In this episode, we bring together two horticultural experts whose knowledge spans the worlds of plant science, garden design, and hands-on cultivation. Join us for two fascinating conversations with John Lonsdale, a passionate plantsman and the garden designer behind the private garden "Edgewood" in Pennsylvania, and Holly Scoggins, Ph.D., horticulturist and Associate Professor Emeritus at Virginia Tech.

John, an expert in alpine and woodland plants, shares stories from his extensive garden and travels. He gives us a peek into his 1.6-acre garden, "Edgewood," where he’s been pushing the limits of hardiness for over 40 years. John discusses his lectures on Unusual Bulbs and Woodland Treasures, taking us through the world of rare plants and their cultivation in diverse microhabitats.

Holly shares insights from her unique hybrid courses that blends remote and in-person learning, where participants explore the stunning spring or summer-flowering herbaceous plants at the heart of Bunny Mellon’s private garden. She discusses how her passion for horticulture developed as both a professional and personal exploration that allows her to experiment and play with aesthetics and plants. 

Throughout this episode, we’ll dive into the fascinating ways both Holly and John integrate scientific knowledge with real-world gardening practices. Whether you’re interested in the academic side of horticulture or looking for inspiration to enhance your own garden, this episode is sure to inspire and inform.

Information about Holly's Springtime Perennials and Annuals class can be found here
Register for John's lecture 9:00am - 12:00pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025, Unusal Bulbs here
Register for John's lecture, 9:00am - 12:00pm on Saturday, February 8, 2025, Woodland Treasures here

Host: Chris Stafford
Oak Spring website: https://www.osgf.org/
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