The Horticulturati

What’s the deal with mulch? Why do we do it? Where does it come from? Mulch is a noun, a verb, and--for many--a pile of mystery. On this episode, we discuss mulch's history, weigh in on the bag vs. bulk debate, and call into question the whole practice. Roll up your sleeves and grab a shovel, because your hosts are ready to dump several cubic yards of mulch facts in your mind's driveway!  Mentioned in this episode: Austin Resource Recovery Recycling Center (currently closed due to COVID); Rodale's

How is the global pandemic impacting local food systems? We interview @Hallie_Casey of Sustainable Food Center and On To Grow On podcast to find out. We discuss food supply chains, how local farmers’ markets are adapting, and who counts as “essential” workers during a Shelter in Place Order. Then we dig into a more fun topic: soil!  How do you know if your soil is healthy? What's the role of soil in regenerative agriculture? Lastly, we introduce a segment called the “Gardener’s Gauntlet,” in which

Best wishes to everyone! Here is a little plantastic escapism to entertain you. [We recorded this episode on 2/28 and added a little corona check-in intro on 3/21. Episode begins around 4:19.] Can plants “hear” music? What would plant-generated music sound like? On this episode, Leah and Colleen attend “The Secret Song of Plants,” the release party for an album of the same name by music therapist Andrea Cortez. Accompanying Andrea is cellist Henna Chou and… a pothos ivy?!?!  Join us as we dive deep

How did the invention of time-lapse photography revolutionize our understanding of plants? Leah checks in with Charles Darwin and Barbara Streisand on this subject. Colleen tells us how to get certified through the International Society of Arboriculture, and brings us up to speed on some Facebook drama. But first, a garden update... It's been a bad year for the roses. Watch the videos we discuss at the end of the episode at our website: www.horticulturati.com Email us at info@horticulturati.com. Our

Shake off those umbrellas! On this episode, Austin-based garden designers Colleen Dieter and Leah Churner discuss Central Texas’ climate and its consequences. Specifically, rain. And the lack thereof. Leah explains how longitude is destiny, and Colleen examines how “Xeriscape” became “Zeroscape.” But first, a garden update: Leah’s ripping out landscape fabric and Colleen has a misadventure with a skid-steer.  Email us at info@horticulturati.com and visit us at www.horticulturati.com. Our theme song

On the premiere episode of The Horticulturati, Austin-based landscape designers Colleen Dieter and Leah Churner discuss the majesty of Joshua Trees and the thorns of Martha Stewart. But first, it's gardeners' corner: Colleen plants an orchard for wildlife and Leah buries cardboard to build soil.   Email us at info@horticulturati.com and visit us at www.horticulturati.com. Our theme song is “Plants” by The Horticulturati House Band.  Mentioned in this episode: Womack Nursery, Legg Creek Farm,

The Horticulturati is a new gardening talkshow co-hosted by designers Leah Churner and Colleen Dieter. Visit us at www.horticulturati.com