Blooms and Beyond

By Ping YuScience Education Courses Natural Sciences

Blooms and Beyond episodes

January 19The Queen of Flowers: From HVAC Engineer to Peony Scientist with Dr. Emily Zhou
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 6
Episode Title:
“The Queen of Flowers: From HVAC Engineer to Peony Scientist with Dr. Emily Zhou”
Episode Description
What happens when an HVAC engineer falls in love with plants and earns a PhD studying one of the world’s most beloved flowers? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Emily Zhou, assistant professor at the University of Central Missouri, to explore her remarkable journey from engineering in China to pioneering peony research in the United States.
Peonies have captivated cultures for over 4,000 years—from ancient Chinese poetry to modern American weddings. But growing these stunning “queens of the flower world” isn’t easy. Dr. Zhou’s groundbreaking research reveals how growers can slash production time from 18 months to just 5-6 months using the right combination of chilling treatments and plant growth regulators. Whether you’re a commercial producer looking to hit the Valentine’s Day market or a plant enthusiast dreaming of growing peonies in the South, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and enchanting plant stories.
Discover why peonies need cold to bloom, how a $120 yellow peony in a one-gallon pot reflects the plant’s precious nature, and what it means when a plant scientist says she still thinks like an engineer. This is plant power at its finest!
Listen Time: ~46 minutes
Consulte las Notas del Programa
🌸 This Episode is Sponsored by AFE
This episode in our first season is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit their website at endowment.org.
Featured AFE Resource: DLI Maps and Free DLI Poster — Understanding Daily Light Integral is essential for greenhouse production. Access these free tools at endowment.org.
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Emily Zhou — Assistant Professor, University of Central Missouri, Department of Agriculture. Former R&D Scientist at Bowery Farming (indoor vertical farm). PhD research focused on herbaceous peony production, vernalization, and plant growth regulators. Background in HVAC engineering with 10+ years industry experience before transitioning to horticulture.
Main Topics
Dr. Zhou’s Unique Journey (01:02 - 07:40)
From HVAC engineer in China and European companies to plant scientist
Arriving in the U.S. in 2002 and discovering Virginia Tech’s horticulture program
Filling the gap: taking undergraduate and graduate courses to build plant science foundation
The moment of asking “What do you love? What is your passion?”
How engineering and horticulture came together in controlled environment agriculture
Why Peony Is Her Favorite Plant (07:40 - 10:10)
“I gained my Doctor of Philosophy out of that”
Four years of PhD research requiring data collection through every holiday season
The beauty of watching a crown develop into the most beautiful flower
Horticultural therapy: plants adding value to mental and spiritual wellbeing
Peony History: From China to the World (11:18 - 14:00)
Native to China with 3,000-4,000 years of cultivation history
Appears in ancient Chinese poetry as a flower of love
Medicinal uses: white root peony and red root peony for herbal medicine
Peak cultivation during Tang and Song dynasties around the Yellow River
Luoyang’s 1,300-year-old peony gardens still thriving today
Spread to Japan, then Europe in late 1800s, then America in early 19th century
Why Peonies Are Expensive (14:00 - 17:30)
Limited cultivars adapted to southern climates
Yellow peony cultivar: $120 for a small one-gallon pot (2017)
Cut flower value: over $6 per stem for weddings
American Peony Society registers thousands of herbaceous cultivars
Tree peony, herbaceous peony, and Itoh hybrids offer diverse options
Requires skill to grow well—“queen of the flowers” for a reason
Cultural Significance (16:55 - 18:20)
Top 10 most famous flowers in China, representing prosperity
Tree peony is China’s national flower
In the U.S.: symbolizes freedom, pioneering spirit, and true love
Used extensively in weddings
“It’s not just the plant, it’s everything about the plant”
The Science of Vernalization (18:20 - 25:30)
Peonies are geophytes (underground storage organs) like tulips and daffodils
Underground crown develops buds during summer after flowering
Buds set by September/October—critical not to cut foliage too early
Without adequate chilling, plants grow shoots but no flowers
Natural chilling depends on weather; controlled chilling provides consistency
Zone 6 and below: natural chilling sufficient
Zone 7: borderline—may need supplemental chilling
Forcing for Valentine’s Day (22:05 - 28:10)
Controlled chilling: 3 weeks (21 days) at 40°F is sufficient
Sarah Bernhardt cultivar: #1 cut flower worldwide, 50% of peony market
After chilling, greenhouse forcing produces flowers in about 2 months
Netherlands is biggest producer; U.S. growers in Oregon, Washington, Great Lakes region
Southern growers must use forced chilling to hit Valentine’s market
Shortening Production with GA3 (28:11 - 31:15)
Traditional containerized production: 18 months for marketable plants
Gibberellic acid (GA3) can replace some chilling requirement
Ideal concentration: 100 parts per million, applied as drench
Best timing: one week after finishing chilling, when moving to greenhouse
Result: Production shortened to 5-6 months (Valentine’s supply: 3-4 months)
Cost: less than 10 cents per pot
“You can do a thousand pots in one day”
Plant Retardants for Compact Plants (31:17 - 39:50)
Problem: Heavy flower heads droop, especially in rain/wind
Shipping/handling issues: tall stems crack, expensive plants unsellable
Solution: Plant growth retardants (uniconazole, paclobutrazol)
Uniconazole more effective than paclobutrazol for herbaceous peonies
Application: 15 ppm uniconazole, 12 oz drench per one-gallon container
Benefits: More compact, stronger stems, greener foliage, more marketable
Apply after chilling—not as pre-plant dip (preserves fungicide treatment)
Drench method best: ensures uniform application across variable plant sizes
Controlled Environment Agriculture (39:54 - 43:15)
Few people doing CEA when Dr. Zhou started her PhD
Postdoc: Built indoor vertical farm, conducted hydroponic research
Industry experience at Bowery Farming as R&D scientist
Why many vertical farms have failed: “We don’t know enough”
Engineers want universal systems; plant scientists know each plant needs different conditions
Returned to academia to train next generation of growers and researchers
Key Highlights
Dr. Zhou’s PhD took 4 years because peony research requires waiting a full year between trials
Sarah Bernhardt peony occupies 50% of the worldwide cut flower peony market
GA3 treatment can reduce peony production from 18 months to 5-6 months at less than 10 cents per pot
Uniconazole drench at 15 ppm creates compact, marketable plants with stronger stems
Zone 7 is the “borderline”—growers there may need both GA3 and forced chilling
China has cultivated peonies for 3,000-4,000 years; tree peony is China’s national flower
The Netherlands is the world’s biggest peony producer; U.S. production centers in Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes
Key Quotes
“I gained my Doctor of Philosophy out of that… I took so long a time and so much effort on this. And it’s rewarding. It is such a beautiful plant.” — Dr. Emily Zhou
“They are speaking two different languages, but I know both of them.” — Dr. Emily Zhou, on bridging engineering and plant science
“It’s not just the plant, it’s everything about the plant.” — Dr. Ping Yu, on plant power
“We don’t know enough. And my idea is going back to academia being a professor.” — Dr. Emily Zhou, on why vertical farms struggle and why education matters
“You just learn the things, you never know when one day you can use them.” — Dr. Emily Zhou
Educational Highlights
What is Vernalization?
Vernalization is the process where plants require a period of cold temperatures to trigger flowering. For peonies, this means exposure to temperatures around 40°F (4°C) for several weeks. Without adequate chilling, peonies will grow vegetative shoots but won’t produce flowers.
Key Plant Growth Regulators for Peony Production
| Chemical | Function | Concentration | Application |
|–––––|–––––|—————|———––|
| Gibberellic Acid (GA3) | Replaces some chilling requirement, promotes flowering | 100 ppm | Drench, after chilling |
| Uniconazole | Growth retardant—compact plants, stronger stems | 15 ppm | Drench, 12 oz/pot |
| Paclobutrazol | Growth retardant (less effective on peonies) | Variable | Drench |
Hardiness Zone Guide for Peony Chilling
Zone 6 and below: Natural chilling sufficient
Zone 7: Borderline—may benefit from GA3 + forced chilling
Zone 8+: Requires forced chilling in cold room (40°F for 3 weeks minimum)
Peony Types
Herbaceous Peony: Dies back to ground each winter, most common for cut flowers
Tree Peony: Woody stems persist; China’s national flower
Itoh Peony: Hybrid of tree and herbaceous; best characteristics of both
Resources & Links
Connect with Dr. Emily Zhou:
LinkedIn: Search “Emily Zhou University of Central Missouri”
University of Central Missouri, Department of Agriculture
Research Publications:
Virginia Tech Extension publications on peony production and GA3 application
(Links to be added in show notes at bandbpod.com)
AFE Resources for This Episode:
DLI Maps: Interactive Daily Light Integral maps to help growers understand light availability by location — visit endowment.org
Free DLI Poster: Download AFE’s free Daily Light Integral poster for your greenhouse or classroom
Explore more research and educational resources at endowment.org
Organizations Mentioned:
American Peony Society (cultivar registration)
Battlefield Farms, Virginia (commercial peony production)
Bowery Farming (indoor vertical farming)
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Full show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Emily Zhou, University of Central Missouri
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Funding Acknowledgement
This episode in our first season is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit their website at endowment.org.
Episode Release Date: January 18th, 2026
Episode Length: 46:46
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌸🌿
Episode Tags
Peony, herbaceous peony, tree peony, vernalization, chilling requirement, GA3, gibberellic acid, uniconazole, plant growth regulators, cut flowers, Valentine’s Day, controlled environment agriculture, CEA, vertical farming, HVAC, Virginia Tech, China, floriculture, nursery production
47 min
January 05The Plant Hunter: Inside the World of International Plant Exploration with Judson LeCompte
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 5
Episode Title:
“The Plant Hunter: Inside the World of International Plant Exploration with Judson LeCompte”
Episode Description
Ever wonder how the plants at your local garden center made their way from a breeder’s field in Japan or a mountain in China to your backyard? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Judson LeCompte, Product Development Manager at Spring Meadow Nursery and international plant hunter for Proven Winners Color Choice. Judson shares the fascinating—and often hilarious—realities of traveling the globe to discover the next great shrub, rose, or hydrangea.
From navigating USDA quarantine regulations to sneaking into hotel kitchens to learn how to cook Chinese food, Judson reveals what it really takes to be a plant hunter in the 21st century. Along the way, he offers invaluable advice for young horticulturists: get uncomfortable, build your network through IPPS, and never underestimate the power of showing up.
Whether you’re a commercial grower curious about where new genetics come from, a student dreaming of a career in plant exploration, or simply someone who loves a good plant story, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of horticulture’s most unique careers.
Listen Time: ~51 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Judson LeCompte - Product Development Manager (Plant Hunter) at Spring Meadow Nursery, the woody plant provider for Proven Winners Color Choice. PhD in Horticulture from Mississippi State University. Originally from Alabama, now based in West Michigan.
Main Topics
Judson’s Journey to Plant Hunting (02:43 - 05:17)
Introduction to horticulture through his grandmother, a daylily collector and hybridizer
Volunteering at a nursery at age 14, paid in plants
Education at Auburn University (BS, MS) and Mississippi State (PhD in tea production)
Landing the “dream job” through an IPPS connection and a chance breakfast conversation
What Does a Plant Hunter Actually Do? (06:42 - 11:48)
Building a global network of partners and breeders
Preparing for international trips—from finding contacts to booking flights on a phone
The three levels of USDA/APHIS import regulations:
Basic import with phytosanitary certificate
Post-entry quarantine (2 years for hydrangeas, roses)
Controlled import permits (specialized quarantine facilities)
Plants typically take 5-10 years of evaluation before introduction
Choosing Where to Explore (13:09 - 16:22)
Following priority lists: what’s selling, what needs improvement
Researching breeders through papers, social media, and native ranges
Why some countries are easier to work with than others
“I’m not climbing mountains with leeches—I’m looking for breeders who’ve done that hard work”
Traits That Make a Great Plant (16:22 - 19:09)
Consumer appeal and performance
Compact size (smaller gardens, smaller truck footprint)
Environmental friendliness: drought tolerance, disease resistance, insect resistance
Foliage color for year-round interest
Edibles that actually taste good
“Best in class” for every plant in the catalog
Working with 75+ External Breeders (19:09 - 22:44)
Range from backyard hobbyists to university breeders like Tom Ranney
Common pitfall: breeding for one trait while forgetting the rest
Chinese breeders focused on plant patents for promotion—not sales
The joy of finding overlooked gems in a breeder’s collection
Delicate communication: “This is that breeder’s life work”
Bridging Academia and Industry (22:44 - 28:20)
Helping young faculty understand promotion requirements
Why academics should work at garden centers
End caps reveal what excites consumers
The breeder fee and marketing fee model at Proven Winners
How marketing dollars flow back to drive demand
Culture Shock and Culinary Adventures (28:20 - 34:09)
China’s biggest culture shock—but it’s changed dramatically in 15 years
Drawing the line at horse sushi
Recreating favorite dishes at home after every trip
Sneaking into hotel kitchens to watch chefs cook
“If it’s good enough for the local people, it’s good enough for me”
The Rose Revolution (39:28 - 45:18)
Traditional rose breeding funneled through European rose houses
Breaking the mold with Pheno Geno Roses (Netherlands/Serbia partnership)
Four PhD women in Serbia doing “amazing work”
The Flavor Line: edible roses that actually taste good
Managing the Veterans Memorial Rose Garden at Mississippi State
Rose rosette disease: not as disastrous as first thought
Trialing philosophy: “death and destruction” to find the strong ones
Does a PhD Help? (45:18 - 47:53)
“I never went to college with the goal of getting a PhD”
Graduating during the recession—grower jobs paid less than Home Depot
What academia teaches: perseverance, navigating gray areas, building bridges
You don’t need a PhD for this job—just plant knowledge, people skills, and willingness to travel
Advice for Young Horticulturists (47:53 - 49:29)
Join IPPS—every job and assistantship traces back to those connections
Never take an introduction for granted
Build your network: phone numbers, Facebook, LinkedIn
Find a mentor doing what you want to do
“You really only got one chance to burn a bridge”
Key Quotes
“I’m a six-year-old everywhere I go. I have a lot of fun visiting my breeders and my friends.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“I think being uncomfortable for certainly a young horticulturist is a great thing.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“We definitely believe in the IPPS motto of seeking and sharing. And we think that by sharing with our partners, we raise all the tides.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“There’s no perfect plant. Everything in the catalog needs to be replaced. There has to be an improvement.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“So I’m really just a talent scout. My job is to make breeders successful. And if they’re successful, then they keep bringing us plants.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“You really only got one chance to burn a bridge. And it could screw up your entire career.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
Educational Highlights
USDA/APHIS Import Regulations (Three Levels)
Level 1: Standard Import
Requires phytosanitary certificate from country of origin
Import permit from USDA
Relatively straightforward process
Level 2: Post-Entry Quarantine
Required for medium-risk plants (hydrangeas, roses)
Plants held at approved nursery or university site
Typically 2-year quarantine period
Multiple inspections per year
Level 3: Controlled Import Permit
Most stringent requirements
Specialized quarantine facility required
Threat screening, monthly inspections
All runoff water must be collected and treated
USDA provides program if nursery lacks facilities
What Spring Meadow Looks For in New Plants
Consumer appeal - Must look good at point of sale
Consumer performance - Must perform in the landscape
Compact habit - Industry trending toward smaller plants
Environmental traits - Drought tolerance, disease/insect resistance
Foliage interest - Color that changes throughout the year
Seasonality - Looking good when people are shopping (spring/summer)
Best in class - Must be the best version of that plant type
The Breeder Fee Model
When Proven Winners sells a plant, they collect:
Breeder fee - Goes directly to the plant’s breeder
Marketing fee - Builds a budget to remarket that plant
This creates a virtuous cycle: successful plants generate marketing dollars that drive more sales, which benefits growers who don’t need their own marketing departments.
Resources & Links
Connect with Judson:
Email: [email protected]
Spring Meadow Nursery: springmeadownursery.com
Organizations Mentioned:
IPPS (International Plant Propagators’ Society) - Southern Region
ASHS (American Society for Horticultural Science)
Raulston Arboretum - Host of the Southeastern Plant Symposium
Breeders & Companies Referenced:
Spring Meadow Nursery / Proven Winners Color Choice
Pheno Geno Roses (Netherlands/Serbia)
J. Berry Nursery (Texas)
Tom Ranney - NC State University
Chris Warner - UK rose breeder
Mr. Suzuki - Japanese loropetalum breeder
Conard-Pyle / Star Roses
Monrovia
Regulatory Resources:
USDA APHIS Plants for Planting Manual (online)
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Plant Spotlight: Loropetalum 🌸
Judson shared the story of pursuing loropetalum breeder Mr. Suzuki in Japan for years—even “stalking” his house on Google Maps! The persistence paid off when he finally joined Proven Winners and could sit down for tea with his “rock star” breeder.
Loropetalum chinense, commonly called Chinese fringe flower, is prized for:
Striking purple/burgundy foliage
Delicate, ribbon-like flowers
Compact cultivars for smaller gardens
Year-round color interest
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Judson LeCompte, Spring Meadow Nursery / Proven Winners Color Choice
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Episode Release Date: January 4th, 2026
Episode Length: 51:30
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱
Connect & Support
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Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform
Leave a review to help others find the show
Share with fellow plant lovers
Visit bandbpod.com for more resources
Conversations like this only happen when you support the show. For more information and ways to support us, please visit bandbpod.com.
🌿 Every plant has a story—and someone had to go find it. 🌿
52 min
December 22, 2025IPM Basics: Building Your Pest Management Toolbox with Dr. Erich Schoeller
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 4
Episode Title:
“IPM Basics: Building Your Pest Management Toolbox with Dr. Erich Schoeller”
Episode Description
What if the secret to healthier plants isn’t reaching for the spray bottle, but building a smarter system? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Erich Schoeller, an entomologist and IPM specialist at the University of Georgia, to break down the fundamentals of Integrated Pest Management. From the IPM pyramid to parasitoid wasps, from banker plants to predatory mites, Erich walks us through the science-based strategies that can help growers reduce pesticide use while keeping pests in check.
Along the way, discover how a pharmacy student became an entomologist, why tephritid fruit flies are surprisingly beautiful, and the enchanting Greek mythology behind lilacs. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking to build an IPM program or a plant enthusiast curious about the tiny creatures sharing your garden, this episode delivers practical wisdom with a side of wonder.
Listen Time: ~45 minutes
Consulte las Notas del Programa
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Erich Schoeller — Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, University of Georgia. Erich specializes in controlled environment agriculture and integrated pest management for greenhouse and nursery production. His research focuses on biological control strategies for ornamental crops.
Host
Dr. Ping Yu — Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist, University of Georgia
Main Topics
Getting to Know Dr. Schoeller (00:49 - 07:15)
Career journey: pharmacy school → marine biology → forestry → entomology
Growing up in rural Wisconsin surrounded by nature
Running through fields with a sweep net collecting insects
His mom’s beautiful gardens sparking a love of plants
Favorite Insect & Plant (06:16 - 09:36)
Favorite insect: Tephritid fruit flies — brightly colored with fascinating wing patterns, remembered from childhood apple picking
Favorite plant: Lilacs (Syringa) — his grandmother’s patio surrounded by lilacs created lasting memories of their spring fragrance
The Greek mythology of Syringa: the nymph who escaped the god Pan by transforming into a lilac shrub
What is IPM? (10:09 - 12:07)
IPM = Integrated Pest Management (sometimes IPPM for Integrated Pest and Pathogen Management)
A science-based decision support system aimed at reducing plant protection products to levels that are economically sustainable and safe for environment and human health
A combination of tactics working together as a program
Defining “Pests” (11:09 - 13:06)
Arthropod pests: insects and mites (arachnids)
Insects can vector plant pathogens — controlling pests often controls disease
Weeds are pests too — they compete for resources AND harbor insects
Simply put: anything unwanted causing economic damage to your crop
Why Adopt IPM? (13:32 - 17:15)
Pros:
Reduces reliance on synthetic broad-spectrum insecticides
Protects soil health and beneficial microorganisms
Slows pesticide resistance development
Safer for environment and human health
The Resistance Problem:
Insects reproduce rapidly (10-12 generations per year in warm climates)
Hundreds of thousands of individuals = rapid evolution of resistance
Over-reliance on single active ingredients breeds resistance
Managing Resistance:
Rotate products with different modes of action (check IRAC categories)
Use maximum label rates to reduce surviving populations
Don’t repeatedly use the same active ingredient
The IPM Pyramid (17:16 - 21:24)
Layer 1 — Prevention (Base):
Crop rotation — don’t keep the same crop in the same greenhouse year-round
Resistant varieties — plant breeders develop varieties less susceptible to pest damage
Prevention is the best medicine — saves money by avoiding problems
Layer 2 — Detection:
Active scouting — walking through crops, thorough inspection, taking notes
Passive scouting — sticky traps that attract and catch flying insects
Document where and when problems occur for predictability
Layer 3 — Control:
Cultural/Mechanical control — sanitation, pruning, proper clothing, gloves
Biological control — using living organisms to control pests
Chemical control — the last resort (biorational → targeted → broad spectrum)
Banker Plants vs. Trap Crops (23:07 - 26:05)
Banker Plants (Biological Control):
Non-crop plants placed in or adjacent to the crop
Support natural enemies/biological control agents
Help predators, parasitoids, and beneficial organisms thrive
Trap Crops (Cultural Control):
Plants more attractive to pests than your actual crop
Pests prefer the trap crop, leaving your main crop alone
Example: Sweet alyssum attracts thrips away from impatiens
Can spray or destroy trap crop to eliminate concentrated pests
Challenges of Ornamental IPM (26:23 - 30:07)
Low tolerance for damage — ornamentals are sold for aesthetics; any visible pest damage reduces value
Crop diversity — hundreds of different plants in a small space, each with different pest susceptibilities
Complexity — many pests requiring many tactics in limited area
Closed environments — in greenhouses, natural enemies can’t migrate when prey is depleted; populations collapse
Cons of IPM:
Can cost ~20% more than traditional chemical control
Technically complex and requires ongoing education
More frequent monitoring required
Takes longer to work than broad-spectrum insecticides
Biocontrol Examples (32:05 - 37:20)
For Sweet Potato Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci):
Parasitoid wasps: Encarsia formosa (developed in 1920s), Eretmocerus species
Predatory beetles: Delphastus catalinae (family Coccinellidae)
Predatory bugs: Orius insidiosus
Commercial suppliers often provide mixes for best coverage
For Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis):
Predatory bugs: Orius insidiosus
Predatory mites: Amblyseius swirskii
No effective parasitoids available for thrips
Generalist vs. Specialist Biocontrol:
Swirskii and Orius are generalists — feed on thrips, whiteflies, spider mites
But no “magic bullet” controls everything
Specialists often more effective for specific pests
Still need different solutions for mealybugs, scales, fungus gnats
Four Keys to IPM Success (38:22 - 40:43)
Education — Know what your options are and how they work; train your employees too
Know Your Risks — Identify entry points for pests and susceptible crop locations; focus monitoring on high-risk areas
Diligence — Scout weekly or bi-weekly; consistent detection prevents small problems becoming big ones
Patience — IPM takes longer than chemical pesticides; give it time to work
Future Research Directions (41:01 - 42:42)
LED lighting effects on pest behavior (quality, spectrum, intensity)
Nanobubble technology and higher oxygen environments
Entomopathogenic nematodes in enhanced oxygen conditions
Pest management in vertical farms and hydroponic systems
Key Quotes
“IPM is basically a science-based decision support system, which essentially aims to reduce the use of plant protection products to levels that are economically sustainable and that are safe for the environment and human health.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“They often say prevention is the best medicine, right? It helps you deal with problems before they even arise, which will ultimately save you money.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“If they don’t know what they’re looking for and don’t know how to properly document the problems, your whole IPM pyramid is going to basically collapse.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“We might not have a natural enemy that controls everything, but we do have natural enemies that control one thing and they do it very well.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“It’s not just for the IPM to work, basically for a lot of things in life. You kind of have to wait and see if this works.” — Dr. Ping Yu
Educational Highlights
What is IRAC?
The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee categorizes pesticides by their mode of action — how they kill or affect pest physiology. When rotating products, choose different IRAC groups to slow resistance development. Check pesticide labels or the IRAC website for mode of action codes.
Types of Biological Control Agents
| Type | How It Works | Examples |
|——|–––––––|–––––|
| Predators | Hunt and eat pests directly | Orius bugs, Delphastus beetles, predatory mites |
| Parasitoids | Lay eggs inside pests; larvae consume host from within | Encarsia formosa, Eretmocerus wasps |
| Entomopathogenic fungi | Infect and kill pests through fungal disease | Beauveria bassiana |
| Entomopathogenic nematodes | Microscopic worms that infect soil-dwelling pests | Applied through irrigation or drenching |
The Lilac Legend
The scientific name for lilac, Syringa, comes from Greek mythology. The nymph Syringa transformed herself into a lilac shrub to escape the pursuing god Pan. Finding only the shrub, Pan fashioned its hollow stems into the first pan pipes (also called a syrinx). Lilacs are among the first to bloom in spring, symbolizing new life, the arrival of spring, and first love — especially in European traditions.
Resources & Links
AFE IPM Resources
Sustainabloom IPM Industry Guide: sustainabloom.org/industry-guide/ipm
AFE Thrips & Botrytis Resource Library: endowment.org/resource/tb — Guidance on building IPM programs plus resources for thrips and botrytis management
AFE Grow Pro Webinar Series (IPM & Biocontrol): YouTube Playlist
AFE Thrips & Botrytis Webinars: YouTube Playlist
American Floral Endowment: endowment.org
Connect with Dr. Schoeller
Lab Website: schoellerlab.caes.uga.edu
LinkedIn: Erich Schoeller
UGA Entomology Faculty Profile: Department of Entomology, University of Georgia
Show Links
Website: bnbpod.com
Show Notes: bnbpod.com
Book Recommendation
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly — A novel mentioned by Dr. Yu featuring lilacs in its setting
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Dr. Erich Schoeller, University of Georgia Department of Entomology
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant
This episode is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit endowment.org.
Episode Release Date: December 21, 2025
Episode Length: 45:11
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌿
Quick Reference: IPM Pyramid
▲
/│\
/ │ \
/ │ \ CHEMICAL CONTROL
/ │ \ (Last Resort)
/────┼────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
/ │ \ (Living Organisms)
/────────┼────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ CULTURAL/MECHANICAL
/ │ \(Sanitation, Pruning)
/────────────┼────────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ DETECTION
/ │ \ (Scouting & Monitoring)
/────────────────┼────────────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ PREVENTION
/___________________│___________________\(Rotation, Resistant Varieties)
Start at the base — work your way up only as needed!
🌻 Every plant has a story. Every pest has a natural enemy. And every grower has the power to build a smarter system. 🌿
46 min
December 07, 2025Inside the Green Industry: A Lifelong Journey in Horticulture with Dr. Michael Martin
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 3
Episode Title:
“Inside the Green Industry: A Lifelong Journey in Horticulture with Dr. Michael Martin”
Episode Description
What does it take to turn a childhood love of plants into a lifelong career? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with her dear friend and colleague Dr. Michael Martin, Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director at American Hort and the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI). From sticking azalea cuttings at age five to becoming the ultimate “matchmaker” between growers and researchers, Michael shares the winding path that led him through agricultural education, nursery inspection, native plant nursery ownership, and a PhD at the University of Georgia.
Discover what really goes on behind the scenes of the green industry—from the 18-month journey a geranium takes to reach your local garden center, to the family legacies passed down through plant cuttings for over a century. Michael offers invaluable advice for anyone considering a career in horticulture: work for others first, embrace learning, and never underestimate the power of showing up in person.
Listen Time: ~55 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Michael Martin - Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director, American Hort and Horticultural Research Institute (HRI). Lifelong horticulturist with experience spanning nursery inspection, native plant nursery ownership, and academic research.
Main Topics
Meet Michael Martin (01:24 - 02:05)
Current role at American Hort and HRI
Started in horticulture at age five, sticking azalea cuttings
“Every job I’ve had has been directly related to the horticultural industry”
What is American Hort? (02:46 - 05:35)
National Trade Association for nurseries, greenhouses, and independent retailers
Legislative arm with lobbyists in Washington, D.C.
Currently addressing cotton jassid (two-spotted cotton leafhopper) in the Southeast
Service organization helping growers with pest, disease, and regulatory issues
The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) (04:18 - 05:35)
Research foundation arm of American Hort
Provides scholarships, research grants, and leadership academy
100% industry-supported—no federal or state funding
Michael’s role as “matchmaker” connecting growers with researchers
Michael’s Career Journey (06:02 - 10:42)
Mentors: Bob and Bill Head at Head-Lee Nursery, Jeff and Lisa Beasley at Transplant Nursery
High school ag teacher in Walhalla, South Carolina showed horticulture as a career
Bachelor’s and Master’s at Clemson University (agricultural education focus)
Taught for one year, decided it wasn’t for him
Worked as nursery inspector in South Carolina for five years
Started native plant nursery serving Lake Keowee riparian zone requirements (10 years)
PhD at University of Georgia under Matthew Chappell
Connected through Paul Thomas (“PT”) in a chance hallway encounter
The Journey of a Plant (11:43 - 14:37)
Geranium cuttings for Spring 2026 are being produced now (September 2025)
Cuttings produced in Central and South America, shipped to U.S. for finishing
6-8 month journey from cutting to consumer purchase
Plant breeders work 5-10 years ahead developing new varieties
“Hundreds, if not thousands of people involved” in getting one plant to market
Favorite Plant: Tricyrtis (Toad Lilies) (16:23 - 18:05)
Purchased for 25 cents at Park Seed grower’s days as a child
Either Tricyrtis hirta or T. formosana ‘Stolonifera’
Still growing on family farm 30-40 years later
Shade plant that flowers in fall
Symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, elegance, and long life in Asian culture
Family Plant Legacies (18:40 - 20:49)
Philadelphus odorata (mock orange) passed through four generations
Mother’s cutting came from grandmother in Greenville, SC
Plant has been in family for over 100 years
Shortia galacifolia (Oconee bells) story: lost for 100 years after Asa Gray’s pressed specimen was sent from England to France, rediscovered by child playing in woods
Green Industry Status (21:16 - 24:28)
Industry did “phenomenally well” during and after COVID
Many discovered indoor gardening and gardening in general
Curbside pickup became permanent sales methodology for some nurseries
2025 has been a “good year”—not great, not terrible
Fall is best time to plant, though consumers prefer spring
American-Made vs. Imported Plants (24:28 - 29:03)
Trees and woody shrubs: predominantly sole-source produced in U.S.
Herbaceous annuals: cuttings mostly from Central and South America
Day length and temperature requirements make offshore production practical
Poinsettia cuttings produced in Central/South America during summer
“You can put a thousand cuttings in a regular cardboard box”
Quality Standards Evolution (29:43 - 31:00)
20 years ago, quality standards had to be written into contracts
Now high quality is the expectation and industry norm
Growers “pride themselves on having high quality plants”
Trade Show Changes (31:00 - 33:53)
Named varieties were rare when Michael started; now they’re expected
Trade shows have consolidated due to cost
Growers have become “more selective in the shows that we exhibit at”
Some growers used to do 8-10 shows per year
Industry Challenges (33:54 - 36:55)
Labor is the biggest issue
Legislative team working on H-2A and H-2B visa programs
Automation increasing, particularly for jobs with higher injury rates
Phytosanitary work offers excellent job security
Cotton jassid currently affecting Southeast (cotton, okra, ornamentals)
Researcher-Grower Relationships (37:44 - 40:22)
“Call. Call the grower and say, ‘Hey, can I come and meet you?’”
Growers want to see your face and know you care
Walking the rows reveals information they won’t share over phone/email
Anecdotal observations can become research opportunities
Growers want to be involved and see how their support is used
Career Opportunities (42:51 - 45:00)
Sales representatives (may never see a plant)
Input suppliers: containers, substrates, fertilizers, tags/labels
NFC tags for plant data—new technology
Plant breeders, facility engineers
Area growers → section growers → head growers
Succession Planning (46:50 - 50:30)
Many owners aging out of the industry
Traditional transfers: family to next generation
Non-traditional transfers: leadership or outside parties take over gradually
American Hort provides roadmaps for both types
May be 10-year gradual transition plans
“Start putting feelers out” at trade shows if interested in ownership
Advice for Young Growers (50:30 - 53:33)
Work for somebody else first—don’t open your own business day one
Some family operations require 5-10 years elsewhere before joining
Go on nursery and greenhouse tours, take pictures
Join associations: American Hort, IPPS, state associations
“That knowledge, that information that they have as growers, that is so valuable that I honestly can’t put a price on it”
Key Quotes
“I am currently the Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director with American Hort in the Horticultural Research Institute, HRI. I have been working in the horticulture industry almost my entire life. One of my first jobs was when I was five, sticking azalea cuttings, because that was the easiest job I could do.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“There is nothing wrong with deciding, ‘Hey, this is not where I want to be. I need to go back and look at something else.’” — Dr. Michael Martin
“When you go to buy, let’s say, a geranium in the spring, that’s the finish line for that plant… The companies that produce the cuttings for the geraniums, they’re producing those cuttings for the spring of 2026 right now.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“This plant, through its lineage, at least for a hundred years, has been in our family. And so, like you…, I like the history of plants just as much as I do the plants themselves.” — Dr. Michael Martin (on his family’s Philadelphus)
“They are your competitors, but they’re happy to help you because your success is their success.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“Work for somebody else first. That is my first suggestion. Don’t open your own business day one. Go get experience.” — Dr. Michael Martin
Educational Highlights
What is American Hort?
The National Trade Association serving nurseries, greenhouses, independent retailers, and anyone working in ornamental horticulture. They advocate for the industry through legislative efforts, provide regulatory guidance, and help growers navigate challenges like pest outbreaks and policy changes.
What is HRI (Horticultural Research Institute)?
The research foundation arm of American Hort that provides scholarships, research grants, and leadership development. Entirely industry-funded, HRI connects growers with researchers to solve real-world production challenges.
Plant Production Timeline
Spring annuals: Cuttings produced 6-8 months ahead in Central/South America
Woody plants: Even longer production cycles
New varieties: 5-10 years of breeding and development before reaching market
Phytosanitary Work
Plant health inspection and protection, including disease, insect, and invasive plant monitoring. Career opportunities exist at state level, federal level (USDA APHIS PPQ), and within large nursery operations.
Key Agencies & Organizations Mentioned
USDA APHIS - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
PPQ - Plant Protection and Quarantine (division of APHIS)
National Plant Board - State plant health regulatory officers
SPHDs - State Plant Health Directors (federal officers in each state)
IPPS - International Plant Propagators’ Society
Succession Planning Types
Traditional: Family-to-family generational transfer
Non-Traditional: Transfer to non-family leadership or outside parties, often through gradual multi-year transition plans
Plant Spotlight 🌿
Tricyrtis (Toad Lilies)
Native to Japan (T. hirta) and China/Taiwan (T. formosana)
Shade-loving perennials that bloom in fall
Orchid-like flowers with spotted patterns
In Asian culture: symbolize good fortune, prosperity, elegance, and long life
Shortia galacifolia (Oconee Bells)
Very limited distribution in northern South Carolina
Lost to science for 100 years after botanist Asa Gray’s pressed specimen was sent from England to France
Rediscovered when a child brought flowers home from the woods
Example of how plant history connects us to botanical exploration
Resources & Links
American Hort:
Website: americanhort.org
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Michael Martin, American Hort / HRI
Producer: Rich Braman
Episode Release Date: December 7th, 2025
Episode Length: 55:30
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
56 min
December 01, 2025Growing Together: Inside AFE's Mission for Floriculture with Laura Barth
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 2
Episode Title:
“Growing Together: Inside AFE’s Mission for Floriculture”
Episode Description
What happens when a music major moves to North Carolina and falls in love with plants? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Laura Barth, Research Coordinator for the American Floral Endowment (AFE), to explore how this nonprofit organization supports the entire floriculture industry—from funding research to awarding scholarships.
Discover what AFE does for growers and researchers, why the floriculture industry is “surprisingly friendly,” and how trends like AI, drones, and e-commerce are shaping the future. Plus, Laura reveals her favorite flower (hint: it looks like a craft project made of tissue paper!) and both hosts share how flowers can boost your mood—that’s plant power!
Listen Time: ~27 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Laura Barth — Research Coordinator, American Floral Endowment
Facilitates AFE’s research programs and outreach
Former AFE scholarship recipient
Background in music performance and horticulture science from NC State
Main Topics
Laura’s Journey to Horticulture (01:35 - 03:17)
First degree in music performance in Wisconsin
Moving to North Carolina sparked her love of plants
“All I wanted to do was be outside and garden”
Discovered NC State’s horticulture program in Chapel Hill
The Connection Between Art and Floriculture (04:03 - 05:15)
Creativity in floral design and landscaping
Artistic side of creating outreach materials
Famous plant paintings: sunflowers, iris, water lily, pear blossom
What is AFE? (05:46 - 06:43)
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Funds research, internships, scholarships, and educational programs
An endowment: “the money isn’t going anywhere”
Industry-funded, resources go back to industry for free
Both Ping and Laura are former AFE scholarship recipients
Floriculture Industry Status (07:26 - 08:11)
Cut flower production: field, greenhouse, hoop house
Young plants, finished plants, all stages of growth
Perennials, bulbs, foliage, and succulents
Growing interest in locally grown cut flowers
U-Pick Farms and Georgia’s Floriculture (08:12 - 08:58)
Rise of small cut flower farms with u-pick options
Georgia’s floriculture history: 2008-2009 recession impact
Industry gradually recovering
Hard Goods (09:06 - 10:03)
AFE board meeting visit to Floral Mart in Peachtree Corners, Georgia
The Garcia family’s floral materials for weddings and more
High-quality floral products, ribbons, and wire
Industry Challenges (10:27 - 11:44)
Labor shortages (potential solutions through internships, automation, AI)
Thrips, botrytis, spider mites, Lewis mites
Inflation impacting consumer gardening purchases
Uncertainty with federal funding for floriculture research
Long-term impacts of funding cuts may not be visible for 5-10 years
E-Commerce Impact (11:46 - 13:14)
Brick and mortar florists losing business
Miami import hub: arrangements assembled for e-commerce
Younger generation interested in online plant shops
Social media driving houseplant trends
Sustainabloom (13:15 - 14:44)
AFE launched Sustainabloom resource hub in 2022
Resources for all industry segments
Young consumers researching product sustainability
Europe has more regulations; US industry staying ahead of trends
Sustainability in Practice (14:45 - 15:49)
Biodegradable containers
Reducing chemical leachate
Implementing IPM practices
Consumers willing to pay extra for sustainable products
Favorite Plant: Ranunculus (15:51 - 17:26)
Laura’s current favorite: ranunculus
Saw stunning varieties at ProFlora in Colombia
“They look like a craft project—rows of tissue paper stuck together”
Favorite flower changes with mood and season
Plant Power and Mood (17:27 - 18:12)
Plants can influence your mood
“Go out for a walk and see plants… they can make you feel happy again”
Even just looking at flowers brings peace
Flowers as Lifestyle (18:13 - 20:04)
Ping’s love of Trader Joe’s flower section
Weekly bouquet as affordable self-care
The Lady of the Camellias by Alexandre Dumas
European fresh markets and flower culture
Emily in Paris lifestyle: grab a bouquet, wander the city
Future of the Industry (20:06 - 21:25)
Increased sustainability efforts
AI integration in all aspects of production
Drones with AI/machine learning for disease and nutrient detection
Dispensing biological controls
Automation, SOPs, and tool development
More research proposals involving AI and machine learning
E-Commerce Future (21:27 - 22:19)
Next generation opening online stores
GrowPro webinar with Melinda Knuth on younger consumer purchasing
Different crop types for e-commerce: niche succulents, houseplants
Advice for Young Growers (22:20 - 23:50)
Use free AFE resources
Attend conferences, go on tours
Reach out to local Extension offices
“You don’t have to spend a ton of money to reinvent the wheel”
Industry is “surprisingly friendly and surprisingly open”
Competitors willing to share knowledge
Finding Resources (24:44 - 25:42)
endowment.org for AFE research reports and GrowPro webinars
Cooperative Extension for local support
“We’re here to help”
Key Highlights
Laura’s Journey: Music performance degree → Move to North Carolina → Fell in love with plants → NC State horticulture program
AFE Impact: 501(c)(3) nonprofit funding research, scholarships, internships, and educational programs
Sustainabloom: AFE’s 2022 resource hub for industry sustainability efforts
Industry Challenges: Labor, pests (thrips, botrytis, mites), inflation, federal funding uncertainty
Future Trends: AI, drones, machine learning, e-commerce, sustainability
Industry Culture: “Surprisingly friendly”—competitors share knowledge openly
Plant Power: Flowers boost mood and represent a lifestyle choice
Key Quotes
“I’m trying to write this essay about why I want to do this, and I’m like, ‘You know what? I really just kind of want to be outside.’ Hmm, maybe that’s my answer.” — Laura Barth
“I absolutely think there is a connection between art and horticulture. And especially in floriculture, when you’re seeing floral designers and some of the landscaping, I think there really is creativity to a lot of our industry.” — Laura Barth
“The best thing about AFE is that it is an endowment so the money isn’t going anywhere. We’re supported by the industry through industry funds and everything we put out goes directly back to the industry for free.” — Laura Barth
“You don’t have to spend a ton of money to reinvent the wheel. And also I would say our industry is surprisingly friendly and surprisingly open with how much knowledge we’re willing to share.” — Laura Barth
“I call it plant power, and it can really influence your mood. If you don’t feel well or if you feel upset, go out for a walk and then see all those plants outside… they can make you feel happy again.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“I think that’s the reason that our whole industry thrives… Because if we’re all eating, it’s better for everybody.” — Laura Barth
Educational Highlights
What is AFE (American Floral Endowment)?
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the floriculture industry through:
Research funding
Scholarships and internships
Educational programs (including GrowPro webinars)
Resources that go back to the industry for free
What is Sustainabloom?
Launched by AFE in 2022, Sustainabloom is a resource hub where people from all segments of the floriculture industry can find resources to help them become more sustainable, no matter where they are in their journey.
What is Floriculture?
The segment of horticulture focused on flowering and ornamental plants, including:
Cut flower production (field, greenhouse, hoop house)
Potted plants (young plants to finished)
Perennials, bulbs, foliage, and succulents
Hard goods (faux flowers, ribbons, supplies)
What are Hard Goods?
In the floral industry, “hard goods” refers to non-living floral supplies including high-quality faux/artificial flowers, ribbons, wire, containers, and other materials used in arrangements.
Resources & Links
American Floral Endowment:
Website: endowment.org
Research Reports
GrowPro Webinar Series
Sustainabloom Resource Hub
Cooperative Extension:
Contact your local Extension office for floriculture resources
Blooms and Beyond:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
About the Guest
Laura Barth serves as the Research Coordinator for the American Floral Endowment, where she facilitates research programs and outreach. Her journey to horticulture began unexpectedly—after earning a degree in music performance, a move from Wisconsin to North Carolina opened her eyes to the beauty of plants and flowers. She went on to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in horticulture science from North Carolina State University. As a former AFE scholarship recipient herself, Laura understands firsthand the impact of AFE’s programs on the next generation of horticulturists.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Laura Barth, American Floral Endowment
Producer: Rich Braman
Episode Release Date: November 30th, 2025
Episode Length: ~27 minutes
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
27 min
November 18, 2025Planting Seeds: How One Horticulturist Found Her Way to the Plant Jungle
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 1
Episode Title:
“Planting Seeds: How One Horticulturist Found Her Way to the Plant Jungle”
Episode Description
Welcome to the very first episode of Blooms and Beyond! Join host Dr. Ping Yu, PhD student Yan Zhang, and producer Rich Braman as they introduce you to a podcast that explores plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. In this inaugural episode, discover the personal journeys that led two people into the wonderful world of horticulture - from a childhood gardenia propagation competition in rural China to thrips research powered by passion and purpose.
Listen Time: ~29 minutes
In This Episode
Meet Your Hosts & Team
Dr. Ping Yu - Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist at the University of Georgia
Yan Zhang - First-year PhD student researching thrips and integrated pest management
Rich Braman - Systems Administrator and Developer at UGA’s Center for Urban Agriculture
Journey Stories
Ping’s Path to Horticulture (02:20 - 06:52)
Growing up in Dujiangyan, Sichuan Province, China - home to giant pandas, a 2,000-year-old irrigation system, and spicy food
A childhood gardenia propagation competition at age 10 (spoiler: she won!)
From architecture dreams to falling in love with horticulture
Educational journey: Sichuan Normal University → Nanjing Forestry University → Texas A&M → University of Florida → UGA
The fascinating crossover between landscape design and plant science
Yan’s Research Focus (00:54 - 01:34)
Specializing in thrips, integrated pest management, and ornamental plants
Previous work on bark beetles during master’s degree
Learning to see research as exploration, not just results
What Extension Work Really Means (07:18 - 09:12)
Supporting commercial nursery and greenhouse growers
Tackling irrigation, nutrients, substrate management, and production issues
Interdisciplinary collaboration with entomology, plant pathology, and weed science
The power of extension agents serving Georgia’s green industry
Plant Spotlight: Sunflowers 🌻
The Science of Sun-Tracking (10:04 - 12:00)
Meet Helianthus annuus (sun + flower + annual)
How young sunflowers track the sun from east to west
The role of auxin in creating heliotropic movement
Uneven cell growth that bends the stem toward light
The Art of Van Gogh (12:00 - 14:09)
Vincent van Gogh’s sunflower series (1887-1889)
Sunflowers as symbols of gratitude, friendship, and the cycle of life
Bold yellows exploring light, hope, and spiritual radiance
Why sunflowers inspire courage: “Life is worth living and there’s always hope. Just keep going on.”
Birth of the Podcast
From Thrips Talks to Blooms and Beyond (14:50 - 19:24)
How Yan’s PhD research sparked the idea
American Floral Endowment Educational Grant support
Originally planned as six episodes about thrips management
Expanded to cover the broader “plant jungle” and plant power
“Once you step in, you don’t want to step out”
The Vision (19:26 - 23:55)
Tagline: Plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science
Weaving enchanting stories with practical management practices
Every plant has a story to tell
Serving two audiences: commercial professionals seeking solutions AND plant enthusiasts wanting to brag about cool plant facts
Topics You’ll Hear About:
Irrigation management
Plant hunting
Labor management and techniques
Career preparation
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Historical and cultural plant stories
And so much more!
Paying It Forward
Mentors Who Changed Everything (25:00 - 27:54)
Dr. James Robbins (retired professor, University of Arkansas)
Dr. Mengmeng Gu (now Dean of Extension at Colorado State University)
A chance meeting in Nanjing that opened doors to the American dream
The power of encouragement: “Why don’t you start preparing your English test and see how it goes?”
Philosophy: “Pay it forward” to help the next generation
Key Quotes
“Every plant has a story to tell. They didn’t just magically show up today in your garden or nursery. They have been selected, hybridized, shipped long distances. Somewhere along the line, they have crazy stories to tell.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“Every time I saw sunflower, I would have the courage to carry on with whatever struggle that I may have. Life is worth living and there’s always hope. Just keep going on.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“My experience taught me how to see research as an exploration, not just about the results, but about learning from every attempt.” — Yan Zhang
“Nobody really cares about your research unless they can relate to your research.” — Dr. Ping Yu (quoting her PhD professor)
“We really do never go anywhere alone, do we?” — Rich Braman
Educational Highlights
What is IPM (Integrated Pest Management)? A comprehensive approach to pest control that combines multiple strategies:
Cultural practices
Biological control
Chemical control (when necessary)
Goal: Minimize economic and environmental risks while keeping pests at manageable levels
Scientific Name Fun Fact: Helianthus annuus breaks down to:
Helios = sun (Greek/Latin)
Anthos = flower
Annuus = annual Scientific names can tell you characteristics of the plant!
Resources & Links
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Funding: This episode is supported by the American Floral Endowment Educational Grant, whose mission is to fund educational programs to promote more young people into the horticulture industry.
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guests: Yan Zhang, Rich Braman
Producer/Technical Host: Rich Braman
Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant
Episode Release Date: November 17th, 2025
Episode Length: 29:53
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!”
🌱🌻🌿
30 min

About Blooms and Beyond

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This is a podcast that explores plant history, culture and management through the lens of science, unfolding plant power through horticultural anecdotal stories and impressive management practices. Each episode features an interview with an expert in horticulture, bringing you the most enchanting stories behind the scenes, the pioneering research shapes the future, and the hidden power enriches our lives.

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