by Trey Lamkins, Landscape Operations, Kimmel Education and Research Center
If you’ve ever had a question about your lawn, garden, or landscape in Nebraska, chances are Backyard Farmer had the answer.
Since 1953, Backyard Farmer has been a trusted resource for Nebraskans seeking reliable, research-based solutions to their horticultural challenges. Produced by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Nebraska Extension, this long-standing television program has grown into a dynamic, multi-platform hub for all things gardening.
Whether you're a new homeowner wondering why your maple tree has yellow leaves, a teacher looking for plant science videos, or a seasoned grower facing tomato troubles—Backyard Farmer is your go-to guide.
What Is Backyard Farmer?
At its core, Backyard Farmer is a Q&A-style program that connects experts in horticulture, entomology, turfgrass, plant pathology, and more with real questions from gardeners across Nebraska. It airs weekly during the growing season on NET Nebraska and is also available via:
YouTube (thousands of searchable videos)
Website (organized by topic)
Facebook (community updates & interaction)
What Kind of Resources Are Available?
Backyard Farmer doesn’t just share gardening advice—they provide actionable, localized solutions that reflect the climate, soil, and challenges specific to Nebraska. Some highlights include:
Plant Diagnoses & Pest ID
Learn what’s affecting your roses, tomatoes, or oak trees with clear photos and expert explanations.
Insect Spotlights
Is that bug helpful or harmful? BYF’s entomologists help you tell the difference.
How-To Videos
From pruning to composting to starting seeds indoors, there are videos for every skill level.
Lawn & Landscape Care
Seasonal guides for watering, fertilizing, mowing, and managing turf diseases.
Educational Content for Youth and Educators
Many BYF clips align with Nebraska science standards and make great additions to school gardens or 4-H projects.
How to Use Backyard Farmer as a Tool
1. Search by Topic:
Use the Backyard Farmer website to search by topic (weeds, vegetables, trees, turf, etc.). The content is organized to help you find exactly what you need.
2. Watch Weekly Episodes:
New episodes air Thursdays at 7 p.m. CT on Nebraska Public Media. Each episode includes live Q&A, plant-of-the-week segments, and demonstrations.
3. Follow Along Year-Round:
Gardening is a year-round activity, and so is BYF! With archived videos, winter garden prep tips, and offseason episodes, there’s always something to learn.
4. Share with Others:
Backyard Farmer is a fantastic tool for Extension educators, community garden leaders, teachers, and Master Gardeners to share with their networks.
Why It Matters
In a world of conflicting garden advice, Backyard Farmer remains a science-backed, Nebraska-tested source you can trust. At Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard, we often use BYF resources to train interns, answer visitor questions, and guide our sustainable landscape practices.
It’s not just a TV show—it’s a toolkit, a teacher, and a trusted neighbor rolled into one.
Explore more at byf.unl.edu, and don’t forget to tune in or subscribe for weekly wisdom rooted in Nebraska soil.
Get Involved: Join Us This July!
Pollinator Workshop | July 16th | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard
Join us to learn how to support pollinators, select native plants, and create thriving habitat in your own backyard. The workshop will feature educational sessions, youth activities, and a UNL Bee tour. Perfect for families, educators, gardeners, and anyone who care about conservation.
Register here: Pollinator Workshop RSVP