Join us as we chat with Mark Wessel, chief horticulturist at Gardens Alive, about his recent trip to South Carolina, where he met with a peach breeder at Clemson University and learned about the latest developments in peach breeding. We'll also dive into the world of trade shows, where we discuss the latest introductions and trends in the industry.

This hour is packed with exciting topics, from the new Terra Nova 'Fire Wing' series of coral bells to the importance of controlling invasive species. We'll also explore the world of low-water gardening and the latest research on plant defenses. And, as always, we'll share some practical tips and advice for gardeners of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you won't want to miss this episode.

Mark shares his insights on the peach breeding program at Clemson University, where he met with Dr. Gassick and learned about the latest developments in peach breeding. We'll also discuss the importance of controlling invasive species and the role of trade shows in the industry. And, as a special treat, we'll share some exciting news about a new prairie drop seed variety that's perfect for gardeners looking to add some native beauty to their landscapes.

So, if you're ready to learn from one of the best in the business and get the latest scoop on the world of gardening, tune in!!!

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Mark and Scott are discussing some of their favorite plants, but be warned, not all of them are as lovely as they seem. From a vine that's been known to blanket entire areas with its orange hue to a tree that's considered invasive in warmer climates, the conversation is filled with fascinating insights and warnings.

They discuss various plants, some of which are considered invasive and others that are simply fascinating. The conversation is engaging and informative, covering topics that are relevant to gardeners of all levels.

Scott and Mark also touch on the importance of being mindful of the plants we introduce to our gardens, as some can have unintended consequences. They share stories of their own experiences with plants that have gotten out of control and offer advice on how to navigate the complex world of gardening.

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 Our guest, Nancy Lawson, the Humane Gardener, shares her expertise on these beloved insects, revealing surprising facts and tips on how to create a firefly-friendly environment in your own backyard. From the importance of darkness to the role of light pollution, Nancy breaks down the science behind these magical creatures.

We also dive into some timely gardening tips, including how to prune trees, manage weeds, and create a thriving vegetable garden. Our host, Scott Berlin, shares his own experiences with tomato cages and mulching, and discusses the benefits of using a colinear hoe to keep your garden looking its best. Plus, we chat with Gary Sullivan about the importance of painting your home, from curb appeal to protecting your house from the elements.

Nancy's insights on fireflies are a must-listen, and her passion for these insects is contagious. You'll learn about the different species, their unique behaviors, and how to create a welcoming environment for them in your yard. And, as always, our host shares his own gardening experiences and tips, making this episode a valuable resource for gardeners of all levels.

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This hour is a must-listen for any gardener looking to stay ahead of the curve. Scott is joined by Sarah Geiger Behm, a landscape designer and expert in her field, to discuss the latest trends and innovations in gardening. From the benefits of using AI in garden design to the importance of understanding the intricacies of plant identification, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

Scott and Sarah dive into the world of artificial intelligence and its applications in gardening, exploring how AI can help with tasks such as seed starting and garden design. They also discuss the importance of relying on expert knowledge when it comes to plant selection and garden design, and how AI can be a useful tool for brainstorming and idea generation. With Sarah's expertise and Scott's enthusiasm, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to take their gardening skills to the next level.

One of the key takeaways from this hour is the importance of understanding the limitations of AI and knowing when to rely on expert knowledge. Scott and Sarah discuss the challenges of using AI for plant identification and the need for more accurate and nuanced tools. They also touch on the topic of mosquito control, sharing a clever solution for keeping those pesky insects at bay.

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This episode of Let's Garden is a must-listen for anyone who loves gardening, learning about unique plants, and exploring the world of horticulture. Join Scott Berline and his guest, Sarah Geiger Behm, a landscape designer and owner of Verdigree Plant Farm, as they dive into the world of pollinator-friendly designs, beekeeping, and the importance of gardening for wildlife.

Scott and Sarah discuss their favorite plants, including sweet alyssum, opium poppies, and sweet potatoes. They share their experiences with these plants, from their uses in the garden to their unique characteristics and benefits. You'll also hear about the history of sweet potatoes, from their origins in South America to their evolution into ornamental varieties. Plus, learn about the fascinating story of Douglas Corrigan, a stunt pilot who flew from California to Ireland without permission, and the celebration of National Yellow Pig Day.  

Scott and Sarah also chat about the importance of gardening for wildlife, including the role of beneficial insects like hoverflies and the impact of human activity on the environment. With their engaging conversation and wealth of knowledge, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in gardening, conservation, and the natural world.

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Join Scott and his guests, Mark Wessel and Joe Boggs, as they dive into the world of insect life cycles and the challenges of managing pests and diseases in the garden.

As the summer season heats up, Joe Boggs shares his expertise on the cicada killer wasp, a beneficial insect that's often misunderstood. He explains how these wasps are actually helpful in keeping cicada populations under control, and how they're not as aggressive as they seem. Mark Wessel chimes in with a question about a common pest he's noticed in his garden, the two-lined spittlebug, and Joe provides insight into the life cycle of this insect.

The conversation also touches on the importance of humidity levels in the garden, and how high temperatures can affect plant growth. Scott, Mark, and Gary discuss the challenges of managing humidity and provide tips on how to keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months.  

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The guys share some fascinating stories about the Founding Fathers and their love for gardening, including Thomas Jefferson's impressive vegetable garden at Monticello and George Washington's formal gardens and botanical hothouses.

The hour also delves into the world of red, white, and blue plants, with the speaker discussing the rarity of blue flowers and the challenges of creating them. They explore the science behind plant pigments and the unique characteristics of certain flowers, such as the Himalayan poppy and the blue lobelia. The conversation is peppered with interesting facts and anecdotes about gardening and the natural world.

Scott and Mark also shares some personal stories, including their own experiences with drought-tolerant plants and the importance of mulching in the heat of summer. They also discuss the history of gardening at the White House, from Rutherford Hayes' tree-planting initiative to Jacqueline Kennedy's rose garden

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This hour of Let's Garden is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay cool and connected to nature during the sweltering summer months. Join Scott and his guest Mark, a chief horticulturist with Gardens Alive, as they dive into the world of plants that can help you beat the heat.

Scott and Mark discuss the importance of shade trees in providing relief from the heat and share their favorite plants that can thrive in hot and dry conditions. From the cool and fragrant Russian sage to the stunning blue annual Salvius, these plants are sure to inspire your next gardening project. They also touch on the topic of heat safety, sharing valuable tips on how to stay cool and avoid heat-related illnesses.

As they explore the world of plants, Scott and Mark chat about their personal favorites, including the Echinasha, a cone flower that's been having a great year, and the Aphrodite callicanthus, a shrub that's both deer-proof and shade-tolerant. They also discuss the importance of choosing the right plants for your garden, and how to care for them to ensure they thrive.

So, if you're looking for some inspiration and advice on how to beat the heat with your garden, tune in to this hour of Let's Garden. Scott and Mark share their expertise and passion for gardening, and you'll be sure to learn something new and exciting. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation - listen now and get ready to grow!

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