nordheim of Enhanced Renovations joins the show to talk home remodeling trends, quirky custom projects, and working with Rescue Wood Rehab. Plus, updates from the State Farmers Market and a heartfelt call from J.C. Knowles.

1
Weekend Gardener Live from Rescue Wood Rehab in Fuquay-Varina (Part 2) 38:36

1M ago38:36

38:36

In part two from Rescue Wood Rehab, the Weekend Gardener team discusses creative uses for salvaged materials, chats with listeners about plant problems, and shares stories about North Carolina’s rich gardening traditions.

1
Weekend Gardener Live from Rescue Wood Rehab in Fuquay-Varina (Part 1) 42:51

1M ago42:51

42:51

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten and Phil Campbell broadcast live from Rescue Wood Rehab in Fuquay-Varina with special guests Marty Clayton and Keith Wood. They talk reclaimed wood projects, garden tips, and upcoming events at the State Farmers Market.

1
Weekend Gardener 4-20-2025: Live from the Nash County Arboretum (Part 3) 44:01

1M ago44:01

44:01

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten, and friends celebrate spring, strawberries, and 50 years of broadcasting as they wrap up the live show at the Nash County Arboretum. They talk about favorite fruits, plant selections, Nashville memories, and upcoming local events like the Blooming Festival. Lots of laughter, gardening advice, and heartfelt moments.…

1
Weekend Gardener 4-20-2025: Live from the Nash County Arboretum (Part 2) 42:06

1M ago42:06

42:06

The conversation continues at the Nash County Arboretum with more plant talk, local gardening insights, and a visit from Colby Griffin. The team highlights great plant selections, the history of the Arboretum, and how the community benefits from local extension programs. Plus, a lively discussion about favorite vegetables and flowers.…

1
Weekend Gardener 4-20-2025: Live from the Nash County Arboretum (Part 1) 42:58

1M ago42:58

42:58

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten, and Paul McKenzie kick off the Weekend Gardener live from the Nash County Arboretum in Nashville. They talk about spring planting, common gardening questions, and the importance of Master Gardener volunteers. Special guests join to share gardening tips and promote the Nash County Master Gardener Plant Sale.…

1
Weekend Gardener: Mike Raley’s 50th Anniversary at WPTF – Live at the State Farmers Market (Part 3) 43:02

1M ago43:02

43:02

Curtis Media president Tripp Savery, Bruce Ferrell, Rick Martinez, Tom Campbell, and others honor Mike Raley’s 50-year legacy with surprise messages, laughter, and cake. The team wraps the show with gardening tips, talk of North Carolina strawberries, and memories from decades of broadcasting.

1
Weekend Gardener: Mike Raley’s 50th Anniversary at WPTF – Live at the State Farmers Market (Part 2) 41:22

1M ago41:22

41:22

The celebration continues with more heartfelt tributes to Mike Raley’s legendary radio career. Listeners and guests alike share stories, while the team dives into seasonal gardening tips and spring planting ideas—all while enjoying the Farmers Market atmosphere.

1
Weekend Gardener: Mike Raley’s 50th Anniversary at WPTF – Live at the State Farmers Market (Part 1) 42:46

1M ago42:46

42:46

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten, and the Weekend Gardener crew kick off a special broadcast live from the State Farmers Market in Raleigh. Monica Wood joins the team as surprise guests begin honoring Mike’s 50 years at WPTF. Reflections, laughter, and gardening insights fill the first hour of this milestone episode.…

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from The Aluminum Company of North Carolina (Part 3) 42:08

2M ago42:08

42:08

The final hour from Durham includes a touching tribute to WPTF’s broadcast legacy, reflections on Mike Raley’s upcoming 50th anniversary and a candid conversation about native plants and garden pests. Jeff Hoffman returns to share expert tips on beekeeping and honey harvesting, and Steve calls in with a preview of the Raleigh Daylily Club meeting. …

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from The Aluminum Company of North Carolina (Part 2) 37:38

2M ago37:38

37:38

Jeff Hoffman returns with more bee wisdom, explaining how hive splits help prevent swarming. The crew talks tomatoes, hydrangeas and heirloom plants with callers and in-person guests. Also: plant suggestions for small spaces and dealing with pesky garden critters.

1
Weekend Gardener: Live from The Aluminum Company of North Carolina (Part 1) 42:28

2M ago42:28

42:28

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten and Nelson Cox kick off the show from the open house in Durham with guests from The Aluminum Company of North Carolina. Jeff Hoffman joins to talk siding, windows and bees. Plus, the crew shares spring garden tips and hears from listeners across the Triangle.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Roots at the Farmers Market (Part Three) 43:26

2M ago43:26

43:26

The team takes more calls from listeners asking about yellowing camellia leaves, ivy in azaleas and privacy screen ideas for Leland cypress. Plus Monica and Ashton stop by with a full update on everything happening at the State Farmers Market.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Roots at the Farmers Market (Part Two) 38:22

2M ago38:22

38:22

Mike shares memories from his recent trip to Nashville, North Carolina for a special Chamber of Commerce event, and the team answers listener questions about camellias and ivy control. Plus more laughs from Rufus and a tip of the hat to the NC Symphony.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Roots at the Farmers Market (Part One) 40:57

2M ago40:57

40:57

Mike Raley and Rufus Edmisten kick off the show at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh with a look back at some of WPTF’s legendary voices and moments. The crew talks about camellia care, early spring planting and the upcoming governor’s ball.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener - Logan's Grand Opening at the State Farmers Market (Part 3) 44:11

2M ago44:11

44:11

The final hour of the Weekend Gardener from Logan’s grand opening features conversations with Josh Logan about Logan’s history, special promotions and gardening tips. Mike and Rufus also discuss listener questions and highlight market events, making it a fun-filled day for gardening enthusiasts.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener - Logan's Grand Opening at the State Farmers Market (Part 2) 42:24

2M ago42:24

42:24

The Weekend Gardener continues live from Logan’s grand opening at the State Farmers Market. The team talks with Monica Wood about the market’s latest offerings and highlights special deals on hydrangeas, Japanese maples, and more. They also share insights on caring for peonies and hostas.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener - Logan's Grand Opening at the State Farmers Market (Part 1) 44:44

2M ago44:44

44:44

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten, and the Weekend Gardener team broadcast live from Logan’s Garden Shop at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh to celebrate Logan’s 60th anniversary and grand opening. They discuss the history of Logan’s, the new location and spring planting tips.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Habitat ReStore: Gardening Tips & Good Company (Part 3) 43:21

2M ago43:21

43:21

The final hour wraps with garden calls, blooming plant updates and fond memories. Rufus shares his experience in FFA, Nelsa highlights loropetalum and redbud varieties, and Habitat’s Luke stops by to talk about the store’s furniture, gardening gear and community donations. The team signs off after a morning of laughs, advice and great company.…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Habitat ReStore: Gardening Tips & Good Company (Part 2) 40:57

2M ago40:57

40:57

Mike, Rufus and Nelsa continue the show with conversations about blooming trees, pruning tips and stories from Rufus' time in public service. They chat with Habitat staff, share plant care suggestions and answer listener questions during a fun and informative visit to the Raleigh ReStore.

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener at Habitat ReStore: Gardening Tips & Good Company (Part 1) 39:44

2M ago39:44

39:44

Mike Raley, Rufus Edmisten and Nelsa Cox kick off the show live from the Habitat for Humanity ReStore on North Raleigh Boulevard. They talk about WPTF's 100-year history, the ReStore’s incredible selection and helpful mission, and early spring garden prep. Phil Campbell from Campbell Road Nursery joins to share advice and updates on what's blooming…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Gardening, Farmers Market and Expert Advice (Part 3) 42:33

3M ago42:33

42:33

In the March 15, 2025 episode of WPTF Weekend Gardener, hosts Mike Raley and Rufus Edmisten chat with Gerald Adams and callers about a wide range of gardening topics. This segment features updates from the State Farmers Market, including fresh produce, plants and upcoming craft fairs. The discussion also covers successful propagation of winter Daph…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Gardening, Farmers Market and Expert Advice (Part 2) 42:10

3M ago42:10

42:10

In the March 15, 2025 episode of WPTF Weekend Gardener, hosts Mike Raley and Rufus Edmisten continue their conversation with gardening expert Gerald Adams. This segment covers the best lawn care strategies for spring, including fertilizing fescue, pre-emergent applications, and the challenges of growing grass in shaded areas. The discussion also ex…

1
WPTF Weekend Gardener – Spring Gardening, Farmers Market and Expert Advice (Part 1) 42:00

3M ago42:00

42:00

Join hosts Mike Raley and Rufus Edmisten on the March 15, 2025 episode of the WPTF Weekend Gardener as they welcome Gerald Adams to discuss early spring gardening tips. Learn about starting tomato seeds, when to fertilize fescue and warm-season grasses, and how to control common garden pests like voles and squirrels. The conversation also covers pr…