Attend our Taylor Swift Album Listening Party!
We’ll be debuting the new Taylor Swift album, “The Life Of A Showgirl,” at Fenton’s AVA Rooftop Bar. The fun will start around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 2nd, with food, drinks, a Taylor selfie station, and – of course – a soundtrack of Taylor’s greatest hits. Oh, and don’t forget to dress in your favorite ERA! Then, we’ll all listen to the new album at the stroke of midnight! Plus, someone will win an autographed Taylor Swift guitar! The only way in is to win your way in to this private event!
Red and black chokeberries thrive in North Carolina landscapes
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) and Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) are versatile shrubs native to North Carolina. I have seen many of the red varieties, while black varieties have never shown up in my path. They are similar however, with obviously, the main difference, the color of the berries. In addition, the red has a more upright and slender shape preferring moist soil, while the black are more tolerant of various soil conditions. The berries of the black varieties usually drop in summer while the berries of the red varieties last until winter. Otherwise the two types are much alike. The flowers, of course, come in the spring and with the help of pollinators, make these small berries.
In the wildlife world, all kinds of birds just dig these plant’s berries, and so do some mammals. Yes, deer will eat Chokeberry shrubs, especially in the winter when their food supply is a little scarce. The berries of this shrub are very astringent so not all berry-loving animals can deal with the taste. If you pick any Chokeberries off the shrubs in your yard and eat them, they will make you pucker. They also could make you feel like you are choking because of their sour, dry qualities. Which brings me to the history of the Chokeberry.
Native American tribes used the berry in a number of ways as a food source and a food preservative. As Europeans encountered new plants, they took them home to various countries where they used them as ornamental plants. Over time they developed cultivars that were easier on the tastebuds and digestive system. In the 20th century, the Russians even used them to make wine. This was likely the “Aronia melencarpa” varieties which can be processed for all kinds of foodie type things.
The Chokeberry is high in antioxidants and flavanoides, so a lot of research is being done on these plants which usually aren’t the first choice for planting by homeowners. I’m told you can make jams out of Chokeberries. Check for varieties that will aid in making jams and jellies if you are so inclined. Black Chokeberries varieties “Viking,” “Nero,” “Autumn Magic” will work. When it comes to red Chokeberries, “Brilliantissima” is the one to look for. You have to cook them with a sweetener- boil and mash and then mix with other fruits to get around the bitterness. You can find them in bulk from Amazon under the name of Aronia berries. They are also sold at some specialty retailers. I must say, I have never had Chokeberry jam, nor do I ever remember anyone mentioning it on the show.
Plant your Chokeberry by using a sharp shovel. Anne Clapp and Rufus always recommend that. Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place your shrub in the hole, gently spreading out the roots, and then backfill to ground level and water well. To get your plant off to a good start, incorporate some organic matter in the soil, and cover the root zone with a layer of mulch to help keep the soil cool and moist.
The Chokeberry can be an attractive plant. I have noticed however, that a single specimen doesn’t work well. Since it often looks a little leggy over time, plant in mass for a better effect. Just don’t plant a bunch of them thinking you are going to make jam every year. That seems like a lot of trouble unless you can’t figure out any other way to pucker!
Furry Friday: Meet Bobby!
Bobby is still very much a big, lovable puppy with a heart full of curiosity and a nose for adventure. He’s got medium energy and gets excited for outings—so don’t be surprised if he gets a little jumpy when the leash comes out. But once he’s outside and away from the chaos of the shelter, Bobby’s sweet and playful side really starts to shine.
Bobby lives for belly rubs, snuggles, and being close to his people. He’s learning his manners and already takes treats gently, which makes training a breeze. While he can be a bit reactive to other dogs in the kennel environment, he’s making great progress in playgroups.
Recently, Bobby has really come out of his shell. He’s now played well with both male and female dogs—after a moment to warm up, he engages in bouncy, playful fun. His latest session with a young male ended in zoomies and tail wags, and he’s had equally positive playtime with female pups, too.
Whether he’s sniffing every inch of the yard like a true explorer or learning the ropes of polite doggy play, Bobby is eager to grow, learn, and love. He’d thrive with a family ready to offer guidance, patience, and maybe a backyard where he can put his nose to work.
If you’re looking for a goofy, affectionate, and trainable companion, Bobby’s ready to be your best friend and your most loyal adventure partner.
Although he is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $700 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment.
He is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be neutered prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
About Bobby:
Breed: Australian Cattle Dog Mix
Sex: Male
Age: 1 year 11 months
Weight: 62 pounds
Spayed/Neutered: No
Location: Shelter
Date In Shelter: 4/09/2025
If you’re interested in learning more about Bobby, please reach out to Wake County Animal Shelter’s volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Bobby / Panda 247480.”
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Win a Trip to See Chappell Roan in Kansas City!
Only The New Pulse FM is giving away a flight for 2, 1 hotel room, and 2 tickets for Chappell Roan in Kansas City on Friday, October 3rd. Listen for the Chappell keyword anytime we play her weekdays from 5 a.m. -7 p.m.! The more keywords you enter below, the better your chances of winning!
The New Pulse FM’s Flyaway Trip to See Chappell Roan in Kansas City is brought to you by Once Upon A Child Raleigh, where they invite you to make them your go-to destination for stylish and affordable kids’ clothes! Once Upon a Child buys and sells gently-used clothing, shoes, toys, and more for babies to teens, making budget-friendly shopping a breeze! Why pay full price? Get SAME DAY cash for your items and find fabulous deals in-store! Visit Once Upon a Child Raleigh today at 6411 Triangle Plantation Drive, Raleigh, and at 340 N/ Spence Avenue, Goldsboro.
Bottlebrush blooms, fall color make Clethra a versatile shrub
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
I have many different species of plants in my landscape. However, I do not own a “Clethra alnifolia” or “sweet pepper bush” or “summersweet”. I bet if I were to ask brother Rufus if he planted one in his historic yard, he would say yes. Clethra is a native plant to Eastern North America including North Carolina of course. My expert friends on the Weekend Gardener tell us that Clethra is a choice shrub for the Tar Heel state’s growing conditions.
It is said that Clethra prefers well-drained, acid soil. You will however, find Clethra growing in the wild in wet areas, so it seems to be fairly adaptable. I’m told watering it regularly and deeply will help.. It will grow in sun or shade. In North Carolina, morning sun and afternoon shade might work better in most regions of the state. It normally grows 5 to 6 feet tall and equally as wide. It doesn’t tolerate a hot dry location. It seems to respond well, however, to cold temperatures.
One of the great things about Clethra is that it has sweet-smelling white or pink bottle brush-like blooms that attract all kinds of pollinators, including bees, hummingbirds and butterflies. The blooms last for more than six weeks. We’ve talked a lot on the “Weekend Gardener” about having year-round blooms in the landscape. The Sweet Pepper Bush blooms in the shade in mid to late summer. There are also tiny berries that form after the it blooms. Sweet pepper bush deals well with pruning. You should handle this chore in late winter or spring. It sends out roots, so it can provide some moderate erosion control in a shadier area of your landscape. Clethra has striking gold foliage in the fall. The bark is peeling and rather interesting.
The most common varieties you are likely to find in North Carolina are “Ruby Spice” which has pink flowers, “Sixteen Candles with its white flowers, “ Pink Spires” “Vanilla Spice”, and a more compact specimen named “Hummingbird”.
Plant your summersweet bottlebrush shrub by using a sharp shovel and digging a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place your shrub in the hole, gently spreading out the roots, and then backfill to ground level and water Well. To get your plant off to a good start, work some organic matter into the soil and cover the root zone with a layer of mulch to help keep the soil cool and moist.
The Clethra has few insect pests to concern yourself with. Spider mites are about it and drought conditions are the only condition that will bring them on. Speaking of pests, Clethra is said to be deer resistant. Good luck with that.
I have seen Clethra used in mass plantings and as hedges. It is also good to mass plant around areas like a deck or patio where you might enjoy the sweet fragrance.
So, don’t be shy about planting a shrub you may never have heard of. It could give you years of beauty and sweet smells for your landscape.
Furry Friday: Meet Delilah!
Delilah is very much a puppy with a lot of energy! She is still learning manners & can be rough when playing with other dogs. Delilah is crate & potty trained, & can be a bit scared in new situations. Delilah is heartworm positive & not a good fit for young kids or small animals.
Although she is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $600 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment.
About Delilah:
Breed: Boxer
Sex: Female
Age: 2 years 8 months
Weight: 43 pounds
Spayed/Neutered: Yes
Location: In Foster Care
Date In Shelter: 9/26/2023
If you’re interested in learning more about Delilah, please reach out to Wake County Animal Shelter’s volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Delilah 229071.”
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Furry Friday: Meet King!
Meet King, the goofy, high-energy pup who will have you laughing and maybe even questioning who’s really in charge-spoiler alert: it’s not him! King’s hobbies include playing fetch, roughhousing with his dog buddies, and giving out endless kisses. He’s still got some puppy energy in him, so prepare for a ton of fun!
In his most recent playgroup, King was friendly and fun, but let’s just say his smaller female playmate clearly ran the show. King was more about being a submissive goofball, hiding under a chair when she got a little too enthusiastic with the play (we get it, sometimes you just need a break!). King’s definitely used to sharing the spotlight-he’s lived with male dogs before, both in foster care and with a previous adopter, so he’s no stranger to dog dynamics.
Because of his rough play style and puppy tendencies, King’s probably not the best fit for small kids or cats, but if your dog enjoys a good, energetic play session, King’s your guy! He’s crate-trained and has a sensitive stomach (Pedigree food is his jam), so he just needs a little extra care with meals and potty breaks.
And don’t forget-the King may be goofy, but he’s also the King of snuggling. Ready for a fun, loving, and cuddly companion? King’s got the crown (and the kisses) to make you feel like royalty!
King is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and already neutered. If you have dogs, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.
About King:
Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier
Sex: Male
Age: 4 years
Weight: 44 pounds
Spayed/Neutered: Yes
Location: Shelter
Date In Shelter: 3/25/2025
If you’re interested in learning more about King, please reach out to Wake County Animal Shelter’s volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “King 225714”.
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Find zen in your garden with zinnias
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
My mother-in-law, Jean Reeves, was smart, hard-working, industrious, caring and pretty. She loved gardening, and taught her equally pretty daughters about vegetables and flowers and how they co-exist in nature. When I fell in love with Melissa, I also fell in love with her parents’ extraordinary and expansive dairy farm. The vegetable garden was always spacious, pristine and yummy. Jean’s talent for growing flowers was equally as impressive. Her sizable zinnia garden was memorable for the vivid colors. I think a low flying plane would have flown around to get another look.
As for the zen part of this equation, the Buddhist practice invokes meditation, simplicity, living in the moment, losing control. Deep breaths and the multicolor show put on by hundreds of zinnias should bring one to a state of peace on a mid-summer day. That’s how I felt so long ago gazing at that plot of zinnias.
Zinnia (elegans) is truly an elegant flower that grows well in most regions of North Carolina and comes in many shapes and sizes. They are an annual in the Tar Heel state. Zinnias come in red, pink, yellow, purple, orange, green and some variations. They will bloom in spring, summer and fall depending on where you live. The folks at the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service tell me there are varieties that grow anywhere from 8 inches to 4 feet. These include Profusion, Zahara, and Oklahoma series and these varieties are all more disease resistant. Some other varieties include Zowie Yellow, Persian Carpet, Zinderella Peach, Profusion Apricot, Green Envy, and Pop Art. There are single, double and semi-double varieties from which to choose. Native to Mexico, zinnias need full sun (at least six hours).
Zinnias should be planted well after the last frost in your area. In Raleigh, the last average frost is April 15th. One would normally buy seeds in packets or loose seed if you are lucky enough to buy them that way. You can also transplant them if you have access to the flowers. Sow the seed directly in the prepared soil, as the “Weekend Gardener” theme song says. Be careful to space them properly, maybe 9 inches to a foot. This will help prevent powdery mildew and other disease pathogens from forming by allowing good air circulation is really important for any plant. The mildew is likely the only problem you’ll have with this flower. You may also find cases of leaf spot, root rot and blight. Again, you have less chances of seeing these maladies if you plant them in the right place with the correct conditions. Try to plant disease resistant varieties. The extension service folks tell me that zinnias are not favorites of the deer population.
Zinnias are no different from most other plants, they like well drained soil. They do prefer growing in moist soil. Add some type of compost material to your planting area. Most gardening experts I know tell me that zinnias don’t need a lot of fertilizer. If you use any on your flowers, use one with low nitrogen. If you want to keep your zinnias at their colorful best, you need to dead-head them during the summer. This will encourage more flower development.
As you may have guessed, pollinators love zinnias. Butterflies, bees and hummingbirds are drawn to these flowers for their bright colors and the nectar. There are other beneficial insects that are attracted to zinnias too.
Color your landscape the way Jean Reeves did. This will brighten your day and maybe rub-off on others.
Furry Friday: Meet Moon!
Moon is a sweet, low-key lady who’s ready to leave her stray days behind and find a stable, loving family to call her own. Quiet and calm, she prefers to take life at her own pace-happy to explore with her nose to the ground and soak in her surroundings without rushing.
She shares a special bond with her sister Sol, who she’s been kennel buddies with for a while. While Moon may not be the most outgoing pup in a group, she’s affectionate and loyal to those she trusts. Moon is looking for a peaceful home where she can feel safe, secure, and loved. If you’re searching for a calm, easygoing companion who’s ready to settle down and share cozy moments-and maybe a few gentle adventures on leash-Moon might be the perfect fit.
If you’re interested in learning more about Moon, please reach out to Wake County Animal Shelter’s volunteer matchmakers at [email protected] with the subject line “Moon 221545”.
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‘Naked lady’ spider lilies bring surprise blooms
By MIKE RALEY WPTF Weekend Gardener
Every regular co-host on the WPTF Weekend Gardener has discussed with delight, at one time or another, the attributes of the “naked lady” spider lily or Lycoris radiate. I have read that the name “Lycorus” refers to the mistress of the Roman leader Mark Anthony. Of course, there are other names for this popular bulb: “Cluster amaryllis”, “Equinox flower”, “Hurricane lilies”, “Magic lily”, “Resurrection lily”, and “Surprise lily”. Yes, this extraordinary perennial bulb is in the amaryllis family and is a native of China, Korea and Japan, but there are varieties that are native to the southeastern U.S. including North Carolina. “Coastal Spiderlily” and “Hammock Spiderlily” have that distinction. All of the above grow well in central and eastern North Carolina. They are a little iffy in the mountains since they don’t particularly like cold weather and would work better there in containers that can be moved indoors.
Unfortunately, I rarely see spider lilies planted in landscapes on my neighborhood walks or in other locations. Just here and there. This is a shame since they are such old fashion bulbs that you might find still popping up at your grandparents’ property in August and September. More of us need to plant them. They make great pass-along plants. Our “Weekend Gardener friend Steve from Garner shared some with listeners and me at a remote. I think they look best in a perennial border with ground covers, annuals or other perennials.
Why are they called naked ladies and where does the surprise come in? Spider lilies just pop up out of the ground with the red or pink funny looking, spider-like bloom perched on top. Just sitting up there without any leaves to speak of. The narrow leaves are more noticeable when the flowers fade. The foliage hangs around into early winter. The hurricane name comes from their propensity to bloom during hurricane season.
Spider lilies grow best in full sun to part shade and prefer soil that is well draining. Use a good organic matter mixed into whatever kind of soil you have in your landscape. Don’t plant them too deeply, about 4 to 6 inches. The top or neck of the bulb should be near the surface of the soil. They will naturalize through underground bulb off-shoots. Planting them in late summer to early fall seems to work best, using a couple of inches of mulch might help no matter where you plant them. Divide these bulbs just after blooming. They multiply every year if they are content. Dividing also prevents overcrowding.
Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release nitrogen. Don’t overdo it. We tend to over fertilize and over water our plants, especially when they are newly planted.
Drought doesn’t seem to bother spider lilies. The folks at NC State tell me some spider lily varieties are not deer or rabbit friendly because of chemicals they contain. The same can’t be said for voles however. They love chomping on bulbs of all kinds.
I focused on the “naked lady spider lilies” because they are, well, different. There are all kinds of extraordinary, colorful spider lily varieties and cultivars. We mentioned a few above. Check with Campbell Road Nursery or Logan’s if you are in Raleigh. Shop local nurseries if you can, and also check some of your favorite catalogs for some of these fun flowering bulbs.