In episode 26 of the Plants by Wade Lee Podcast, host Wade Lee interviews Brian Lagunas, also known as Anthurium Papa. Brian shares his journey into the world of plants, starting from his childhood experiences with nature in the Pacific Northwest to his current passion for tropical plants, particularly anthuriums. The conversation delves into Brian's methods of plant care, experimentation, and the importance of understanding plant needs. He discusses the business side of selling anthuriums, the germination process, and tips for transitioning plants to new environments. Brian also shares insights on his diverse plant collection and future projects aimed at educating the plant community.

In episode 25 of the Plants by Wade Lee podcast, host Wade Lee speaks with John McCallen, a passionate gardener from Southern California. They discuss John's journey into gardening, the importance of year-round plant interest, and how he uses social media to share his love for plants. John shares his experiences with gardening as a spiritual practice, the challenges of building a sustainable garden, and his upcoming projects. The conversation highlights the significance of composting, soil health, and the joy of gardening.

In this conversation, Wade Lee and Marcus Bridgewater @garden_marcus explore the profound connection between gardening and personal growth. They discuss how gardening serves as a therapeutic practice, enhancing peace, balance, and mindfulness. Marcus shares insights from his books, emphasizing the importance of reflection and engagement with nature. The conversation also touches on the significance of composting and the creation of healing gardens to foster community well-being.

Summary

In this episode of the Plants by Wade Lee podcast, host Wade Lee speaks with Cass, a passionate plant enthusiast and artist, about her journey into the world of plants and the inspiration behind her coloring book. They discuss the evolution of Cass's plant collection, the intricacies of plant pollination, and the emotional connections that plants foster in people's lives. Cass shares her experiences with seed harvesting, germination, and the beauty of Anthuriums, while also emphasizing the importance of community and support within the plant-loving world.

Episode 22 w/ @farmernick Nick Cutsumpas

In this episode, Wade Lee interviews Nick Cutsumpas, also known as Farmer Nick, about his journey into the world of plants and environmentalism. Nick shares how he discovered his love for plants after college and started a garden at his parents' house. He then moved to New York City and became a houseplant enthusiast, which led to his involvement in the plant shop world. Nick also discusses his passion for environmentalism and his work with Earthjustice. He emphasizes the importance of experiencing nature and nurturing plants as a way to connect with the environment.

Episode 21 w/ @strange_substrates Ashley Strange

In this episode, Wade Lee interviews Ashley Strange of Strange Substrates, who is an expert in soil mix. They discuss the importance of substrate for different plant species and the role of additives like dried molasses, rice hulls, and silica. Ashley emphasizes the need for consistent airflow and moisture in substrates, especially for plants that require high humidity. She also shares tips on pH testing water, nutrient supplementation, and preventing salt buildup. Ashley's passion for plants and her extensive knowledge of soil amending make this episode informative and engaging. The conversation focuses on the importance of soil aeration and the role of substrates in plant growth. Ashley explains that overwatering is not the main problem for plants, but rather the lack of air in the presence of water. She emphasizes the need for substrates with different particulate sizes to ensure airflow and consistent moisture. Ashley also discusses the benefits of using crushed oyster shell as a slow-release source of calcium and magnesium, as well as the use of tree fern fiber and specialty orchid bark in her substrates. She shares the inspiration behind the catchy names of her substrates and the importance of good branding. Lastly, Ashley talks about her prop it like it's hot substrate for propagation and the inclusion of dried molasses to support the growth of myco fungi.

Episode 20 w/ @madsplantlife Mads Hodgson

Episode 19 Wade Lee's TOP 10 Plant Products Influenced by the Plant Community

10 - @greenthumbplantco Plant Parenthood Canvas Tote

https://www.etsy.com/shop/GreenThumbPlantCo81

9 - @farmernick Seed Dibber

https://amzn.to/4cJppav

8 - @iwetmyplants Draining Basket and crystal glass plates

7 - @channygrayhome hanging Catch Trays

6 - @_plantswithKrystal_

Ceramic boot

5 - @perfectplantista influenced by @pothosiblyplants

4 - @hiltoncarter Mild Steel Watering Can Black

3 - @well.traveled.wares Gatsby Planter

2 - @nakedrootplanters

1 - @gt_growth_technology_au

https://www.growthtechnology.com.au/

Episode 18 w/ @leafydiva Dana Washington

In this episode of the Plants by Wade Lee podcast, Wade Lee interviews Dana Washington, also known as Leafy Diva. They discuss Dana's journey as a plant collector and her projects, including a living plant wall and growing Thai constellation. They also talk about the importance of acclimating plants when bringing them home and the benefits of self-watering containers. Dana shares her favorite plants in her collection and the challenges of transitioning mature plants to semi-hydroponics. Dana emphasizes the importance of being a student and continuously learning about plants. She advises beginners to start slow and not be overwhelmed by mistakes. She also cautions against buying big established plants from nurseries as they are more likely to come with pests. Dana shares her love for plants and how they bring her joy and a sense of self-reflection. She mentions her favorite plant products, including the Rousseau moss pole and the Naked Roots planter. Dana discusses the fluctuating prices of rare plants and her experience at plant shows.

Episode 17 w/ @redleafranch Brian Brigantti

In this episode, Wade Lee interviews Brian Brigantti, a gardener and TikTok sensation. Brian shares his journey into gardening and how it became his passion during the pandemic. He discusses the spiritual and mental benefits of gardening and the parallels he has discovered between tending to a garden and tending to oneself. Brian also talks about his close bond with his mother and their love for cooking together. He shares his motivation to provide a better life for his family and his dream of building a house for his mother on his property. The episode also touches on Brian's partner's love for exotic plants, specifically carnivorous pitcher plants. In this conversation, Brian Brigantti discusses his partner Dominic's passion for plants and how it led them to start a nursery in Tennessee. They talk about the importance of living authentically and the meaning of pride. Brian also shares his activism work, including raising funds for a family in Palestine. They discuss Brian's book, 'Gardening for Abundance,' and where it can be found.