Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries
274 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago - ★★★★★ - 16 ratingsJoin columnist and garden designer Mary Stone in sharing dilemmas, delights, & discoveries in the garden of life.
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Episodes
Ep 156. Castor Beans & Jefferson's Monticello Lab for Plants
April 14, 2024 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.2 MBThomas Jefferson's birthdate recalls visiting Monticello, considered a Lab for Plants. We chat about the fascinating history of the plantation and Jefferson's Garden Book, which is filled with trials and tribulations. One is his remarkable Castor Bean Plants. We chat about Castor Bean Plants overcoming the concern of toxicity in the garden and how I used them to "Hide Uglies." The episode wraps up with a reflection on Thomas Jefferson's self-written epitaph, which suggests a sense of se...
Ep 155. Spacing Plants and Splendid Smokebush
April 07, 2024 11:00 - 10 minutes - 6.92 MBThe episode starts with a fun little ditty about Bumbershoots (umbrellas) and a chat about Spacing Plants to avoid having to prune them. Plus, the reasons to prune are similar to those for caring for ourselves and our families. We discuss Smokebush, with its splendid features (and cautions), and other shrubs you can rejuvenate-prune in spring. Then wrap up with inspiration on revitalizing and restoring ourselves. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Reason...
Ep 154. Root Pruning and a Journey of Growth
March 31, 2024 11:00 - 10 minutes - 6.95 MBI look forward to sharing a sequel to Early Spring Transplants with a story about Root Pruning that relates to our lives. But before that, I share a personal journey of recovery and growth. Then we chat about the how-too's of Root Pruning and the benefits. And wrap up with encouragement to assess our roots and perhaps make room for new feeder roots in our lives. I hope you enjoy the story Related Stories and Helpful Links: Root Pruning– Blog Post A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness– ...
Ep 153. Early Spring Transplants and Honey-Dos
March 24, 2024 11:00 - 11 minutes - 7.78 MBEarly spring is an ideal time to transplant most woody plants. In this episode, we feature large cherry trees a farmer transplanted five years ago and the outcomes with updates that hopefully inspire others to treat animals with respect and kindness. We wrap up with hilarious early Spring Garden Honey-dos. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Early Spring Transplants – Blog Post Spring Garden Honey-dos – Blog Post Here's a link to Penn State's Exten...
Ep 152. Relocating Bees – Being Kind to Pollinators
March 17, 2024 11:00 - 11 minutes - 7.62 MBBeing kind and relocating honeybees in an old olive tree right outside Linda's front door comes with twists and turns but a happy ending. We chat about how to relocate honeybees and tips on how you can help protect our pollinators. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Relocating Honeybees – Being Kind - Blog Post Link to Beekeeping Associations In North America 8888 I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future ...
Ep 151. Rockin Alpine Gardens of Acceptance
March 10, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.26 MBIn this episode, we tour the makings of an Alpine Garden atop massive boulders in Sparta, NJ. You'll enjoy the lineup of highly deer-resistant perennials, creating movement cascading down the boulders. We wrap up with a lineup of spring flowering bulbs, one with a skunk smell, leading to a lesson of acceptance of Canada Geese, not Canadian Geese as many call them. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Planning an Alpine Garden Deer-Resistant Spring Bloomin...
Ep 150. St. Patrick and the Legend of Clover
March 03, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.87 MBIn this episode, we learn about the fascinating history of St. Patrick and the Legend of Clover, also called Shamrocks, featured on St. Patrick’s Day. We wrap up with a story of the good luck lady, a kind gal who finds four-leaf clovers to share with others. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: St. Patrick and the Legend of Clover- Blog Post March Folklore of Hope – Blog Post Ep 26. Folklore of Hope - Planting Following Nature Clover Lawn Alternative – Blo...
Ep 149. Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community
February 25, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.86 MBIn this episode, we talk about Straw Bale Gardening, used by Kearny Community Garden; an inexpensive way to grow vegetables in raised beds without tilling and weeding. We review other raised bed techniques. And the pros and cons of Community Gardens, how rules of conduct are sometimes broken, ending with a reflection on living by our "heart rules." I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Straw Bale Gardening Builds Community Vegetable Gardening Basics Ep...
Ep 148. Anatomy & Array of Beautiful Bark
February 18, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.36 MBIn this episode, we discuss the fascinating Anatomy and Array of Beautiful Bark, noting a selection of trees inspired by a talk given by Bruce Crawford, the Manager of Horticulture of the Morris County Park Commission (NJ). We wrap up with an analogy of our skin, which developed just as the bark of trees based on our areas of origin. And how metaphorically, we grow thicker skin with life challenges. But we can exfoliate by forgiving and begin to flourish. I hope you enjoy the story. R...
Ep 147. Meaning of Rose Colors - Valentine's Traditions
February 11, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 6.05 MBDo you recall Valentine's Day traditions as a kid having to bring cards to school? It was an assignment that felt awkward. As adults, we give roses; each color has a special meaning. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Meaning of Roses and Valentine Traditions Beauty and Beast of Roses Ep 72. Beauty and Beast of Roses Joy of Receiving Cut Flowers Ep 46. The Gift of Cut Flowers 8888 I'd love to hear about your garden and nature storie...
Ep 147. Meaning of Roses - Valentine's Traditions
February 11, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 6.05 MBDo you recall Valentine's Day traditions as a kid having to bring cards to school? It was an assignment that felt awkward. As adults, we give roses; each color has a special meaning. In this episode we also chat about an update on brother Rick's AC-Pallet Garden featured in Ep 145. Special Sedum and Succulent Gardens. I hope you enjoy the story. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Meaning of Roses and Valentine Traditions Beauty and Beast of Roses Ep 72. Beauty and Beast of...
Ep 146. Money Tree of Abundance-Happier Houseplants
February 04, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.42 MBSeeing Ruth and Jim's Money Tree reminds me of a Money Tree I met long ago, along with its Plant Parent, which turned out to be life-changing. Then we chat about houseplants in duress due to drying heat and tired soil and how to make them happier. Some plants like to be tight in their pots, much like tight-fitting jeans. Related Stories and Helpful Links: A Money Tree brings Abundance Houseplants in Duress Turn Happy Benefits of Watering with Rainwater Karen Ann Quinlan Hosp...
Ep 145. Special Sedum and Succulent Gardens
January 28, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.59 MBAfter the last episode, Festive Partridge Berry – Terrarium Basics, Jamie asked if the sedums used in the terrarium are succulents, reminding me of a special sedum and succulent garden. Plus, a family story about a pallet garden featuring sedums and other things not so ideal is sure to bring a chuckle. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Sedum & Succulent Garden Pallet Garden & AC Screen Ep 144. Partridge Berry – Terrarium Basics Penn State Extension article - Be Safe Around...
Ep 144. Festive Partridge Berry-Terrarium Basics
January 21, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.47 MBSeeking beauty amongst the muddy dreariness, I came upon Festive Partridge Berry amid a tapestry of moss, making me feel like a troll in a miniature forest lurking amongst a carpet of fur. The charming trailing plant decorates terrariums, leading to a story of an event at A & J Messina Greenhouses in Blairstown, NJ, where guests enjoyed building a Terrarium - a Mini Gardening Warmup. Related Stories and Helpful Links: Partridge Berry Terrariums- a Mini-gardening Warmup Enjoy Elisavet's...
Ep 143. Sowing the Treasures of Buckeye Seeds
January 14, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.5 MBIn this episode, Mary Stone shares the treasures encountered during her overdue fall cleanup in early winter, including dozens of Bottlebrush Buckeye seeds. We learn how to plant them and the benefits of the native beauty. Then, we end with reflections on early Winter Treasures in Nature and ideas of clearing spaces at home by giving a few treasures to those we cherish. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Sowing the Treasures of Buckeye Seeds Bottlebrush Buckeye Hi...
Ep 142. Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife
January 07, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.71 MBIn this episode, I share the story of a garden design client, Jacquie of Byram, NJ, and how we shared life stories that often happen in the garden and amongst nature. We chat about Beautyberry, her newest favorite plant. Then there's the Winter Beauty of Winterberry, which wildlife also loves. We wrap up with the Legend of Winterberry and what makes some berries good and some berries bad. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Berries for Winter Beauty and Wildlife S...
Ep 141. Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life
December 31, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.73 MBWhile opening a gifted box of green pencils, I noticed they were limited editon Gardening Pencils by Blackwing, leading to learning about the Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life. The episode includes inspirational gardening quotes and an invitation to share your favorite nature or garden quotes. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Essential Nutrients for Gardens and Life Benefits of Gardening Wisdom in the Rhythm of Water - Ep 89. Wisdom in the Rhythm ...
Ep 140. Long Winter's Nap and Gift of Contentment
December 24, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.41 MBIn this episode, we reflect on the reason for the holiday season and have fun sharing the hilarity of the mad rush -- much like the rush of wrapping up the gardening season with a few late-season tips. Then comes the Long Winter's Nap from gardening we enjoy. We wrap up by contemplating the Gift of Contentment. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: A Long Winter's Nap Father John's Animal House Garden Overwintering Potted Perennials Ep 20. Unexpected Furry Mes...
Ep 139. Legends of Holly and Christmas Trees
December 17, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.81 MBIn this episode, I share the Legend of Holly and Christmas Trees. Then we chat about The Twelve Days of Christmas ending on January 6th,-- So keep your tree standing until after Little Christmas, and there are ways it repurpose it to extend the Joy. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Legend of Holly & Christmas Trees Ellie’s Living Christmas Tree Repurposing Christmas Trees Ep 23. Season of Love, All About Poinsettias 8888 I'd love to hear abou...
Ep 138. Honey Locust the Porcupine of Trees
December 10, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.39 MBThe defense mechanisms of Honey Locust trees are similar to porcupines. We chat about fascinating trees, their benefits, and thornless varieties. Plus how the docile porcupine can be a nuisance in the garden, and ways to move them along. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Honey Locust – the Porcupine of Trees Three Sisters Gardening & Jolee’s Emergency Also featured in Ep 28. Three Sisters, No-Till Gardening More Tips on How to Get Rid of Porcupines ...
Ep 137. Overwintering Potted Perennials
December 03, 2023 12:00 - 11 minutes - 8.08 MBIn this episode, we chat about garden ghosts, which I rarely have anymore—leading to how to overwinter garden pots, especially those filled with perennials and woody plants. Then, I share the story of Filling Naked Pots late in the season and the glorious assortment of shade-loving deer-resistant plants that decorate my adored Mother Earth Face Pot. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Overwintering Potted Perennials Filling Late-Season Naked Pots Related Stor...
Ep 136. Giving Thanks for the Gifts of Nature
November 26, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.75 MBGiving Thanks for the Gifts of Nature and our Gardens as we delve into the holiday season teaches us not to rush things. We reflect on the beauty of the dormant landscape and treasures you can gather for winter decorating while leaving plenty for our feathered friends and other wildlife. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Giving Thanks for Nature's Gifts Winter Decorating with Roadside Finds Ep 08. Late Fall To-Dos, Holiday Decorating with "Roadkill" 8888 I'...
Ep 135. Significance of Poppies on Veterans Day
November 19, 2023 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.78 MBIt was confusing the day before Veterans Day this year; folks were off, and schools closed. It's usually observed on the actual day of November 11th. And there's a reason for that - a significance to 11-11-11. And why poppies are on the lapels on Veterans Day and in our gardens. We chat about the rich history of Veterans Day and the Significance of Poppies on lapels and in our gardens. And wrap up with the wisdom of the lyrics from Turn Off The News (Build A Garden). a song by Lukas Nelson...
Ep 134. Avis Campbell Gardens Wheel of Life
November 12, 2023 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.98 MBWhat a surprise to stumble upon Avis Campbell Gardens in Montclair, NJ. Enjoy a "tour" themed around the Wheel of Life and bits about Avis Campbell's legacy. Then we admire a grand Kousa Dogwood, leading to a discussion of Delightful Dogwoods, though there are many Dogwood Disease Dilemmas. We chat about hybrids and cultivars that resist disease and end with how we can make a difference in the Wheel of Life. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Avis Campbell Gardens Whe...
Ep 133. Ripening Fall Tomato Hand-me-Downs
November 05, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.15 MBBefore the first Fall frost, you can harvest green tomatoes and ripen them indoors, a lesson from Ed, who gave me Hand-me-Down Tomatoes. We talk about how to ripen tomatoes to avoid critter carnage and improve their appearance by preventing shoulder cracks. And a quick way to freeze your over-abundance of tomatoes. Then, we wrap up with a funny scene of Ed's beloved lab feasting on Kousa Dogwood berries. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links: Ripening Fall Tomato Hand...
Ep 132. Shagbark Hickories and Nutty Mast Years
October 29, 2023 11:00 - 11 minutes - 7.86 MBIt's a nutty time! When nuts are abundant, it's called a Mast Year. In this episode, we chat about what triggers Mast Years, somewhat mysterious, and Shagbark Hickory's three-year cycle of nuts. Shagbark Hickory are not often landscape trees-- what's beautiful to some is messy to others. But wildlife loves them. Find out why you may, too. We wrap up with the wisdom that we are one with nature and how significant our role can be in helping each other, helping nature, and being kind. ...
Ep 132. Shagbark Hickories and Mast Years
October 29, 2023 11:00 - 11 minutes - 7.86 MBIt's a nutty time! When nuts are abundant, it's called a Mast Year. In this episode, we chat about what triggers Mast Years, somewhat mysterious, and Shagbark Hickory's three-year cycle of nuts. Shagbark Hickory are not often landscape trees-- what's beautiful to some is messy to others. But wildlife loves them. Find out why you may, too. We wrap up with the wisdom that we are one with nature and how significant our role can be in helping each other, helping nature, and being kind. ...
Ep 131. Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Pools
October 22, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 6.08 MBEnjoy a walk in the woods of Lodestar Park, Fredon, NJ, answering the question about the difference between Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Ponds. And how even pond-less waterfalls can benefit wildlife and soothe the soul. We wrap up the episode with how serving others can happen in our gardens and yards by creating a healthful environment for our precious wildlife. Plus, do whatever you do with love and kindness as you go about your daily life because kindness grows. Related Stories (and Epi...
Ep 131. Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Ponds
October 22, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 6.08 MBEnjoy a walk in the woods of Lodestar Park, Fredon, NJ, answering the question about the difference between Ponds vs. Lakes and Vernal Ponds. And how even pond-less waterfalls can benefit wildlife and soothe the soul. We wrap up the episode with how serving others can happen in our gardens and yards by creating a healthful environment for our precious wildlife. Plus, do whatever you do with love and kindness as you go about your daily life because kindness grows. Related Stories (and Epi...
Ep 130. A Pet Painted Turtle, Beech Leaf Disease
October 15, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 5.94 MBThis episode is a continuum of the last. We chat about a beloved Pet Painted Turtle and her lovable owner at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice, who lifted our hearts. Then we talk about the Beech Leaf Disease dilemma and its cause and touch on remedies, not the least of which is Holding onto Hope with an analogy of how Fall leaves live forever. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links Worrisome Beech Leaf Disease Beloved Beech Trees Ep 45. Beloved Mr. Beech Savin...
Ep 129. Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits
October 08, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.47 MBIn this episode, Mary Stone reflects on saving a baby snapping turtle she came upon soon after her brother Bill passed away, another a year ago, and helping a momma snapping turtle cross the road with kind passersby. We chat about turtles that are welcome garden guests and how to attract them into your garden. Then, wrap up with how serving others, including Mother Nature, lifts our spirits. Related Stories (and Episodes) and Helpful Links Saving Snapping Turtles Lifts Spirits Wi...
Ep 128. Women & Their Woods with Native Plants
October 01, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.07 MBA Women and Their Woods retreat hosted by the Ridge and Valley Conservancy in Newton, NJ, helped landowners caring for their woods –filled with tips on native plants to help heal our land. And how our relationship with trees and nature can be symbiotic – mutually beneficial rather than parasitic. The episode features highlights from Sharon Wander's presentation about Pollinator Friendly Properties. Plus, artist Rita Baragona's Breathwork and Symbiosis helps us connect with trees and nature....
Ep 127. Why Some Trees Remain Evergreen
September 24, 2023 11:00 - 9 minutes - 6.65 MBWhile meandering the rocky terrain peppered with hemlock and Spruce, my friend Barbara asked why some trees remain evergreen and others don't. Good question. Let's ask the trees. Towards the end of the episode, you'll enjoy the story of Jolee coming upon a baby squirrel. Related Stories and Helpful Links Why Some Trees Remain Evergreen Fall Needle Drop of Renewal column and companion Ep 79. Fall Needle Drop of Renewal Why Leaves Change Color 101 Phil's Squirrel Dilemma is feat...
Ep 126. A Sunflower Maze Brings Happiness
September 17, 2023 11:00 - 9 minutes - 6.57 MBFor special occasions, many come to Liberty Farm's Sussex County Sunflower Maze in Sandyston, NJ. What a treat for those benefiting from the Mental Health Association's services to roam the smiling faces of acres of sunflowers bringing us happiness. Sunflowers represent sunshine, and giving them conveys friendship, good luck, admiration, love, and friendship. Thank you, Raj Sinha and your family, for giving us all that sunshine. I think of them as smiley faces. May we all have more smil...
Ep 125. Late-Season Bloomers-Glorious Goldenrod
September 10, 2023 11:00 - 9 minutes - 6.5 MBLate-season gardens can grow tired. Thankfully, there are late-season bloomers, many native plants I rely on to lift the drab and weedy. Glorious Goldenrod is among them. Despite rumors, they don't cause allergies and are not considered invasive by most authorities. Related Stories and Helpful Links Late-Season Bloomers Is Goldenrod Invasive? Goldenrod's bad reputation *** University of Georgia’s Center for Invasive Species site (Invasive.org) Penn State Extension’s list of rec...
Ep 124. Moths and Bats are Beautiful Too
September 03, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.35 MBMoths are like butterflies that party at night. Though many are considered ugly, like butterflies, moths are beautiful too and essential! We wrap up the episode by chatting about what moths and bats have in common, sure to bring a smile. Related Stories and Helpful Links Moths and Bats are Beautiful, Too Magical Blessing Moth Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly with Blaine Rothauser. Native Plants, especially Oaks, are Essential, featuring Randi Eckel of Toadshade Wildflower...
Ep 123. Keeping Lighting Pollinator-Friendly
August 27, 2023 11:00 - 11 minutes - 7.65 MBA kind reader's concern about how artificial light impacts pollinators leads to a discussion with Blaine Rothauser, Senior Ecologist and Threatened and Endangered Species Specialist for GZA GeoEnvironmental, who advises how to Keep Lighting Pollinator-friendly. Related Stories and Helpful Links Keeping Lighting Pollinator Friendly – Link to come Moths are Beautiful, Too Blaine Rothauser's Blogs on Linked In 8...
Ep 122. Rescuing Aloe Plants Helps Heal
August 20, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 6.99 MBI was given an Aloe Vera plant by a client who confessed she neglected it. I know how that goes I said to console her. Rescuing the Aloe appeared hopeless and ended in the compost pile. Then it came to life. In this episode, we chat about Tips on Reviving Aloe Plants that help heal. Related Stories and Helpful Links Rescuing Aloe Plants Helps Heal Benefits of Watering with Rainwater Per PetalRepublic.com - Aloe Plant Temperature and Humidity Tolerances About my Unexpected Furry M...
Ep 121. Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies
August 13, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.41 MBI have a newfound admiration for ants and how they benefit our gardens and work as a team which may contradict treatments to solve ant dilemmas shared over the years. This episode discusses safe remedies and ways to invite ants to live away from your home and patios. Related Stories and Helpful Links Admiration for Ants & Safe Remedies Carpenter Ants and Termites in Mulch Ants be Gone Let Lichen and Moss be No-Mow May helps Pollinators ...
Ep 120. Blessing Moth & Bottle Trees
August 06, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.52 MBAs the legend goes, if you see a Clymene Moth, consider it a gift, as you will have a blessing coming forward in your life, as did I. And so they are known as Blessing Moths. In this episode, I share the story of saying goodbye to a dear friend and the magical moment of coming upon a Blessing Moth. Plus, a reflection on the origin of Bottle Trees. Related Stories and Helpful Links Moth Identification. Com – Clymene Moth (Haploa clymene) ButterfliesandMoths.org About Bottle...
Ep 119. Bachelor Buttons vs. Chicory Look-alike
July 30, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 6.02 MBI recently discovered that Bachelor Buttons are also called Chicory and Chicory Bachelor Buttons. Learn about these blue roadside beauties' origins, similarities, differences, and love stories. And there's a Chicory Fairy poem sure to delight you, reflecting the Cycles of Nature that are never ending and the Hope that exists because of it. Related Stories and Helpful Links Bachelor Buttons vs. Chicory Look-alike Cicadas sing 'Back to School' Queen Anne's Lace Anomaly Link to...
Ep 118. Bottlebrush Buckeyes Hide Tree Knees
July 23, 2023 11:00 - 9 minutes - 6.69 MBIn this episode, we meet my favorite understory shrub, Bottlebrush Buckeyes, and how I planted them to hide the Gnarly Tree Knees of Blue Spruce as they began dying from the bottom up from Canker Disease. We chat about recent flooding, downed Ash trees killed by emerald ash borers, and the declaration of mainstream media gloom and dooming the changes in climate. Nature is constantly changing. Nothing remains forever. But from endings come beginnings and renewal, encouraging listeners not...
Ep 117. Deer Remedies & Rat Snakes
July 16, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 6.96 MBWe start the episode with a fascinating follow-up of last week's (Ep 116) Owl and Hawk story – witnessing a rat snake snagged by a hawk. Leeding to the wisdom of not tampering with nature despite the biggest garden dilemma - Darn Deer. We chat about Non-stinky Deer Deterrents to spare your gardens and why feeding deer is detrimental. And wrap up with Eastern Rat Snakes' remarkable hunting and predator avoidance techniques. Related Stories and Helpful Links Non-Stinky Deer Det...
Ep 117. Deer Dilemmas & Rat Snakes
July 16, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 6.96 MBWe start the episode with a fascinating follow-up of last week's (Ep 116) Owl and Hawk story – witnessing a rat snake snagged by a hawk. Leeding to the wisdom of not tampering with nature despite the biggest garden dilemma - Darn Deer. We chat about Non-stinky Deer Deterrents to spare your gardens and why feeding deer is detrimental. And wrap up with Eastern Rat Snakes' remarkable hunting and predator avoidance techniques. Related Stories and Helpful Links Non-Stinky Deer Det...
Ep.116 - Great Horned Owl meets Hawk
July 09, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 5.92 MBWhat looked like clusters of rusty brown leaves were remnants of our resident Red-shouldered Hawk—a heavy heart. The likely culprit is a Great-horned Owl. We chat about the behavior, history, and legends of Red-shouldered Hawks and Great-horned Owls and how they benefit the garden, including a humorous bit about a skunk family that took up residence in a client's basement. Related Stories and Helpful Links Great-Horned Owl meets Hawk Visions of the Red-shouldered Hawk The Cornell L...
Ep 115. Oxymoron of Seedless Watermelon
July 02, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 5.55 MBRemember the seed-spitting contests on the Fourth of July? It's hard to do nowadays as most watermelons are said to be seedless, but the truth is, it's not so. In this episode, we discuss how Seedless Watermelon came to be and why they compare to mules. Plus, we learn why they are not genetically modified (non-GMO) and can be organic. And the health benefits of the pink fleshy fruit. Related Stories and Helpful Links Are Seedless Watermelons GMO? Oxymoron of Seedless Watermelon Indep...
Ep 114.We are all Seeds Rooted in Love
June 25, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 6.03 MBA country song by Kathy Mattea titled Seeds starts with "We're all just seeds in God's hands." I hope you enjoy the story of the magical transport systems of seeds and a reflection of how the song has circled through my life. We all carry seeds of opportunity to help our dear Earth and our communities and serve others. As we become aware of it, the roots of our spirits grow. And as we shine our light within, the seeds flourish and bloom, becoming a beautiful garden that others will admire, ...
Ep 113. Funky Vegetables - Non-GMO or Organic
June 18, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 7.09 MBGreen beans aren't only green anymore. And tomatoes come in all sorts of shades and mottled blends of colors. Are funky vegetables genetically modified? This episode discusses the differences between genetically modified (GMO) versus heirlooms versus hybrids. Then there are organic seeds and vegetables to consider and how funky vegetables can be non-GMO and even organic. We chat about the origin of the Safe Seed Pledge and how we can pressure big businesses to let them know that we care a...
Ep 112. Seal Pup Surprise & Growing Forward
June 11, 2023 11:00 - 12 minutes - 8.7 MBAfter last week's chat about Fawn's Cry and Perennial Pilfering (Ep 111) and letting wildlife be, I thought you'd enjoy a story about running into Seal Pup Surprise at Island Beach State Park, NJ. We wrap up with an announcement of Growing Forward – how I finally submitted a book proposal for The Lesson of the Leaf to Hay House Publishing. I hope the story will inspire you to push through self-doubt too. Thank you, kind listeners, for all of your encouragement and support. Related Stories...
Ep 111. Fawn's Cry & Perennial Pilfering
June 04, 2023 11:00 - 9 minutes - 6.59 MBWhile hearing a fawn's cry can cause concern, only when wildlife is injured, or a deceased mother is nearby should we assist by contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. The story celebrates the generous spirit of Kelly Simonetti, founder of Antler Ridge, a revered Wildlife Sanctuary in Frelinghuysen, New Jersey, which sadly closed, unable to keep up after the passing of Kelly in November 2022. We wrap up with an addendum to the fawn's story about pilfering perennials (with permissi...