Shows
Plants, People, ScienceHydrangea Genomics: Dr. Lisa Alexander's Path to Breeding Better HydrangeasThe science behind your garden hydrangeas involves far more than just planting and watering. Dr. Lisa Alexander, a research geneticist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service, takes us on a fascinating journey from her first days pollinating chestnut trees in a 70-foot bucket truck to her current work revolutionizing hydrangea breeding at the National Arboretum.Working from the heart of Tennessee's nursery country, Dr. Alexander explains how she's mapping the genetic diversity of oakleaf hydrangea across its six-state native range. Her team has identified six distinct genetic populations, some containing rare genes that might help plants survive...2025-07-2540 minPlants, People, ScienceReady for ASHS: Tips and Tricks for Conference SuccessUnlock the secrets to making the most of the American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference with insider tips from seasoned attendees. As the 2025 New Orleans conference approaches (July 28-August 1), discover strategies that transform overwhelming events into career-defining opportunities.Veteran conference-goer Curt Rom (46 conferences and counting!) and graduate student Samson Humphrey share perspectives on navigating everything from travel logistics to networking techniques. They reveal how to leverage the conference app to build a personalized schedule, position yourself for meaningful connections at poster sessions, and deliver polished presentations that showcase your research.The conversation goes beyond...2025-06-2544 min
Growers DailySquirrels Are the Worst + How and Why to Use Buckwheat as a Cover CropWelcome to episode 155 of Growers Daily! We cover: if there is anything that can be done about squirrels in the garden, how to use buckwheat as a cover crop without it becoming a mess, and can you transplant corn, really? We are a Non-Profit! 👇 🙌 DONATE 🙌 https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=ALF4MZX26SVSQ https://app.candid.org/profile/16047666 Links for today: Mark Rober Squirrel Videos: https://youtu.be/hFZFjoX2cGg?si=PjuXMfFk3TfuWHD3 Transplanted corn case study: https://scho...2025-05-2021 minPlants, People, ScienceGrowing Global Leaders in Horticulture: A Conversation with ASHS President Dr. Daniel LeskovarA simple microscope gift during a childhood illness sparked a lifelong passion for horticulture that would take Dr. Daniel Leskovar from Argentina to leadership in American plant science. As the current President of the American Society for Horticultural Science, Dr. Leskovar shares the remarkable journey that began with his father's work in hop production and led him through prestigious institutions across three continents.The conversation reveals how formative experiences—observing agricultural practices in Patagonia, studying plant cells during recovery from a kidney infection, and adapting to a fruit and vegetable-rich diet—shaped his scientific curiosity. Dr. Leskovar purs...2025-04-1748 minGrowers DailyMaximizing Vermicompost + White Shade Cloth Worth it?Welcome to episode 118 of Growers Daily! We cover: the fascinating world of shade cloth colors, maximizing vermicompost and what to do about those overwintered carrots. We are a Non-Profit! 👇 🙌 DONATE 🙌 https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=ALF4MZX26SVSQ Links for today: Worm Farmers Handbook: https://amzn.to/4j9vWy0 Shade cloth in horticulture: https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/44/2/article-p239.pdf Adverse effects of shade on lettuce: https://journals.ashs.org/jashs/view/journals/jashs/147/1/article-p45.xml#:~:text=In%20addition...2025-03-2819 minPlants, People, ScienceDr. Kirk Pomper: Journey into the World of Pawpaw CultivationDr. Kirk Pomper, a Professor of Horticulture at Kentucky State University, is an expert on the pawpaw. He takes us on a journey through the lush history and remarkable qualities of this native North American fruit. With its unique tropical notes the pawpaw stands out as both a horticultural gem and a culinary curiosity.Together, we unravel the complexities of cultivating pawpaws, exploring everything from grafting techniques to the challenges of pollination. Learn how these trees rely on less-than-common pollinators like flies and beetles, and the surprising tricks enthusiasts use to attract them. Dr. Pomper shares insights...2025-02-1748 minPlants, People, ScienceDr. Carl Motsenbocker: Transforming Horticultural Education and Sustainable Farming in LouisianaUnlock the secrets of sustainable agriculture with us as we welcome Dr. Carl Motsenbocker from Louisiana State University. Discover how his work in local foods and sustainable farming is reshaping horticultural education and community connections. We'll guide you through the discussions at the 2024 American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, where we gained insights into the shift from large-scale farming to small-scale environmentally conscious agricultural practices.As we explore the world of sustainable small-scale farming in Louisiana, Carl shares stories from his experiences teaching vegetable crops and organic gardening. These real-world classes aren't just about growing food; t...2024-12-1346 minPlants, People, ScienceFailure Is Not FinalIn a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Mengmeng Gu from Colorado State’s Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, we explore the broader implications of resilience and the belief that failure is not the end. This engaging dialogue delves into how these concepts are not only vital in horticultural science but also in personal growth and development. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration and actionable insights.Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/.HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access an...2024-08-2918 minPlants, People, ScienceDr. Ryan Contreras: Breeding Plants to Prevent InvasivenessJoin us for a rich discussion with our distinguished guest, Ryan Contreras, a leading expert in ornamental horticulture from Oregon State University. Ryan shares his incredible journey from the fields of eastern North Carolina to becoming a renowned professor, revealing pivotal moments and key mentorships that shaped his career.Step into the world of invasive plant species and biotechnology with Ryan as he unpacks the significant ecological threats posed by plants like Scotch broom and English ivy. Learn about the origins and impacts of these species and how new biotechnological tools like CRISPR are revolutionizing plant breeding...2024-07-1249 minPlants, People, ScienceJohn Ertle: Behind the Scenes at the 2022 ASHS Far-Red WorkshopWhat if the key to unlocking your garden's full potential lies in a light spectrum most people overlook? Discover the untapped power of far-red radiation in horticulture as we bring you a vibrant discussion straight from the ASHS 2022 Workshop, "What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science?" Join co-host Sam Humphrey in a fantastic conversation with Dr. John Ertle, who shares his firsthand experience being surrounded by the leading minds in plant science. Feel the buzz and excitement of a packed room where every corner was brimming with curiosity and groundbreaking insights.In this episode, John Ertle...2024-06-1414 min