The Garden Question: Recent Episodes
Craig McManus
Chapters00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:48 Introducing Jeff Rugg: Gardening Expert
01:55 Setting Goals for Your Garden
03:31 Budgeting for Your Garden Project
06:27 Understanding Climate and Microclimates
08:46 Soil Conditions and Their Impact
15:38 Designing Your Garden: Themes and Styles
20:07 Navigating Rules and Regulations
22:38 DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
24:08 Choosing the Right Plants for Your Garden
24:55 Plant Diversity and Disease Prevention
26:18 Irrigation Systems: Do You Need One?
27:57 The Journey of a Weekly Newspaper Columnist
29:51 Creating Engaging YouTube Content
31:46 Comprehensive Gardening Guide
34:32 Common Gardening Mistakes and Myths
35:28 Personal Gardening Experiences and Future Plans
43:31 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of the Garden Question podcast, host Craig McManus engages with Jeff Rugg, an experienced educator and garden columnist, to explore the complexities of setting gardening goals.
Jeff shares his expertise on various aspects of garden planning, including understanding ecosystems, budgeting, and climate considerations.
He dives into the importance of soil conditions, maintenance planning, design styles, and the decision between DIY and professional help.
He also discusses the diversity of plant selection, the role of irrigation systems, and his extensive experience in horticulture and landscape architecture.
The episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring stories, aiming to help listeners create beautiful, environmentally connected, and low-maintenance gardens.
Jeff Rugg is an educator at heart, and for over 33 years, he has written the weekly, nationally syndicated newspaper column, The Greener View.
He taught the University of Illinois Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs. He now teaches via the internet through his YouTube channel, Greener View, with over 300 videos and more coming. Many of the videos match the playlist of the chapters of his Greener View gardening book. This is Episode 201, Effective Goal Planning for Your Perfect Garden, with Jeff Rugg on the Garden Question Podcast an ENCORE presentation
Hello, I'm your host, Craig McManus.
The Garden Question is a podcast for people that love designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. Listen in as we talk with successful garden designers, builders, and growers, discovering their stories along with how they think, work, and grow. This is your next step in creating a beautiful, year-round, environmentally connected, low maintenance and healthy thriving outdoor space.
It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or an expert, there will always be something inspiring when you listen to the Garden Question podcast.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the 200th Episode!
00:29 Meet Dan Long: Clematis Expert
01:12 Understanding Clematis: Pronunciation and Varieties
04:15 Growing Clematis in the Southeast
05:13 Troubleshooting Clematis Issues
06:24 Choosing the Right Clematis for Your Garden
10:08 Clematis Hybridization and New Discoveries
11:47 Native Clematis in the U.S.
13:04 Dan Long's Plant Exploration Adventures
15:27 Debunking Clematis Myths
17:14 Clematis Care Tips and Container Gardening
20:54 Brushwood Nursery: Behind the Scenes
27:24 Dan Long's Personal Gardening Journey
33:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Welcome to the 200th episode of The Garden Question Podcast, where our goal has been to help you dive deep into designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works. I appreciate you and hope that you’re always inspired by each episode whether you’re a beginner or an expert!
Today, we’re climbing to new heights—literally—with one of the most versatile and underappreciated plants in the garden: clematis. Our guest, Dan Long, is a leading authority on clematis and other climbing vines. As the owner of Brushwood Nursery and vice president of the International Clematis Society, Dan has spent decades studying, cultivating, and introducing new clematis varieties to gardeners across the U.S.
He is a past instructor at Longwood Gardens, authored several articles on the subject and for over 20 years brought a new level of understanding and enjoyment to a typically under-appreciated class of landscape plants.
In this episode, Dan untangles the mysteries of clematis, from pronunciation debates—yes, both clematis and clematis are correct—to selecting the best varieties for your garden. He shares expert advice on growing conditions, pruning techniques, and foolproof selections for the Southeast. We’ll also explore native U.S. species, exciting hybrid breakthroughs, and how container gardening can make clematis accessible to any space.
Get ready to be inspired by Dan’s passion for climbers, his insights from over 30 years in the nursery industry, and how you can bring these stunning vines into your own garden.
We are Celebrating our 200th episode by Exploring Clematis – Dan Long.
I’m your host Craig McManus.
Chapter Time Line00:00 Introduction to Water Smart Gardening
00:12 Meet Noelle Johnson: The AC Plant Lady
00:51 Water Conservation Techniques
02:19 Understanding Water Usage
05:09 Choosing Drought Tolerant Plants
14:56 Soil and Composting Tips
18:48 The Importance of Mulch
20:58 Creating Microclimates
23:19 Rethinking Garden Maintenance
28:14 Choosing Organic Fertilizers for Healthier Soil
28:54 Rethinking Lawns in Drier Climates
31:26 Efficient Lawn Maintenance Tips
36:09 Smart Irrigation Solutions
39:16 Water-Wise Container Gardening
44:03 Creating a Water-Efficient Vegetable Garden
48:46 Rainwater Harvesting Techniques
51:27 Exploring 'The Water Smart Garden' Book
54:05 Connecting with AZ Plant Lady
Today, we’re diving into the art of water-smart gardening with Noelle Johnson, the AZ Plant Lady. As a horticulturist, landscape designer, and desert gardening expert, Noelle has dedicated over 25 years to helping people create stunning, drought-tolerant landscapes that thrive in hot, arid climates.
From her humble beginnings as a novice desert gardener—where even roses proved a challenge—to becoming a sought-after consultant and educator, Noelle has transformed countless outdoor spaces with her practical and sustainable approach.
In this episode, Noelle shares invaluable tips for conserving water everywhere, including the use of drought-tolerant plants, smart irrigation systems, and techniques like passive rain harvesting.
She’ll also bust the myth that water-efficient gardens are dull, proving they can be as vibrant and beautiful as they are practical. Along the way, you’ll hear about her journey authoring her must-read second book, The Water Smart Garden.
Whether you're a beginner navigating desert gardening or an expert seeking innovative solutions, Noelle’s insights will inspire you to design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works. Get ready to rethink your outdoor space and embrace sustainable gardening!
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:25 Meet Dr. Todd Beasley
00:33 The Vision for the Botanic Garden
00:42 Community Engagement and Environmental Stewardship
00:53 Todd Beasley's Career and Contributions
02:49 The Role and Importance of Botanical Gardens
05:42 Engaging the Community and Generating Revenue
08:29 The History of the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern
11:25 Design and Plant Selection in the Garden
15:00 Trends and Future Directions in Gardening
21:32 The Importance of Children's Gardens
29:35 The Multifaceted Role of a Garden Director
37:12 Designing in the Landscape: A Creative Expression
37:50 Pollinator Garden: Collaborative Design Approach
38:28 Winter Landscape Tactics: Do's and Don'ts
41:30 The Importance of Proper Landscaping Practices
48:57 Early Garden Memories and Influences
51:53 Funny Garden Stories and Myths
58:31 Diversity in Horticulture: Trends and Changes
01:04:07 Future Plans for the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern
01:11:51 Supporting Your Local Botanic Gardens
Welcome to The Garden Question, where we explore the art and science of designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works! Today’s episode promises to inspire gardeners of every level as we dive into a fascinating story of passion, leadership, and community engagement.
Our guest is Dr. Todd Beasley, the director of the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University.
Todd shares his vision for the garden, including its mission, historical roots, and exciting plans for a new environmentally controlled facility. He dives into the challenges of engaging the community, the critical role of plant curation, and his commitment to fostering environmental stewardship.
With over 25 years of experience in horticulture and education, Todd has built an impressive career connecting people to plants. From leading nationally recognized botanical gardens to consulting on major projects like the Orchid Conservatory at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and renovations at Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Todd’s expertise has made a significant impact wherever he’s gone.
As an educator, Todd has nurtured young minds in South Carolina, taught environmental science and horticulture, and even served as a clinical professor at the University of South Carolina’s College of Education. His work with the SEED program helped bring national recognition to student gardening, including hosting prestigious symposiums for the American Horticultural Society.
But Todd’s passion doesn’t stop there. He’s also the founder of an eco-friendly garden design firm and a traveling exhibition company exploring the fascinating relationship between plants and culture.
Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced pro, you’re sure to find inspiration in Todd’s story. Join us as we explore how the Botanic Garden is blooming under his leadership. Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more insights into smarter gardening, and be sure to visit the Botanic Garden to see Todd’s vision come to life!
I’m your host Craig McManus. Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast, where we’re all about designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, you’ll always be inspired in every episode.
Today’s guest is Rick Vuyst, a lifelong gardener and horticultural storyteller with a career as vibrant as the gardens he’s nurtured. From co-hosting the Gardening Simplified Show to hosting the award-winning Flowerland Show for nearly 30 years, Rick has been a trusted voice in gardening media. You might also know him as "Mr. Green Thumb" from his two-decade stint on WZZM TV 13, where he shared tips, humor, and wisdom with viewers across Western Michigan.
In this insightful episode, Rick reflects on his extensive experience in the gardening industry, unpacking lessons from his decades at Flowerland garden center and exploring trends that have shaped the horticultural world. From adapting to climate shifts and embracing innovations in plant breeding to the cultural love for gardening reignited by the pandemic era, Rick offers a roadmap for the future of gardening.
We’ll also dive into his passion for photography along the Lake Michigan shoreline, humorous anecdotes from his radio days, and even adventures in Costa Rica. Rick brings a unique blend of humor, expertise, and inspiration that will leave you eager to dig deeper into your gardening journey.
Continue Listening for a conversation brimming with insights, laughs, and a renewed love for plants.
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend
00:54 Reflections on Gardening Trends and Innovations
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend
00:54 Rick's Insights on Gardening Trends
02:06 The Impact of Climate Change on Gardening
03:10 Innovations in Plant Breeding
04:41 Generational Shifts in Gardening
05:10 Rick's Career and Industry Changes
07:26 Hilarious Moments from Live Radio
09:06 Exploring Costa Rica's Horticulture
12:45 The Revolution of Plant Branding
16:29 Rick's Media Journey as Mr. Green Thumb
18:25 Weather and Its Influence on Gardening
20:55 The Garden Simplified Show
23:37 Future Trends in Gardening
23:57 The Resurgence of Cut Flowers
25:08 The Houseplant Boom
25:52 Designing Diverse Landscapes
28:00 Understanding Rhythm in Landscaping
29:52 Debunking Garden Myths
31:05 Early Garden Memories
32:19 Pursuing Horticulture as a Career
33:00 From Gardening to Comedy
34:12 Influences and Inspirations
35:01 Valuable Garden Mistakes
36:03 Learning and Adapting in Gardening
39:41 Future Garden Plans
41:20 Favorite Plant of the Week
42:15 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Today’s episode takes us on a journey into the growing world of suburban homesteading with Michelle Bruhn, a Minnesota native and passionate advocate for reconnecting people to the earth and their food. As a regenerative gardener, educator, and founder of Forks in the Dirt, Michelle helps people grow their own food, know their farmers, and embrace sustainable living.
Michelle shares her expertise on the rising popularity of homesteading as a way to reduce environmental footprints, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster community connections. In this episode, we explore what homesteading means and its benefits, from growing your own food to adopting sustainable practices in urban and suburban settings. Michelle dives into practical tips on soil management, companion planting, water conservation, and raising backyard chickens.
We’ll also discuss Michelle’s book, Small Scale Homesteading, co-authored with Stephanie Thurlow—a comprehensive guide to sustainable gardening and homesteading techniques. Michelle highlights the importance of building healthy soil, the benefits of community gardening, and the joy of involving family, especially children, in homesteading activities.
At home just north of St. Paul, Michelle practices what she preaches with her boys, “handy hubby,” and a backyard flock, showing that you don’t need acres of land to live sustainably. Whether foraging in nature or digging in her garden, Michelle believes plants and nature are our best teachers.
Get ready to be inspired by Michelle’s passion and practical advice as we explore designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works!
Episode Timeline00:00 Introduction to Suburban Homesteading
02:34 Defining Modern Homesteading
04:00 Evaluating Your Space for Homesteading
04:55 Building and Improving Soil
05:48 Community Resources and Composting
08:29 Planting Techniques and Companion Planting
11:16 Extending the Growing Season
15:32 Balancing Animals and Crops
18:15 Winter Homesteading Tips
19:48 Efficient Water Use and Irrigation
21:55 Winter Activities for Homesteaders
22:39 About the Book: Small Scale Homesteading
23:55 Perennial Herbs and Companion Planting
24:06 Seed Starting and Saving
24:59 Community and Homesteading
26:19 The Importance of Soil
27:53 Garden Myths and Messiness
28:51 Early Garden Memories
30:21 Pursuing Horticulture Professionally
39:53 Companion Planting Insights
41:20 Lessons from the Garden
42:20 Future Garden Plans
43:31 Final Thoughts and Connections
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:27 Meet Nina Koziol: Horticulturist Extraordinaire
01:16 The Timeless Appeal of White Gardens
02:32 Designing and Enhancing White Gardens
07:01 Creating Depth and Texture in Shade Gardens
08:53 The Importance of Flow in Garden Design
15:26 Freestanding Beds and Year-Round Appeal
19:01 Insights from Nina's Book on White Gardens
22:17 Practical Gardening Tips and Myths
28:27 The Mulch Controversy
31:53 Early Garden Memories
34:27 Pursuing Horticulture Professionally
36:39 Eccentric Gardeners and Inspirations
41:10 Valuable Garden Mistakes
43:01 Recent Learnings in Horticulture
48:17 Future Garden Plans
49:27 Favorite Plants and Final Thoughts
51:34 Connecting with Nina Coziol
Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast, where we’re all about designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. From the beginner to the expert, you’ll always discover valuable garden insights.
In this episode, we’re diving into the magical world of timeless white gardens and their secrets with Nina Koziol. A seasoned horticulturist, garden writer, and educator, Nina brings decades of wisdom and passion to the table. She’s penned countless articles for publications like the Chicago Tribune, Chicagoland Gardening, and The American Gardener, and has been sharing her knowledge through classes at the Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum since 1997.
Nina’s journey began in Chelmsford, Essex, where her grandparents' stunning garden and her mother's encouragement sparked a lifelong love for plants. Today, she tends to her own deer-filled acre near Chicago, channeling her expertise into creating spaces that captivate and connect.
In this conversation, Nina reveals the enduring charm of white gardens, their historical roots, and why they’ve seen a resurgence in recent years. She explores how reflective white flowers and light foliage transform these gardens into mesmerizing moonlit spaces, perfect for enjoying at dusk. You’ll hear about the practical benefits of white gardens, tips for shade gardening, and the role of texture and contrast in crafting a visually stunning landscape.
But that’s not all—Nina shares her favorite plant picks, common pitfalls to avoid, and personal anecdotes, including the gardening lessons that shaped her path. Plus, she introduces her book, White Gardens: Creating Magnificent Moonlight Spaces, and teases her next exciting project on kitchen gardens.
Nina’s website at beautyandthefeast.net
In this episode of the Garden Question podcast, the host, Craig McManus, explores the practice of 'crape murder'.
He emphasizes the damage improper pruning can cause to crape myrtle trees, attaching their natural beauty and weakening their growth potential. McManus suggests proper pruning techniques to maintain the tree's health and longevity, and urges listeners to educate themselves about the tree's natural growth habits.
He wishes you blessing of joy, hope, peace, love, and Happy Crape Myrtle for 2025.
Chapter Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Introduction to Crape Murder
01:00 Understanding Crape Myrtle Trees
02:12 The Consequences of Crape Murder
03:36 Proper Pruning Techniques
05:01 Preventing Crape Murder
06:18 Final Thoughts and Best Practices
07:34 Conclusion and Farewell
Today we're digging into the power of community orchards to tackle some of our most pressing challenges—growing food and developing ecosystems.
In this Episode 193, we're joined by Sarah Sikich and Ryan Watson to explore The Giving Grove – a remarkable national network that's changing lives and building communities through urban orchards.
Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast, where we're all about designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. From the beginner to the expert, you'll always be inspired. I'm your host, Craig McManus.
What started in Kansas City has blossomed into a movement, spreading to 15 U.S. cities with over 620 orchards that provide millions of free, nutritious food servings each year.
These orchards aren't just feeding communities—they're building healthier ecosystems by improving soil health, supporting pollinators, and creating green spaces where people connect.
Sarah Sikich, The Giving Grove’s Director of Marketing and Communications, brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion for growing food.
After a decade of running her own design and communications business, Sarah found her calling in urban gardening—inspired by volunteering at the very first Giving Grove orchard.
With her Master's degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Drury University, Sarah is dedicated to amplifying the impact of these life-giving orchards across the country.
Ryan's journey into urban agriculture is equally inspiring. After graduating from UCLA with degrees in Political Science and History, he left the legal field behind to pursue a greener calling.
Ryan co-founded North Brooklyn Farms, transforming a piece of New York history into a thriving urban farm and green space.
He’s also been a community garden advocate, playing a founding role at the 61 Franklin Street Garden.
Today, Ryan and his wife run Wild Russet Farm in the Catskill Mountains, caring for an heirloom apple orchard and producing cider and vinegar—continuing his legacy of growing food for good.
Together, Sarah and Ryan take us behind the scenes of The Giving Grove, sharing powerful stories of how urban orchards foster food security, ecological health, and community ownership. You’ll hear about the critical role of sustainability, the joy of growing food in urban spaces, and the lasting social impacts of these green havens.
Chapter Time Line00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
01:03 Meet the Guests: Sarah Sickich and Ryan Watson
03:08 The Giving Grove: A National Movement
04:06 Understanding Food Insecurity and Equity
06:08 Community Impact and Success Stories
07:31 Orchard Planning and Community Involvement
10:13 Ecological Benefits of Urban Orchards
15:02 Community Ownership and Engagement
17:24 Expansion and Future of The Giving Grove
22:35 Harvesting and Sharing the Bounty
23:46 Community Harvest Initiatives
24:25 Challenges and Strategies for Sustainable Programs
25:42 Supporting Orchard Caretakers and Volunteers
26:30 Long-Term Orchard Management
28:00 Wildlife and Human Interactions with Orchards
29:54 Debunking Orchard Myths
31:11 Understanding Mycorrhizae and Soil Health
36:58 Pollination and Beneficial Insects
44:11 Nutritional Decline in Modern Agriculture
45:31 Personal Stories and Community Impact
50:02 Conclusion and Contact Information
Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast! I’m your host Craig McManus
Trees—they’re majestic, essential, and sometimes misunderstood. In this episode, Edward Morrow is here to dispel the myths that often lead to improper tree care and even unwarranted fear of these gentle giants. Edward dives into the nuances of tree maintenance, from mindful pruning to soil management, and explains why protecting the critical root zone is key to tree health. He also sheds light on the vital role trees play in urban environments and how human activities can affect their longevity.
Edward’s journey from accountant to arborist is nothing short of inspiring. He shares personal anecdotes about his career transition, weaving them into his mission to educate others about trees. His passion for engaging the next generation shines through his children’s books and educational programs, including TREE S.T.A.R.S., an outdoor adventure series that nurtures young arborists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Edward is also the creative mind behind DOMINION and HAVEN, two fictional books that bring tree care to life, and CLIMB: 5 Supercharged Lessons to Elevate Your Arborist Career & Enhance the Urban Forest, a practical guide for aspiring professionals.
Beyond writing, Edward is deeply involved with organizations like the Tree Care Industry Association, International Society of Arboriculture, and the Atlanta Tree Conservation Commission. He’s an advocate for community engagement and offers tips on organizing local tree walks to foster awareness and appreciation.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert, you’re sure to be inspired by Edward’s insights, energy, and expertise. So, grab your notebook—or your climbing gear—and let’s learn how to design, build, and grow smarter gardens that work!
EdwardTheArborist.com
Chapter time Line00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:45 Meet Edward Morrow: From Accountant to Arborist
01:30 The Vital Role of Trees in Urban Environments
02:21 Common Misconceptions About Trees
04:28 Impact of Human Activities on Tree Health
05:25 Understanding Tree Pruning and Maintenance
15:18 Tree Risk Assessment and Management
28:31 Designing and Growing Trees Around Your Home
30:52 Edward Morrow's Children's Books and Career Insights
32:28 Meet Orin Ogden: The Legacy of Professional Tree Care
32:45 The Importance of Trees and Ancient Wisdom
33:35 Tree Stars: Books and Lessons for Arborists
34:08 Debunking Tree Myths: Root Causes and Misconceptions
36:18 Earliest Tree Memories and Childhood Adventures
38:19 From Accounting to Arboriculture: A Career Shift
40:58 Humorous Tree Stories and Influences
44:51 Valuable Tree Mistakes and Lessons Learned
46:32 Understanding Tree Air Spading
48:12 Recent Learnings About Soil and Tree Communication
50:14 Favorite Trees and Tree Walks
58:18 Connecting with Edward the Arborist
Dr. Jim Faust tells interesting true poinsettia stories from their discovery to your own enjoyment at Christmas.
One story involves searching out wild poinsettias in the middle of two drug cartel controlled territories. Jim is a professor of Floriculture Physiology at Clemson University in South Carolina. He does research on greenhouse production of various flowering crops, teaches hydroponics, and greenhouse production courses.
He grew his first poinsettia crop in 1986. This is Episode 191 - The Remarkable Journey of Poinsettias: From Mexican Forests to Christmas Icons" - with Dr. Jim Faust and Encore Remix presentation on the Garden Question podcast.
Chapter Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:38 The Fascinating History of Poinsettias
01:15 Jim Faust's Poinsettia Stories
02:19 Joel Poinsett and the Early Days of Poinsettias
05:18 The Journey of Poinsettias to Europe
07:26 Shipping Plants in the 1800s
10:06 Poinsettias in the Late 1800s
12:14 The Evolution of Poinsettias in the 1900s
13:48 The Rise of Poinsettias as a Christmas Flower
15:28 Challenges and Innovations in Poinsettia Cultivation
22:31 Expanding the Poinsettia Market Beyond Christmas
24:57 The Science Behind Poinsettia Flowering
28:06 Home Care Tips for Poinsettias
30:21 The Development of Modern Poinsettia Varieties
34:38 Horticulturists' Excitement: Stealing Pollen
35:23 The Mystery of Free Branching Poinsettias
36:22 The Secret Grafting Technique
39:06 Scientific Discoveries and Phytoplasma
42:36 The Poinsettia Propagation Process
47:38 Challenges in Poinsettia Cultivation
49:57 Exploring Poinsettias in Their Native Habitat
55:13 Modern Breeding and Bio-Piracy Concerns
59:26 Consumer Tips for Selecting Poinsettias
01:02:04 Debunking Poinsettia Myths
01:03:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this special Thanksgiving episode of the Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus gathers a heartwarming array of guests from previous episodes to share their gratitude for the beauty, growth, and joys that gardening brings to their lives.
Notable guests including Diane Blazek, Nathan Wilson, Heather Andrews, Erin Alladen, Carol Michel, Bill Strock, Kirk Brown, Brent Heath, Dan Benarcik, Kathy Jentz, Russell Camp, Mike Cunningham, David Roberts, and Shelly Cramm express their thanks for the horticultural community, the people in their gardens, and the personal and environmental benefits that gardening bestows. The episode emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the interconnectedness of nature, and the timeless tradition of Thanksgiving.
As Thanksgiving season unfolds, my heart swells with gratitude as a sentiment woven into the fabric of the Garden Question podcast. This humble endeavor, rooted in the soil of appreciation, owes its growth to you, the dedicated listener, who consistently finds value in our weekly explorations of the green world.
Your weekly presence serves as a testament to the podcast's resonance and vitality. And for that, I am profoundly grateful. The Garden Question podcast thrives as a collaborative venture enriched by the generosity of fellow gardeners who willingly contribute their time and expertise during interviews.
In the spirit of the season, their readiness to share knowledge mirrors a communal ethos. The journey of learning to host and produce this podcast has been a pathway of gratitude in itself. The ability to acquire the new skills and adapt to the evolving landscape of content creation is a cherished gift.
However, amid the bounty of gratitude, there's a human tendency to complain and be upset, an inclination I recognize in myself and reflect upon it. Yet, in the face of life's inevitable curveballs, there's solace in the realization that each challenge presents an opportunity to learn anew. Gratitude emerges as a balm that soothes the wounds of complaint, offering a perspective that transcends momentary displeasures.
I think about wisdom and its potential to expedite the learning process. If only I were wiser. The lessons drawn from life's twists and turns wouldn't linger in the realm of prolonged comprehension. Yet, in the acknowledgement of this fact is a step toward that elusive wisdom. A nod to the perpetual journey of growth.
The soil, a silent hero in the garden's narrative, becomes a symbol of profound gratitude. In its embrace, life sprouts and thrives. I am grateful for the soil and the intricate ecosystem it supports. Each root and leaf is a testament to the interconnected dance of existence. This interdependence extends to everything relying on the things that grow in the soil.
Amid the thriving garden of imperfection, there's a quiet acceptance that perfection is not a prerequisite for growth. The metaphor extends beyond the garden bed to the human experience. I don't have to be perfect to grow. It's a liberating thought. A reminder that amidst our flaws and shortcomings, there lies the potential for continuous, beautiful growth.
In the grand tapestry of imperfection, I found solace in living in a country of imperfect people. Those who voice complaints, like myself, are imperfect beings navigating life's complexities. This acknowledgment leaves room for grace to grow. A grace that can bridge gaps, fostering understanding, and weave the diverse threads of imperfection into a rich fabric of collective experiences.
As we metaphorically gather around this season's table of Thanksgiving, I would like to express these sentiments. A gratitude for the podcast. For the shared wisdom of fellow gardeners, for the journey of learning and growth, for the soil that sustains life, and for the imperfect, grace filled landscape of humanity.
Thank you, God, for your blessings and for the abilities to overcome the challenges.
Chapter Timeline00:00 Introduction to the Thanksgiving Special
01:05 Diane Blazek: Gratitude for the Horticulture Industry
01:27 Nathan Wilson: Thankful for People in the Garden
02:27 Heather Andrews: Appreciating Pollinators
02:42 Erin Alladen: Healing Power of the Garden
03:30 Carol Michel: Grateful for Gardening Community
04:34 Bill Strock: Preserving Longleaf Pine Habitats
05:30 Kirk R. Brown: Legacy Trees and Historical Gratitude
09:05 Brent Heath: Blessings of Gardening and Community
10:42 Dan Benarcik: Horticulture Community and Mentorship
12:09 Kathy Jentz: Thanksgiving and Harvest Origins
14:38 Russell Camp: Supportive Beginnings in Horticulture
15:51 Mike Cunningham: Faith, Family, and Farming
16:46 David Roberts: Return to Normalcy Post-Pandemic
18:10 Shelly Cramm: The Sanctuary of the Garden
19:36 Craig McManus: Reflections and Closing Thoughts
Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast—where we’re all about designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works!
I’m your host, Craig McManus, and today we’re diving into a timeless holiday tradition: the Christmas tree. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re sure to be inspired by the fascinating insights of today’s guest.
Joining me is Dr. Mel Koelling, a nationally recognized authority in the Christmas tree industry.
Dr. Mel, alongside his wife Lori, owns and operates Tannenbaum Farms in central Michigan, where they’ve been growing thousands of stunning Christmas trees every year since 1977.
What started as a way to connect his professional forestry expertise to the family goal of funding their children’s college education. Tannenbaum Farms has flourished into a sprawling 100-acre operation, rooted in tradition and excellence.
Did you know it can take over eight years to grow the perfect Christmas tree? As Dr. Mel will tell you, there’s no off-season on a Christmas tree farm!
Dr. Mel spent over 35 years teaching forestry at Michigan State University, shaping the next generation of experts in his field. His depth of knowledge and passion for evergreens is unmatched.
In this episode, we’ll trace the fascinating history of Christmas trees, from ancient winter celebrations to the centerpiece of modern holiday cheer.
Dr. Mel shares the evolution of the industry, the challenges of growing premium trees, and insider tips on selecting and caring for a live tree to keep your holidays merry and bright.
Plus, we’ll explore the environmental benefits of natural trees and why preserving family traditions is more important than ever.
It’s almost time to deck the halls so start thinking about your Christmas tree. Dr. Mel brings decades of expertise straight from the farm to your holiday traditions.
From selecting the perfect tree to understanding the care it takes to grow one, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for this beloved symbol of the season.
“It’s Christmas keep it real”
Win a Box of Salt Hay
How would you like to win a box of Salt Hay? It is simple to enter. We’ll randomly pull a name from all the new November 2024 subscribers to our “Good to Know Newsletter”.
Go to TheGardenQuestion.com and subscribe on any episode page. Be a new subscriber in the month of November 2024 and you could win a box of Salt Hay.
Chapter Timeline00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:24 Meet Dr. Mel Kelling: Christmas Tree Expert
01:20 The History of Christmas Trees
06:30 The Christmas Tree Tradition in America
08:13 Personal Christmas Tree Stories
11:34 Starting a Christmas Tree Farm
14:34 Challenges in Christmas Tree Farming
17:43 Evolution of the Christmas Tree Industry
26:57 Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree
30:27 Tree Care After Purchase
32:10 Watering Tips and Tools
32:55 Tree Placement and Maintenance
33:26 Disposing of Your Tree
35:16 Tree Shortage Reality
35:51 Heartwarming Tree Stories
40:33 Environmental Benefits of Real Trees
49:45 Challenges and Mistakes in Tree Growing
52:59 Future of Real Christmas Trees
54:42 Conclusion and Podcast Outro
In today's episode I have a fascinating conversation with John Bartram. America's First Botanist and a Legacy of Native Plant Explorer.
Well actually, it’s with Kirk R. Brown, a renowned garden speaker and historian who brings the legendary 18th-century botanist John Bartram to life.
Bartram, often called “America’s First Botanist,” was a trailblazer in exploring the wilds of colonial America, driven by his passion for nature and a mission to discover and catalog native plants.
With a love for gardening passed down from his grandmother and wisdom gained from Native American tribes, Bartram’s legacy lives on through his incredible contributions to American horticulture.
Kirk R. Brown, our guest, is no stranger to the art of garden storytelling. As past president of GardenComm and a Hall of Fame honoree, Kirk has captivated audiences coast-to-coast by stepping into the shoes of Bartram, Frederick Law Olmsted (episode 124 – Sculpting Nature: The Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted), and other historical giants in horticulture.
With decades of experience in garden design and education, he’s earned awards for exceptional horticulture and garden achievements. From his work as Business Manager at Joanne Kostecky Garden Design, where he crafted award-winning landscapes, to his role as National Outreach Coordinator for Magnolia Plantation, Kirk’s expertise is nothing short of impressive.
So, get ready to delve into the world of 18th-century plant exploration, the origins of American botany, and the enduring importance of native plants. You’ll leave inspired to design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works. Just like Bartram and Kirk have done across the centuries.
Follow The Garden Question Podcast and join us for a journey through garden history that speaks to everyone, from the beginner to the seasoned expert.
This is episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram – (brought to life) by Kirk R. Brown.
This has been episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram - (brought to life) Kirk R. Brown. Thank you Kirk you’re awesome!
Win a Box of Salt Hay
How would you like to win a box of Salt Hay? It is simple to enter. We’ll randomly pull a name from all the new November 2024 subscribers to our “Good to Know Newsletter”.
Go to TheGardenQuestion.com and subscribe on any episode page. Be a new subscriber in the month of November 2024 and you could win a box of Salt Hay.
Chapter Time Line00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:56 Meet Kirk R. Brown: Bringing John Bartram to Life
01:44 Exploring the Legacy of John Bartram
02:27 Subscriber Giveaway Announcement
02:55 John Bartram's Early Inspirations
03:12 The Wisdom of Age and Gardening
04:24 The Influence of Native American Knowledge
06:35 The Importance of Observing Nature
08:45 The Role of Libraries in Botanical Education
10:12 Medicinal Uses of American Plants
10:36 Trading Knowledge with Indigenous Tribes
12:01 The British Pharmacopoeia and American Plants
12:52 The Versatility of Elderberry
15:55 Exploring and Documenting New Plants
19:04 Impact on English Garden Design
23:35 The Influence of Philadelphia in Botanical Trade
25:04 The American Philosophical Society
26:56 Carl Linnaeus and the Binomial Nomenclature
28:56 The Humorous Story of Bartremia
30:19 Moss and Correspondence with Carl
31:30 The Significance of Oaks
34:28 Bartram's Garden and Historical Meetings
36:39 Friendship with Benjamin Franklin
40:24 Discovery of the Franklinia Tree
51:11 The Bartram Box: Transporting Plants Across Oceans
55:28 Legacy and Contributions of the Bartram Family
59:34 Connecting with John Bartram Today
01:00:55 Conclusion and Podcast Information
This is The Garden Question Podcast where you’ll learn to “Design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works.”
In today’s episode, we’re diving into an emerging trend in sustainable mulching that’s capturing gardeners’ attention far and wide: salt hay and pine straw.
Here to unpack it all with us is our guest, Bill Strock.
Bill has a fascinating background and a hands-on approach to sustainable garden solutions. He holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts with a minor in Agricultural Business from Penn State University and an M.B.A. from West Chester University of PA.
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Bill has previously owned Green Valley Lawn Care and currently leads a family of companies that provide sustainable mulching options across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions—including Mid-Atlantic Pine Straw Mulch, New England Pine Straw Mulch, and SaltHay.com.
In today’s conversation, Bill and I explore the unique benefits of salt hay and pine straw, from salt hay’s weed-free, rot-resistant nature to the versatility and sustainability of longleaf pine straw.
We’ll dive into why these options are thriving in gardens, from helping control weeds in vegetable beds to naturally thriving on slopes and in kennel settings.
Bill also shares his journey of bringing these traditional, region-specific products to new markets, educating gardeners on their many advantages.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned expert, you’re bound to be inspired.
Win a Box of Salt Hay
How would you like to win a box of Salt Hay? It is simple to enter. We’ll randomly pull a name from all the new November 2024 subscribers to our “Good to Know Newsletter”.
Go to TheGardenQuestion.com and subscribe on any episode page. Be a new subscriber in the month of November 2024 and you could win a box of Salt Hay.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:24 Meet Our Guest: Bill Strock
01:05 Exploring Salt Hay: Benefits and Uses
02:20 The Unique Properties of Salt Hay
03:41 Harvesting and Availability of Salt Hay
04:32 Salt Hay in History and Modern Use
09:15 Introduction to Longleaf Pine Straw
10:36 Benefits and Applications of Pine Straw
14:39 Pine Straw in Various Settings
19:37 Bill's Journey and Insights
26:03 Conclusion and Contact Information
Hello, you’re dialed in to The Garden Question Podcast where we discover designing, building and growing “Smarter Gardens that Work”. I’m your host Craig McManus.
In this episode, we’re exploring a corner of garden history with our special guest who uncovers stories from the past—Carol J. Michel.
Carol takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of historic garden writing. Shining a light on some lesser-known female authors she lovingly calls the ‘Lost Ladies of Garden Writing’.
We’ll explore how these forgotten authors blended gardening, life philosophy, and emotional insight, along with the surprising ways their work remains relevant today.
From tracking down rare lost ladies to uncovering the stories of remarkable women like Ida D. Bennett and Anna Bartlett Warner, Carol’s passion for preserving these voices offers a captivating window into the roots of gardening wisdom.
It’s not all research and reflection—Carol’s wit and love for humor in horticulture come through as she shares personal anecdotes, experiences from her own garden, and exciting projects like her blog, ‘May Dreams Gardens’ and her Substack newsletters. Lost Ladies of Garden Writing Substack
Carol’s credentials are as deep as the roots she tends: she’s an award-winning author of five gardening humor books, two children’s books, and co-host of ‘The Gardenangelists’ podcast.
With degrees in horticulture and computer technology, Carol spent over 30 years working in healthcare IT while making a life in her garden. In 2021, she was honored as a GardenComm Fellow by Garden Communicators International.
From beginner to expert, you’ll always find inspiration listening to The Garden Question Podcast. Grab your favorite garden trowel or just settle in with a cup of tea.
Time Stamps and Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:23 Meet Carol J. Michael: Historian of Garden Writing
02:38 Uncovering the Lost Ladies of Garden Writing
04:28 Fascinating Stories of Historic Garden Authors
18:26 The Relevance of Historic Garden Writing Today
23:19 Carol's Gardening Insights and Tips
26:58 Fall Gardening Tips and Oak Tree Care
27:19 The Garden Angelus Podcast: How It All Began
28:39 From Horticulture Degree to Healthcare IT
30:31 Battling Garden Pests: Rabbits and Deer
35:39 Gardening Inspirations and Influences
37:05 Learning from Gardening Mistakes
43:31 Unusual Plants and Winter Sowing
47:43 Connecting with Carol J. Michael
48:11 Conclusion and Podcast Information
Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast! I’m your host, Craig McManus.
Today we’ve got a fantastic episode lined up. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert seasoned pro, this conversation will inspire you to think deeper about gardening.
Our guest is Erin Alladin, creator of the concept gentle gardening—a unique approach designed for those working with chronic illness and disability.
Erin’s journey is all about making gardening accessible and enjoyable for every kind of gardener, no matter their challenges.
Throughout this episode, Erin shares practical strategies she’s developed using sustainable techniques and permaculture principles, such as observation and energy capture from her work at the Kimborne Community Permaculture Project to creative outlets like basket weaving with natural materials from her garden.
Erin proves there’s always a way to grow smarter gardens that work—even when life throws some curveballs.
We’ll also explore a range of soil-building techniques, including sheet mulching, Hügelkultur, the Ruth Stout method, and strawbale gardening.
Erin shares personal stories about her experiences balancing gardening with chronic illness, drawing from her book, Gentle Gardening: How to Approach Gardening with Uncooperative Bodies.
She gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming children’s book, Wait Like a Seed, along with a hint about her exciting new podcast, Plants Always Win, with co-host Sean Patchett.
You can find Erin online as "Earth Undaunted" at earthundaunted.com and follow her gardening adventures on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
So, if you’ve ever wondered how to adapt your gardening practice to meet life’s challenges, this episode is for you! From beginners to experts, you’ll find something here to inspire you. Now, let’s dig in!
Gentle Gardening: A Low-energy guide for uncooperative bodiesTime Line:00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:20 Meet Erin Alladin: Advocate for Gentle Gardening
01:07 Exploring Soil Building Techniques
01:18 Erin's Personal Journey with Chronic Illness
01:30 Sneak Peek into Erin's Upcoming Projects
02:33 Understanding Gentle Gardening
03:03 Erin's Health Challenges and Adaptations
04:15 The Genesis of Gentle Gardening
07:32 Permaculture Principles and Practices
10:59 Basket Weaving with Garden Materials
13:36 Self-Regulation and Feedback in Gardening
16:15 Renewable Resources in Gentle Gardening
19:20 Creative Soil Building Techniques
21:30 Healing Soil with Potatoes
22:01 Comparing Sheet Mulching and Hügelkultur
22:27 Integrating Gardening into Life and Work
23:34 Gentle Gardening: A Book for All
25:50 New Book: Wait Like a Seed
27:52 Permaculture and Garden Myths
29:30 Early Garden Memories and Funny Stories
30:43 Influences and Valuable Mistakes
32:48 Learning and Adapting in the Garden
37:32 Future Garden Plans and Favorite Plants
38:38 Introducing the Plants Always Win Podcast
39:32 Connecting with Erin Alladin
Welcome to today’s episode, where we talk about empowering your garden by diving into the importance of incorporating native plants into your garden—especially during the fall season.
Our guest is Heather Andrews, a published author, award-winning photographer, Master Gardener, and Pollinator Steward with a passion for sustainable landscapes.
Heather is here to share her insights on how native plants play a crucial role in supporting pollinators, enriching ecosystems, and even benefiting migrating birds and butterflies.
She breaks down the high-value pollen, nectar, and seed sources that wildlife rely on during their migration journeys. She also debunks common myths. Setting the record straight with her thoughtful, science-based advice.
We’ll also explore the broader impacts of native plants on communities, including inspiring success stories from local restoration projects.
Heather provides actionable tips on identifying truly native plants, as well as practical advice on seed collection and propagation for gardeners of all levels.
Throughout the episode, she touches on challenges such as managing invasive species and offers a balanced perspective on integrating native and exotic plants.
Heather’s personal anecdotes add depth to the discussion, giving listeners a glimpse into her ongoing horticultural learning and future gardening plans.
During the growing season, you’ll often find Heather in her monarch waystation, Cat-a-pillar Haven, where she shares her journey on her YouTube channel, Garden Thoughtfully and The Thoughtful Gardener on Facebook.
Her expertise has earned her multiple awards and features across media platforms, making her a sought-after speaker on pollinator gardening.
Subscribe to: The Garden Question Newsletter
Timeline - Heather Andrews The Thoughtful Gardener00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Heather Andrews: Expert on Native Plants
02:52 The Importance of Native Plants in Fall
04:54 Best Practices for Fall Gardening
08:22 Collecting and Using Seeds
11:37 Community and Restoration Projects
20:24 Understanding Native Plants and Eco Zones
26:05 Becoming a Pollinator Gardener
27:38 The Butterfly Garden Obsession
28:19 Pollinator Gardens and Their Benefits
28:48 Challenges with Non-Native Plants
29:38 Invasive Species and Their Impact
31:59 Native vs. Exotic Plants Debate
35:24 Gardening Memories and Influences
37:19 Pandemic and Horticultural Pursuits
40:59 Gardening Mistakes and Lessons Learned
46:49 Healing Plants and Their Uses
48:51 Favorite Plants and Final Thoughts
In this episode Nathan Wilson explores the concept of creating a 'sense of place' in gardening.
He emphasizes the importance of blending architecture, plant materials, and personal history to create unique garden environments.
He shares insights into the balance between natural growth and structured design.
The essential characteristics of a plant’s color, form, mature size and texture.
Nathan explores the significance of incorporating seating in the garden to encourage human interaction with nature. Then he reflects on the role of gardens in improving our mental well-being.
He also provides practical advice on plant selection for low-maintenance designs, debunks gardening myths about weed fabric and planting seasons.
The conversation highlights the dynamic relationship between people, plants, and place in crafting outdoor spaces.
As a noted garden speaker and horticultural graduate of the University of Georgia,
He built and managed a plant nursery for eight years and now owns a design build company New Southern Garden.
Nathan is the of a host weekly garden radio show on WRWH and a podcast called New Southern Garden.
Time Line - Nathan Wilson - New Southern Garden00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:43 Introduction to Nathan Wilson and Episode Overview
02:20 Creating a Sense of Place in Your Garden
03:01 Designing Unique Garden Environments
03:57 Balancing Natural Growth and Structured Design
04:46 Incorporating Personal History and Travel Inspirations
05:42 Plant Selections for Low Maintenance Designs
08:19 Creating a Hybrid Sense of Place
12:31 Design Philosophies and Client Interactions
14:01 Understanding Plant Characteristics
18:23 Types of Gardeners and Their Preferences
22:36 Encouraging Human Interaction with Nature
28:36 Health and Well-being Benefits of Gardening
32:01 Inspiring Curiosity in Children
37:20 Low Maintenance Landscaping Tips
38:39 Debunking Garden Myths
42:28 Earliest Garden Memories
46:22 Influential Figures in Horticulture
48:22 Valuable Garden Mistakes
50:08 Learning and Experimenting with New Plants
53:43 A Tour of My Garden
58:39 Protecting Young Trees from Deer
01:01:32 Future Garden Plans
01:06:39 The Difference Between a Garden and a Yard
01:08:48 Connecting with Nathan Wilson
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Meet Diane Blazek: A Journey in Gardening
01:29 The Legacy of National Garden Bureau
05:10 Victory Garden 2.0: Reviving a Historic Movement
06:23 The Impact of COVID-19 on Gardening
08:09 Challenges and Successes in Modern Gardening
10:44 Exploring New Plant Programs
14:13 All American Selections Trials
16:20 Display Gardens: Showcasing AAS Winners
18:45 Year of Program: Celebrating Plant Classes
21:33 Promoting Garden Authors and Books
22:16 Therapeutic Garden Grants
24:33 Understanding Our Members
26:14 Finding Information and Social Media Presence
27:08 Debunking Garden Myths
27:55 Personal Garden Memories
28:54 Career in Horticulture
29:59 Funny Garden Stories
30:54 Influences and Mistakes in Gardening
34:47 Current Garden and Future Plans
37:19 Recent Learnings and Favorite Plants
39:25 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Diane
Today’s guest is someone whose love for all things green goes beyond the ordinary – Diane Blazek, Executive Director of All-America Selections and the National Garden Bureau.
Diane’s journey started early, growing up on a small family farm where she was surrounded by fields, gardens, and the wonder of cultivating life from the soil.
This passion only grew stronger, leading her to work with Ball Publishing for 15 years before taking on her current role. As Executive Director, Diane is now at the forefront of consumer gardening, helping to shape and inspire how we all interact with our own green spaces.
In this episode, we’ll explore the rich legacy and ongoing influence of the National Garden Bureau, a nonprofit founded in 1920 by James Burdett with a mission to educate and inspire the public about gardening.
Even as the Bureau celebrated its 100th anniversary during the challenges of the pandemic, it found new ways to connect with gardeners, launching initiatives like Victory Garden 2.0 to rekindle the spirit of community growing.
Diane will also share details about the All-America Selections Trials, the 'Year of' plant program, and the Therapeutic Garden Grant – all key projects that continue to benefit gardeners of all kinds.
George Nagrodsky, a season gardener and the developer of Garden Savvy, an app designed to make your gardening easier and more fun.
George’s gardening journey took a new direction when he moved from Long Island, NY, to John's Island, SC. Facing sandy soils, a different climate, and pests like fire ants and raccoons.
George had to adapt quickly.
These challenges along with having to slosh throw the internet’s garden muckety muck led him to develop the Garden Savvy app. A one-stop app used by gardeners to thrive in their garden.
George’s gardening expertise has grown through interacting in the Garden Savvy community. The app has diagnosed issues for him and other gardeners, making it easier to grow and learn together.
He has been able to easily retrieve and organize his personal garden information.
Learn with GardenAI because it likes normal and weird garden questions. Feed it your garden photo and it answers with dialed in answers from reputable sources.
George will share how he has transformed his gardening experience. He will also explain why he prefers hybrid seeds for their disease resistance and how the app helps him stay on top of planting times and rotations for optimal success.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Garden Savvy has brought us a valuable new garden tool.
Join us as we explore George’s story and learn how his app can help you organize and enhance your gardening experience.
Garden Savvy - Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet George Nagrodsky and Garden Savvy
02:55 Challenges of Gardening in the South
04:31 Soil Preparation and Fertilization
07:24 Dealing with Pests and Insects
08:38 Winter Crops and Greenhouse Gardening
09:30 Switching to Hybrid Seeds
12:33 Funny Garden Stories and Mistakes
18:34 The Garden Savvy App: Features and Benefits
31:07 Conclusion and Contact Information
Mike Cunningham believes that having a salad every day is probably one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself.
In this episode we will discover how simple, easy, and quick growing greens can keep your salad bowl full all winter.
Fresh tasty nutritional eating right from your deck, patio, or backyard sounds great to me.
Mike and Judy Cunningham have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Country Gardens Farm is a third-generation family farm growing a wide assortment of organic year-round vegetables they sale to the community from their 3 acres.
Mike’s blog post Baby Salid Greens with video on how to plant in a bed.
Judy’s Recipes
Facebook: Country Gardens Farm
Instagram: MikeCunningham1529
Website: Country Gardens Farm
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Mike Cunningham: Growing Greens Expert
01:39 Why Grow Baby Salad Greens?
02:43 How to Grow Baby Salad Greens
04:02 Growing Greens in Containers
04:41 Succession Planting and Varieties
06:01 Soil and Fertilizer Tips
08:32 Sowing and Harvesting Techniques
16:30 Handling and Storing Your Greens
18:24 Microgreens: A Nutritional Powerhouse
23:59 Seasonal Growing Tips
28:10 Additional Crops for Your Garden
31:33 Connecting with Country Gardens Farm
33:00 Conclusion and Podcast Outro
In this episode we discuss the benefits of native vines with guest Dajawn Williams, covering their ecological importance and management.
The discussion highlights specific native vines like muscadine, climbing hydrangea, purple and yellow passion flowers, more and their roles in local ecosystems.
The conversation addresses the advantages of incorporating native plants into gardens to support wildlife and deter invasives.
The podcast also touches on personal anecdotes about growing experiences, conservation efforts, and the challenges of managing native versus invasive species in residential landscapes.
Dajawn Williams is an environmental scientist, educator, and leader in the conservation field. Hailing from Alexandria, VA, Dajawn brings over six years of conservation experience to his current role as a Sustainability Specialist at Kennesaw State University, where he helps drive initiatives like recycling, composting, and food waste mitigation. He’s also a Lead Restoration and Invasive Removal Specialist with EcoAddendum, where he leads crucial environmental restoration projects.
In addition to his professional work, Dajawn is the Atlanta Volunteer Leader for Outdoor Afro, an organization dedicated to reconnecting Black communities with nature. His journey into environmental conservation began in Maine with the Conservation Corps, where he discovered a passion for preserving natural spaces while mitigating human-driven environmental impacts.
Dajawn’s expertise includes prescribed burns, invasive species removal, and environmental stewardship, honed through roles with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Zoo Atlanta. His dedication to sustainability and community building extends beyond the field, with a commitment to using education as a tool to create more equitable, sustainable communities. Stay tuned as we dive into his journey, passions, and the impact he’s making in the world of conservation!
Dejawn is a 2024 is a member of the North America Association of Environmental EducationNAAEE's EE 30 Under 30
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Episode Overview: Benefits of Native Vines
01:26 Guest Introduction: Dajawn Williams
02:27 Ecological Benefits of Native Vines
03:22 Exploring Native Vines in Dajawn's Garden
05:10 Muscadine Vines: Growth and Benefits
07:39 Climbing Hydrangea: A High-Value Vine
10:05 The Importance of Poison Ivy in Gardens
13:19 Maypop and Purple Passion Flower
17:58 Wisteria: Native vs. Invasive
20:26 Carolina Jessamine and Crossvine
23:06 Smilax and Trumpet Vine
27:37 Virginia Creeper: Misunderstood and Valuable
30:40 Understanding Poison Ivy's Role in Ecosystems
31:20 Protecting Endangered Native Vines
33:44 Challenges in Managing Native Vines
36:20 Conservation Efforts for Native Vines
37:28 Incorporating Natives in Gardens and Landscapes
39:14 Personal Gardening Experiences and Lessons
40:25 Pursuing a Career in Environmental Education
42:58 Funny and Valuable Gardening Stories
44:25 Influences and Inspirations in Conservation
54:17 Future Gardening Plans and Goals
58:07 Final Thoughts and Ways to Connect
In episode 178 of 'The Garden Question' podcast, host Craig McManus interviews Adrienne and John Rothling, directors of the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville, NC and Reynolda Gardens of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. respectively.
They share their personal and professional journeys in horticulture, the creation and maintenance of their gardens, and their experiences of integrating their personal life with their passion for plants. How they handle garden conflicts at home. Even their vacations are about plants.
The episode covers their innovative garden projects, their approaches to garden design and maintenance, and valuable gardening advice.
The couple also discusses the impact of extreme weather, working with limited resources, and fostering a love for gardening in their communities.
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet the Plant Geeks: Adrian and John Rothling
01:47 Adrian's Journey to the South
02:59 How Adrian and John Met
04:18 Gardening Advice from Adrian and John
05:13 Introducing Their Gardens
06:53 Challenges and Historical Aspects of Their Gardens
14:27 Creative Projects and Innovations
21:34 Winter Projects and Community Engagement
25:08 Gardening Philosophy and Personal Stories
30:47 A Memorable Plant Mishap
31:28 Vacationing with a Green Thumb
33:51 Learning from Extreme Weather
36:40 Horticultural Discoveries and Challenges
40:10 Promoting Biodiversity in Gardens
42:31 Debunking Garden Myths
44:14 Personal Horticultural Journeys
46:14 Funny Garden Stories
49:54 Valuable Garden Mistakes
52:44 Future Garden Plans
53:52 Favorite Plants of the Week
55:22 Mentors and Inspirations
58:31 Connecting with the Rothlings
In this episode of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus converses with Jenny Simpson, co-owner of Creekside Nursery in North Carolina.
They delve into the concept of becoming a diligent student of your garden by understanding its unique conditions and adapting to the southeastern U.S. climate.
Jenny offers expertise on soil management, especially with red clay, and choosing suitable plants.
Topics include dealing with full sun gardens, the importance of knowing plant mature sizes, and tips for growing specific varieties like camellias and hens and chicks.
The discussion extends to the challenges faced by new gardeners in the area, the integral role of her family in their nursery business, and the significant impact of social media on their success.
Listeners are encouraged to engage in continuous learning, enjoy the creative aspects of gardening, and adapt their practices for a beautiful year-round garden.
Jenny Simpson meets people on their gardening journey and helps them grow, bloom, and thrive both in their garden and life!
In this episode we talk about how being a student of your garden puts you on a track to success.
Jenny & Jerry Simpson are growers and retailer of specialized plants that thrive in the often-challenging climate of the southeastern United States.
Their Creekside Nursery, Inc. is an all-hands-on deck family operation located in the serene countryside outside Dallas, NC.
As a Proven Winners' Destination Garden Center, they offer the region’s largest selection of Proven Winners' plants.
Jenny creates and publishes 5 very informative garden videos a week. You will want to follow Jenny’s family adventures along with 75,000+ followers @GardeningwithCreekside on YouTube.
Time Line
00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Meet Jenny and Jerry Simpson
01:59 Understanding Your Garden
03:02 Challenges of Southern Gardening
04:01 Soil and Planting Tips
09:16 Exciting New Plant Varieties
19:43 Dealing with Deer in Your Garden
23:34 The Journey of Creekside Nursery
26:36 Post-Pandemic Garden Center Boom
27:13 Challenges of Attracting Customers to a Rural Nursery
27:59 Embracing Social Media for Business Growth
29:24 Family Involvement in the Nursery Business
32:09 Engaging the Younger Generation in Gardening
37:15 Tips for Successful Garden Design
40:34 Debunking Garden Myths
41:16 Personal Gardening Memories and Stories
43:14 Influences and Lessons in Gardening
49:32 Future Garden Plans and Connecting with the Community
Mike and Judy Cunningham are harvesting the last summer crops at Country Gardens Farm.
Fall gardening is just beginning. Mike takes a break to talk about his favorite time of the year in the garden.
Some of the things you will discover in this episode are the best practices Mike implements for soils, plant selections, and timing. All important for a successful fall harvest.
Mike and Judy Cunningham have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Country Gardens Farm is a third-generation family farm growing a wide assortment of organic year-round vegetables they sale to the community from their 3 acres.
Mike with lots of input from Judy authored his successful "Seven Steps to an Organic Vegetable Garden"
You will remember Mike's openness in sharing his successful methods for growing good food in our inaugural episode 001 of "The Garden Question" Podcast.
This episode 073 “Fall Organic Vegetable Gardening” an edited and remix version of episode 017 with Mike Cunningham.
Fall Vegetable Gardening Wisdom with Mike Cunningham
Exploring the Essentials of Fall Organic Vegetable Gardening with Mike Cunningham
The Garden Question podcast, hosted by Craig McManus, features successful organic farmer Mike Cunningham, who shares expert insights into fall gardening.
Mike and his wife Judy, who run the organic Country Gardens Farm, discuss best practices for soils, plant selections, and timing for a successful fall harvest.
Additionally, Mike shares tips on protecting plants from cold weather, differences between summer and fall crops, and methods for extending the growing season. This episode, an encore and remix, is packed with valuable information for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Meet Mike and Judy Cunningham
01:53 Why Plant a Fall Vegetable Garden?
03:08 Protecting Plants from Cold Weather
04:21 Differences Between Fall and Summer Crops
04:55 Planting Onions and Garlic for Spring Harvest
07:17 Understanding Days to Maturity (DTM)
08:40 Best Practices for Planting Fall Crops
14:00 Growing Carrots in the Fall
16:02 Container Gardening Tips
17:18 Growing Leafy Greens in Containers
19:41 Other Fall Crops to Consider
23:06 Dealing with Pests in the Fall Garden
26:22 Organic Remedies for Caterpillars
27:22 Dealing with Aphids and Four-Legged Pests
29:28 Importance of Soil Health
30:57 Fertilizing Your Fall Garden
34:19 Planting and Caring for Transplants
37:56 Winter Cover Crops and Soil Maintenance
40:19 Handling Plant Debris
42:11 Farm Events and Activities
44:57 Learning from the Garden
47:46 About Country Gardens Farm
49:40 Conclusion and Podcast Information
In this episode of The Garden Question podcast, host Craig McManus interviews accomplished garden designer Troy B Marden.
Troy shares his incredible journey in horticulture that began at the age of 14 and includes notable experiences at public gardens such as Calloway Gardens and Longwood Gardens.
Now based in Nashville, Troy discusses his successful career in garden and floral design, his role on the hit gardening show Volunteer Gardener, and his current ventures in leading garden tours worldwide.
Throughout the episode, they cover garden myths, Troy's favorite gardening spots, and the importance of soil management.
They also explore the dynamics of garden design, the joy of successful gardening, and invite listeners to find inspiration in their own garden experiences.
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Troy B Marden: A Journey in Horticulture
02:44 Troy's Dream Garden in Northern Italy
05:13 Designing and Building Gardens: Client Relationships
09:46 Transition to Leading Garden Tours
13:19 Exploring International and Domestic Gardens
25:23 Volunteer Gardener TV Show: A Tennessee Staple
31:17 Introduction to Jason and His Inspirational Gardening
32:46 Evolution of Trial Gardens
34:36 Public Gardens in Tennessee
35:57 Undiscovered Gardens in the United States
38:44 The Importance of Soil Management
39:58 Personal Gardening Philosophy
43:58 Debunking Gardening Myths
44:57 Native vs. Non-Native Plants Debate
47:25 Early Gardening Memories
49:12 Pursuing a Career in Horticulture
52:39 Valuable Gardening Mistakes
55:47 Current Plant Obsessions
56:38 Weeds and Garden Challenges
58:22 Continuous Learning in Gardening
59:27 Connecting with Troy B Marden
59:45 Conclusion and Podcast Outro
Janet Draper gets to play in the dirt and talk to people from around the world.
This is her 25th year as the sole horticulturalist for Smithsonian’s Mary Livingston Ripley Garden.
This tiny 1/3 of an acre garden is located on the National Mall and in Washington, DC. The garden is open to visitors 24 hours a day.
Due to the nearly constant events occurring within a stone’s throw, and major construction on aging buildings, the challenges of keeping the gardens looking good can be daunting.
Janet goal is to make the garden interesting day to day by creating displays that educate and stimulate people to go outside and plant something.
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Janet Draper: Horticulturist at Smithsonian's Ripley Garden
01:07 The Unique Challenges of Maintaining the Ripley Garden
03:15 The History and Accessibility of the Ripley Garden
07:15 Innovative Plant Displays and Horticultural Techniques
09:56 Logistics and Seasonal Planning in the Ripley Garden
16:47 The War on Mulch: Best Practices and Misconceptions
19:37 Spontaneous Garden Design and Seasonal Decorations
23:14 Lessons from Failures
23:29 Finding Inspiration
24:15 Perennial Plant Association
26:05 Adventurous Gardening
26:30 Challenging Garden Myths
27:47 Earliest Garden Memories
28:49 Pursuing Horticulture
29:30 Funny Garden Stories
31:09 Influential Mentors
33:53 Valuable Garden Mistakes
35:11 New Horticultural Discoveries
36:20 Life in the Garden
37:29 Community and Gardening
40:09 Current Plant Obsessions
42:30 Connecting with Janet Draper
43:18 Conclusion and Podcast Info
This episode of The Garden Question podcast features an in-depth discussion with Janet Draper, the horticulturalist of the Mary Livingston Ripley Garden in Washington, D.C. Host Craig McManus and Janet explore the unique challenges and opportunities of maintaining this small but rich garden space on the National Mall. They discuss its history, the plant varieties used, and Janet's creative approach to garden design. Janet shares her insights on creating year-round interest, the importance of horticultural education, and her personal experiences, including her inspiration, influential mentors, and memorable stories from her career.
173 - Embracing Naturalistic Planting Designs - Jared Barnes
Naturalistic planting design begins with understanding what roles certain plants play in nature.
One of the most useful concepts in a plants’ survival strategy is learning how to classify it on the Grimes Triangle.
This is a new concept for me. I don’t remember every hearing about this classification system or how it works.
We talk about this and more in this episode 173 - Embracing Naturalistic Planting Designs - Jared Barnes, Ph.D. An encore and remixed presentation.
Dr. Jared started gardening when he was five years old. Since then, he has enthusiastically pursued how to best cultivate plants and cultivate minds.
He currently fulfills those passions as an award-winning associate professor of horticulture at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX.
He obtained his Ph.D. in horticultural science from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. He interned at The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.
By traveling around the US and to eleven countries he has gained national and global horticulture perspectives.
Jared educates the public with his weekly newsletter Plant-Ed and his monthly podcast Plantastic all found on his website Meristeam.
His passion has been recognized by peers in interviews in Organic Gardening, Greenhouse Grower, AmericanHort Connect, Ken Druse’s Real Dirt, and Nursery Management.
His articles have appeared in The American Gardener, Fine Gardening and Carolina Gardener.
Time Line: 00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
01:20 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jared Barnes
02:43 Understanding Naturalistic Planting
06:07 The Grimes Triangle Explained
11:05 Applying Naturalistic Planting Techniques
16:11 Choosing and Managing Plant Species
31:41 Maintaining Naturalistic Plantings
36:38 Welcoming Biodiversity and Managing Weeds
38:03 The Importance of Patience in Gardening
39:51 Busting Garden Myths: Square Holes for Trees
42:54 The Future of Gardening and Horticulture
44:51 Early Garden Memories and Career Beginnings
51:28 Valuable Garden Mistakes and Future Plans
56:38 Student Projects and The Plantery
01:01:09 Podcasting and Sharing Knowledge
01:06:51 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Jared Barnes
You will be surprised how much your day-to-day gardening helps save our endanger plant species. In this episode Jennifer Ceska is determined to make native plants regular.
How to wake up native plants already on your land and learning to love the untidy. She explains why connecting people and grasses is essentials and why grasslands are so important.
Weaving as much diversity as we can get to create as much resilience we can get in the habitat
Jennifer Ceska is accredited Public Service and Outreach Faculty at the University of Georgia and has served since 1995 as Conservation Coordinator in the Science & Conservation Program of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Athens.
She received her masters at UGA in horticulture with an emphasis on plant conservation. Her specialty is creating project driven professional networks and facilitating projects for endangered species recovery.
She has consulted with 14 states in developing their own conservation networks. Jennifer serves as project manager for the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance, coordinating over 60 organizations contributing recovery actions to 105 critically imperiled plant species in Georgia.
This is a remixed encore episode.
Links for things talked about ---
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Connect to Protect
Connect to Protect Garden Guide
US Forest Service Gardening for Pollinators
National Wildlife Federation, Plant with a Purpose, gardening page
Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance
Center for Plant Conservation, Rare Plant Academy
Baptisia arachnifera, Hairy Rattleweed profile
Rhus michauxii, Dwarf Sumac profile
Time Line:00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:48 Introducing Jennifer Ceska
02:19 Starting a New Garden Project
04:54 Top Native Plants for Your Garden
06:38 The Importance of Native Plants
12:34 Challenges and Solutions in Gardening
25:32 The Role of Fire and Herbicides
27:43 Success Stories in Plant Conservation
32:29 Exploring Botanical Gardens and Resources
33:36 The Role of Pollinators in Conservation
34:20 Conservation: Challenges and Hope
35:21 Gardening Tips and Practices
38:03 The Importance of Native Plants
39:28 Personal Gardening Memories
40:34 Choosing a Career in Plant Conservation
44:35 Mentors and Influences in Botany
46:39 Learning from Gardening Mistakes
48:17 Future Gardening Plans and Plant Love
55:33 Invitation to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia
56:38 Connecting with Jennifer Ceska
Do you often find it a challenging to grow perennials in the heat and humidity of the south?
In this episode we
talk with Kata Kress Wallace about the best ways to overcome those challenges.
It’s no secret that
perennials love the full sun, but what about those dry shady gardens? She’ll
shed some light on that.
Kata shares some
simple low maintenance techniques that will be well worth your efforts and she
also throws in a deer reptant fun fact.
Living in Durham North
Carolina Kata has the opportunity to interact with thousands of gardeners as
the southeastern product manager for Walters Gardens.
She has been closely
tied to the nursery industry all throughout her life. Her father owns a nursery
in Austria named Sarastro Stauden that specializes in unique and rare plants.
Kata came to the
United States interning at Plant Delights Nursery with Tony Avent after earning
a master’s degree in Geography and Spanish.
She also led
international crews at Hoffman
Nursery as
Garden Coordinator and production Supervisor responsible for producing millions
of grass liners.
In 2019 she received
the Young Professional Award from the Perennial Plant Association and was named
to the Greenhouse
Product News 40 Under 40 Class of 2020.
Time Line
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Overcoming Challenges of Growing Perennials in the South
01:15 Meet Kata Kress Wallace: A Gardening Expert
02:29 The Popularity and Genetics of Perennials
03:19 Tips for Successful Perennial Gardening
04:45 Challenges and Solutions for Southern Gardeners
13:34 The Process of Introducing New Plants to the Market
20:40 Breeding and Trialing New Perennial Varieties
26:18 Deer Resistance and Dry Shade Gardening
29:41 Choosing the Right Perennials for Your Garden
30:46 Top Pollinator Plants to Consider
32:30 Heucheras: Tips and Tricks
34:48 Maintenance Practices for Perennials
38:34 Dividing and Replanting Perennials
40:07 Designing a Low-Irrigation Landscape
43:10 Personal Gardening Stories and Lessons
45:15 Insights on Horticulture and Gardening
52:13 Walter's Gardens and Final Thoughts
Color excites us more than any design element in the garden because it speaks emotionally to us.
In this episode we will dissect and learn how color speaks to us
in our garden.
In this episode of 'The Garden Question' podcast, host Craig McManus discusses the role of color in gardening with Dr. Laura Deeter, a professor of horticulture at Ohio State University.
Laura explains the science behind color perception, the impact of color in garden design, and how different lighting conditions affect our view of plant colors.
She also shares practical advice on creating a year-round colorful garden, leveraging the color wheel, and considering plant features such as bark and fruit for visual interest.
Additionally, Dr. Deeter touches on garden myths, automation in horticulture, and the importance of enjoying the beauty of one's garden.
Dr. Laura Deeter received her PhD in horticulture from The Ohio State University where she is currently a Full Professor of Horticulture at Ohio State ATI in Wooster, OH.
She teaches a multitude of horticulture classes including: Woody
and Herbaceous Plant Identification, Landscape Design, Sustainable Landscaping,
Plant Health Management, Landscape Construction, and Ecology, to name a few.
Twice awarded the OSU Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching,
the Perennial Plant Association Teaching Award
the American Horticulture Society Teaching Award,
Perennial Plant Association Service Award,
a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ohio Landscape Association
and Professor of the Year from Instructure.
She travels extensively around the country speaking on a variety
of topics ranging from taxonomy and nomenclature to shade gardens, design,
color, and specialty gardens and plants.
At home she gardens on her tenth of an acre with her hubby, four
dogs, 100 pink plastic flamingos and counts her 300+ species of perennials as
dear friends.
This is an encore and remixed episode.
Time Line
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:54 Meet Dr. Laura Deeter: Horticulture Expert
02:29 Understanding the Color Red in Gardens
04:01 The Complexity of Color Perception
05:30 Seasonal Color Planning for Your Garden
08:00 Incorporating Woody Ornamentals and Annuals
14:58 The Role of Lighting in Garden Color
23:00 Using Green as a Neutral Backdrop
26:22 Personalizing Your Garden with Color
27:48 Exploring Color Preferences in Gardening
28:57 Breaking Away from Traditional Garden Designs
31:05 Debunking Common Garden Myths
32:49 Personal Gardening Memories and Influences
36:51 Challenges and Mistakes in Gardening
45:44 Innovations and Future of Horticulture
47:11 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Dr. Laura Deter
When Southern Living’s The Grumpy Gardener speaks gardeners listen.
For more than 40 years Steve Bender has strived to make gardening fun. His writings about southern gardens and his hands in the dirt experiences are sought after by beginning and expert gardeners.
Steve takes great joy in answering your garden questions every day at Southern Living Blog and The Grumpy Gardener on Facebook .
Steve is quoted often. Usually in distain tones since he coined the term “Crape Murder”.
His book Passalong Plants, co-authored with Felder Rushing, was named the best written garden book of 1994 by The Garden Writers of America
His new book, “The Grumpy Gardener,” is an amusing and informative guide to plants culling from a compilation of “Grumpy Gardener” blog posts, selected articles from Southern Living, mixed in with a lot of new stuff.
During his tenure at Southern Living, Steve edited a number of gardening books for Southerners, including The Southern Living Garden Book.
This is an encore and remixed episode.
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:38 Meet Steve Bender: The Grumpy Gardener
02:05 Planning Your Garden: Tips from Steve
02:58 The Importance of Planting for Mature Size
07:21 Lawn Care Insights: To Mow or Not to Mow
11:46 Watering Wisdom: Keeping Your Garden Hydrated
13:38 Navigating Regional Gardening Challenges
16:11 Understanding Climate Zones and Microclimates
25:33 The Truth About GMOs in Gardening
29:51 Steve's Earliest Garden Memory
31:26 A Childhood Rooted in Gardening
32:53 From Hobbyist to Garden Communicator
34:37 Joining Southern Living Magazine
36:37 Memorable Gardens and Inspirations
38:35 Books and Writing Career
42:30 Funny Garden Stories
47:34 Influences and Mistakes
56:29 Favorite Plants and Final Thoughts
Denise Schreiber provides an in-depth guide on how to preserve an abundant vegetable garden harvest through various methods such as canning (both pressure and water bath), dehydration, and freezing in this week’s episode.
She discusses the pros and cons of different preservation techniques, shares practical tips, and highlights notable canning equipment and safety practices.
Additionally, Denise goes over essential tools, recommended recipes, and personal anecdotes about the importance of cleanliness in preserving food.
She also offers advice on planning, tools needed, and innovations in food preservation.
Denise Schreiber is the author of "Eat Your Roses, Pansies, and Lavender and 49 Other Delicious Flowers". She is a national speaker, a retired ISA Certified Arborist, and an All-America Selections Trial Judge. Denise is also a member of GardenComm. Known as Mrs. Know It All from The Organic Gardeners on KDKA radio, you can follow her on Facebook at Mrs. Know It All.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Denise Schreiber: Expert in Food Preservation
02:12 Introduction to Food Preservation Techniques
04:08 Canning Methods and Safety Tips
15:13 Essential Tools for Canning and Preserving
22:53 Favorite Vegetables and Recipes for Canning
26:34 Wine Jellies and Party Snacks
27:07 Favorite Preserving Recipes
27:48 Reliable Recipe Sources
29:15 Experimenting with Jams and Jellies
30:15 Canning Safety and Best Practices
32:27 Handling Breakage During Canning
34:02 Additives and Acidity in Canning
35:17 Storing and Labeling Canned Goods
43:28 Planning and Preparing for Canning Season
47:31 Innovations and Equipment in Food Preserving
50:44 Creative Canning Ideas and Stories
52:42 Connecting with Denise Schreiber
In this episode of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus interviews Shannon Currey, a horticultural educator and consultant with Izell Native Plants.
They delve into the distinctions between ornamental grasses and turf grasses, and the ecological benefits of using grasses and sedges in garden design.
Shannon provides insights into the growth cycles of warm season and cool season grasses, and offers practical advice on plant selection and maintenance.
The episode also touches on the importance of planting densely, the ecological value of grasses, and tips for gardeners in different zones.
Shannon shares her personal experiences and professional journey, aiming to inspire both novice and experienced gardeners to create beautiful, functional, and low-maintenance outdoor spaces.
Are you ready to try something new? Then grasses and sedges could be your next garden adventure.
You will find the opportunities for creating a rich layered interesting garden that serves more than an ornamental function.
Developing the whole ecological package. Improving the soil and developing a more aesthetically functionating garden are in your future.
We all need better solutions for suppressing weeds and gardening under trees.
Shannon is a horticultural educator and consultant with Izel Native Plants.
She began her work life as a social scientist and then changed her career pursuit to horticulture at North Carolina State University.
Shannon joined Hoffman Nursery, a wholesale grower specializing in grasses, sedges, and other graminoids.
She has shared her advanced knowledge of graminoids in articles published nationally.
You will often find her speaking across the country to professional organizations, community groups, and at public gardens.
Shannon currently serves on the Perennial Plant Association’s Board of Directors and is on the North Carolina Plant Conservation Scientific Committee.
She was honored in 2020 with the Libby Wilder Award from the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association.
In 2022 she joined Izel Native Plants to expand their education and outreach efforts.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
01:11 Introducing Shannon Curry: Horticultural Expert
02:29 Understanding Ornamental and Turf Grasses
03:19 Exploring Sedges and Their Ecological Value
06:19 Warm Season vs. Cool Season Grasses
11:23 Grasses and Sedges in Garden Design
19:39 Practical Tips for Growing and Dividing Grasses and Sedges
24:47 Adapting Northern Gardening Principles to the Southeast
27:35 Mulch and Weed Management
27:52 Choosing the Right Plants for Your Climate
28:49 Starting Small and Experimenting
29:54 The Unique Qualities of Grasses and Sedges
30:18 Design Elements of Grasses
32:16 Seasonality and Maintenance of Grasses
34:05 Ecological Benefits of Grasses
34:57 Cutting Back and Dividing Grasses
37:33 Planting and Managing Grasses and Sedges
41:36 Common Garden Myths and Mistakes
42:03 Personal Gardening Experiences
48:53 Future Gardening Plans and Favorite Plants
50:16 New Horticultural Adventures
52:15 Final Thoughts and How to Connect
In Episode 166 of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus interviews landscape architect Preston Montague about creating impactful ecological landscapes.
Preston discusses using plants from diverse regions, the importance of understanding ecosystem relationships, and integrating native plants to enhance ecological function.
He describes his design philosophy rooted in resource savings and creating habitats for birds and pollinators, offering practical tips for garden enthusiasts.
The conversation covers Preston’s background, professional influences, and personal experiences, providing a comprehensive guide to thoughtful and sustainable landscape design.
In this episode Preston Montague talks about how to achieve positive ecological impacts with plants from all over the globe with structural elements that serve animals, insects and people.
It’s not just about native plants.
Understanding the relationships that compose an ecosystem and the keystone species that is important.
Learn how to back into landscape design and avoid the ultimate disappointments in a Static landscape.
Preston Montague is a landscape architect and artist who developed a passion for the natural world while growing up in the rural foothills of Virginia.
Currently, he lives in Durham, North Carolina working on projects that encourage stronger relationships between people and the natural world.
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Episode Overview: Crafting Gardens with Preston Montague
01:48 Understanding Ecological Planning and Restoration
03:46 Designing with Ecological Sensitivity
07:30 Targeting Specific Species in Landscape Design
10:52 Bird-Friendly Landscaping Tips
18:58 Designing for Commercial Spaces
26:07 Challenges and Misconceptions in Ecological Design
29:09 Tracking Project Success in Landscape Architecture
29:50 The Dynamic Nature of Landscapes
30:40 Challenges with Static Landscapes
33:12 Ecological Design and Future Innovations
35:07 The Role of Professionals in Landscape Design
39:28 Addressing Garden Myths and Misconceptions
42:35 Personal Journey and Inspirations
49:01 Lessons Learned and Future Applications
55:31 Connecting with Preston Montague
In this episode of The Garden Question podcast, host Craig McManus interviews Felder Rushing, a celebrated horticulturalist and garden communicator.
The episode delves into the concept of 'Maverick Gardeners'—those who follow their own unique gardening practices regardless of trends.
Felder shares insights on slow gardening, planting under oak trees, and the psychology behind gardening.
He also discusses his book and the importance of connecting with nature through unconventional gardening methods. Listen for inspiring stories and practical tips for both novice and expert gardeners.
Mississippi native Felder Rushing is an 11th-generation Southerner.
After retiring from Mississippi State University
as a consumer horticulturist he spends half his year in his celebrated
Mississippi cottage garden and the other half in a small terrace herb garden in
Lancashire, England.
Felder is a syndicated newspaper columnist, an online contributor
for HGTV, and hosts a weekly NPR garden programThe Gestalt Gardener.
He has also been a writer, photographer, and editor for over a
dozen magazines including Horticulture, Fine Gardening, Better Homes and
Gardens, Landscape Architecture, Garden Design, and The National Geographic.
He is the author or co-author of 32 books, including several
national award winners.
You will find him regularly lecturing coast to coast and overseas.
The New York Times has featured Felder three times. Most
recently for forming and internationally promoting the all-senses, all-seasons
approach of Slow Gardening.
Southern Living Magazine featured Felder as one of
“twenty-five people most likely to change the South.”
Felder has served as a national director of the Garden Writers
Association, board officer of the American Horticulture Society and member of
the Royal Horticulture Society and the English Cottage Gardening
Association.
Time Line
00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Meet Felder Rushing: The Maverick Gardener
02:31 Defining the Maverick Gardener
05:03 Exploring the Maverick Gardener Book
08:11 Gardening Styles and Personalities
17:50 The Concept of Slow Gardening
20:33 Winter Interest in Southern Gardens
25:54 Native vs. Exotic Plants Debate
31:31 Introduction to Garden Myths
32:06 Debunking Common Gardening Myths
32:46 The Hammerhead Flatworm Hysteria
34:03 The Controversy of Pruning Crape Myrtles
38:37 Horticulture vs. Gardening
43:38 The Simplicity of Gardening
45:23 Influential Figures in Gardening
52:11 Practical Gardening Tips and Stories
55:16 Connecting with Felder Rushing
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Garden Question. Today, we're venturing into the captivating realm of plant breeding, a topic that's as fascinating as it is innovative.
We all relish the joy of designing our own gardens, but have you ever dreamt of crafting your very own plants, tailored specifically for your garden? Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into this extraordinary world with an expert who's mastered the art of plant breeding.
In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to David Roberts, a trailblazer in the horticultural universe.
David's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Armed with a master's degree in horticultural science from the prestigious North Carolina State University, he embarked on a path that led him to a profound passion for ornamental plant breeding.
During his academic pursuits, he worked closely with esteemed mentors, Dr. Dennis Werner and Dr. Tom Ranney, honing his skills and nurturing his love for the art and science of plant breeding.
Here's where the story takes an exciting turn: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. recognized David's exceptional talent and enthusiasm, welcoming him into their family in 2015.
Since then, he's been the driving force behind Bailey Innovations, serving as the general manager and head plant breeder.
Currently, as the Director of Plant Breeding for Bailey Innovations, David oversees the breeding direction and orchestrates plant trials right from their nursery in the Winterville, GA.
Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the artistry of plant breeding, exploring David's experiences, insights, and the magic that happens at Bailey Innovations.
Prepare to be inspired, because today, you're in for a treat. Get ready to witness the bloom of creativity right here episode 164 - Creating New Fun Plant Varieties: The Art and Science of Breeding – David Roberts. An encore presentation.
In episode 164 of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus delves into the fascinating world of plant breeding with expert David Roberts.
He discusses the process and goals of plant breeding, the balance between aesthetics and performance, and the importance of trends and innovation in the field.
Listeners will learn about the journey of creating the Eclipse hydrangea, the role of happy accidents in plant breeding, and the potential future of gene-editing technologies like CRISPR.
Roberts also discusses exciting new plant varieties and the history of Bailey Innovations, a leader in plant breeding.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in horticulture, from novice gardeners to seasoned experts.
Time Line 00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:47 Exploring the World of Plant Breeding
01:17 Meet David Roberts: A Plant Breeding Pioneer
02:58 The Goals and Challenges of Plant Breeding
03:39 Trends and Innovations in Plant Breeding
05:56 The Science and Art of Plant Breeding
09:30 Happy Accidents in Plant Breeding
16:19 The Journey of Eclipse Hydrangea
25:16 Bailey Innovations: A Legacy of Excellence
29:30 Innovations in Hydrangea Breeding
30:31 Exploring the Potential of Vitex
33:07 Pollinators and Plant Breeding
36:56 Focus on Native Plants
38:01 Designing and Growing a Garden
42:09 Personal Journey into Horticulture
43:51 Influential Figures in Horticulture
46:04 Lessons from Gardening Mistakes
47:20 Global Production Practices
49:22 Florist vs. Garden Hydrangeas
52:43 Future Garden Vision
53:21 Current Plant Obsession
54:20 Connecting with David Roberts
Susan Mulvihill is passionate about growing vegetables! Her organic growing methods and pest control have yielded some mighty good eating.
She and her husband, Bill, live and garden on 5 acres in Spokane, Washington. Their large raised-bed garden where they grow all sorts of edible crops has been featured on the popular public television program, “Growing a Greener World” (episode 809 and 1202), hosted by Joe Lamp’l.
In the last year Susan’s book, The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook, has proven to be very popular nationwide. She is also the co-author of the Northwest Gardener’s Handbook.
Helping other gardeners be successful has driven Susan to produce and host over 400 hundred YouTube videos on her channel, Susan’s in the Garden.
She is the longtime garden columnist for the Sunday edition of The Spokesman-Review in Spokane, Washington.
Been a Spokane County Master Gardener for 20 years.
Her website can be found at SusansintheGarden.com and contains resources for organic pest control along with many other guides designed for gardening success.
This is a remix and encore presentation.
In this episode of The Garden Question Podcast, Susan shares her extensive experience with organic gardening and pest control, emphasizing the importance of integrated pest management (IPM), beneficial insects, and creating a diverse garden ecosystem.
Susan highlights practical organic solutions for pest problems and offers insights from her books, 'The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook' and 'The Northwest Gardener's Handbook.'
Additionally, the episode covers the fascinating concept of insect hotels and the value of keeping a garden journal for continuous improvement.
Listeners will find Susan’s tips on soil health, garden planning, and the role of beneficial insects incredibly useful for maintaining a thriving garden.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:40 Meet Susan Mulvihill: A Gardening Virtuoso
02:30 Tackling the Bug Dilemma: Strategies and Insights
06:48 Embracing Beneficial Insects: Attracting Good Bugs to Your Garden
08:59 Identifying Insects: Tools and Tips
12:56 Susan's Gardening Philosophy: Organic Methods and Pest Management
14:05 Creating Insect Hotels: A Sanctuary for Beneficial Bugs
20:14 Gardening Wisdom: Keeping a Journal and Learning from Experience
24:11 Susan's Earliest Gardening Memories and Her Garden Today
27:04 Exploring the Hoop House: Extending the Growing Season
29:37 Indoor Gardening: Growing Microgreens at Home
30:17 Gardening Lessons: Adapting to Weather and Soil Conditions
33:28 The Journey of a Garden Communicator
43:31 Gardening Challenges and Solutions
46:00 Advocating for Organic Gardening and Edible Landscapes
54:51 Future Gardening Projects and Organic Pest Control
56:14 Insights from the Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook
58:03 Connecting with Susan Mulvihill: Gardening Tips and Resources
Craig LeHoullier is known for many things in the tomato world. Some know him as the NC Tomatoman. Some know him as the fellow who named the very popular heirloom tomato Cherokee Purple.
To others, he is the author of two books Epic Tomatoes and Growing Vegetables
in Straw Bales.
Craig is the co-host of Tomatopalooza and a co-leader of the Dwarf
Tomato Breeding Project.
Around town in Henderson or Raleigh North, Carolina, you may know him as just the odd person with a garden where the driveway used to be.
Craig proclaims to be a tomato nut with a website, a blog, a newsletter, and a huge collection of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
In reality Craig LeHoullier pursues with a passion heirloom tomatoes to help keep them
relevant.
This is episode 162, Cultivating Your Epic Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier. An encore and remixed presentation of episode 046 on The Garden Question Podcast.
Cultivating Epic Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullierThis episode of the Garden Question Podcast, hosted by Craig McManus, features Craig LeHoullier, an expert in heirloom tomatoes, to discuss the ins and outs of tomato cultivation, selecting varieties, and his contributions to tomato breeding, including the creation of Cherokee Purple, Cherokee Chocolate, and Cherokee Green varieties.
LeHoullier shares his passion for tomatoes, strategies for selecting the right varieties for different uses, the importance of community in gardening, and advice on gardening techniques.
Highlighting his experiences and lessons learned through decades of gardening, LeHoullier aims to inspire both new and experienced gardeners to explore the diversity and joy of growing tomatoes.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Craig LaHoollier: The Tomato Virtuoso
02:13 Diving Deep into Tomato Varieties and Selection
04:55 Gardening Techniques and Challenges
10:02 Learning from Last Year's Garden
15:56 The Fascinating Story of Cherokee Purple
21:47 Tomato Color Mutations and Surprises
25:34 The Perishability and Seasonality of Produce
26:21 The Science Behind Supermarket Tomatoes
27:45 Embracing Seasonal Eating Habits
28:37 Journey to Writing 'The Epic Tomatoes'
32:27 The Dwarf Tomato Project: A Gardening Revolution
38:39 Gardening Mistakes and Learning Opportunities
41:07 Expanding the Garden Community
43:30 Reflecting on Gardening Influences and Memories
45:21 Engaging with the Gardening Community
Sarah Carter and her team have brought the New Perennial Movement to the south on a large scale. The new Entrance Garden’s large sweeps of grasses, perennials, native plants presented in a naturalistic style welcomes you to the Atlanta History Center.
The garden has settled in and in this episode Sarah explains the
details that makes it successful.
It is a creation perfect for insects, small mammals, birds and
people.
Sarah Roberts is the Olga C. de Goizueta Vice President of the
Goizueta Gardens and Living Collections at the Atlanta History Center
A college internship in curation at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University sparked
Sarah’s career path in public horticulture.
During her undergraduate studies at Berry College, she spent a year on scholarship
in the United Kingdom studying historic gardens as part of her honors degree in
Horticulture.
The next five years were spent as Curator of Herbaceous Plants
and Outdoor Gardens at the New York Botanical
Garden.
She then returned to England, completing a Diploma in Garden
Design from the UK’s Garden
Design School.
Upon Sarah’s return to the US, she began consulting for the
Atlanta History Center which led to her current position as Vice President of
Goizueta Gardens.
She leads the development, curation and preservation of the
33-acre public garden with three historic houses.
Sarah has written for numerous publications, been featured on
Martha Stewart Radio, the Canadian Broadcast Corporation, GardenSmart TV series
and the podcast Stuff You Missed in History Class.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Spotlight on Sarah Carter: Revolutionizing Southern Gardens
02:36 The New Perennial Movement: A Deep Dive
05:03 Designing with Nature: The Art of the New Perennial Garden
11:33 Innovative Soil and Maintenance Strategies for Sustainable Gardening
13:56 Structural Beauty: Crafting Aesthetic and Functional Spaces
23:40 The Maintenance Philosophy of New Perennial Gardens
31:16 Revolutionizing Soil with Biomass: A Garden Experiment
32:29 From Dying Tree to Community Table: A Story of Tree Cycling
34:02 Exploring the Atlanta History Center's Gardens
42:05 Gardening Insights: From Design Principles to Pest Management
44:33 Personal Gardening Journey: Lessons and Memories
51:44 Embracing the New Perennial Movement: A Gardener's Vision
55:42 Final Thoughts: The Joy of Gardening and Environmental Stewardship
What can you do to improve your garden’s soil to reduce failures? In this episode 160 - The Soil Solution: Unlocking Your Garden’s Potential with Bryce Lane, we discover how understanding soils influences abundant plant growth. This is a remix and encore presentation.
They discuss the foundational role of soil in gardening success and how adding organic matter can vastly improve soil quality. The conversation covers the importance of understanding soil's physical, chemical, and biological properties, debunking myths about soil management, and practical tips for gardeners of all levels to enhance their garden's soil, leading to healthier, more resilient plants and a thriving ecosystem.
Bryce discovered his passion for plants, and telling others about them while working at a small Massachusetts garden center through high school and college.
After earning his BS and MS degrees in Horticulture, he came to the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University as an Instructor and Undergraduate Coordinator.
He spent 34 years teaching and advising over 20,000 students. Bryce retired in 2014, but still teaches part-time in the department.
For 11 seasons, from 2003 to 2014 he hosted and produced a three-time, Emmy winning, UNC TV public television show called “In the Garden With Bryce Lane”.
Time Line:0:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
01:02 Meet Bryce Lane: A Gardening Expert's Journey
02:14 The Importance of Building Healthy Soil
04:28 Understanding Soil: Components and Functions
07:43 The Biological World Beneath Our Feet
16:33 The Magic of Organic Matter in Soil Building
27:46 Choosing and Applying Organic Matter
32:53 The Truth About Fertilizers: Organic vs Synthetic
34:20 The Journey of Peruvian Seabird Guano
35:20 Choosing the Right Fertilizer for Your Garden
36:47 Improving Clay Soil: Sand vs Organic Matter
38:11 Maximizing Organic Matter in Your Soil
39:28 Gardening Tips: Soil Building and Planting Strategies
42:34 Redefining Garden Design: From Holes to Whole Beds
45:26 A Horticulturist's Journey: From Garden Center to TV
53:34 Gardening Mistakes and Learnings
58:17 Future Plans and Funny Stories from the Garden
01:01:12 The Philosophy of Gardening
01:03:12 Connecting with Bryce Lane
Jason Powell declares the queen of the garden to be antique roses. Who could argue with old garden roses that exude excellent fragrance, shape, disease resistance and low maintenance?
We talk about how these fragrant flowering shrubs make a huge impact in your garden when pairing them with some surprise companion plantings. Jason and his wife, Shelly, partner with Jason's mom and dad to produce heirloom plants at their nursery, Petals from the Past. Their mission is to educate and grow tough plants for southern gardens.
Jason earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture from Auburn University. and a master's degree in horticulture from Texas A& M University. He is a proud member of the infamous Texas Rose Rustlers, where they scouted and rescued thousands of antique roses all over the southeast. Jason's insider scoop and look into the Peggy Martin Hurricane Katrina Rose survival story will amaze you.
This is an encore presentation.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Antique Roses: The Queen of the Garden
01:07 The Powell's Heirloom Plant Mission
02:16 Defining Antique Roses with Jason Powell
04:31 Why Antique Roses Deserve a Spot in Your Garden
05:05 Exploring the Diverse Classes of Antique Roses
14:37 Choosing the Right Rose for Your Garden
22:30 Caring for Your Antique Roses
29:49 Jason Powell's Favorite Roses and How to Showcase Them
33:13 Enhancing Your Garden with Companion Plantings
35:22 Discovering the Charm of Salvias and Companion Plants
37:44 The Art of Rooting Garden Roses: Tips and Tales
43:00 The Resilient Beauty of the Hurricane Katrina Rose
47:05 Cultivating Education and Heritage at Petals from the Past
49:01 Expanding the Gardener's Palette: Design and Diversity
50:42 Gardening Wisdom: Lessons, Influences, and Future Plans
01:01:24 Final Reflections: The Therapeutic Value of Gardening
In this episode Jenny Rose Carey, a seasoned horticulturalist, shares how her garden thrives with her smart water-wise practices.
Despite 45 inches of rain annually, she emphasizes harmony with natural weather patterns, practical tips and personal anecdotes.
She offers valuable insights into tricks and sustainable practices.
Born into a family of botanists and gardeners in England, she's now dedicated to sharing her expertise through writing, speaking, and tending her garden, Northview Gardens in Philadelphia.
Her degrees are in Biology, Horticulture, and Education. Professionally, she has been Director of two public gardens: The Ambler Arboretum of Temple University and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's Garden at Meadowbrook Farm.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Jenny Rose Carey: A Waterwise Gardening Expert
01:10 Jenny's Journey: From England to Philadelphia
01:41 Smart Water Practices for Your Garden
05:16 Innovative Water Conservation Techniques in the Garden
08:50 Exploring the Concept of Soak-a-ways
10:43 Creative Gardening: Newspaper Walls and Hugelkultur
19:40 The Philosophy of Watering and Garden Maintenance
25:40 Experimenting with Water Conservation Methods
31:57 Harnessing Rainwater and Battling Mosquitoes
33:25 Innovative Dry Gardening Techniques
34:41 Garden Design Mishaps and Solutions
38:31 Exploring the World of Garden Books
41:03 The Joy and Inspiration of Gardening
44:23 Personalizing Your Garden Space
46:15 Garden Myths and Early Memories
48:15 A Journey Through Horticulture
49:33 Garden Mishaps and Learning Moments
57:29 Creative Gardening and Future Projects
01:00:12 Final Thoughts on Gardening
In this episode we delve into the fascinating world of gardening with none other than C.L. Fornari.
We explore innovative approaches to plantings that challenge traditional gardening norms and embraces the beauty of nature's design.
C.L. is an accomplished artist, writer, photographer, and speaker. She found herself unexpectedly drawn into the world of gardening despite her initial focus on creating art. With eight books under her belt and a thriving radio program, GardenLine on WXTK , C.L. is a beacon of knowledge in the gardening community.
In this episode, we'll be diving into Fornari's concept of "field style" planting for annuals and perennials. It’s a method that eschews traditional rules in favor of a more naturalistic approach.
Picture a garden where plants of all heights mingle harmoniously, creating a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and shapes from early summer to frost.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, C.L. Fornari's insights are sure to inspire and transform your garden into a vibrant oasis of beauty and biodiversity.
C.L. grows vegetables, flowers and numerous other plants at her Poison Ivy Acres on Cape Cod. Her not-so-secret mission is to keep horticulture connected with popular culture.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:43 Diving Into the World of Gardening with CL Fornari
01:24 Exploring Field Style Planting
02:18 The Art of Mixing Annuals and Perennials
06:37 The Inspiration Behind Naturalistic Gardening
08:03 Addressing Gardening Challenges and Selection Tips
19:36 Creative Floral Arrangements and Sharing Joy
22:13 CL Fornari: A Multifaceted Gardening Expert
29:04 Hot Gardening Questions and Tips
32:53 The Joy and Flexibility of Gardening
34:20 Gardening for Joy vs. Necessity
35:29 Rethinking Garden Practices: Fertilization and Myths
38:34 Personal Gardening Stories and Memories
41:49 Transition from Art to Horticulture
47:22 Learning from Gardening Mistakes and Experiences
53:42 Creative Ventures and Future Plans in the Garden
55:43 Celebrating Hydrangeas: The Cape Cod Festival
01:00:32 Connecting with the Gardening Community
This episode of the Garden Question podcast, hosted by Craig McManus, features Kim Halyak, the co-founder of Experience Memphis Gardens.
They discuss the impact of garden walks on community connections, local economies, and neighborhood aesthetics.
Kim shares her journey from being inspired by garden walks across the United States to establishing the Experience Memphis Garden Walk, highlighting its growth, benefits to the community, and how it fosters a sense of connectivity and pride among residents.
The discussion covers the importance of inclusion in the garden walk, encouraging participation from home owners, renters, and non-gardeners. The broadened horizon of the walk to include various neighborhoods and garden styles.
She also touches on the grant program initiated to fuel community-based beautification projects. The episode concludes with Kim's personal gardening preferences, challenges in organizing the garden walk, Experience Memphis Gardens long-term visions, and advice for aspiring garden walk organizers.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast!
00:42 Exploring the Impact of Garden Walks with Kim Halyak
01:34 The Magic of Garden Walks: Community, Economy, and Aesthetics
03:54 The Birth and Growth of Experience Memphis Gardens
05:55 Expanding the Garden Walk: Citywide Transformation
09:13 Inclusivity and Diversity in Gardening: Everyone's Invited
14:10 The Logistics of Organizing a Citywide Garden Walk
16:53 The Bigger Picture: Gardening for a Greener City
24:03 Empowering Communities Through Gardening Initiatives
26:57 Empowering Communities Through Garden Walks
27:17 Overcoming Challenges and Spreading the Word
28:41 Vision for Neighborhood-Specific Garden Walks
29:46 The Prestigious Garden Fling Event in Memphis
30:38 Starting Your Own Garden Walk: Tips and Encouragement
32:35 The Transformative Power of Garden Walks
34:48 Gardening for Wildlife and Community Education
35:48 Personal Gardening Preferences and Low Maintenance Techniques
37:56 Rethinking Garden Design and Public Spaces
40:16 Busting Garden Myths and Embracing All Gardeners
45:55 Gardening as a Journey of Learning and Creativity
49:09 Final Thoughts and How to Connect
Exploring the vast culinary experiences of edible flowers offers an explosion of flavors, colors, and textures.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Denise Schreiber, an aficionado in the field of edible flowers, to unearth the inspirations, insights, and practices behind her fascination with a number of botanical delights.
Denise’s years of experience and experimentation shares her journey into the world of edible flowers, offering a slice of wisdom for enthusiasts and novices alike.
A trip to England with friends led to discovering a simple pleasure of rose petal ice cream. It kindled her interest in edible flowers. It soon evolved into a 14-year endeavor of research, workshops, culinary exploration and writing a book back in the States.
Our conversation reveals not just the culinary potential of edible flowers but also the journey of exploration and creativity they inspire. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious cook, the world of edible flowers offers a unique blend of beauty, flavor, and history waiting to be discovered.
Time Line
00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Diving Into the World of Edible Flowers with Denise Schreiber
02:00 Denise's Journey: From England to Edible Flower Expert
05:32 The Culinary and Cultural Significance of Edible Flowers
06:28 Exploring Popular Edible Flowers and Their Uses
17:30 Growing and Harvesting Edible Flowers: Tips and Tricks
21:55 The Therapeutic Joy of Gardening
22:16 Gardening Design Mistakes to Avoid
23:14 Busting Common Gardening Myths
25:49 Family Traditions and Tomato Tales
29:56 From Career Changes to Horticulture Passion
32:02 Learning from Mistakes and New Discoveries
34:34 Advice for Beginner Gardeners
35:48 Personal Touches in the Garden
36:36 Reflecting on Gardening Lessons and Creativity
38:31 Dream Gardening Destinations and Influences
41:43 Closing Thoughts and Connecting with the Gardener
In this episode we explore gardening using tropical plants, with Marianne Willburn. Marianne shares insights on how to successfully incorporate tropical and subtropical plants into your not so tropical garden.
She breaks down the gardening process into relational categories such as 'Summer Romances', 'Long Term Commitments', Best Friends, 'Friends with Benefits' and 'High Maintenance Partners'.
Marianne stresses the importance of being open to experimenting with these plants, seeking new adventures and exploring the risk reward cycle.
Our conversation also covers practical advice on transitioning plants to the outdoors in spring and back in doors in the fall , utilizing tropical plants for garden design, and methods for dealing with common gardening challenges like pests and storage limitations.
The discussion is rich with gardening philosophy, advocating for flexibility, a gardening approach that values both aesthetic beauty and ecological balance.
IG @Marianne.Willburn
Tropical Plants and How to Love Them
Big Dreams, Small Garden
MarianneWillburn.com
GardenRant.com
AHS - The American Gardener
Time Line:
00:00 Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast
00:40 Exploring Tropical Gardening with Marianne Willburn
02:00 Building Relationships with Tropical Plants
03:10 Summer Romances: Annual Tropical Plants
05:44 Long Term Commitments: Houseplants That Thrive Outdoors
12:33 Friends with Benefits: Edible Tropicals
15:25 High Maintenance Partners: Demanding Tropical Plants
18:41 Best Friends: Easy Storage Tropical Plants
23:58 Designing with Tropicals in Your Garden
33:16 Embracing the Unpredictability of Gardening
33:59 Exploring Mock Tropicals and Hardy Plants
35:24 Discovering 'Blind Date' Tropical Plants
36:55 The Showstopper: Red Abyssinian Banana
39:21 Low Investment Tropical Gardening Tips
41:20 Transitioning Tropical Plants Seasonally
42:55 Introducing 'Tropical Plants and How to Love Them'
47:11 The Joy and Challenges of Gardening
56:41 Creative Approaches and Gardening Wisdom
01:00:57 Final Thoughts and How to Connect
In this episode we talk with Brent Heath of Brent and Becky's Bulbs exploring the vibrant world of summer-blooming bulbs.
He guides us through making the most out of our gardens with these colorful gems taking center stage.
We cover selecting the right bulbs for various garden needs, planting techniques and soil preparation.
Brent shares his wisdom of many growing seasons discussing the importance of compost, the handling of bulbs, and mulching. He addresses common problems such as moisture management and pest control.
His insightful tips on garden planning for continuous blooms from spring to autumn, leveraging bulb combinations for vibrant color themes, and encouraging biodiversity with pollinator-friendly choices are also provided.
Additionally, Brent delves into his family's gardening heritage, their commitment to organic practices, and the joy gardening brings to both the gardener and the community.
Time Line00:00 Welcome to the Garden Question Podcast!
00:42 Diving Into the World of Summer Blooming Bulbs with Brent Heath
02:00 Expert Tips on Selecting and Planting Summer Bulbs
04:16 Navigating Common Bulb Growing Challenges
14:40 Maximizing Your Garden's Potential with Bulb Combinations
18:01 Innovative Gardening: Mixing Annuals, Perennials, and Edibles
20:10 Fragrant Bulbs and Pollinator Favorites
22:08 Discovering Fragrant Summer Blooms
22:29 Exploring Unique and Long-Lasting Flowers
23:31 The Aromatic World of Lavender and Monarda
26:20 Innovative Gardening with Summer Blooming Bulbs
27:00 The Magic of Giant Topicals in Your Garden
29:29 A Family Legacy in Bulb Gardening
32:26 Gardening Wisdom: Challenges, Styles, and Memorable Experiences
40:41 Brent and Becky's Bulbs: A Hub for Garden Enthusiasts
In this episode we welcome Donna Balzer, an award-winning horticulturist, keynote speaker, and author with over three decades of experience in gardening. Donna's journey from her roots as a farmer's daughter with an agriculture degree to her current role as a media personality has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge in horticulture.
In our conversation, Donna shares her expertise on a fascinating topic: Growing Winter Citrus. Despite traditional beliefs, her method enables individuals to successfully grow citrus plants in regions typically unsuitable for them.
Donna discusses the challenges of cold weather citrus cultivation, emphasizing the importance of strategic location within the home
Drawing from her own experiences, Donna explores the resilience of certain citrus varieties to chilly temperatures and stresses the significance of excellent drainage and breathable root systems.
We delve into essential aspects such as watering practices, pest management in indoor environments, and the intricacies of pollination and fruit development under controlled conditions.
Throughout our discussion, Donna highlights that gardening is accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. She introduces valuable resources like Lemon Camp—a collaborative platform fostering engagement and learning in the citrus gardening community.
Time Line
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Meet Donna Balzer: The Expert Horticulturalist
01:06 The Art of Growing Winter Citrus
02:25 Understanding Cold Climate Citrus
03:10 The Ideal Environment for Growing Citrus
03:58 Common Mistakes in Citrus Cultivation
05:18 The Impact of Temperature on Citrus Growth
07:20 The Importance of Proper Drainage and Breathable Root Systems
13:29 The Pollination Process of Citrus Plants
20:41 The Flavor Difference in Homegrown Citrus
21:20 The Unique Thai Lime Story
23:08 Growing Citrus from Cuttings
28:04 The Importance of Fertilization in Citrus Growth
29:44 The Struggles of Indoor Plant Care
30:17 The Importance of Light and Fertilizer for Plants
30:51 The Magic of Worm Castings
31:05 The Journey of Making Homemade Worm Castings
31:43 The Benefits of Buying Worm Castings Directly from the Producer
32:40 The Exciting World of Online Gardening School
32:48 The Difference Between a Class and a Camp
34:30 The Global Reach of Online Gardening Camp
34:52 The Joy of Growing Your Own Food
38:31 The Importance of Understanding the Connection in Gardening
40:12 The Misadventures of Growing Strawberries
48:15 The Excitement of Starting a New Garden
50:17 The Love for Calamondin Orange
51:08 The Importance of Sharing the Love of Gardening
51:50 Conclusion: The Joy of Gardening from Two to Ninety-Nine
In this episode we talk with award-winning garden designer Nick McCullough.
He has developed a distinctive style he calls Midwest Modern, one that relies on a balance of natural paving and innovative perennial plantings.
Based in Ohio, he and his team at McCullough’s Landscape & Nursery create and maintain plant centric gardens in and around the Midwest that are both ecologically sensitive and family-forward.
His first book American Roots which he co-authored with his wife Allison and Teresa Woodard has recently been published by Timber Press.
This is episode 151 – American Roots: A Conversation with Nick McCullough on the Garden Question Podcast.
Unveiling Nick McCullough's Gardening Philosophy
In episode 151 of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus interviews award-winning garden designer Nick McCullough, exploring his distinctive 'Midwest Modern' gardening style that combines natural paving with innovative perennial plantings.
McCullough talks about his design process, his plant-centric approach, his company's operations in Columbus, Ohio, and his passion for containers inspired by his travels.
He also discusses his love for texture over color in the garden, breaking conventional gardening rules, and the influence of his artistic background on his work.
Additionally, McCullough touches on his book, 'American Roots', co-authored with Allison McCullough and Teresa Woodard, which showcases 20 unique gardens across the United States, emphasizing the diversity and creativity of American gardeners.
The podcast highlights the importance of low-maintenance, environmentally-conscious gardening options like gravel gardens, the value of repurposing materials, and the concept of rewilding.
McCullough's personal gardening experiences, inspirations, and future plans are also shared, offering listeners an in-depth look at his holistic approach to designing, building, and growing smarter gardens.
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Meet the Guest: Award-Winning Garden Designer Nick McCullough
01:30 Understanding Nick's Gardening Design Style
01:56 Inside Nick's Company: McCullough's Landscape and Nursery
02:44 The Art of Designing and Growing Container Gardens
03:32 Exploring the Importance of Texture in Gardening
06:12 Breaking the Rules in the Garden
07:56 The Art of Repurposing in Gardening
08:57 Unveiling the Book: American Roots
13:03 Exploring the Concept of Rewilding
14:09 The Journey of Writing the Book: American Roots
15:48 Behind the Scenes of a Typical Garden Shoot
17:47 Garden Photography Tips and Tricks
18:38 The Future of American Roots
19:27 Garden Design Philosophy
19:54 Container Gardening and Watering Techniques
20:59 Gardening Memories and Influences
22:54 The Horticulture Profession and Personal Garden
23:58 Gardening as a Fine Art
25:12 Influences and Future Plans for the Garden
26:07 Gardening Mistakes and Lessons
28:13 Gardening Love and Future Plans
32:24 Connecting with Nick McCullough
32:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Gardening is not just for adults. In fact, getting kids involved in gardening can have a multitude of benefits for their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Gardening has the power to transform children's lives and instill in them a love for the outdoor world and healthy living. It provides opportunities for learning, growth, and community engagement.
To understand the importance of this, we have the opportunity to chat with Em Shipman, the Executive Director of Kids Gardening .
In this conversation, Em shares her insights on why it is important to get kids involved in gardening, the benefits of gardening for kids, and the challenges facing educators, parents, and caregivers.
Her vision is grounded in the principles that children are on their way to realizing their full potential when they have access to healthy food, hands-on outdoor play, and learning opportunities.
Em has also worked as a professional gardener and garden designer. She spends all of her free time (and then some) digging in the dirt.
Em resides in an old school house in Vermont with her two boys and wonderful garden soil.
Time Line00:04 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:42 The Importance of Gardening for Kids
01:08 Interview with Em Shipman, Executive Director of Kids Gardening
02:14 The Benefits of Gardening for Kids
06:22 Challenges in Implementing Gardening for Kids
09:15 How to Get Involved in Kids Gardening
11:06 Educational Resources for Gardening with Kids
12:32 Gardening Activities for Kids
17:40 Community Involvement in Gardening
19:06 Kids Gardening Month
20:24 Gardening Tips and Lessons Learned
31:21 Conclusion: The Joy of Gardening with Kids
Christy Wilhelmi shares valuable insights for building and maintaining an organic home food garden.
Up to 80 percent of her family's produce comes from less than 300 square feet of her own garden.
We discuss her approach to designing gardens while understanding a gardener's specific needs and objectives.
Christy explains the importance for selecting appropriate materials and proper choices of soil, seed, and irrigation for a flourishing garden.
In addition, she addresses certain common misconceptions and shares the key lessons she's learned in her gardening journey.
Christy is the chief garden nerd and founder of the Gardenerd brand which is the home of abundant gardening resources.
She publishes newsletters, her popular blog, a top-ranked podcast, and YouTube videos. Her specialties are spreading the garden word to her clients and the world with small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes.
Much of Christy’s expertise to help you better plan and maintain your garden is captured in the online courses she’s developed. The waiting list for her new Garden Planning course.
She is the author of Gardening for Geeks , 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success, Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden and her debut novel Garden Variety with a sequel on the way.
Follow Gardenerd on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Channel,
For 40 years the Square Foot Gardening method has been transforming traditional gardening practice around the world. It is known as a highly efficient method of growing food in small spaces.
In this episode of The Garden Question Podcast, we talk with Steve and Laura Bartholomew. They continue to spread the gardening legacy of Steve's father, Mel Bartholomew, the creator of Square Foot Gardening.
We learn how Mel’s vision continues through the Square Foot Gardening Foundation. We also discover how the foundation helps all gardeners learn to create their own sustainable, sufficient, and reliable food source.
From the beginning Mel’s book captured how to “Grow more food with less space”. This simple and highly productive message led it to becoming the world’s number one selling gardening book of all time.
Let's dive into the successful knowledge-filled conversation that unfolds in Episode 148 - Square Foot Gardening: Growing More Food with Less Space with Steve and Laura Bartholomew on the Garden Question Podcast.
The Square Foot Gardening Foundation has given us a 20% off coupon for their online comprehensive Square Foot Gardening Methods Course. If you’re interested go to episode page 148 and get the 20% off Coupon. This is not an affiliate link and we are not being compensated for you using the coupon.
In today's enlightening discussion, Charlotte Ekker Wiggins takes us on a journey through the fascinating intersection of beekeeping and gardening. She breaks down the perceived barriers between these two practices and highlights their inherent connections. Get ready to explore the importance of pollinators and the balance required to nurture their environment.
We'll delve into the secrets of Bluebird Gardens, a place Charlotte fondly describes as a hub for 'murder, mayhem, and mysteries,' where diverse creatures and plants coexist in harmony. Charlotte emphasizes the need for beekeepers to understand the intricacies of plant life, and for gardeners to grasp the fundamentals of pollination.
Charlotte is a Certified Master Beekeeper and Master Gardener Emeritus. She has turned a seemingly barren Missouri hillside into an award-winning haven for both bees and blooms.
Her garden, aptly named Bluebird Gardens, not only thrives against all odds but has also transformed into a certified wildlife habitat and Monarch Way station. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Charlotte is also an author and runs a custom gift business inspired by her sustainable practices.
Charlotte shares insights into the captivating swarming process in honeybee colonies and unveils potential educational resources for aspiring beekeepers.
Charlotte's Books
"A Beekeeper's Diary; Self-Guide to Beekeeping 2nd Edition"
"Bee Club Basics; How to Start a Bee Club" 2nd Edition
"Bees Need Flowers; Planting for Pollinators" Coming Soon!
Time Line
00:04 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:39 Meet the Host and Today's Guest: Charlotte Ecker Wiggins
00:42 Exploring the Intersection of Beekeeping and Gardening
01:08 The Secrets of Blue Bird Gardens
01:34 Charlotte's Journey as a Master Beekeeper and Gardener
02:33 The Importance of Understanding Plant Life for Beekeepers
03:21 The Role of Pollinators in the Garden Ecosystem
03:45 The Myth of the Peaceful Garden
05:10 The Role of Honeybees in Gardening
06:14 The Importance of Planting for Pollinators
09:40 The Connection Between Gardening and Beekeeping
12:00 The Role of Birds in a Healthy Bee Population
15:35 The Importance of Soil in Gardening and Beekeeping
16:46 The Challenges and Rewards of Beekeeping
19:32 The Role of Bees in the Garden Ecosystem
32:23 The Importance of Understanding Bee Behavior for Beekeepers
38:01 Understanding the Life of Bees
38:31 The Role of a Beekeeper
39:08 The Concept of Bee Space
39:44 The Process of Bee Swarming
39:50 The Life Cycle of a Queen Bee
40:41 The Fascinating Process of Bee Colony Decision Making
41:11 Understanding Swarm Cells and Supersedure Cells
41:58 The Journey of a Bee Swarm
45:14 The Role of Bee Clubs
47:17 The Importance of Beekeeping Education
53:25 The Importance of Understanding Soil in Gardening
01:01:54 The Connection Between Bees and Gardening
01:08:17 The Importance of Patience in Gardening
01:11:47 The Role of Observation in Gardening
Herbs have been around forever, but how well do you understand them? In this episode we have a conversation with Kim Roman.
Kim Roman shares her expertise, derives from her forthcoming book "Growing Herbs for Health, Wellness, Cooking, and Crafts."
We talk about various topics concerning growing, using, and appreciating herbs.
How do you differentiate culinary herbs from medicinal ones,
the overlapping roles of herbs and spices,
understanding botanical names,
keys to successfully growing herbs,
turning herbs into elegant and practical crafts,
creating herb oils, mocktails, and understanding tisanes.
We also touch on the role of an herbalist, maintaining and promoting wellness with herbs, and common and unique uses for herbs in cooking and garnishing.
Time Line
00:04 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:42 Understanding the World of Herbs with Kim Roman
01:07 Distinguishing Between Culinary and Medicinal Herbs
01:19 The Importance of Botanical Names in Herbology
01:25 Keys to Successfully Growing Herbs
01:38 The Role of an Herbalist and Wellness with Herbs
01:57 Understanding Culinary Herbs vs Medicinal Herbs
03:07 The Overlapping Roles of Herbs and Spices
04:00 The Importance of Knowing Your Plant
05:07 Key Elements for Successful Herb Growing
06:00 The Art of Container Gardening
08:34 Understanding the Herb Spiral
12:19 Choosing the Right Herbs for Your Garden
13:45 Understanding Plant Profiles
17:14 Harvesting and Processing Herbs for Optimal Results
25:27 Creating Herb Oils, Mocktails, and More
26:46 Cooking with Herbs: Tips and Tricks
31:16 Creating Herb-Forward Cocktails and Mocktails
32:11 Creating Unique Cocktails with Herbs
33:24 The Rise of Mocktails and Health Consciousness
33:58 Understanding Tisanes and Herbal Teas
34:47 The Role of Herbs in Wellness and Illness Prevention
36:11 The Role and Importance of an Herbalist
40:14 Crafting with Herbs: The Rosemary Wreath
42:03 Introducing the Book: Growing Herbs for Health, Wellness, Cooking, and Crafts
47:36 The Value of Starting Small in Gardening
48:17 The Reality of Gardening: Not Everything Goes Right
54:47 The Importance of Latin Names in Gardening
54:57 The Beauty and Peace Found in Gardening
55:41 Learning from Gardening Mistakes: The Importance of Studying Your Land
57:42 The Love for Unique Plants: The Golden Dragon Fruit
58:14 Connecting with the Gardening Community
58:57 Conclusion: The Joy and Lessons of Gardening
Dry shade is often a challenge in creating a successful garden. Such conditions require careful plant selection and insights. Hayes Jackson believes "there's a plant that loves that spot no matter how bad or how difficult you think it is."
Hayes is a self-professed plant geek, urban regional agent with Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Director of the new Longleaf Botanical Gardens in Anniston, Alabama.
He loves exploring local native woodlands, the hill country of Texas, and internationally for the next fascinating plant.
We delve into personal gardening stories, favorite plants, and future plans for new Longleaf Botanical Gardens along with a deep-dive into the world of horticulture.
Hayes shares his valuable insights, practical experiences, and unique philosophies on gardening.
00:02 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Understanding Dry Shade Gardening
01:02 Interview with Hayes Jackson: A Plant Geek
02:00 Creating Dry Shade Gardens: Challenges and Solutions
04:31 Exploring Plant Options for Dry Shade Gardens
06:31 Ground Covers and Bulletproof Plants for Dry Shade Gardens
08:50 Winter Blooms and Blooming Sequence in Gardens
11:58 Growing Palms in Dry Shade Gardens
17:04 Becoming a Plant Geek: A Personal Journey
19:24 Longleaf Botanical Gardens: A Plant Geek's Paradise
22:48 Garden Design Tips: Right Plant, Right Place
24:31 Overcoming Invasive Weeds in Natural Gardens
24:46 Creating Low Maintenance Gardens
25:01 Designing a Natural Garden: A Personal Story
26:13 Busting Garden Myths: Embracing Color and Texture
34:09 Gardening with Big Dogs: Challenges and Joys
35:26 Valuable Lessons from Gardening
37:38 The Impact of Climate Change on Gardening
40:01 The Joy of Plant Propagation and Sharing
44:15 The Challenges and Rewards of Maintaining a Mature Garden
45:13 The Fascination with Unique and Rare Plants
47:27 The Journey of a Patented Plant: Hydrangea Hay Starburst
48:47 Adapting Gardening Practices to Weather Conditions
49:44 Connecting with Hayes Jackson: Resources and Contacts
In episode 144 of the Garden Question podcast, host Craig McManus interviews Marianne Wilburn, a garden writer and expert.
opinion columnist for the American Horticultural Society's The American Gardener and is a contributing editor at GardenRant.com.
She authored the exciting book, Tropical Plants and How to Love Them, and her first book, Big Dreams and Small Gardens. Marianne's work has been featured in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Better Homes and Gardens. In this episode, we talk about challenging the norms that may be holding you back in your gardening endeavors.
Wilburn shares her insights on gardening and breaking free from conventional norms and constraints. They discuss dealing with garden centers' choices, HOA regulations, and the controversial norm of only using native plants.
Wilburn encourages listeners to embrace gardening as a transformative and creative experience and urges them to question the norm, understand the dynamics of ecosystems, and learn the adaptation of environmental changes.
They delve into the importance of visualizing the garden, nurturing it slowly, and using the trial-and-error process, further discussing how patience plays a critical role in cultivating a successful garden.
Wilburn also emphasizes the significance of nurturing real-world relationships with other gardeners, learning from them, and sharing knowledge and experiences.
00:03 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Conversation with Mary Ann Wilburn: Unearthing Garden Wisdom
01:33 Challenging Norms in Gardening
01:52 The Debate: Native vs Non-Native Plants
02:21 Visualizing Your Garden: The Key to Success
02:38 Breaking Free from Conventional Gardening
03:04 Constraints in Gardening: A Discussion
03:33 The Impact of HOAs on Gardening
04:04 The Fear of Getting it Wrong in Gardening
05:20 The Role of Personal Taste in Gardening
09:20 The Debate on Native and Non-Native Plants
10:50 The Impact of Climate Change on Gardening
23:00 The Constraints of HOAs on Gardening
27:25 The Role of Turf in Gardening
33:53 The Evolution of Flora and Fauna
40:06 Understanding the Evolution of Life on Earth
40:33 Applying Evolutionary Concepts to Current Times
40:52 The Role of Adaptation in Species Survival
42:07 The Importance of Scientific Inquiry and Open-Mindedness
43:23 The Role of Humans in the Natural Order
44:34 Encouraging Open Conversations and Inquiry
45:47 The Art of Garden Design and Maintenance
50:52 The Importance of Patience and Stewardship in Gardening
55:22 The Journey of a Gardening Professional
58:20 Learning from Gardening Mistakes
01:03:30 The Value of Personal Relationships in Gardening
01:07:22 Exploring Garden Rant: A Platform for Garden Writers
In this episode of The Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus chats with Perla Sofía Curbelo Santiago, a professional gardener and communicator from Puerto Rico. They discuss the transformative power of gardening for stress relief, mental health, and overall physical well-being. With a background in psychology and a certification in horticultural therapy, Perla Sofía shares insights on stress management techniques and integrating gardening into one's lifestyle for health benefits. Perla Sofia also talks about her endeavors in spreading awareness about the benefits of taking a garden break, her recently published book '¡Verdura! Living a Garden Life', and her new website, MyGardenBreak.com.
Episode Page:
00:01 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:40 Meet the Guest: Perla Sofía Curbelo Santiago
01:00 Exploring the Transformative Power of Gardening
01:45 Perla Sofia's Background and Achievements
02:26 The Significance of Taking a Garden Break
03:22 Gardening and Stress Management
04:42 Creating a Garden for Personal Enjoyment
06:29 Gardening Inspired by Literature
11:52 Gardening as a Family Activity
14:12 Gardening for Teenagers
19:31 The Concept of Garden Life
22:12 Addressing Modern Stressors through Gardening
25:44 The Role of Biophilia in Modern Life
28:15 Introducing Verdura: Living a Garden Life
34:19 Creating a Green Space for Zoom Meetings
35:26 Organizing Your Legacy: Planning for Your Collections
39:29 Designing a Garden with Intention
40:37 Busting the Green Thumb Myth
41:32 Early Garden Memories and Pursuing Gardening as a Profession
46:29 Funny Garden Stories: The Pumpkin Paranoia
50:41 Valuable Gardening Advice and Influences
54:03 Learning from Gardening Mistakes and Discoveries
57:38 Attracting Wildlife to the Garden: Future Plans
01:01:04 Daily Gardening Routine and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Garden Question podcast, the host, Craig McManus, explores the practice of 'crepe murder'. He emphasizes the damage improper pruning can cause to crape myrtle trees, detaching their natural beauty and weakening their growth potential.
McManus suggests proper pruning techniques to maintain the tree's health and longevity, and urges listeners to educate themselves about the tree's natural growth habits.
The podcast listeners can expect discussions with successful garden designers and growers, helpful tips for healthier gardens, news updates, and a hope for a better 2024 for crape myrtles. He encourages listeners to share the podcast, subscribe on their favorite listening apps, and visit the podcast's website for more resources.
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:53 Understanding Crepe Murder
01:41 The Beauty of Crepe Myrtle Trees
02:14 The Harmful Effects of Crepe Murder
03:39 Proper Pruning Techniques for Crepe Myrtle Trees
05:04 Preventing Crepe Murder
06:25 The Importance of Education in Gardening
07:03 Recovering from Crepe Murder
07:36 Conclusion and Invitation to the Garden Question Podcast
Host Craig McManus discusses the transformative power of gardening and the incredible impact they have on our lives with guest Jennifer Jewell.
Jennifer is a garden advocate, author, and award-winning podcast and radio host, shares examples of how gardens influence our lives.
She addresses the role of seed banks in preserving plant diversity, biodiversity threats from current agriculture practices, and the potential of gardeners to act as agents of positive change.
She emphasizes embracing and valuing plant diversity as we interact with our gardens. They also discuss Jennifer's newest book, What We Sow, which explores the personal, ecological, and cultural significance of seed.
She is the host of the national award-winning radio and podcast program "Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History and the Human Impulse to Garden.
The Impact of Gardeners
Jennifer believes that gardens and gardeners are not only sources of aesthetic beauty but influential agents of change. They have the power to plant seeds of transformation, both literally and figuratively, contributing to environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits.
The Power of Seed
Seeds, according to Jennifer, hold the key to transforming ecosystems and sustaining life. The conversation will shed light on some threats she believes to biodiversity posed by current agricultural practices. Conscious actions, such as building and supporting seed banks, is one way to countering these threats.
The Role of Seed Banks
We'll explore the critical role seed banks play in preserving plant diversity and safeguarding biodiversity. These repositories store a wide variety of seeds, ensuring the propagation of genetic variations and acting as a crucial measure against the loss of biodiversity.
Gardening for Community and Connectivity
Jennifer will highlight how gardens extend beyond individual spaces, connecting us to our wider communities. They break down barriers, build connections, and foster a deeper understanding of our shared environment. Intentional gardening becomes a platform for educating and inspiring others about ecological conservation and the importance of biodiversity.
Lessons in Gardening
Drawing from her extensive experience, Jewell emphasizes that there isn't a one-size-fits-all style of gardening. Gardens should be designed with an understanding of local conditions, contributing positively to ecosystems.
But first, let's get to know our guest a bit better.
Jennifer Jewell is not only the host of the award-winning program "Cultivating Place" but also an accomplished author with notable works such as "The Earth in Her Hands" and "Under Western Skies." Her newest book, "What We Sow," explores the personal, ecological, and cultural significance of seeds. Jennifer's passion lies in elevating the way we think and talk about gardening, empowering gardeners and celebrating the interconnectedness between places, environments, cultures, and individuals.
This Episode page: The Garden Question Podcast
00:03 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:41 Exploring the Power of Gardens with Jennifer Jewell
02:00 The Role of Seed Banks in Preserving Plant Diversity
02:31 Gardens as Platforms for Education and Inspiration
02:37 Jennifer Jewell's Contributions to Gardening
03:25 The Power of Gardeners in Effecting Change
08:22 The Impact of Home Gardens on Communities
13:55 The Role of Gardening in Addressing Homelessness
22:40 The Power and Threats to Seeds
26:04 The Importance of Seed Diversity
26:41 The Threats to Seed Biodiversity
30:01 The Impact of Modern Agricultural Practices on Seed Diversity
38:45 The Potential of Small Diversified Farms
42:13 Understanding Seed Banks
42:26 The Journey of Cultivating Place
43:09 The Role of Women in Seed Keeping
44:08 The Importance of Seed Banks
45:44 The Ancient Concept of Seed Banks
46:45 The Evolution of Seed Banks
49:38 The Strategic Plan of Seed Banks
51:50 Exploring the Size and Variety of Seed Banks
53:52 The Importance of Genetic Diversity in Seed Banks
55:28 Introducing the Book 'What We Sow'
55:53 The Impact of COVID-19 on Seed Supply
01:00:42 The Evolution of the Cultivating Place Podcast
01:04:18 Gardening Mistakes and Lessons
01:12:07 The Influence of Family in Gardening
01:14:03 The Joy of Gardening
01:18:48 Connecting with Cultivating Place
Starting a garden isn't just about planting seeds and tending greens. It's a compelling journey that goes beyond the soil – a tale that’s not only visually enthrall but emotionally connect. To learn more about this horticultural expedition, we turned to an authority in conifers and ginkgo trees - Tom Cox, the creator along with his wife Evelyn of Cox Arboretum and Garden in Canton GA.
Cox Arboretum and Garden, a renowned botanical hub situated in an ideal geographic zone, is a distinguished example of a beautifully curated, year-round, environmentally connected garden thriving with over 4,000 species of plants. From its humble beginnings to attaining recognition as the largest species collection of conifers in North America, the story of Cox Arboretum and Garden is one of dedication, learning, and an enduring love for nature.
Creating the Cox Arboretum and GardenTom Cox and his wife, Evelyn, didn’t initially plan to create such a vast arboretum and garden. They purchased a plot of land they fell in love with, and it morphed into a space teeming with exotic conifers, trees and intricate landscapes. The availability of varying growth conditions within their land allowed them to cultivate a diverse blend of plant species, creating a unique ecosystem that thrives in balance. Plants from colder climates or the ones wanting more warmth, both found a comfortable home in their Arboretum.
Traveling for Botanical Enrichment with Adventures Around the WorldTom's passion for horticulture extended far beyond the domestic soil. He and Evelyn embarked on travel to over 51 countries, exploring the world to discover exotic species, and returned to their arboretum to nurture their global bounty. This international exploration enriched the Arboretum with distinctive varieties of conifers and other plants, creating a fascinating botanical showcase that is a visual treat and a source of learning for gardening enthusiasts.
Designing Gardens for Success One of the major takeaways from Tom's experiences is the emphasis on garden planning. Tom points out the common pitfalls that amateurs and even professionals sometimes fall into, such as failing to account for the ultimate size of plants during designing and neglecting to consider the seasonal adaptability of certain species. By understanding these essential factors, gardeners can prevent landscapes that become overcrowded or lifeless after the initial blooms of spring fade.
A Year-Round Garden for All Seasons Tom Cox emphasizes the importance of creating a garden that has four seasons of interest. Instead of focusing only on spring blooms, gardeners should incorporate plants that create interest in winter, summer, and fall. As per Tom, a successful garden will provide pleasure not just during the peak springtime but all year round. Plants like hollies, rhododendron, Helleborus, along with a variety of conifers and azaleas, are great options for maintaining interest and color throughout the year.
The Future of Cox ArboretumThe admirable efforts of Tom and Evelyn have shaped the Cox Arboretum and Garden into an educational and intergenerational source of gardening inspiration. As the torch passes onto the younger Cox generation, the Arboretum promises to evolve further, inviting more garden enthusiasts into the folds of its natural charm and educating many more about the art of successful gardening.
In conclusion, the story of Cox Arboretum and Garden is a testament to nurturing a garden's potential through careful planning, diverse planting, and a commitment to creating a year-round, interactive space. The arboretum's journey from a simple plot of land to a famed botanical site encourages us to cultivate gardens that work in harmony with nature and serve as beautiful sanctuaries for ourselves and future generations.
This is an encore and remix presentation with Tom Cox. An extraordinary plantsman and creator along with his wife Evelyn of Cox Arboretum and Garden in Canton Georgia. Thank you, Tom, for what you brought to our world.
This has been an encore, remix presentation with Tom Cox. A tribute and memory of an extraordinary plantsman and creator along with his wife Evelyn of Cox Arboretum and Garden in Canton Georgia. Thank you, Tom, for what you brought to our world.
This is episode 140 - Nurturing a Garden: Adventures, Wisdom, and Insights from Cox Arboretum and Garden - Tom Cox
Thomas Wilson ‘Tom’ Cox: July 5, 1945 - March 11, 2023Time Line00:01 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:36 Meet the Host and the Guest: Tom Cox
00:39 Tom Cox's Journey and Achievements
01:56 Adding Interest to Your Winter Landscape
03:33 The Importance of Conifers and Their Adaptability
04:27 The Fascinating History and Survival of Conifers
05:35 Creating Winter Interest with Conifers
06:19 Availability and Transplanting of Conifers
09:20 Spring Blooming Plants and Their Unique Features
13:54 The Importance of Four-Season Gardening
20:07 The Journey of Cox Arboretum
24:40 The Unique Conditions of Cox Arboretum
30:30 The Importance of Pruning and Plant Management
31:59 Understanding Arboretums, Pinetums, and Botanical Gardens
32:35 The Purpose and Benefits of an Arboretum
33:39 Exploring the Medicinal Properties of Plants
34:29 Historical Uses of Plants and Trees
39:04 The Process of Plant Cultivation and Grafting
44:29 The Importance of Plant Knowledge in Landscaping
46:15 The Journey of Creating an Arboretum
56:30 The Future of the Arboretum
59:01 Connecting with the Arboretum
The vibrant red and green foliage of the poinsettia are familiar sights in homes around the world during the Christmas holiday season. But have you ever wondered how this exotic flowering plant from Mexico became a quintessential symbol of Christmas?
It is a series of intriguing stories full of human drama, mysteries, secrets, challenges, and world domination. One story involves searching out wild poinsettias in the middle of two drug cartel-controlled territories.
Craig McManus, your host of "The Garden Question Podcast", delves into the captivating history, cultivation, selection, and care of poinsettias with Dr. Jim Faust a Professor of Floriculture Physiology from Clemson University in South Carolina.
He does research in greenhouse production of various flowering crops, teaches hydroponics, and greenhouse production courses. He grew his first poinsettia crop in 1986.
Time Line00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:38 The Intriguing Story of the Poinsettia
02:02 The History of the Poinsettia
02:09 The Journey of the Poinsettia to the United States
02:50 The Role of Joel Poinsett in the Poinsettia's Journey
07:02 The Evolution of the Poinsettia
07:16 The Shipping Process of Plants in the 1800s
09:56 The Commercialization of the Poinsettia
15:13 The Development of the Modern Poinsettia
18:47 The Challenges of Growing Poinsettias
20:10 The Marketing and Sales of Poinsettias
22:15 The Future of Poinsettias
27:49 The Process of Reblooming a Poinsettia
30:07 The Development of Multi-Branching Poinsettias
34:34 Understanding Plant Patents and Genetic Control
35:06 The Mystery of Free Branching Characteristic in Plants
35:41 The Role of Phytoplasma in Plant Branching
36:06 The Discovery of Grafting Technique for Free Branching
37:15 The Secretive Business of Poinsettia Breeding
38:49 The Impact of Phytoplasma on Poinsettia Breeding
40:02 The Challenges in Poinsettia Breeding
42:19 The Journey of Poinsettia from Cutting to Market
47:26 The Impact of Heat Delay on Poinsettia Growth
49:40 The Adventure of Seeing Poinsettia in Its Native Environment
54:29 The Controversy of Biopiracy in Poinsettia Commercialization
57:53 The Future of Poinsettia Breeding
59:09 Tips for Selecting and Caring for Poinsettias
01:01:47 Debunking Myths about Poinsettias
We had the unique opportunity to interview Dr. Mel Koelling, a seasoned expert in the Christmas tree industry. With Christmas season on the horizon, there is no better time to learn about the fascinating world of Christmas tree farming and interesting stories.
About Dr. Mel Koelling and Tannenbaum FarmsMel and his wife, Lori, have been growing thousands of trees annually at Tannenbaum Farms in Central Michigan. With over three decades of experience in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University, Mel's expertise is nationally acknowledged in the Christmas tree industry. His passion for the industry transpired in 1977 when he purchased land, initially as an extension of his professional interest and to establish a college fund for his children.
Today, their plantings spread over almost 100 acres of their 180-acre farm. Every year, season after season, they strive to perfect the art and subdue the challenges of growing Christmas trees.
The History and Tradition of Christmas TreesMel delves into the historical events and accounts which trace back to the use of greenery and conifers by ancient cultures, recognizing their unique properties that defy natural processes during winter. This appreciation for the constant green throughout the year carried through the centuries, evolving into celebratory and traditional uses, eventually establishing the beloved tradition of Christmas trees.
Noteworthy was Martin Luther's fondness for fir trees. Luther, the famous monk known for his 95 Theses, is credited with one of the first observances of using a Christmas tree during the winter celebrations. The tradition gradually spread to other parts of Germany, the UK, and then to the shores of America, becoming an inherent symbol of Christmas.
Experiences and Memories at Tannenbaum FarmsStorytelling is a significant part of the Christmas tree industry and Dr. Koelling shares many delightful narratives based on his years of growing and selling Christmas trees. The passion and joy of working in this industry as witnessed in his recounting of the family gathered to choose a perfect tree and the sense of satisfaction, he draws from contributing to their Christmas celebrations are truly noteworthy.
Environmental Aspects of Christmas Tree FarmingWhen questioned about the supposedly negative environmental effects of Christmas tree farming, Dr. Koelling's perspective is both balanced and enlightening. While acknowledging the fuel and resources used in tree farming, he also points out the positive aspects such as soil conservation, supporting local economies, and enhancing wildlife landscapes.
The Future of Real Christmas TreesMel is very optimistic about the future of real Christmas trees. He sees them as a lasting memory and a tradition that has endured through the ages. Outside of the economic advantages of the industry, he believes the "warm and fuzzy" moments that Christmas trees bring to homes during the holiday season will continue to make them an inherent part of the Christmas celebration.
In conclusion, cultivating Christmas trees is both an art and a science that requires passion and dedication. It is a labor of love that aids in keeping a cherished tradition alive, whilst contributing positively to the environment and the local economy. Moreover, it creates precious memories for families across the world during the festive season, thus making it an industry of joy and giving.
The National Christmas Tree Promotion Board
An encore remix presentation
Time Line00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast
00:35 Meet the Host and the Christmas Season
02:06 Exploring the History of Christmas Trees
04:08 The Story of Martin Luther and the Christmas Tree
05:47 The Spread of Christmas Tree Tradition in the U.S.
07:30 Dr. Mel Koelling's Personal Christmas Tree Stories
10:51 Dr. Mel Koelling's Journey into Forestry and Christmas Tree Farming
16:53 The Evolution of the Christmas Tree Industry
20:59 The Rise of Choose and Cut Christmas Tree Farms
24:36 The National Christmas Tree Association and Promotion Board
26:14 How to Select the Perfect Christmas Tree
29:45 Proper Care for Your Christmas Tree
31:29 Innovative Tools for Tree Watering
32:12 Ideal Conditions for Displaying Your Tree
32:43 Disposing of Your Tree After the Season
34:33 The Reality of Christmas Tree Shortages
35:08 Memorable Moments in the Tree Purchasing Process
39:49 The Environmental Impact of Christmas Trees
42:12 The Economic Contributions of Christmas Trees
44:34 The Lifespan and Disposal of Artificial Trees
48:59 Learning from Mistakes in Tree Growing
52:06 The Future of Real Christmas Trees
52:24 Creating Lasting Christmas Memories
53:55 Conclusion and Thanks
In this Thanksgiving special episode of the Garden Question Podcast, host Craig McManus brings together a variety of influential guests from previous episodes to talk about what they are thankful for, both in the garden and in life. The episode kickstarts with Brent Heath, a flower bulb company owner, who shares his gratitude towards his family, God, and the freedoms of living in the U.S., Dan Benarcik, a horticulturalist, Kathy Jentz, editor of Washington Gardener magazine, Russell Camp, a horticulture instructor, Mike Cunningham, of the Country Gardens Farm, David Roberts, Director of Plant Breeding for Bailey Innovations, and Shelley Cram from GardenandDelight.com also share their expressions of gratitude. The host concludes the episode with a heartening monologue expressing his own feelings of gratitude for the podcast's growth, learning, the ecosystem supported by the soil, and the human tendency to grow amidst imperfections.
00:00 Introduction to the Thanksgiving Special
01:10 Guest 1: Brent Heath Gratitude
02:47 Guest 2: Dan Benarcik Appreciation for the Horticulture Community
04:17 Guest 3: Kathy Jentz Gratitude for Harvest and Gardening
06:46 Guest 4: Russell Camp Gratitude for Early Horticulture Support
08:04 Guest 5: Mike Cunningham Gratitude for Family and Farming
09:00 Guest 6: David Roberts Appreciation for Return to Normalcy
10:35 Guest 7: Shelley Cram Gratitude for Gardening and Family
11:59 Host's Reflections on Gratitude
Today's episode is an enlightening conversation with Shelley S. Cramm, the insightful author of "My Father is the Gardener."
She writes regularly for her Devotions Blog at GardeninDelight.com, and speaks enthusiastically to garden clubs and faith groups about plants of the Bible and how to connect garden work and harvest joys in the Word of God
Shelly’s background includes a Master of Architecture from University of Illinois, Chicago, work in architectural and garden design, leadership in local Bible study, prayer groups, Toastmasters International, and GardenComm: Garden Communicators International.
In this engaging discussion, Shelley’s shares her unique perspective on the profound connection between ancient scriptures and contemporary gardens.
We'll explore her journey from morning journaling to the laundry (yes, you heard that right!) and out into the garden.
Learn about the origins of her inspiration and how an encounter with "Secrets of the Vine" sparked a deep connection between the Bible and her gardening endeavors.
We'll delve into the pages of her book, examining the biblical plants that serve as metaphors for life's profound concepts. From fig leaves to mustard seeds, each plant carries a story waiting to be uncovered.
Today's episode is a captivating crossroad blend of spirituality and horticultural insight.
Today's episode is an enlightening conversation with Shelley S. Cramm, the insightful author of "My Father is the Gardener."
She writes regularly for her Devotions Blog at GardeninDelight.com, and speaks enthusiastically to garden clubs and faith groups about plants of the Bible and how to connect garden work and harvest joys in the Word of God
Shelly’s background includes a Master of Architecture from University of Illinois, Chicago, work in architectural and garden design, leadership in local Bible study, prayer groups, Toastmasters International, and GardenComm: Garden Communicators International.
In this engaging discussion, Shelley’s shares her unique perspective on the profound connection between ancient scriptures and contemporary gardens.
We'll explore her journey from morning journaling to the laundry (yes, you heard that right!) and out into the garden.
Learn about the origins of her inspiration and how an encounter with "Secrets of the Vine" sparked a deep connection between the Bible and her gardening endeavors.
We'll delve into the pages of her book, examining the biblical plants that serve as metaphors for life's profound concepts. From fig leaves to mustard seeds, each plant carries a story waiting to be uncovered.
Today's episode is a captivating crossroad blend of spirituality and horticultural insight.
Join us in this episode as we explore the harmonious blend of beauty and functionality in gardens.
Molly Hendry is a Birmingham native whose expertise as a horticulturist and landscape architect has taken her across the globe.
We'll unravel the fascinating tale of Molly's botanical adventures, from her prestigious role as the 2016-17 Royal Horticultural Society’s Interchange Fellow in the UK to her pivotal years shaping the future of Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
Now, in 2023, Molly has planted the seeds of her own garden design studio, Roots & Ramblings, where she designs enchanting spaces for passionate hands-in-the-dirt gardeners.
Discover Molly's bespoke design philosophy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and gain insights into the intricate synergy between gardening and landscape architect.
Stay tuned to learn about the geological wonders shaping our gardens and Molly's affection for the exquisite white cloud muhly grass.
Connect with Molly on Instagram '@MollsHendry' and '@RootsandRamblings'. Plus, her eagerly anticipated website, 'rootsandramblings.com,' where her awe-inspiring creations and services bloom.
In this episode passions collide and creativity blossoms with Dan Benarcik. A seasoned expert whose life has been a vibrant tapestry of horticulture, art, teaching, and design.
Growing up surrounded by the aroma of blooms and saw dust, Dan inherited a deep love for plants and craftsmanship from his florist mother and home center entrepreneur father.
Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Science from the University of Delaware, Dan's journey led him to Mt. Cuba Center, where he cultivated an appreciation for native plants.
Dan ventured into the horticulture business world, gaining insights into commercial plant production while working with Imperial Nurseries.
However, his heart craved creativity, leading him to the innovative haven of Chanticleer Garden. Here, as the overseer of the woodshop and Courtyard Gardens, Dan transforms spaces into living art, specializing in tropical and sub-tropical plants.
But Dan's talents don't end there – he's a passionate public speaker, a celebrated writer featured in esteemed publications, a television personality, and a skilled furniture builder. He shares his expertise globally, judging at the Philadelphia Flower Show and lecturing internationally.
We also discuss his famous Garden Chairs that are enjoyed around the world.
Join us today as we delve into Dan's awe-inspiring journey, where his boundless enthusiasm for horticulture and design knows no limits. Get ready for a podcast episode brimming with being creative taking chances, and being innovative!
Americas Garden Capital
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Garden Question. Today, we're venturing into the captivating realm of plant breeding, a topic that's as fascinating as it is innovative.
We all relish the joy of designing our own gardens, but have you ever dreamt of crafting your very own plants, tailored specifically for your garden? Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into this extraordinary world with an expert who's mastered the art of plant breeding.
In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to David Roberts, a trailblazer in the horticultural universe.
David's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Armed with a master's degree in horticultural science from the prestigious North Carolina State University, he embarked on a path that led him to a profound passion for ornamental plant breeding.
During his academic pursuits, he worked closely with esteemed mentors, Dr. Dennis Werner and Dr. Tom Ranney, honing his skills and nurturing his love for the art and science of plant breeding.
Here's where the story takes an exciting turn: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. recognized David's exceptional talent and enthusiasm, welcoming him into their family in 2015.
Since then, he's been the driving force behind Bailey Innovations, serving as the general manager and head plant breeder.
Currently, as the Director of Plant Breeding for Bailey Innovations, David oversees the breeding direction and orchestrates plant trials right from their nursery in the Winterville, GA.
Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the artistry of plant breeding, exploring David's experiences, insights, and the magic that happens at Bailey Innovations.
Prepare to be inspired, because today, you're in for a treat. Get ready to witness the bloom of creativity right here episode 133 – Unveiling the Art and Science of Plant Breeding - David Roberts.
Welcome to another fantastic episode. "Planting Bulbs, Harvesting Smiles," I'm your host, Craig McManus. Today we're diving into the vibrant world of bulbs with the one and only Brent Heath from Brent and Becky's Bulbs.
Brent Heath is not just your average gardener; he's a renowned bulb enthusiast, a masterful storyteller, and the co-owner of the famous Brent and Becky's Bulbs. Nestled in the heart of Gloucester, Virginia, this family-owned business has been spreading the joy of gardening for generations. But it's not just a business for Brent and Becky; it's a way of life, a passion that has taken root and blossomed into something truly extraordinary.
Picture this: colorful flowers, contagious smiles, and a ton of gardening wisdom packed into one delightful conversation. Brent Heath isn't just a gardening guru; he's the friendly face behind those stunning blooms that light up gardens far and wide. Today, he's here to sprinkle a bit of his magic dust on your green dreams.
From daffodils that dance in the sunlight to tulips that paint the town red (or any color you prefer!), Brent's got the lowdown on how to make your garden one of the happiest places on Earth
Grab your gardening gloves. Get ready to dig. Let's grow some smiles!
Stick around for some earthy tales, fantastic gardening hacks, and a whole lot of fun. Buckle up, garden lovers! It's time to bloom and let the world see you shine, just like the beautiful flowers in Brent and Becky's garden. Let's get growing!
Heidi Heiland has been diligently leading and artfully expanding her landscape gardening company, Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens as the CEO. That’s Chief Experience Officer since 1979.
With the help of her expert team, they create award winning ecoscapes and nourishing encounters with nature for their customers.
Her team brings holistic consultation, design, installation and site management to every project.
They are achieving innovative landscape designs and earth connected garden management by applying water wise approaches and slow food sustainability practices.
After graduating from the Constance Spry Flower School in England,
Heidi continued her education by becoming a Certified Professional through the Minnesota
Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA). She grew in the organization and eventually served as President.
Heidi holds a certificate in Horticultural Therapy through Colorado State University, has her PDC for Permaculture Design, and is a Professional Master Gardener.
In the spring of 2016, the company grew by acquiring a retail garden centre and growing nursery on a 5-acre campus in the western suburbs of the Twin Cities. This is the home and immersive experience of Heidi’s growhaus.
Heidi’s home gardens have received awards from the Perennial Plant Association and recognition from the Garden Club of America.
Her outdoor spaces and philosophy have been highlighted in many magazines including Better Homes & Gardens, Horticulture, and Northern Green.
For a decade, Heidi presented monthly segments on the local MN NBC affiliate, KARE 11’s EarthKare series.
She was recently inducted into the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA) Hall of Fame for making a difference in the green industry.
Heidi is happily married, has 3 adult kids, 3 grandkids, a golden retriever dog
named Dandelion and a rescued cat named Clover.
You will be happy that you listen to this episode before you plant your first plant. It begins with setting garden goals.
Jeff Rugg is an educator at heart.
For over 33 years he has written the weekly nationally syndicated newspaper column the Greener View.
He taught the University of Illinois Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs.
He now teaches via the internet through his YouTube channel Greener View with over 300 videos with more coming.
Many of the videos match the playlists of the chapters in his Greener View Gardening book.
The book is available at greenerview.com. There is a $30 discount on the softcover edition when using the promo code “podcast”.
In this episode we talk about adapting to various gardening challenges. We explore making tough decisions in gardening through the later seasons of life. Also, having the best attitudes toward tough decisions.
Mobility restrictions began taking a toll on 84-year-old Duane Pancoast. His gardening abilities were changing but not his knowledge.
He began sharing his and other senior gardeners’ experiences in his blog: The Geriatric Gardener in February, 2017.
After posting bi monthly Adaptive Gardening stories Duane decided to compile the best of his post into a self-published book: The Geriactic Gardener.
Duane feels having the gardening information at your fingertips is a benefit for every senior gardener.
Duane continues to work in the family marketing communications business, which he started in 1985. The firm serves tree, landscape and lawn care businesses.
Carol Pasternak lives by the motto “It’s Gotta Be Fun”. That is what she brings to this episode.
Have you ever thought about having a caterpillar as a pet? You will want to after listening to her.
Egg hunts are not just from the Easter Bunny. Carol talks about her thrill and experiences searching for the eggs laid by butterflies and tracking down the caterpillar.
You’ll find out how exciting it is to watch a caterpillar transformed into a chrysalis then into a butterfly.
Also, what you can do to help overcome the challenges facing the Monarch Butterfly. What is good for the Monarch is good for nature and us.
Carol Pasternak is an author, teacher, photographer and sought after speaker who has been raising monarch butterflies with her families for 40 years.
In her free time, she can be found in ditches, meadows and forests, scouring every crevice for signs of wildlife.
Her book How to Raise Monarch Butterflies: A Step-by-Step Guide for Kids, has sold 60,000 copies and received international acclaim.
Her latest book, 5 Butterflies inspires young people to pause their devices to revel in the natural world outside their door.
To invite her to speak to your group, write to monarchcrusader@gmail.com
Facebook: Monarch Crusader
Website: Monarch Crusader
In this fresh episode we are talking with Michael Perry also known as Mr. Plant Geek a multihyphenate in the plant world. You know he is adept at many roles in horticulture.
Michael is a TV presenter, speaker, hortpreneur and author of Hortus Curious, a visual menagerie of the weirdest and wackiest plant species.
Michael got his start in new product development at Thompson & Morgan before quickly working his way up to becoming an authoritative voice knowledgeable in all areas of horticulture.
Having presented guest slots on ITV’s This Morning and Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch.
He regularly speaking at RHS Flower Shows and industry exhibitions across the globe.
Michael’s focus is on the fun side of gardening, with an emphasis on new plants and trends.
He encourages and nurtures the new generation of gardeners.
Have you ever wondered about your neighbor’s tree branch hanging over your house? Or thought who really owns that tree on my property line. Is ignoring the questionable tree in my backyard a good idea?
Well in this episode we talk with an ISA Certified Arborist and a lawyer to find out where the law and your urban trees intersect.
Lea Clark has worked as a paralegal, a criminal defense lawyer, and a college professor.
After earning a Master’s in Forestry from University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources she serves with the Georgia Forestry Commission as the Community Forester for Northeast Georgia. She is responsible for 40 counties.
As a ISA Certified Arborist and TRAQ qualified Her focus is on providing support for cities, counties, and tree advocacy groups to improve the urban tree canopy.
Remember this presentation is informational only and is not legal advice.
Ask the Arborist
GaTrees.org
Dean Norton feel in love with the Mount Vernon Estate Gardens 53 years ago and never left.
After receiving a degree in horticulture from Clemson University he began his horticultural career as the estate’s boxwood gardener.
The historical gardens of the first president of The United States George Washington became his responsibility in 1980. His promotion to horticulturist allowed him to applying the latest plant science and horticulture management techniques for historical gardens.
Dean has devoted considerable time researching 18th century gardens and gardening practices.
He has received awards for conservation from the DAR and the Garden Club of America as well as the Garden Club of America’s Elizabeth Craig Weaver Proctor National Medal.
He is an honorary member of the Garden Club of Virginia and the Garden Club of Providence.
He has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Washington College,
serves on several historic property boards and,
lectures nationally and internationally.
This is an encore presentation and remix of episode 064.
It’s been over 200 years since he was born.
People still absorb his parks and public gardens in more than 5,000 communities across the North American continent.
The goal is to “give the common man in this New World the same opportunity to experience creation as any king in his private preserve from the Old World.”
Frederick Law Olmsted is prevalently pronounced the father of American landscape architecture.
This is episode 124 Sculpting Nature: The Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted with Kirk R. Brown an encore presentation and remix of episode 063
Kirk is a member of the International Garden Communicator’s Hall of Fame. He is a Green Achiever being recognized with many industry awards.
He represented Joanne Kostecky Garden Design as a leader in the design/build industry.
At America’s Oldest Garden in Charleston SC, he worked as National Outreach Coordinator.
He is a past president of www.GardenComm.com.
In the US and Canada, he has delivered hundreds of keynote addresses, guest lectures, teaching symposia, and certified instruction over the past quarter century.
He is also known to interpret historic horticulturists and international dignitaries: John Bartram, Frederick Law Olmsted.
With it all, he still finds time to cultivate his own private display garden.
Have you got a shady location where nothing else will grow? Are you tired of mowing grass? Do you have problem with soil erosion? How about a desire to avoid chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides?
In this episode Annie Martin, moss landscape designer and Timber Press author of The Magical World of Moss Gardening, talks about how Native mosses can be an excellent horticultural alternative.
Annie (aka Mossin’ Annie) is the owner of Mountain Moss in Pisgah Forest, NC,
She provides valuable insights on how to transform your outdoor living space into a serene retreat and eco-friendly landscape with verdant mosses.
Her how-to tips will help you get started on your own appealing year-round green moss gardening projects.
An encore presentation and remix of episode 065
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGreenWithMoss/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh9S1IDfXzE
Youtube: Mossin’ Annie
Facebook group: Growing Green with Moss
Josh Fuder’s search to identify the old apple trees growing at his newly purchase home ignited a path to discovering and recovering lost apple varieties of Georgia.
In this episode 122 we look into why lost apple varieties are important. How they are being discovered and saved to benefit future generations.
Josh is a University of Georgia Extension agent in Cherokee County Georgia. He is part of a team that has preserved nearly 140 different apple varieties at the newly planted Heritage Apple Orchard located at the Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center.
This is an encore presentation and remix of episode 042.
YouTube: “Farm Monitor” Site of a New Apple Orchard
YouTube: History of Apple Industry in GA
UGA Research News Article
Georgia Magazine Article: Preserving Georgia’s Heritage Apples for Future Generations
Carol Hight is a native plant and wild flower advocate. She is a prolific writer for local publications and is a very in demand speaker for wildflowers. Her blog is BloomingBeautiful.com
She is a 30-year retired 5th grade science teacher.
Carol is currently active with the West Georgia Chapter of the Georgia Native Plant Society where she has served as chairman of the Buffalo Creek Trail restoration committee, and as an active native plant rescue facilitator.
An encore presentation and remix of episode 010.
Jay Sifford’s passion for crafting immersive gardens that are full of magic and story guide his garden designs.
In this episode we will discover how Mary Poppins inspires and nurtures a space where reality and fantasy collide.
Sifford explains how he uses psychological, philosophical and spiritual principles to create contemporary, Asian-inspired, and woodland gardens with common plants and authentic materials.
His inspiring gardens have been featured in Southern Living, Fine Gardening, and Country Gardens magazines as well as in several books and on Houzz.
He writes for Houzz and SouthPark Magazines.
In 2021, he was named North Carolina's Most Outstanding Landscape Designer by LuxLife magazine.
Additionally, he has won 'Best of Houzz' awards for both design and service in 2020 through 2022.
Jay Sifford’s Garden Design
Sifford Garden Design on Facebook
Jay Sifford Garden Design on Houzz
An encore presentation and remix of episode 056
Staci L. Catron has one of the coolest jobs ever. She gets to live gardening in the past, in the present, and influence gardens of the future.
As the Director of the Cherokee Garden Library within the Kenan Research Center at the Atlanta History Center she manages the development, preservation, and interpretations of a 35,000-item growing collection.
Everything from garden and landscape related rare books, contemporary volumes, manuscripts, photographs, landscape architectural drawings, periodicals, seed catalogs, and ephemera.
She curates numerous exhibitions, lectures regularly regarding rare garden books and historic landscapes, and is published in many newsletters, journals, and books.
Her latest award-winning book co-authored with Mary Ann Eaddy is titled: Seeking Eden: A Collection of Georgia’s Historic Gardens with photographs by James R. Lockhart.
Catron holds a B.A. in History and Latin from Agnes Scott College, as well as a Master of Heritage Preservation from Georgia State University; and a Primary Teacher Certification from the Association of Montessori Internationale
This is episode 119 – The Cherokee Garden Library: Unearthing Ancient Gardening Wisdom – Staci Catron. An encore presentation and remix of episode 039
Melanie Deyton has made a life connecting people to plants through her family’s flower farm Melanie’s Garden.
We talk about successful Cut Flower Gardening. Overcoming the trials and the solutions of developing a whole new flower farm site.
You will enjoy learning how Melanie’s practical experience will guide you to becoming a better Cut Flower Grower.
Having worked in the floral and gardening industry for over a decade, she has learned that it's best to let nature lead the way.
As a mother, gardener and floral designer, she finds joy and beauty in the simplest things growing in her garden and along roadsides.
She talks about how nature’s hidden delights become spectacular shared designs.
This is episode 118 – Cut Flower Gardening - Melanie Deyton. An encore presentation and remix of episode 60.
Melanie’s Garden Facebook
Melanie’s Garden Instagram
Jutt Howard loves what he does. Every day is a new adventure when growing hundreds of acres of grass for your home and athletic venues.
In this episode he talks about how you can be successful also. How years of constant research pursues the perfect sod. Also an amazing bald eagle story that happened right on his family’s farm.
Jutt grew up in the landscape business and is now the VP of business operations for NG Turf. Since 2010 he has grown with the company and learned the values of producing high quality turf grasses.
He serves as Chairmen of the Advisory Board for AGL. Advancing Georgia Leaders in Agriculture and Forestry which is a 2-year leadership program.
He also serves as a board member of the (GCIA) Georgia Crop Improvement Association . They are responsible for Certification Programs involving crop seeds and turf grasses along with Organic Certification Program.
Jutt is a University of Georgia Certified Turf Grass Professional and a 2010 University of West Georgia Marketing Degree Graduate.
Jo Phillips is the Retired Horticultural Manager for the best-preserved 19th century garden in the United States. The first planting at Hills and Dales Estate occurred in 1841 with the still growing original boxwoods.
The garden estate is a horticultural testament to the three women with their families that have called it home. Today’s garden stays true to the original design and each woman’s contribution.
Jo tells stories about how much Alice Callaway loved Hills and Dales and was ahead of her time in so many ways. The horticultural staff reflects Mrs. Callaway love every day in their care for the original garden design.
You will want to listen all the way to the end to appreciate how important historical gardens are to our future garden success.
Jo earned her BSA Horticulture Degree from The University of Georgia.
Today we are having a conversation with Dr. Richard La Fleur about the importance of healing gardens. We will discover how they promote physical, mental, and spiritual healing as well as encourage self-care.
Dr. La Fleur is an author, international speaker, researcher and educator in the discipline of Psychology at the University of West Georgia. He currently teaches various courses in Psychology and Integrative Healthcare.
An encore presentation and remix of episode 024.
Christie Bryant speaks for trees every day. She loves to be in a person’s yard meeting their dogs and talking about what is best for their trees.
Climbing to the highest heights and exploring soil depths is important to her for a complete understanding of each tree’s optimum health needs.
Thirteen years as a consulting arborist Christie stays up to date on the latest tree research and what trees love and desire. Her tree consulting company is called Speaking for The Trees.
She believes it is important to know a tree’s potential by performing a tree risk assessment and a real estate due diligence inspection.
As Past President of the Georgia Arborist Association, she advocates for trees and the professional that take care of them.
She earned a Bachelor degree in Environmental Horticulture from the University of Georgia. Is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional, ISA Certified Arborist, and a trained Horticultural Therapist .
Christie has appeared as a tree expert on The Weather Channel, various local news outlets, and WSB radio Saturday morning show Green & Growing with Ashley Frasca.
This is an encore presentation and remix of episode 007.
Dr. Bodie Pennisi is an Extension Horticulture Specialist at the University of Georgia.
She has statewide responsibilities for the Georgia landscape industry and conducts applied research with emphasis on sustainable outdoor and indoor landscapes which includes plant, water, nutrient, and soil interactions.
Dr. Pennisi also teaches online university level courses titled: Herbs, Spices, and Medicinal Plants; along with a Plant Physiology course.
She also teaches Master Gardener training classes on landscape installation and maintenance, WaterSmart landscapes, interiorscapes, herbaceous and woody ornamental plant selection, plant propagation and plant physiology.
Dr. Pennisi serves as educational advisor to the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA), the Urban Agriculture Council (UAC), and the national organization Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB). She serves on the environmental committee of the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH).
Dr. Pennisi is a Co-Editor-in-Chief of Scientia Horticulturae.
This is an encore and remix of episode 006.
Lisa Bartlett is the Garden Manager for Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
She is responsible the over 4,000 species collection of plants.
This collection ranges from rare herbaceous perennials to rare and unusual trees.
The largest collections of Bonsai in the Southeast are also held at the gardens.
Lisa created the award-winning Butterfly Exhibit at Smith-Gilbert Gardens and follow up with the first Crevice Garden in Georgia.
Lisa has also served on the board of The American Hydrangea Society. One of her current projects is developing what she hopes to be a Nationally recognized collection of Hydrangea.
She also hosted a gardening radio show, called Green and Grow.
Before her passion for plants Lisa was a talent agent for stand-up comedians.
Jeff Foxworthy was once one of her clients!
The Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival
For decades Eric King has been designing award-winning landscapes that work with nature and encourage people to be outside.
He is a landscape architect and co-owner of the residential design + build firm King Landscaping serving the Atlanta area.
He often appears on local and national garden shows and is a noted contributor for a variety of online and print media.
King earned a Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from The University of Georgia and an MBA from Georgia State University.
He is the founder of The Landscape Design Program at Emory Continuing Education Center.
This is an encore presentation and a remix of episode 027.
Finding the right plant combinations can minimize diseases, reduce pest, improve soil fertility and support pollinators.
Using science back methods will reward your garden decisions.
For 15 years horticulturist Jessica Walliser co-hosted The Organic Gardeners, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
She is the Editorial Director for The Quarto Publishing Group’s Garden imprint, Cool Springs Press, and a former contributing editor for Organic Gardening magazine.
Jessica is the author of seven gardening books, including the Amazon best-seller
· Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to Manage Them Organically
· Plant Partners: Science-based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden, which earned a prestigious 2021 American Horticultural Society Book Award
· Attracting Beneficial Bugs to the Garden: A Natural Approach to Pest Control, which was awarded the American Horticultural Society's 2014 Book Award. It has recently been released as an updated 2nd edition.
For over twelve years Jessica wrote two weekly gardening columns for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
She is also co-founder of the popular gardening website SavvyGardening.com.
Jessica received her degree in ornamental horticulture from The Pennsylvania State University and is the former owner of a 25-acre organic market farm.
She’s taught a diverse array of gardening topics for over 25 years.
Jessica lives and gardens northwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband and son, two cats, two hermit crabs, and billions and billions of very good bugs.
This is episode 110 - Companion Planting for Success – Jessica Walliser This is a remix and an encore presentation of episode 050.
A remix and an encore presentation of episode 050.
If you have turf grass it can be frustrating?
In this episode we talk with Dr. Clint Waltz about solutions to your frustrations.
We also look into research practices and efforts in lowering the inputs needed for successful turf grass.
How turf grass ecoservices brings good things to our environment.
We also talk about the benefits and hurdles to auto mowing.
Dr. Waltz has state-wide responsibilities in all areas of turfgrass management, including turfgrass water use and conservation.
Clint is published in scientific journals and makes regular contributions to the newsletters of the State’s trade associations. Furthermore, he makes numerous presentations to a range of turfgrass professionals, county extension agents and homeowner groups.
UGA Turfgrass Field Day
Tara Dillard is a nationally recognized garden designer, author, and speaker. She has hosted her own CBS television program, The Better Gardening Show.
After earning degrees in engineering and horticulture she began designing and installing low-maintenance organic landscape . Her designs emphasis the balance between home, garden, and life.
An award-winning author of 5 books, including Garden Paths and Stepping Stones, Beautiful by Design, and The Garden View.
Tara writes a newspaper column; magazine articles and maintains a popular blog on her website: Tara Dillard.com
Based in Atlanta, GA, she lectures nationally, spreading the message that creating a beautiful landscape will create a beautiful life.
Brooks Garcia is fulfilling his dream in the Northeast Georgia Mountains.
The sun awakens him every day to his new adventure at Villa del Sole. A Tuscan style home and garden complete with long vistas to far mountain ridges.
He designed and built his Georgia version of a Tuscan style home complete with a clay tile roof and a wood burning fireplace.
When the sun slips behind the ridge Brooks celebrates another fulfilling day building his garden with a swimming pool soak.
In our conversation Brooks reveals the key to unlocking Georgia’s red clay soils and growing flourishing healthy plants in your garden.
Designing and building his “last great garden”. He talks about his favorite plants and how to use them in garden design. Some you won’t believe.
He shares his hands in the dirt experiences building award winning gardens at the Chelsey Flower Show, the Southeastern Flower Show, and the Foxhall Flower Show.
Brooks worked for Ryan Gainey as his personal assistant where he helped create many outstanding gardens in Atlanta, Long Island and abroad in France.
For 25 years Brooks created gardens for his fellow Atlantans through his company Fine Gardens.
Brooks attended the Lovett School and upon graduation went on to the University of Georgia earning his BLA in Landscape Architecture.
Brooks has given his time restoring historical Old Clarkesville Cemetery, Hills and Dales in LaGrange and Historic Oakland Cemetery.
This is Episode 107 - From the Soil Up with Brooks Garcia on the Garden Question Podcast. A remix and an encore presentation of episode 011.
How much fun would it be to walk out on your balcony and grab a handful of fresh strawberries and pop them in your mouth?
Kristen Pullen will tell us exactly how in today’s episode.
We will also discover how to successfully grow strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry right in your own patio containers.
There are even more possibilities for your own eatable landscape.
Kristen completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Rider University.
After college, she took an internship position at Longwood Gardens in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
The internship focused on all research aspects of the public garden from tissue culture to new plant evaluation and selection.
Currently She is the Woody Ornamental Portfolio Manager at Star® Roses and Plants. Her responsibilities include coordinating the development, launch, and market evaluation of all new trees, shrubs, and edible plants.
Kristen also manages the Bushel and Berry® Brand that provides both edible and ornamental uses for the home garden.
You’ll never want to leave a Susanne Hudson designed garden. Each garden room is an invitation to relax and enjoy again.
Susanne has been designing homes and gardens for over 40 years. She believes your home is for living and enjoying every day.
Her personal garden has been featured in Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, HGTV, This Old House, New Zealand’s Lifestyle Book and more.
She shares her garden with guest each year during the Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival Garden tour.
Designing amazing twist with antique and vintage objects is one of her design signatures.
In this episode we will talk with Landscape Architect Bruce Holliday about his landscape design philosophy and how you can enhance your property’s value.
Bruce has seen just about everything in his many years as a Landscape Architect where he has designed and installed landscape plant material, hardscapes, lighting, and irrigation for residential and commercial projects.
At Pike Family Nurseries he supervised 12 landscape designers that produced more than 2,500 landscape plans annually as Director of the Pike Design Group.
You will probably remember Bruce’s distinct voice from his appearances on “The Lawn and Garden Show with Walter Reeves” Saturday mornings on Atlanta’s WSB radio.
Bruce earned his landscape architecture degree from the University of Georgia.
I’m excited for you to hear his can’t miss strategies that add value every time they’re applied.
This episode 104– Decrease Maintenance and Increase Value in Your Landscape
with Bruce Holliday on “The Garden Question” Podcast. This is a remix of episode 034.
Dewayne Gallatin earned his nickname “King of Containers” while overseeing The Sibley Horticultural Center at Callaway Gardens.
His primary horticultural focus today is managing and developing future projects for private gardens and estates.
A close friend once suggested he enter a container gardening contest that ended up attracting over 1,000 entries. Little did he know a whole TV episode on PBS’s “The Southern Gardener” would be produced around his winning entry.
He earned Horticulture Associates Degrees in Landscape Design, Ornamental Production, and Commercial Turf Management from ABAC Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
He followed up those studies with internships at Chicago Botanic Garden and Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania.
This is a remix of episode 028.
Website: TheGardenQuestion.com
It’s spring and you’re probably deciding which plants to plant in your garden. Would a list of annual and perennial plants bugs don’t bother be helpful to you.
Jason Reeves has curated a plant list of 57 annual and perennials plants that’re not on your bugs menu. Go to today’s episode page on the Garden Question Podcast and download the list.
You will also receive the Good to Know Newsletter with the list as a bonus.
Go now and get the list.
In between being a stay-at-home Mom, volunteer, writer, photographer, and speaker Meg Cowden has been a full-time gardener for 25 years.
Her first vegetable garden crop was tomatoes grown in 5-gallon buckets in the city. Now she gardens in the western suburbs of Minneapolis.
Her garden now is close to a quarter acre. Growing fruits, vegetables and annual flowering plants.
Meg’s background in natural resource management led to her pursuit of succession gardening and interest in pushing the growing season on both extremes.
Her goal is to grow as much shelf stable food as possible for year-round consumption.
Meg’s website: Seed to Fork
Meg’s Book: Plant Grow Harvest Repeat: Grow a Bounty of Vegetables, Fruits, and Flowers by Mastering the Art of Succession Planting
Meg’s garden guild: The Modern Garden Guild
Jason Reeves knows plants and loves talking about them.
He is a research horticulturist and curator for the University of Tennessee Gardens, at the West Tennessee Ag Research and Education Center in Jackson.
He evaluates thousands of new and unique plants each year through out his imaginative garden art displays.
Jason travels the world speaking at gardening symposiums and serving as a contributing editor to “Fine Gardening” magazine.
While growing up on a farm he fell in love with the plant world.
He received his Master’s degree in Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape Design from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
His past experiences include work at the Opryland Conservatories, Missouri Botanical Garden, Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, and in private gardens in New Zealand.
Facebook: Jason Reeves - in the Garden
UT Gardens Jackson
How would you like to impact the environment in a positive way with your garden? In this episode we talk with Dr. Andy Pulte about having fun and succeeding in a dynamic ecological vibrant garden.
Andy grew up in the nursery industry in Grand Island, Nebraska.
He received his Ph.D. in plant sciences from the University of Tennessee.
He is now on the faculty in the same department teaching, advising, and coordinating UT’s plant sciences undergraduate program.
You will find him feeding his passion for people and plants by traveling extensively and speaking regularly.
Over his career he has contributed to a variety of gardening publications and hosted a gardening radio show.
He is an internationally certified arborist.
Andy gardens with his family in a residential community north of Knoxville TN where he seeks out unusual plants for his home garden to inspire questions from those who visit.
The Southeastern Grasslands Institute
Dogwood Arts Trails & Garden
Learn plant Identification:
Plant Sleuth YouTube
Plant Sleuth Instagram
Pam Farley talks about what it takes to grow a high yield container food garden in this episode. Her successful methods has produce many a good meal for her family.
Since grade school Pam has been gardening and writing.
These two interests collided in 2009, when she created the website BrownThumbMama.com. There she has documents her huge list of home and garden tips.
Millions of readers from around the world visit her site to learn about vegetable gardening, easy recipes, and making a nontoxic home.
Pam is the author of The First-Time Gardener: Container Food Gardening
In this episode we talk with Nancy & Pierre Moitrier about how they approach garden creation as a wife and husband team.
Why inspiring your garden soul is important to them as they design and build an outdoor space.
Bringing life to your garden by harvesting natural materials to build one-of-a-kind whimsical structures known as French Folly.
A whimsical world in the garden will open up to you as they talk about ole world antique troughs.
Listen to the scheme of how these lost and forgotten common garden and farm items are artistically applied to the garden.
When Noelle Johnson arrived in the desert she kill every plant she owned. She fancied herself a green thumb, but she wasn’t from around here, the desert.
She was determined to succeed and earn her B.S. degree in Urban Horticulture from Arizona State University.
For a few years she dodged golf balls from the tees and fairways while designing and caring for the plants around the course. Which included hundreds of trees, shrubs, perennials, and yes, even cactus.
Noelle is a horticulturist, landscape consultant, garden instructor, author, and popular speaker who lives and gardens in the Phoenix, AZ area.
She is now popularly known as AZ Plant Lady®.
Noelle teaches and inspires desert-dwellers of the many opportunities for creating and maintaining a beautiful outdoor space that thrives in a hot, dry climate in her new book Dry Climate Gardening.
Growing organic vegetables is Susan Mulvihill’s passion.
She has learned many lessons from her consistent gardening of 5 acres in Spokane, Washington with her husband Bill. Their large raised-bed garden yields some mighty fine edible crops.
Always curious and researching answers to their garden challenges. Susan loves sharing her findings through numerous outlets.
Her newest book The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook promises to be another best seller. The book will help you identify and manage diseases and other common problems on edible plants.
It is a great companion for her best seller The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook. She is also the co-author of the Northwest Gardener’s Handbook.
Susan and Bill’s Garden has been featured on the popular public television program, “Growing a Greener World” (episode 809 and 1202), hosted by Joe Lamp’l.
Helping other gardeners be successful has driven Susan to produce and host over 400 episodes on her weekly YouTube channel Susan in the Garden.
She is the longtime garden columnist for the Sunday edition of The Spokesman-Review in Spokane, Washington.
Been a Spokane County Master Gardener for over 20 years and is a nationally known Garden Speaker.
Her website can be found at SusansintheGarden.com and contains resources for organic pest control along with many other guides designed for gardening success.
Susan has been featured previously on The Garden Question Podcast in episode 047 - Developing Your Battle Strategy for This Year’s Bug Wars
Toni Gattone believes there is always another way to get it done with adaptive garden tools and mindset.
She believes that gardening is one of the healthiest activities for anyone.
In this episode we talk about how being resilient and resourceful are the keys to not giving up on gardening.
When to start and who needs Toni’s successful techniques in using adaptive gardening..
Toni Gattone is the author of the book: The Lifelong Gardener: Garden with Ease and Joy at Any Age
Toni is a passionate gardener and entrepreneur with a passion to help people become resilient in their garden and their everyday lives.
She is a Master Gardener and frequently writes and speaks on topics of adaptive gardening and edible landscapes
In this episode we talk about the future of boxwood in the garden, a visit to Bunny Mellon’ Garden, and the return of the Norton Grape to Virginia with Pat Reilly.
Pat educates homeowners and landscape professionals. Teaching them how to select, care and thrive the plants of their gardens.
She is the horticulture outreach specialist for NewGen Boxwoods and Saunders Brothers, inc. and you’ll also find her at Merrifield Garden Center in Northern Virginia.
She has been an active Master Gardener volunteer with Virginia Cooperative Extension since 1995.
Pat is happy to be breaking in a new garden where the bulb planter will actually work with her husband and two old rescued Golden Retrievers.
She also tells stories and pours wine at a local winery.
In this episode I talk with Kathy Jentz about groundcovers and how they may solve many of your garden issues.
We explore how to make wise selections when seeking the perfect groundcover.
Kathy is a life-long gardener.
She believes that growing plants should be stress-free and enjoyable.
Her philosophy is inspiration over perspiration and is on a mission to turn black thumbs green.
Kathy’s newest book Groundcover Revolution is a powerhouse of garden wisdom.
She also co-authored The Urban Garden: 101 Ways to Grow Food and Beauty.
Kathy Jentz is the editor and publisher of the award-winning Washington Gardener Magazine, based in Washington, DC.
She also hosts the popular weekly GardenDC Podcast, which was recently named Best DC Podcast.
Today we talk with two plant geeks that meet in a garden. Both are now Directors of two prominent public gardens in North Carolina.
Adrienne Roethling is the Director for Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville, NC.
Jon Roethling is the Director Reynolda Gardens of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC.
They tell their story and the stories of the amazing gardens they oversee.
How they handle garden conflicts at home.
Even their vacations are about plants.
At Stoneleigh, Ethan Kauffman is introducing biodiversity to a formal garden.
Using sound design reasoning and creative native plants for formal hedges and knot gardens.
He is always looking to fill a function and not just an expectation of what a plant should be.
Ethan developed his love of the natural world exploring the Susquehanna River hills in southeastern PA.
He cultivated his horticultural perspective over two decades of gardening in the Deep South, including as director of Moore Farms Botanical Garden.
There he led the transition from a private pleasure garden to a public botanical garden. Drawing on influences from both regions, he currently serves as Natural Lands’ first director of Stoneleigh: a natural garden. A 42-acre former estate located in Villanova, PA that opened to the public in 2018.
There he creates a garden experience that inspires others to garden for beauty, biodiversity, and the health of our planet.
In this episode we talk with Jordan Daneker about the little things that bring your outdoor spaces to life.
He walks us through the process on how he discovers and builds the perfect outdoor space for you and your family.
We explore the artful details used to put together plants, pools, pavilions, hardscapes, lighting and more to yield a unique and quality environment.
Jordan’s obsession and passion started as a part time job in 2008 and now he is on a mission “To Get North Carolina Outside”. He is a partner in a landscape company Evolve Design + Build located in Currituck, North Carolina. You can find him on both Facebook and Instagram.
He is a licensed North Carolina landscape and general contractor. He holds designations from Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) for concrete pavers and The National Concrete Masonry
Association (NCMA) for segmented retaining walls.
A remix and encore of episode 035
Paul Chappell grows trees headed to a landscape garden near you. He talks about the fascinating journey your tree might take before finding a home in your garden.
Once your tree finds its home, Paul lays out what it takes for you to be a successful tree grower for multiple generations.
Paul fell in love with plants and their care over 36 successful years ago.
He tells some very interesting stories about his time at Callaway Gardens. The challenges of growing native trees in the nursery. Also, some plant design practices and choices you will want to avoid.
Paul is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional, an ISA Certified Arborist, and a 20 plus years nursery grower of fine trees.
This is episode 015 “Where Trees Come From” of The Garden Question Podcast. Our conversation with Paul Chappell of Diversified Trees coming up.
This is episode 089 – Your Garden’s Next Tree – Paul Chappell on The Garden Question Podcast.
A remix and encore presentation of episode 015.
Jenny Simpson meets people on their gardening journey and helps them grow, bloom, and thrive both in their garden and life!
In this episode we talk about how being a student of your garden puts you on a track to success.
Jenny & Jerry Simpson are growers and retailer of specialized plants that thrive in the often-challenging climate of the southeastern United States.
Their Creekside Nursery, Inc. is an all-hands-on deck family operation located in the serene countryside outside Dallas, NC.
As a Proven Winners' Destination Garden Center, they offer the region’s largest selection of Proven Winners' plants.
Jenny creates and publishes 5 very informative garden videos a week. You will want to follow Jenny’s family adventures along with 75,000+ followers @GardeningwithCreekside on YouTube.
Janet Draper gets to play in the dirt and talk to people from around the world.
This is her 25th year as the sole horticulturalist for Smithsonian’s Mary Livingston Ripley Garden.
This tiny 1/3 of an acre garden is located on the National Mall and in Washington, DC. The garden is open to visitors 24 hours a day.
Due to the nearly constant events occurring within a stone’s throw, and major construction on aging buildings, the challenges of keeping the gardens looking good can be daunting.
Janet goal is to make the garden interesting day to day by creating displays that educate and stimulate people to go outside and plant something.
How did the Poinsettia become the Christmas flower?
It is a series of intriguing stories full of human drama, mysteries, secrets, challenges, and world domination.
Find out why every poinsettia plant sold today carries a critical pathogen that is a key to its success and is detrimental all other plants.
Also, we will learn how to be successful in selecting and growing your poinsettia year-round along with having a few myths squashed.
In this episode 086 Jim Faust tells interesting true Poinsettia Stories from their discovery to your own enjoyment at Christmas.
One story involves searching out wild poinsettias in the middle of two drug cartel-controlled territories.
Jim Faust is a Professor of Floriculture Physiology at Clemson University in South Carolina.
He does research on greenhouse production of various flowering crops, teaches hydroponics, and greenhouse production courses.
He grew his first poinsettia crop in 1986.
I invite you to search for The Garden Question Podcast episode 086 page to see the many interesting images Jim talks about in this episode.
We are at the beginning of Christmas season and it is time to display the Christmas Tree.
Dr. Mel Koelling knows Christmas Trees.
He and his wife Laurie have grown thousands of trees every year at Tannenbaum Farms in central Michigan.
A nationally recognized expert in the Christmas Tree industry, Dr. Koelling taught and served in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University for over 35 years.
Tannenbaum Farms was purchased in 1977 as an extension of Dr. Koelling's professional interests and as a way to establish a college fund for his children. The first planting in 1978 covered three acres. Today, plantings cover approximately 100 acres of the 180-acre farm.
I was introduced to Dr. Koelling through the fine folks at The National Christmas Tree Promotion Board. Their campaign It’s Christmas Keep It Real touch me.
Christmas trees what a wonderful idea for an episode.
It can take over 8 years to grow your tree so there is not really an off season on a Christmas Tree farm.
We will hear right from the grower himself how to select and care for your live tree.
We will also discover the story behind the first Christmas Tree and how the tradition grew.
This episode 085 - Real Christmas Tree Stories - Dr. Mel Koelling. An encore remix presentation of episode 033 on The Garden Question Podcast.
Pearce Butcher has always known that she is an artist who loves nature and science.
In this
episode we dissect Landscape Design as a unique combination of art, science,
and problem-solving.
Pearce
loves the challenge of looking at a space, listening to the concerns and dreams
of the homeowner, and coming up with beautiful solutions.
She
composes absolutely stunning landscape designs for her clients at Pearce B Designs. Be inspired by her extraordinary
designs on Instagram @
Pearce B Designs.
Pearce is
a double major in Earth and Environmental Science and Art from Furman University. At George Washington University she
earned a Landscape Certificate while studying at the U.S. National Arboretum.
So much of Charles Daniel’s garden world revolves around camellias. In this episode he talks about how to be successful with Camellias and their surprising history.
He shares why Camellias are a key plant for year-round blooms. We also talk about how to overcome garden challenges.
This lawyer, banker, and successful business owner “retired” to his new passion for gardening. He reveals his journey that led him to the ongoing development and caring for some of the most unique gardens in Savannah, Georgia area.
Charles is a University of Georgia Certified Plant Professional and a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional.
This is episode 083 - Where Do Camellias Grow Best with Charles Daniel on The Garden Question Podcast.
082 – David Brown – Designing From The Garden
You will often find David Brown studying plants in the gardens at Hills and Dales Estate.
He seeks to acquire the perfect cutting for his amazing indoor arrangements. In our conversation he tells us how you may accomplish the same with your garden plants.
Before coming to Hills & Dales Estate, David taught high school horticulture for 30 years and then was an adjunct instructor at Southern Crescent Technical College for 8 years.
On top of all that he and his wife also owned and operated their own floral shop.
David has a BS degree in Horticulture and Agriculture Education from Purdue University.
Now he is the Greenhouse Manager and Floral Designer for Hills & Dales Estate where he is always applying his wealth of knowledge and creative expertise.
This episode is a remix of 030
In this episode Troy B. Marden tells us about the terrifying event that began his horticultural adventures.
As an accomplished garden designer, he shares the vision of fellow gardeners in his clients, writings, television show and worldwide tours.
He seeks to help you discover the inspiration found in garden cultures around the globe and domestically.
Also, today Troy smashes a couple of common garden myths.
Troy’s love for gardening began on the Kansas plains.
At the age of 14 he began his horticultural career working at the local Blueville Nursery.
His unique passion for plants and gardening lead to college internships at two of the country’s most esteemed public gardens, Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia and the world-renowned Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
He has called Nashville home for over the past 25 years.
Where he grew a successful business in garden and floral design, special events, garden photography, writing, public speaking, and television.
For over 20 years he has been a part of Nashville Public Television’s hit gardening show, Volunteer Gardener.
Troy’s passion for seeing the world’s most beautiful places burns brightly. He now curates and leads small group adventures around the world through Troy B. Marden Travel.
He seeks to share his many loves of gardening, food, wine, art, architecture, design, nature, photography, and history with each adventure.
In this episode Preston Montague talks about how to achieve positive ecological impacts with plants from all over the globe with structural elements that serve animals, insects and people.
It’s not just about native plants.
Understanding the relationships that compose an ecosystem and the keystone species that is important.
Learn how to back into landscape design and avoid the ultimate disappointments in a Static landscape.
Preston Montague is a landscape architect and artist who developed a passion for the natural world while growing up in the rural foothills of Virginia.
Currently, he lives in Durham, North Carolina working on projects that encourage stronger relationships between people and the natural world.
Preston is a host on The Native Plant Podcast.
You will be surprised how much your day-to-day gardening helps save our endanger plant species.
In this episode Jennifer Ceska is determined to make native plants regular.
How to wake up native plants already on your land and learning to love the untidy.
She explains why connecting people and grasses is essentials and why grasslands are so important.
Weaving as much diversity as we can get to create as much resilience we can get in the habitat
Jennifer Ceska is accredited Public Service and Outreach Faculty at the University of Georgia and has served since 1995 as Conservation Coordinator in the Science & Conservation Program of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Athens.
She received her masters at UGA in horticulture with an emphasis on plant conservation.
Her specialty is creating project driven professional networks and facilitating projects for endangered species recovery.
She has consulted with 14 states in developing their own conservation networks.
Jennifer serves as project manager for the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance, coordinating over 60 organizations contributing recovery actions to 105 critically imperiled plant species in Georgia.
Links for things talked about ---
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Connect to Protect
Connect to Protect Garden Guide
US Forest Service Gardening for Pollinators
National Wildlife Federation, Plant with a Purpose, gardening page
Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance
Center for Plant Conservation, Rare Plant Academy
Baptisia arachnifera, Hairy Rattleweed profile
Rhus michauxii, Dwarf Sumac profile
Do you often find it a challenging to grow perennials in the heat and humidity of the south?
In this episode we talk with Kata Kress Wallace about the best ways to overcome those challenges.
It’s no secret that perennials love the full sun, but what about those dry shady gardens? She’ll shed some light on that.
Kata shares some simple low maintenance techniques that will be well worth your efforts and she also throws in a deer reptant fun fact.
Living in Durham North Carolina Kata has the opportunity to interact with thousands of gardeners as the southeastern product manager for Walters Gardens.
She has been closely tied to the nursery industry all throughout her life. Her father owns a nursery in Austria named Sarastro Stauden that specializes in unique and rare plants.
Kata came to the United States interning at Plant Delights Nursery with Tony Avent after earning a master’s degree in Geography and Spanish.
She also led international crews at Hoffman Nursery as Garden Coordinator and production Supervisor responsible for producing millions of grass liners.
In 2019 she received the Young Professional Award from the Perennial Plant Association and was named to the Greenhouse Product News 40 Under 40 Class of 2020.
Mike Cunningham believes that having a salad every day is probably one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself.
In this episode we will discover how simple, easy, and quick growing greens can keep your salad bowl full all winter.
Fresh tasty nutritional eating right from your deck, patio, or backyard sounds great to me.
Mike and Judy Cunningham have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Country Gardens Farm is a third-generation family farm growing a wide assortment of organic year-round vegetables they sale to the community from their 3 acres.
This episode 077 - Growing Baby Salad Greens all Winter with Mike Cunningham
Mike’s blog post Baby Salid Greens with video on how to plant in a bed.
Judy’s Recipes
Facebook: Country Gardens Farm
Instagram: MikeCunningham1529
Website: Country Gardens Farm
Are you ready to try something new? Then grasses and sedges could be your next garden adventure.
You will find the opportunities for creating a rich layered interesting garden that serves more than an ornamental function.
Developing the whole ecological package. Improving the soil and developing a more aesthetically functionating garden are in your future.
We all need better solutions for suppressing weeds and gardening under trees.
This is episode 076 – Growing & Understanding Grasses & Sedges - Shannon Currey
Shannon is a horticultural educator and consultant with Izel Native Plants.
She began her work life as a social scientist and then changed her career pursuit to horticulture at North Carolina State University.
Shannon joined Hoffman Nursery, a wholesale grower specializing in grasses, sedges, and other graminoids.
She has shared her advanced knowledge of graminoids in articles published nationally.
You will often find her speaking across the country to professional organizations, community groups, and at public gardens.
Shannon currently serves on the Perennial Plant Association’s Board of Directors and is on the North Carolina Plant Conservation Scientific Committee.
She was honored in 2020 with the Libby Wilder Award from the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association.
In 2022 she joined Izel Native Plants to expand their education and outreach efforts.
Izel’s unique sales model brings native plant wholesale growers’ inventories directly to the end consumer.
Sarah Roberts and her team have brought the New Perennial Movement to the south on a large scale. The new Entrance Garden’s large sweeps of grasses, perennials, native plants presented in a naturalistic style welcomes you to the Atlanta History Center.
The garden has settled in and in this episode Sarah explains the details that makes it successful.
It is a creation perfect for insects, small mammals, birds and people.
Sarah Roberts is the Olga C. de Goizueta Vice President of the Goizueta Gardens and Living Collections at the Atlanta History Center
A college internship in curation at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University sparked Sarah’s career path in public horticulture.
During her undergraduate studies at Berry College, she spent a year on scholarship in the United Kingdom studying historic gardens as part of her honors degree in Horticulture.
The next five years were spent as Curator of Herbaceous Plants and Outdoor Gardens at the New York Botanical Garden.
She then returned to England, completing a Diploma in Garden Design from the UK’s Garden Design School.
Upon Sarah’s return to the US, she began consulting for the Atlanta History Center which led to her current position as Vice President of Goizueta Gardens.
She leads the development, curation and preservation of the 33-acre public garden with three historic houses.
Sarah has written for numerous publications, been featured on Martha Stewart Radio, the Canadian Broadcast Corporation, GardenSmart TV series and the podcast Stuff You Missed in History Class.
Jason Powell declares the queen of the garden to be antique roses.
Who could argue with old garden roses that exudes excellent fragrance, shape, disease resistance, and low maintenance.
We talk about how these fragrant flowering shrubs make a huge impact in your garden when pairing them with some surprise companion plantings.
Jason and his wife Shelley partner with Jason’s Mom and Dad to produce heirloom plants at their nursery Petals from the Past.
Their mission is to educate and grow “tough plants for southern gardens”.
Jason earned a Bachelor degree in Horticulture from Auburn University and a Master degree in Horticulture from Texas A&M University.
He is a proud member of the infamous Texas Rose Rustlers where they scouted and rescued thousands of antique roses all over the southeast.
Jason insider’s look at The Peggy Martin / Hurricane Katrina Rose survival story will amaze you.
Mike and Judy Cunningham are harvesting the last summer crops at Country Gardens Farm.
Fall gardening is just beginning. Mike takes a break to talk about his favorite time of the year in the garden.
Some of the things you will discover in this episode are the best practices Mike implements for soils, plant selections, and timing. All important for a successful fall harvest.
Mike and Judy Cunningham have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Country Gardens Farm is a third-generation family farm growing a wide assortment of organic year-round vegetables they sale to the community from their 3 acres.
Mike with lots of input from Judy authored his successful "Seven Steps to an Organic Vegetable Garden"
You will remember Mike's openness in sharing his successful methods for growing good food in our inaugural episode 001 of "The Garden Question" Podcast.
This episode 073 “Fall Organic Vegetable Gardening” an edited and remix version of episode 017 with Mike Cunningham.
Color excites us more than any design element in the garden because it speaks emotionally to us.
In this episode we will dissect and learn how color speaks to us in our garden.
Dr. Laura Deeter received her PhD in horticulture from The Ohio State University where she is currently a Full Professor of Horticulture at Ohio State ATI in Wooster, OH.
She teaches a multitude of horticulture classes including: Woody and Herbaceous Plant Identification, Landscape Design, Sustainable Landscaping, Plant Health Management, Landscape Construction, and Ecology, to name a few.
Twice awarded the OSU Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching,
the Perennial Plant Association Teaching Award
the American Horticulture Society Teaching Award,
Perennial Plant Association Service Award,
a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ohio Landscape Association
and Professor of the Year from Instructure.
She travels extensively around the country speaking on a variety of topics ranging from taxonomy and nomenclature to shade gardens, design, color, and specialty gardens and plants.
At home she gardens on her tenth of an acre with her hubby, four dogs, 100 pink plastic flamingos and counts her 300+ species of perennials as dear friends.
Naturalistic planting design begins with understanding what roles certain plants play in nature.
One of the most useful concepts in a plants’ survival strategy is learning how to classify it on the Grimes Triangle.
This is a new concept for me. I don’t remember every hearing about this classification system or how it works.
We talk about this and more in this episode 071 – Success with Naturalistic Plantings with our guest Jared Barnes, Ph.D.
Dr. Jared started gardening when he was five years old. Since then, he has enthusiastically pursued how to best cultivate plants and cultivate minds.
He currently fulfills those passions as an award-winning associate professor of horticulture at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX.
He obtained his Ph.D. in horticultural science from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. He interned at The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.
By traveling around the US and to eleven countries he has gained national and global horticulture perspectives.
Jared educates the public with his weekly newsletter Plant-Ed and his monthly podcast Plantastic all found on his website Meristeam.
His passion has been recognized by peers in interviews in Organic Gardening, Greenhouse Grower, AmericanHort Connect, Ken Druse’s Real Dirt, and Nursery Management.
His articles have appeared in The American Gardener, Fine Gardening and Carolina Gardener.
Whether rain drops are regularly falling in your garden this season or you’ve almost forgot what rain looks like, having a water drainage plan is more Important than a Planting Plan for a happy successful garden.
In this episode Host Craig McManus talks about water drainage systems in the garden. What he has seen that works and what is seen that failed. Some principles and truths that every gardener should know.
It’s hummingbird season. Are they swarming in your garden?
In this episode Gail Woody reveals her tricks of the garden that attract hundreds of these wonderful creatures.
She talks about her feeding strategies and nectar producing plants that make her garden a popular stop for hummingbirds on their migration journey to and from Central America.
Knowing the successful water attracting tactics. Providing preferred reproduction habitat. And, attracting the preferred insects are all important to Hummingbird health.
Gail has been gardening for over 30 years.
She creates the perfect eco system that includes butterflies, hummingbirds, native plants, water features and more. She has a contagious passion for gardening!
This episode will inspire you.
Gail Woody is an ISA Certified Arborist and a seasoned advanced Master Gardener. She speaks and writes on Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and native plants among other garden subjects.
The hummingbirds swarming around my garden inspired me to remix, edited and reintroduce episode 005 for episode 069 - How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden - Gail Woody
In this episode Gail Woody will tell us how to attract more butterflies and then keep them coming to your garden.
She has been studying these flying jewels for many years and regularly attracts up to 38 different species to her garden.
Monarch butterflies make regular visits to her garden twice a year on their migration treks from Mexico to Canada. She raises and tags new monarchs each year helping increase and study the growing population.
Gail has been gardening for over 30 years. Creating the perfect eco system for butterflies, hummingbirds, and native plants.
Her passion for gardening is contagious! After listening to this episode there will be no excuses. Building and growing your own butterfly paradise will become a priority!
Gail Woody is an ISA Certified Arborist and a seasoned advanced Master Gardener. She speaks and writes on Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and native plants among other garden subjects.
This is Episode 068 - Attracting More Butterflies to Your Garden – Gail Woody
and is an update and remix from episode 002.
Backyard Butterflies – Georgia Department of Natural Resources https://georgiawildlife.com/backyard-butterflies
Monarchs Across Georgia https://www.eealliance.org/monarchs-across-ga.html
Monarch Butterflies & Georgia Gardeners Brochure
https://botgarden.uga.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/milkweedinformation.pdf
Georgia Pollinator Partnership https://gapp.org/
It’s no accident insects are a critical part of putting good food on your table.
Becky Griffin knows pollinators count. Now she is counting the pollinators in the 2022 The Great Georgia Pollinator Census.
Your state could be next.
Being a self-confessed “Geeky Kid” with a great love for insects Becky wore out the bee book in her local library.
Now Becky is the coordinator of The Great Georgia Pollinator Census taking place this year on August 19th and 20th, 2022.
In this episode we will find out how insects and their supporting habitat make a difference.
Becky tells us the simple pollinator counting method for collecting important data to be used by the University of Georgia researchers. This valuable data reveals pollinator trends and is needed to conduct economic valuation studies of pollination.
This is episode 067 - The Great Pollinator Census - Becky Griffin and is an updated and remix of episode 019.
Becky is a Georgia Certified Beekeeper and works with community and school gardeners to increase beneficial insect habitat.
She is also part of UGA's Native Plants and Beneficial Insect Working Group .
You will want to hear episode 18 “Gardening with Children” when you finish this episode 19 of The Garden Question Podcast.
Connect with Becky: Becky Griffin is the Community and School Garden Coordinator for University of Georgia Extension.
Website: The Great Georgia Pollinator Census
In this episode Victoria Mininger shares with us how she helps her clients set up simple thriving gardens. Gardens that require less work when you find the right spot.
For years Victoria and her husband Brian have owned Bear Creek Outdoor Living a residential construction company focusing on building patios, decks, pergolas and hardscapes.
Incorporating edible and perennial gardens has become an expanding part of their offerings. These beautiful and sustainable garden solutions are just what their clients are looking for in their home landscape.
Victoria is Permaculture Design Certified and holds a degree in Psychology.
Bear Creek Outdoor Living Website
Bear Creek Facebook
Bear Creek Instagram
Victoria’s personal website:
www.victoriamininger.com
Have you got a shady location where nothing else will grow? Are you tired of mowing grass? Do you have problem with soil erosion? How about a desire to avoid chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides?
In this episode Annie Martin, moss landscape designer and Timber Press author of The Magical World of Moss Gardening, talks about how Native mosses can be an excellent horticultural alternative.
Annie (aka Mossin’ Annie) is the owner of Mountain Moss in Pisgah Forest, NC,
She provides valuable insights on how to transform your outdoor living space into a serene retreat and eco-friendly landscape with verdant mosses.
Her how-to tips will help you get started on your own appealing year-round green moss gardening projects.
Youtube: Mossin’ Annie
Facebook group: Growing Green with Moss
Dean Norton fell in love with the Mount Vernon Estate Gardens 53 years ago and never left.
After receiving a degree in horticulture from Clemson University he began his horticultural career as the estate’s boxwood gardener.
The historical gardens of the first president of The United States George Washington became his responsibility in 1980. His promotion to horticulturist allowed him to applying the latest plant science and horticulture management techniques for historical gardens.
Dean has devoted considerable time researching 18th century gardens and gardening practices.
He has received awards for conservation from the DAR and the Garden Club of America as well as the Garden Club of America’s Elizabeth Craig Weaver Proctor National Medal.
He is an honorary member of the Garden Club of Virginia and the Garden Club of Providence.
He has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Washington College, serves on several historic property boards and, lectures nationally and internationally.
It’s been over 200 years since he was born.
People still absorb his parks and public gardens in more than 5,000 communities across the North American continent.
The goal is to “give the common man in this New World the same opportunity to experience creation as any king in his private preserve from the Old World.”
Frederick Law Olmsted is prevalently pronounced the father of American landscape architecture.
In this Episode 063 – A Word with Fredrick Law Olmsted – (interpreted by) Kirk R. Brown
Kirk R. Brown is a member of the International Garden Communicator’s Hall of Fame. He is a Green Achiever being recognized with many industry awards.
He represented Joanne Kostecky Garden Design as a leader in the design/build industry.
At America’s Oldest Garden in Charleston SC, he worked as National Outreach Coordinator.
He is a past president of www.GardenComm.com.
In the US and Canada, he has delivered hundreds of keynote addresses, guest lectures, teaching symposia, and certified instruction over the past quarter century.
He is also known to interpret historic horticulturists and international dignitaries: John Bartram, and Frederick Law Olmsted.
With it all, he still finds time to cultivate his own private display garden.
Join him now as he unveils his views on Olmsted’s in this Bicentennial year.
In this episode Dan Miller talks about his vision and how he executes his creative garden ideas.
Dan is the author of the New York Times best-selling book 48 Days To The Work You Love, No More Dreaded Mondays, Wisdom Meets Passion and An Understanding Heart.
He has been a guest on CBS' 'The Early Show,' MSNBC's 'Hardball with Chris Mathews, and the Dave Ramsey Show.
Dan has spoken at the White House Christian Fellowship, and is in high demand as an expert on new opportunities in today’s changing workplace.
His 48 Days Podcast consistently ranks at the top under Careers on Apple Podcast.
The 48DaysEagles.com community is an example worldwide for those seeking to find – or create – work they love.
What can you do to improve your garden’s soil to reduce failures? In this episode 061 Sustainable Soil Success with Bryce Lane, we discover how understanding soils influences abundant plant growth.
Bryce discovered his passion for plants, and telling others about them while working at a small Massachusetts garden center through high school and college.
After earning his BS and MS degrees in Horticulture, he came to the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University as an Instructor and Undergraduate Coordinator.
He spent 34 years teaching and advising over 20,000 students. Bryce retired in 2014, but still teaches part-time in the department.
For 11 seasons, from 2003 to 2014 he hosted and produced a three-time, Emmy winning, UNC TV public television show called “In the Garden With Bryce Lane”.
Melanie Deyton has made a life connecting people to plants through her family’s flower farm Melanie’s Garden.
In this episode 060 we talk about successful Cut Flower Gardening. Overcoming the trials and the solutions of developing a whole new flower farm site.
You will enjoy learning how Melanie’s practical experience will guide you to becoming a better Cut Flower Grower.
Having worked in the floral and gardening industry for over a decade, she has learned that it's best to let nature lead the way.
As a mother, gardener and floral designer, she finds joy and beauty in the simplest things growing in her garden and along roadsides.
She talks about how nature’s hidden delights become spectacular shared designs.
This is episode 060 – Cut Flower Growing - Melanie Deyton
Melanie’s Garden Facebook
Melanie’s Garden Instagram
Lisa Bartlett is the Garden Manager for Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
She is responsible the over 4,000 species collection of plants.
This collection ranges from rare herbaceous perennials to rare and unusual trees.
The largest collections of Bonsai in the Southeast are also held at the gardens.
Lisa created the award-winning Butterfly Exhibit at Smith-Gilbert Gardens and follow up with the first Crevice Garden in Georgia.
Lisa has also served on the board of The American Hydrangea Society. One of her current projects is developing what she hopes to be a Nationally recognized collection of Hydrangea.
She also hosted a gardening radio show, called Green and Grow.
Before her passion for plants Lisa was a talent agent for stand-up comedians.
Jeff Foxworthy was once one of her clients!
The Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival
Augustus Jenkins Farmer III is a renaissance plantsman. Born into a family of artists, musicians, and farmers, he fell in love with the natural world early in his childhood. Later he went on to pursue a formal education in Plant and Environmental Sciences at Clemson University and Botanical Garden Design at the University of Washington.
For the last twenty years Jenks has led teams responsible for establishing two of South Carolina's major botanical gardens.
He's presented lectures for groups such as the North Carolina State Agricultural Faculty, the Smithsonian, Wave Hill, Master Gardener clubs and, of course his grandmother's Allendale Ladies Afternoon Reading Club.
His designs for homes, museums, and businesses have received recognition and awards while delighting hundreds of thousands of visitors with the joyful, easy exuberance of hand-crafted gardens.
An avid writer, Jenks has been publishing since 1990. His essays have been featured in magazines such as Rodale's Organic Gardening, Fine Gardening, Horticulture, Botanic Gardens Conservation International, and The Public Garden. His stories appear in GreenPrints and Bare Essential Wildlife Journal of Australia.
Jenks's books often interweave different facts, lessons, and moments from his life that he combines with the knowledge he's gained over the years.
Deep Rooted Wisdom; Stories and Lessons from Generations of Gardeners. 2014 Timber Press
Funky Little Flower Farm. 2019 Artisan Creative Group.
Crinum: Unearthing the History and Cultivation of the Worlds Largest Bulb
As the former director of Riverbanks Botanical Garden and founding horticulturist of Moore Farms Garden, Jenks has a true talent and passion for inspiring people of all ages and from all walks of life to go outside and get their hands dirty.
In this 057th episode with talk with Carol Reese about the Dangers Posed by the Native Purist Movement. Before your eyes pop out of your head take another sip and listen.
Carol Reese is a retired Extension Horticulture Specialist.
She is a nationally-known speaker delightfully blending equal parts gardening knowledge, natural lore, and quirky humor.
Her B.S. and M.S. in Horticulture are from Mississippi State University, and she could also add her Phd. To the mix if she “had ever written that dissertation!”
While there she taught classes in Plant Materials and Landscape Design.
She written numerous articles for garden publications and served as the Q&A columnist for Horticulture Magazine.
For two decades she wrote a weekly gardening and nature column for the Jackson Sun.
Carol attributes her love of horticulture to being raised on a farm by generations of plant nuts, including a grandfather who each spring dynamited his garden spot to “break up his hard pan”.
Carol’s very personal appreciation of natural lore is at least partially a result of her near daily rambles through the wild areas near her home with her extensive and motley collection of mutts, aka known as the strong-willed breed of “Amalgamations”.
Jay Sifford’s passion for crafting immersive gardens that are full of magic and story guide his garden designs.
In this episode 056 Cornerstones of a Great Garden, we will discover how Mary Poppins inspires and nurtures a space where reality and fantasy collide.
Sifford explains how he uses psychological, philosophical and spiritual principles to create contemporary, Asian-inspired, and woodland gardens with common plants and authentic materials.
His inspiring gardens have been featured in Southern Living, Fine Gardening, and Country Gardens magazines as well as in several books and on Houzz.
He writes for Houzz and SouthPark Magazines.
In 2021, he was named North Carolina's Most Outstanding Landscape Designer by LuxLife magazine.
Additionally, he has won 'Best of Houzz' awards for both design and service in 2020 through 2022.
Jay Sifford’s Garden Design
Sifford Garden Design on Facebook
Jay Sifford Garden Design on Houzz
Mississippi native Felder Rushing is an 11th-generation Southerner.
After retiring from Mississippi State University as a consumer horticulturist he spends half his year in his celebrated Mississippi cottage garden and the other half in a small terrace herb garden in Lancashire, England.
Felder is a syndicated newspaper columnist, an online contributor for HGTV, and hosts a weekly NPR garden program The Gestalt Gardener.
He has also been a writer, photographer, and editor for over a dozen magazines including Horticulture, Fine Gardening, Better Homes and Gardens, Landscape Architecture, Garden Design, and The National Geographic.
He is the author or co-author of 32 books, including several national award winners.
You will find him regularly lecturing coast to coast and overseas
The New York Times has featured Felder three times. Most recently for forming and internationally promoting the all-senses, all-seasons approach of Slow Gardening.
Southern Living Magazine featured Felder as one of “twenty-five people most likely to change the South.”
Felder has served as a national director of the Garden Writers Association, board officer of the American Horticulture Society and member of the Royal Horticulture Society and the English Cottage Gardening Association.
Trees aren’t just for beauty any more.
They provide your community with measurable health, financial, and environmental values.
Susan is a ISA Certified Arborist that is on a mission to balance the challenges facing your community's tree canopies.
Through her work with the Georgia Forestry Commission Urban Forests program Susan assists communities face the challenges in protecting, maintaining and increasing community tree canopies.
In her work she assists local cities with managing their urban forests, public education, tree ordinances, tree protection, and commercial development planning.
She also develops initiatives to encourage tree planting on private land and training tree management best practices.
Susan also assists cities in identifying potential problem trees that might hamper first responders during weather events.
As an instructor she teaches arborist certification prep classes to Georgia Electric Membership Corporation linemen and ROW workers.
Erica Glasener is a plant lover, horticulturist, writer, author and speaker.
She is passionate about all things green and is currently the Community Involvement and Events Manager for Piedmont Park Conservancy, the nonprofit that supports Piedmont Park (over 200 acres) in Atlanta, GA.
She is fortunate to have traveled throughout the US and to have discovered wonderful gardens and gardeners as the host for “A Gardener’s Diary” for 13 years on HGTV.
Recently she worked as the Senior Producer for “Growing a Greener World” which airs on PBS stations across the country.
She loves to share her knowledge about plants and gardening with the conviction that the world would be a better place if everyone gardened, no matter where they live or what they believe.
When Southern Living The Grumpy Gardener speaks gardeners listen.
For more than 40 years Steve Bender has strived to make gardening fun. His writings about southern gardens and his hands in the dirt experiences are sought after by beginning and expert gardeners.
Steve takes great joy in answering your garden questions every day at Southern Living Blog and The Grumpy Gardener on Facebook .
Steve is quoted often. Usually in distain tones since he coined the term “Crape Murder”.
His book Passalong Plants, co-authored with Felder Rushing, was named the best written garden book of 1994 by The Garden Writers of America
His new book, “The Grumpy Gardener,” is an amusing and informative guide to plants culling from a compilation of “Grumpy Gardener” blog posts, selected articles from Southern Living, mixed in with a lot of new stuff.
During his tenure at Southern Living, Steve edited a number of gardening books for Southerners, including The Southern Living Garden Book.
We’ll celebrate one year of podcasting without missing a single week by bringing you this episode 052 - The Grumpy Gardener Speaks with Steve Bender.
Growing food on your balcony, patio, or in small yards is fun and simple. Follow a few easy steps and many healthy good eats are in your future.
This is episode 051 – Growing Vegetables and Herbs in Containers with Amanda Bennett.
Amanda is the Vice President of Horticulture & Collections at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
She oversees the development and enhancement of the Garden’s prestigious indoor and outdoor collections managed by 33 professional horticulturists.
Since 2005 she has participated in many of the Garden’s design and construction projects.
The Garden’s recurring art installations and special exhibits are horticulturally enhanced and as her team develops many of the Garden’s special projects.
Amanda oversees the landscape design and continued execution of the master plan for the 30-acre garden as well as the displays in the Fuqua Conservatory and Orchid Center.
Amanda is often cited in local and national publications. Featured on local and national radio & television. She also has written for publications such as The Cactus & Succulent Journal, and cited in Mother Earth News.
Amanda earned a University of Georgia bachelor’s degree in horticulture and completed an internship at Chicago Botanic Garden before joining the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Minimizing diseases, reducing pest, improving soil fertility and pollinator support are all determined by the plant combinations you choose. In this episode 050 – Companion Planting That Works with Jessica Walliser we talk about the science back methods that will reward your decisions.
For 15 years horticulturist Jessica Walliser co-hosted The Organic Gardeners, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
She is the Editorial Director for The Quarto Publishing Group's garden imprint, Cool Springs Press, and a former contributing editor for Organic Gardening magazine.
Jessica is the author of seven gardening books, including the Amazon best-seller
· Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to Manage Them Organically
· Plant Partners: Science-based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden, which earned a prestigious 2021 American Horticultural Society Book Award
· Attracting Beneficial Bugs to the Garden: A Natural Approach to Pest Control, which was awarded the American Horticultural Society's 2014 Book Award. It has recently been released as an updated 2nd edition.
For over twelve years Jessica wrote two weekly gardening columns for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
She is also co-founder of the popular gardening website SavvyGardening.com.
Jessica received her degree in ornamental horticulture from The Pennsylvania State University and is the former owner of a 25-acre organic market farm.
She’s taught a diverse array of gardening topics for over 25 years.
Jessica lives and gardens northwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband and son, two cats, two hermit crabs, and billions and billions of very good bugs.
Do you ever get frustrated with your Turf Grass?
In this episode 049 Proper Agronomics for Healthy Turf Grass, we talk with Dr. Clint Waltz about solutions to your frustrations.
The current research into practices and efforts to lowing the inputs into successful turf grass.
How turf grass ecoservices brings good things to our environment.
We also talk about the benefits and hurdles to auto mowing.
Dr. Waltz has state-wide responsibilities in all areas of turfgrass management, including turfgrass water use and conservation.
Clint is published in scientific journals and makes regular contributions to the newsletters of the State’s trade associations. Furthermore, he makes numerous presentations from a range of turfgrass professionals, county extension agents and homeowner groups.
Our conversation with Dr. Clint Waltz after this.
UGA Turfgrass Field Day
The University of Georgia Turfgrass Research Field Day is set for Thursday, Aug. 3, on the UGA campus in Griffin, Georgia.
Georgia Turf
This is Episode 48 and we are introducing a new series that I believe you will find interesting and beneficial. The series will be a collection of Garden Case Studies from my experiences as a garden designer and creator.
I’ll drop a Case Study in from time to time when I’m inspired to do so.
Don’t worry I’ll continue to interview inspiring designers, builders and growers of smarter gardens that work. I couldn’t stop doing that. I’m addicted to learning and applying the many new things I learn from the guest I interview each week.
So here we going. This is episode 48 Moving and Editing Your Plants: A Case Study with Craig McManus
Susan Mulvihill is passionate about growing vegetables! Her organic growing methods and pest control have yielded some mighty good eating.
She and her husband, Bill, live and garden on 5 acres in Spokane, Washington. Their large raised-bed garden where they grow all sorts of edible crops has been featured on the popular public television program, “Growing a Greener World” (episode 809 and 1202), hosted by Joe Lamp’l.
In the last year Susan’s book, The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook, has proven to be very popular nationwide. She is also the co-author of the Northwest Gardener’s Handbook.
Helping other gardeners be successful has driven Susan to produce and host over 400 hundred YouTube videos on her channel, Susan’s in the Garden.
She is the longtime garden columnist for the Sunday edition of The Spokesman-Review in Spokane, Washington.
Been a Spokane County Master Gardener for 20 years.
Her website can be found at SusansintheGarden.com and contains resources for organic pest control along with many other guides designed for gardening success.
Craig LeHoullier is known for many things in the tomato world. Some know him as the NC Tomatoman. Some know him as the fellow who named the very popular heirloom tomato Cherokee Purple.
To others, he is the author of two books Epic Tomatoes and Growing Vegetables in Straw Bales.
Craig is the co-host of Tomatopalooza and a co-leader of the Dwarf Tomato Breeding Project.
Around town in Henderson or Raleigh North, Carolina, you may know him as just the odd person with a garden where the driveway used to be.
Craig proclaims to be a tomato nut with a website, a blog, a newsletter, and a huge collection of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
In reality Craig LeHoullier pursues with a passion heirloom tomatoes to help keep them relevant.
Growing Epic Tomatoes Course
You will learn and may ask any tomato question you can think of in a weekly live session with Craig LeHoullier and Joe Lamp’l. They’ll be growing their own tomatoes right along with you. Celebrating your successes and discovering solutions to this season’s challenges. The early significantly discounted course sign up period is now open for a very short time. Go to here check it out. That’s Growing Epic Tomatoes in your garden.
Today we talk with Joe Lamp’l about Preparing for Your Spring Garden.
We find out how an energetic young boy snaps the branch off his dad’s shrubs. In his hast to cover up his accidental deed he hurriedly shoves the branch into the ground. To his amazement a few weeks later the branch had taken root and begun to flourish. This incident ignited Joe Lamp’l gardening passion onto a path leading to one of the country’s most recognized and trusted gardening and green-living personalities.
The passion for living a greener life is evident to a nationwide audience who watches Joe in his current role as Creator, Executive Producer, and Host of the Emmy Award-winning PBS series, Growing a Greener World® and previously as host of Fresh from the Garden on the DIY Network.
Joe also shares his know-how on NBC’s TODAY SHOW, ABC’s Good Morning America, The Weather Channel, through his popular books, and his podcast series (The joe gardener Show).
Join Joe Lamp’l and Craig LeHoullier and learn how to plant, grow, care for, and harvest your own epic tomatoes. In this practical hands-on course with Joe and Craig as your guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to have your best tomato growing season yet. Learn more here. Registration will only be open for a short time beginning 2/23/22. Lifetime access!
You will want to take advantage of this limited time significantly discounted early enrollment pricing so go now to www.joegardener.com/tomatosuccess.
The seed planted in Tom Cox as a little boy have matured into the largest species collection of conifers in North America. In this episode we talk about his over 4,000 plant collection and how you may bring interest to your garden year-round.
Tom is a pioneer in the evaluation of conifers for adaptability in the Southeast and is recognized as one of the leading authorities on growing conifers in the region.
Cox Arboretum and garden in Canton, Georgia is now a site for the preservation of rare and endangered plants from around the world.
He is a frequent lecturer on the subject of conifers and other woody plants. He co-authored a book titled "Landscaping with Conifers and Ginkgo for the Southern Landscape” and has been published numerous times in both British and U.S. conifer journals.
I’m honored to have captured this amazing story and plant wisdom of Tom Cox in this episode 044 - Year-Round Garden Interest from Cox Arboretum – Tom Cox
Terry Beasley has seen his fair share of flower emergencies at Oelschig Nursery. When the unforeseen happens and blooms are needed in a hurry Terry and the team jump into action.
The next time you see multiple blooms of color from an event within 100 miles of Savannah Georgia you know Terry was probably involved.
The Oelschig name has been associate with growing plants in Savannah since 1882. How does a nursery survive and thrive for 140 years becoming the oldest nursery in the southeastern United States?
Terry tells the story. It’s a story of keeping the faith and tenacity through numerous world events and natural disasters.
He talks about the skills and techniques resulting in very special beautiful plants
Josh Fuder’s search to identify the old apple trees growing at his newly purchase home ignited a path to discovering and recovering lost apple varieties of Georgia.
In this episode 042 Saving Heritage Apples we look into why lost apple varieties are important. How they are being discovered and saved to benefit future generations.
Josh is a University of Georgia Extension agent in Cherokee County Georgia. He is part of a team that has preserved nearly 140 different apple varieties at the newly planted Heritage Apple Orchard located at the Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center.
YouTube: “Farm Monitor” Site of a New Apple Orchard
YouTube: History of Apple Industry in GA
UGA Research News Article
Georgia Magazine Article: Preserving Georgia’s Heritage Apples for Future Generations
Pearce Butcher has always known that she is an artist who loves nature and science.
In this episode 041 Creating Beautiful Spaces for Functional Outdoor Living, we dissect Landscape Design as a unique combination of art, science, and problem-solving.
Pearce loves the challenge of looking at a space, listening to the concerns and dreams of the homeowner, and coming up with beautiful solutions.
She composes absolutely stunning landscape designs for her clients at Pearce B Designs. Be inspired by her extraordinary designs on Instagram @ Pearce B Designs.
Pearce is a double major in Earth and Environmental Science and Art from Furman University. At George Washington University she earned a Landscape Certificate while studying at the U.S. National Arboretum.
Have you ever thought about how you could make your landscape beds more interesting and productive?
Well maybe harvesting tomatoes among your hydrangeas or picking broccoli from around the Azaleas. How about growing squash and zucchini with your Zinnias. These are all foods, plus many more, you can grow in your landscape beds this next season.
Our conversation today is with Brie Arthur a well-known leader in the national Foodscape movement.
Brie is a bestselling author and a celebrated speaker that is well known for her lively information packed presentations.
With more than a decade of experience as a grower and propagator she now shares her expertise as a correspondent on the Emmy award winning PBS Television show “Growing a Greener World”.
You can follow Brie’s exciting garden journey through her website, BrieGrows.com and on her YouTube channel, Brie the Plant Lady.
This is episode 040 Foodscaping Revolution with Brie Arthur on The Garden Question Podcast.
Staci L. Catron has one of the coolest jobs ever. She gets to live gardening in the past, in the present, and influence gardens of the future.
As the Director of the Cherokee Garden Library within the Kenan Research Center at the Atlanta History Center she manages the development, preservation, and interpretations of a 33,000-item growing collection.
Everything from garden and landscape relate rare books, contemporary volumes, manuscripts, photographs, landscape architectural drawings, periodicals, seed catalogs, and ephemera.
She curates numerous exhibitions, lectures regularly regarding rare garden books and historic landscapes, and is published in many newsletters, journals, and books.
Her latest award-winning book co-authored with Mary Ann Eaddy is titled: Seeking Eden: A Collection of Georgia’s Historic Gardens with photographs by James R. Lockhart.
Catron holds a B.A. in History and Latin, as well as a Master of Heritage Preservation from Agnes Scott College; a Master of Heritage Preservation from Georgia State University; and a Primary Teacher Certification.
Russell Camp knows what healthy garden plants love in a mulch.
In our 38th episode “Mulch Mulch Baby” we discuss the benefits and detriments of some of the most common and exotic mulches available.
He talks about time saving techniques that will give your garden a quick easy year-round visual pop along with providing a lot of good stuff for the soil.
Russel oversees the horticultural assets for over 54 different school campuses on 1,501 acres of land, including 88 acres of natural grass athletic fields, 23 acres of synthetic turf, and numerous irrigation systems for The State of Georgia’s Henry County Schools. They install over 10,000 bales of pine straw mulch each year.
He also shares his successful landscape knowledge as an Adjunct Horticulture Instructor at Southern Crescent Technical College.
Russell holds a Horticulture degree from ABAC Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and a Business Management degree from Bellevue University .
He is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional holding certification number one.
He is also a passionate home gardener enjoying landscape gardening, container gardening, vegetable gardening, and house plants.
Instagram: @gardencoach
Jim Frederick is passionate about adding new garden drama and engagement through outdoor lighting every season.
In our discussion we discover his outdoor lighting techniques that add new visual dimensions and security to your garden space.
We also explore how to avoid the most common and frustrating installation mistakes.
Jim shares his 25 years of experience in designing, building, and distributing in the outdoor living arena. He holds a bachelor degree from Penn State University in Landscape Contracting.
As the National Sales Manager for Tru-Scapes Landscape Lighting he finds great joy helping the hardscape contractor succeed in his business and installations.
Tru-Scapes provides key products such as accent and path lights for your outdoor space. Developing unique groundbreaking products for your outdoor experience is always at the top of their mind. You can find them at your local Belgard distributor.
Fresh squeezed orange juice off his own tree is Charles Daniel’s dream come true.
In this episode 036 Charles shares his successful backyard and greenhouse citrus growing experience.
As a bonus he also reveals his secrets for growing and harvesting olives, avocados, and pomegranates.
You will probably remember Charles from episode 029 - Why Camellias Work in Your Garden.
This lawyer, banker, and successful business owner “retired” to his new passion for gardening.
In addition to his own garden, he oversees some of the most unique and interesting gardens in Savannah, Georgia area. In these gardens you will often find many unique fruit bearing plants.
Charles is a University of Georgia Certified Plant Professional and a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional.
In this episode we talk with Jordan Daneker about the little things that bring your outdoor spaces to life.
He walks us through the process on how he discovers and builds the perfect outdoor space for you and your family.
We explore the artful details used to put together plants, pools, pavilions, hardscapes, lighting and more to yield a unique and quality environment.
Jordan’s obsession and passion started as a part time job in 2008 and now he is on a mission “To Get North Carolina Outside”. He is a partner in a landscape company Evolve Design + Build located in Currituck, North Carolina. You can find him on both Facebook and Instagram.
He is a licensed North Carolina landscape and general contractor. He holds designations from Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) for concrete pavers and The National Concrete Masonry
Association (NCMA) for segmented retaining walls.
In this episode we will talk with Landscape Architect Bruce Holliday about his landscape design philosophy and how you can enhance your property’s value.
Bruce has seen just about everything in his many years as a Landscape Architect where he has designed and installed landscape plant material, hardscapes, lighting, and irrigation for residential and commercial projects.
At Pike Family Nurseries he supervised 12 landscape designers that produced more than 2,500 landscape plans annually as Director of the Pike Design Group.
You will probably remember Bruce’s distinct voice from his appearances on “The Lawn and Garden Show with Walter Reeves” Saturday mornings on Atlanta’s WSB radio.
Bruce earned his landscape architecture degree from the University of Georgia.
I’m excited for you to hear his can’t miss strategies that add value every time they’re applied.
We are at the beginning of Christmas season and it is time to display the Christmas Tree.
Dr. Mel Koelling knows Christmas Trees.
He and his wife Laurie have grown thousands of trees every year at Tannenbaum Farms in central Michigan.
A nationally recognized expert in the Christmas Tree industry, Dr. Koelling taught and served in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University for over 35 years.
Tannenbaum Farms was purchased in 1977 as an extension of Dr. Koelling's professional interests and as a way to establish a college fund for his children. The first planting in 1978 covered three acres. Today, plantings cover approximately 100 acres of the 180-acre farm.
I was introduced to Dr. Koelling through the fine folks at The National Christmas Tree Promotion Board. Their campaign It’s Christmas Keep It Real touch me.
Christmas trees what a wonderful idea for an episode.
It can take over 8 years to grow your tree so there is not really an off season on a Christmas Tree farm.
We will hear right from the grower himself how to select and care for your live tree.
We will also discover the story behind the first Christmas Tree and how the tradition grew.
It’s the details that matter when design, building, or maintaining your hardscape outdoor living spaces.
Our guest for this episode, Aaron Phifer entered the hardscape industry in 2012. He is now the director of US Sales for Techniseal an industry leader and innovator for hardscape accessories.
He talks about why properly built hardscapes should last multiple generations.
We also discuss innovations that will stimulate your creative juices and make your next hardscape project easier to install.
Arron reveals the focal point of his family’s future hardscape outdoor living space project. The story begins with a newly acquired championship size Japanese Maple.
Doug Scott’s path to his own landscape design firm is anything but typical.
After earning a BA degree from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from Emory University he worked with several consulting firms.
In his spare time Doug feed his true passions for family, the outdoors, and all things regarding landscape design. He began creating outdoor living spaces for friends that reflected how they wish to live.
The positive family impacts encouraged him in his leap of faith in starting an exterior design studio Redeem Your Ground.
Doug completed Emory University’s Landscape Design Program to complement his personal experience along with his natural abilities in design and client engagement.
The “Why” behind Doug’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Redeem Your Ground and his family's story have been featured in both Southern Living magazine & on a TV episode of Growing a Greener World. The Scott's family home & garden blog was also voted Best New Blog at the 2015 Garden Bloggers Conference.
You will often find David Brown studying plants in the gardens at Hills and Dales Estate.
He seeks to acquire the perfect cutting for his amazing indoor arrangements. In our conversation he tells us how you may accomplish the same with your garden plants.
Before coming to Hills & Dales Estate, David taught high school horticulture for 30 years and then was an adjunct instructor at Southern Crescent Technical College for 8 years.
On top of all that he and his wife also owned and operated their own floral shop.
David has a BS degree in Horticulture and Agriculture Education from Purdue University.
Now he is the Greenhouse Manager and Floral Designer for Hills & Dales Estate where he is always applying his wealth of knowledge and creative expertise.
So much of Charles Daniel’s garden world revolves around camelias. In this episode he talks about how to be successful with Camelias and their surprising history.
He shares why Camelias are a key plant for year-round blooms. We also talk about how to overcome garden challenges.
This lawyer, banker, and successful business owner “retired” to his new passion for gardening. He reveals his journey that led him to the ongoing development and caring for some of the most unique gardens in Savannah, Georgia area.
Charles is a University of Georgia Certified Plant Professional and a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional.
This is episode 029 - Why Camellias Work in Your Garden with Charles Daniel on The Garden Question Podcast.
Dewayne Gallatin earned his nickname “King of Containers” while overseeing The Sibley Horticultural Center at Callaway Gardens.
His primary horticultural focus today is managing and developing future projects for private gardens and estates.
A close friend once suggested he enter a container gardening contest that ended up attracting over 1,000 entries. Little did he know a whole TV episode of PBS’s “The Southern Gardener” would be produced around his winning entry.
He earned Horticulture Associates Degrees in Landscape Design, Ornamental Production, and Commercial Turf Management from ABAC Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
He followed up those studies with internships at Chicago Botanic Garden and Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania.
For decades Eric King has been designing award-winning landscapes. By working with nature his designs encourage people to be outside.
He is a landscape architect and co-owner of the residential design + build firm King Landscaping, which serves the Atlanta area.
Eric often appears on local and national garden shows. He is a noted contributor for a variety of online and print media.
King earned a master’s degree in landscape architecture from The University of Georgia and a MBA from Georgia State University.
He is the founder of The Landscape Design Program at Emory Continuing Education Center.
Jutt Howard loves what he does. Every day is a new adventure when growing hundreds of acres of grass for your home and athletic venues.
In this episode he talks about how you can be successful also. How years of constant research pursues the perfect sod. Also an amazing bald eagle story that happened right on his family’s farm.
Jutt grew up in the landscape business and is now the VP of business operations for NG Turf. Since 2010 he has grown with the company and learned the values of producing high quality turf grasses.
He serves as Chairmen of the Advisory Board for AGL. Advancing Georgia Leaders in Agriculture and Forestry which is a 2-year leadership program.
He also serves as a board member of the (GCIA) Georgia Crop Improvement Association . They are responsible for Certification Programs involving crop seeds and turf grasses along with Organic Certification Program.
Jutt is a University of Georgia Certified Turf Grass Professional and a 2010 University of West Georgia Marketing Degree Graduate.
Dr. Bethany Harris is the Director of Education at Callaway Gardens, where she oversees the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center and the Callaway Gardens Discovery Center.
She leads the horticultural educational programs and workshops for guests and visiting school children.
She is also the Director of the Callaway Gardens Volunteer Program.
Dr. Harris is passionate about teaching horticulture and pollinator roles in our environment along with the use of floral resources for insects.
She has earned BS, MS, and PHD degrees in Horticulture and Entomology from the University of Georgia which makes her a “triple UGA dawg”.
Today we are having a conversation with Dr. Richard La Fleur about the importance of healing gardens. We will discover how they promote physical, mental, and spiritual healing as well as encourage self-care.
Dr. La Fleur is an author, international speaker, researcher and educator in the discipline of Psychology at the University of West Georgia. He currently teaches various courses in Psychology and Integrative Healthcare.
This is episode 023 Lisa’s Garden Revealed on The Garden Question Podcast. A follow up to episode 22 Communicating Your Garden Ideas on Paper with Lisa Nunamaker.
Lisa reveals her strategy in designing her new garden under the shade of massive white oak trees.
She is an Award-winning designer, artist and educator. In this episode we will explore her garden and design effluences.
Lisa is a master at teaching others how to communicate garden design and landscape graphic ideas on paper.
Her website Paper Garden Workshop.com is a fun and spirited place to begin learning new amazing drawing and design technique.
Lisa teaches her beautiful illustration skills and landscape design on her website and in the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University.
Lisa also holds degrees in landscape architecture, is registered in the state of Iowa and formally served on the Association of Professional Landscape Designers National Board of Directors.
Award-winning designer, artist and educator, Lisa Nunamaker is a master at teaching others how to communicate garden design and landscape graphic ideas on paper.
Her website Paper Garden Workshop.com is a fun and spirited place to begin learning new amazing drawing and design technique.
Lisa teaches her beautiful illustration skills on her website and in the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University.
To top it off, Lisa also holds degrees in landscape architecture, is registered in the state of Iowa and formally served on the Association of Professional Landscape Designers National Board of Directors.
Connie Cottingham and Mike Sikes’ garden is every plant collector’s fantasy. Each of their lifetime garden adventures are intertwined in their eclectic Athens Georgia garden.
Connie is a landscape architect and a garden travel writer. She has gardened in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Georgia. Her weekly garden plants and advice email ‘Love Notes From the Garden’ are short, humorous, and informative.
Mike is a horticulturist who is Georgia through and through. His garden world has included owning and operating retail garden centers, hosting a garden radio talk show, assisting with new plant introductions, and serving as President of the Georgia Master Gardeners.
Together Connie and Mike offer talks and landscape consultations between discovering a new public garden.
Facebook: Love Notes From The Garden
Mary Kay Woodworth talks about how to hire your next professional for your garden or landscape needs.
In this episode she reveals some of the best questions to ask when qualifying your potential garden and landscape professional.
Mary Kay serves as the Executive director of the Georgia Urban Ag Council. The UAC organization is composed of Landscape, Garden and Turf professionals that advocate, educate, and promote the green industry in the state of Georgia.
UAC represents one of the largest and most successful industries in Georgia. With more than $9 billion in sales, 8,000 companies, and more than 100,000 employees
She is almost a native Georgian, living here since she was 8 years old.
An avid gardener, she has Georgia soil, temperature and plant varieties (mostly) figured out, but learning to landscape and garden with husband Mark at their second home in New Hampshire planting zone 4b is a new challenge!
This is Episode 22 Hiring a Professional for Your Next Garden Project of The Garden Question Podcast.
0019 - The Great Georgia Pollinator Census - Becky Griffin
Becky Griffin knows pollinators count. Now she wants you to count the pollinators in the The Great Georgia Pollinator Census
Being a self-confessed “Geeky Kid” with a great love for insects she wore out the bee book in her local library. Now Becky is the coordinator of The Great Georgia Pollinator Census taking place this year on August 20th and 21st, 2021.
Putting good food on your table is no accident. In this episode we will find out how good insects and their supporting habitat make a difference.
Becky tells us the simple method for collecting important data to be used by the University of Georgia researchers. This valuable data reveals pollinator trends and is needed to conduct economic valuation studies of pollination.
Becky is a Georgia Certified Beekeeper and works with community and school gardeners to increase beneficial insect habitat.
She is also part of UGA's Native Plants and Beneficial Insect Working Group and hosts “The Great Georgia Pollinator Podcast”
This is a back-to-back episode featuring our guest Becky Griffin the Community and School Garden Coordinator for The University of Georgia Extension.
You will want to hear episode 18 “Gardening with Children” when you finish this episode 19 of The Garden Question Podcast.
Connect with Becky: Becky Griffin is the Community and School Garden Coordinator for University of Georgia Extension.
Website: The Great Georgia Pollinator Census
Facebook Group: The Great Georgia Pollinator Census
Certify your pollinator habitat: Connect To Protect Program
Becky Griffin knows gardening connects future generations to agriculture and how they will benefit from that experience.
Our children today need food and agriculture knowledge in order to yield wise policy decisions for their future.
She talks about how a child’s nutrition, wellness and economic benefits increases along with test scores by being exposed to gardening.
Becky has found that a child’s natural curiosity of the outdoor world often leads to developing patients, curiosity and creativity when being involved in school gardening.
Becky Griffin is the Community and School Garden Coordinator for University of Georgia Extension. She knows what it takes to have a successful school garden.
We will explore the keys to starting a sustainable children’s garden in this 018 episode of The Garden Question Podcast “Gardening with Children”.
Mike and Judy Cunningham are harvesting the last summer crops at Country Gardens Farm.
Fall gardening is just around the corner and Mike takes a break to talk about his favorite time of the year in the garden.
Some of the things you will discover in this episode are the best practices Mike implements for soils, plant selections, and timing. All important for a successful fall harvest.
Mike and Judy Cunningham have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Country Gardens Farm is a third-generation family farm growing a wide assortment of organic year-round vegetables they sale to the community from their 3 acres.
Mike with lots of input from Judy authored his successful "Seven Steps to an Organic Vegetable Garden"
You will remember Mike's openness in sharing his successful methods for growing good food in our inaugural episode 001 of "The Garden Question" Podcast.
Jo Phillips is the Horticultural Manager for the best-preserved 19th century garden in the United States. The first planting at Hills and Dales Estate occurred in 1841 with the still growing original boxwoods.
The garden estate is a horticultural testament to the three women with their families that have called it home. Today’s garden stays true to the original design and each woman’s contribution.
Jo tells stories about how much Alice Callaway loved Hills and Dales and was ahead of her time in so many ways. The horticultural staff reflects Mrs. Callaway love every day in their care for the original garden design.
You will want to listen all the way to the end to appreciate how important historical gardens are to our future garden success.
Jo earned her BSA Horticulture Degree from The University of Georgia.
This is Episode 016 “Hills and Dales Garden Wisdom” of The Garden Question Podcast.
Paul Chappell grows trees headed to a landscape garden near you. He talks about the fascinating journey your tree might take before finding a home in your garden.
Once your tree finds its home, Paul lays out what it takes for you to be a successful tree grower for multiple generations.
Paul fell in love with plants and their care over 36 successful years ago.
He tells some very interesting stories about his time at Callaway Gardens. The challenges of growing native trees in the nursery. Also, some plant design practices and choices you will want to avoid.
Paul is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional, an ISA Certified Arborist, and a 20 plus years nursery grower of fine trees.
This is episode 015 “Where Trees Come From” of The Garden Question Podcast. Our conversation with Paul Chappell of Diversified Trees coming up.
You’ll never want to leave a Susanne Hudson designed garden. Each garden room is an invitation to relax and enjoy again and again.
Susanne has been designing homes and gardens for over 40 years. She believes your home is for living and enjoying every day.
Her personal garden has been featured in Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, HGTV, This Old House, New Zealand’s Lifestyle Book and more.
She shares her garden with guest each year during the Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival Garden tour.
Designing amazing twist with antique and vintage objects is one of her design signatures.
Gail Woody knows native plants and why they are important for our gardens.
She has been gardening for over 30 years. Creating the perfect eco system with native plants for butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife. Her passion for gardening is contagious! After listening to this episode, you will search out every opportunity to use natives in your garden.
Gail Woody is an ISA Certified Arborist and a seasoned advanced Master Gardener. She speaks and writes on Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and native plants among other garden subjects.
You probably remember listening to Gail in episode 002 Attracting Butterflies to Your Garden and episode 005 Attracting Hummingbirds to your Garden.
Lanie Riner knows pollinator gardens and why thy are so important to our lives. In this episode Lanie explains how to be pollinator successful.
She teams with her husband Gray to grow hundreds of thousands of pollinator plants every year at their nursery Thunderwood Farms.
Thunderwood Farms specializes in producing custom-grown perennial plants. Growing using clean methods supports plant health for an outstanding garden near you.
Lanie’s moving story about how friends and neighbors saved the day right before an approaching hard freeze brought me to tears.
Always an advocate for the horticulture green industry Lanie has taken the next step by becoming the Executive Director for the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA).
Lanie was recognized as the GGIA Young Professional of the Year in 2013 and the GGIA Communicator of the Year in January 2020.
She is a 2005 graduate from The University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture. She has served in leadership roles with Georgia Farm Bureau, Center for Applied Nursery Research, Advancing Georgia’s Leaders in Agriculture and Forestry and Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA).
If the legislature is in session, Lanie is at the state capitol watching legislation and gathering an audience advocating Georgia’s horticulture story.
Brooks Garcia is fulfilling his dream in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. The sun awakens him every day to his new adventure at Villa del Sole. A Tuscan style home and garden complete with long vistas to far mountain ridges.
He designed and built his Georgia version of a Tuscan style home complete with a clay tile roof and wood burning fireplace. When the sun slips behind the ridge Brooks celebrates another fulfilling day building his garden with a swimming pool soak.
In our conversation Brooks reveals the key to unlocking Georgia’s red clay soils and growing flourishing healthy plants in your garden.
Designing and building his “last great garden”. He talks about his favorite plants and how to use them in garden design. Some you won’t believe.
He shares his hands in the dirt experiences building award winning gardens at the Chelsey Flower Show, Southeastern Flower Show, and Foxhall Flower Show.
Brooks worked for Ryan Gainey as his personal assistant where he helped create many outstanding gardens in Atlanta, Long Island and abroad in France.
For 25 years Brooks created gardens for his fellow Atlantans through his company Fine Gardens.
Brooks attended the Lovett School and upon graduation went on to the University of Georgia earning his BLA in Landscape Architecture.
Brooks has given his time restoring historical Old Clarkesville Cemetery, Hills and Dales in LaGrange and Historic Oakland Cemetery.
Carol Hight is a native plant and wild flower advocate. She is a prolific writer for local publications and is a very in demand speaker for wildflowers. Her blog is BloomingBeautiful.com
She is a 30-year retired 5th grade science teacher.
Carol is currently active with the West Georgia Chapter of the Georgia Native Plant Society where she has served as chairman of the Buffalo Creek Trail restoration committee, and as an active native plant rescue facilitator.
Greg Huber is a public service and outreach faculty member of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and a Georgia registered landscape architect.
He earned a Bachelor and Master’s degree from the University of Georgia College of Environment and Design.
His 26-year career includes a dynamic range of field experience as a green industry professional and teacher. Prior to joining Extension in 2016, he was the coordinator and lead instructor for the Horticulture program at Southern Crescent Technical College, specializing in workforce training (2005-2015).
Huber has field experience in a dynamic range of industry sectors including landscape design, site planning and construction documents, landscape contracting, landscape management, retail nursery, carpentry, and Christmas tree production.
Huber now leads UGA’s Georgia Certified Landscape Professional and Georgia Certified Plant Professional Programs through the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture.
Georgia’s landscape and turf industries count on Huber’s communication of critical timely information and announcements through the Landscape Alerts & Updates newsletter, Georgia Certified Landscape Professional and Georgia Certified Plant Professional newsletters.
He is the past recipient of the Southern Crescent Technical College Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Education and the Georgia Green Industry Association Educator and Communicator of the Year Awards.
Joe Raboine started his career as a landscape contractor over 25 years ago.
His garden hardscape expertise and innovation led him to Director of Residential Hardscapes at Belgard. Known as the best in class Belgard is a trend setter with their landscape pavers, retaining walls, fire pits and more creative hardscape products.
Joe created a line of modular outdoor kitchen and living room components called Harmony Outdoor Living which is now Belgard Elements™.
He also developed a method for converting simple sketches into 3D designs and animations so people can envision the hardscapes in their gardens before they are built. Belgard Design Studio is the fruit of his work.
Joe is an avid gardener, outdoor photographer and hiker.
In this episode we will talk with Joe about what’s good to know when choosing and building your next hardscape project.
Christie Bryant speaks for trees every day. She loves to be in a person’s yard meeting their dogs and talking about what is best for their trees.
Climbing to the highest heights and exploring soil depths is important to her for a complete understanding of each tree’s optimum health needs.
Thirteen years as a consulting arborist Christie stays up to date on the latest tree research and what trees love and desire. Her tree consulting company is called Speaking for The Trees.
She believes it is important to know a tree’s potential by performing a tree risk assessment and a real estate due diligence inspection.
As President of the Georgia Arborist Association, she advocates for trees and the professional that take care of them.
She earned a Bachelor degree in Environmental Horticulture from the University of Georgia. Is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional, ISA Certified Arborist, and a trained Horticultural Therapist .
Christie has appeared as a tree expert on The Weather Channel, various local news outlets, and WSB radio Saturday morning show Green & Growing with Ashley Frasca.
Dr. Bodie Pennisi is an Extension Horticulture Specialist at the University of Georgia.
She has statewide responsibilities for the Georgia landscape industry and conducts applied research with emphasis on sustainable outdoor and indoor landscapes which includes plant, water, nutrient, and soil interactions.
Dr. Pennisi also teaches online university level courses titled: Herbs, Spices, and Medicinal Plants; along with a Plant Physiology course.
She also teaches Master Gardener training classes on landscape installation and maintenance, WaterSmart landscapes, interiorscapes, herbaceous and woody ornamental plant selection, plant propagation and plant physiology.
Dr. Pennisi serves as educational advisor to the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA), the Urban Agriculture Council (UAC), and the national organization Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB). She serves on the environmental committee of the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH).
Dr. Pennisi is a Co-Editor-in-Chief of Scientia Horticulturae.
Gail Woody knows Hummingbirds and how to attracts them by the hundreds each day. Her garden is a must stop for thousands of hummers on their migration journey from and to Central America.
She talks about her feeding strategies and nectar producing plants. Successful water attracting tactics. Growing proven reproduction habitat . Why insects are important to Hummingbird health.
You are probably familiar with Gail Woody from our first interview on The Garden Question episode 002 How to Attract Butterflies.
Gail has been gardening for over 30 years. She creates the perfect eco system that includes butterflies, hummingbirds, native plants, water features and more. Her passion for gardening is contagious! After listening to this episode her excitement will inspire you!
Gail Woody is an ISA Certified Arborist and a seasoned advanced Master Gardener. She speaks and writes on Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and native plants among other garden subjects
If you want to learn how to attracting Hummingbirds to your garden large or small this episode is perfect for you!
Tara Dillard is a nationally recognized garden designer, author, and speaker. She has hosted her own CBS television program, The Better Gardening Show.
After earning degrees in engineering and horticulture she began designing and installing low-maintenance organic landscapes. Her designs emphasis the balance between home, garden, and life.
An award-winning author of 5 books, including Garden Paths and Stepping Stones, Beautiful by Design, and The Garden View.
Tara writes a newspaper column; magazine articles and maintains a popular blog on her website: Tara Dillard.com
Based in Atlanta, GA, she lectures nationally, spreading the message that creating a beautiful landscape will create a beautiful life.
Host: Craig McManus
Rick Smith is the pruning guru. In today episode your deepest pruning fears are comforted with Rick’s interesting and high impact stories.
He explains why Smart landscape design matters and how to avoid the not so smart design mistakes.
After listening you will appreciate how he protects his client’s garden investment for the long run and why they trust him with their extraordinary gardens.
In this episode of “The Garden Question” you will know why garden plants do better when they stay closer to their natural size, form, and texture. Avoiding any signs of over-pruning or under-pruning.
Rick reveals healthy plant management practice along with how his proven knowledge and experience helps prevent common pest and disease problems.
He lectures throughout the southeastern United States to horticulture college students, garden clubs, landscape companies and horticultural trade associations.
He is featured in the University of Georgia green industry Super Crew training video and has appeared on PBS’s Growing a Greener World with Joe Lamp’l.
Rick is the chairperson of the Georgia Certified Landscape Professional advisory board and also served on the Board of Directors and as President of Metro Atlanta Landscape & Turf Association
His company The Pruning Guru was founded in 2002 after 15 years of developing his knowledge and skills with the landscape trail blazing company Post Properties.
Gail Woody is an expert at enticing a Butterfly kaleidoscope to her garden. She knows what they like and how to keep them happy year-round.
She has been studying these fly jewels for many years and regularly attracts up to 38 different species of butterflies to her garden.
Monarch butterflies are regular visitors twice a year on their migration treks between Mexico and Canada. In this episode Gail will also tell us how to attract and keep all the local butterflies coming to you place. Some with 6” to 8” wing spans and stories about giant 6” to 8” caterpillars.
Gail has been gardening for over 30 years. She creates the perfect eco system that includes butterflies, hummingbirds, native plants, water features and more. Her passion for gardening is contagious! After listening to this episode there will be no excuses not to start building your own butterfly paradise!
Gail Woody is an ISA Certified Arborist and a seasoned advanced Master Gardener. She speaks and writes on Butterflies, Hummingbirds, and native plants among other garden subjects
If you want to learn how to attract your personal Butterfly kaleidoscope then today’s podcast is perfect for you!
Mike and Judy Cunningham are the founders of Country Gardens Farm. They have been teaching people how to grow, cook, and preserve good organic food for over 10 years.
Mike's plant love began in high school when his father helped him build a greenhouse in the back yard. After a degree in horticulture and a few years as a store manager with Pike Nurseries he began Southern Perennial Growers and Country Gardens Nursery. In 2011 the focus changed to growing organic vegetables to sell directly to the public through a CSA subscription model.
Country Gardens Farm grows a wide assortment of year-round vegetables on 3 acres of the third-generation family farm by using greenhouses in the winter.
Mike with lots of input from Judy authored his book "Seven Steps to an Organic Vegetable Garden"
You will hear Mike's openness in sharing his successful methods for growing good food in our inaugural episode 001 of "The Garden Question" Podcast.
A podcast for people that love designing, building and growing smarter gardens that work.
Listen in as we talk with successful garden designers, builders, and growers. Discovering their stories along with how they think, work, and grow.
This is your next step in creating a beautiful year-round, environmentally connected, low maintenance, and healthy thriving outdoor spaces!
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert there will always be something inspiring when you listen to “The Garden Question” podcast.
Host Craig McManus.