The Garden Question

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 Line 00:00 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, Pinterest

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...