Fragrance in the garden isn’t limited to blooms alone. Dr. Allan Armitage reminds us that many plants offer scent through foliage as well as flowers. Fennel is a perfect example—simply brushing against the plant releases its unmistakable aroma.

And you’re not the only one who enjoys fennel. It also serves as a host plant for the swallowtail butterfly. Don’t be surprised if you notice swallowtail caterpillars chewing on the leaves in late summer. Their presence is not a problem, but rather a sign of a healthy, living garden ecosystem.

This podcast explores the fascinating world of plants, gardens, and the unexpected lessons they teach us. Dr. Allan Armitage shares stories from his gardening experiences, delving into the origins of plant names and the intriguing history behind them. The episode highlights the story of Epimedium, also known as horny goatsweed, and its historical significance in fertility treatments.

Join beloved horticulturist, storyteller, and garden sage Dr. Allan Armitage for an exclusive first listen to his upcoming book The Common-Sense Gardener. In this special episode, Dr. A reads the opening chapters himself—infusing every anecdote, bit of wit, and piece of hard-earned wisdom with the warmth and humor only he can deliver.

Pull up a chair, pour a cup of something warm, and settle in for a charming conversation between gardener and garden.

Grab a your copy from November 15-December 15, 2025. They won't be available again until Spring 2026.

www.allanarmitage.net

Everybody loves dahlias — in the garden, in a vase, or as a gift to a friend. But as Dr. Allan Armitage reminds us, these showstoppers aren’t always the easiest plants to please. In this colorful episode, Dr. A dives into the world of dahlias: how to start them from tubers, the best ways to get an early bloom, and what to do when winter rolls around.

From the big, bold “show dahlias” that knock your socks off to the compact pot varieties brightening up garden centers, you’ll discover which types work best in your climate and how to keep them thriving year after year.

In this charming episode of Stories from the Garden, Dr. Allan Armitage takes us back to medieval Europe to uncover the fascinating history of soapwort—or Saponaria, as botanists know it. Ever wondered where early soaps came from, or how barmaids in old English inns kept their bottles sparkling clean? You’ll learn how this humble flowering plant became an essential part of daily life long before store-bought soap existed.

From its etymological roots (what exactly is a “wort”?) to its surprising modern-day uses, this story bubbles over with wit, history, and a touch of garden magic. Tune in for a delightful blend of botany, folklore, and a few sudsy surprises along the way.

Whether you’re a casual gardener or a horticulture enthusiast, this episode will change how you look at mums — not as disposable decor, but as timeless treasures of autumn color. In this episode, Dr. A explores the often misunderstood world of mums—those bright, cheerful chrysanthemums that fill garden centers every fall. Are they simply “throwaway” plants, or can they be hardy perennials that return year after year?Join Dr. A as he reveals the myths and wonders behind these beloved flowers. You’ll learn how to identify which mums can truly endure, how to care for them after the fall season, and why these vibrant blooms deserve more respect in your garden.

In this episode, Dr. A digs into one of the most widely loved—and widely grown—ground covers in the garden world: Ajuga, also known as bugleweed. Found in gardens from north to south, ajuga is a true equal opportunist, spreading across landscapes with its striking foliage and beautiful lavender to blue flower spikes.

But where did the name bugleweed come from? And what exactly is a bugleweed, anyway?

Join Dr. A as he explores the history, beauty, and quirks of this versatile and colorful plant that’s just as fun to talk about as it is to grow.

• A favorite ground cover
• Rich foliage in many colors
• Lavender-blue blooms
  

In today’s episode, Dr. A shares the story of one of his favorite salvias—a showstopping variety that many gardeners overlook. While salvias are well-known for their vibrant reds and blues and their ability to attract pollinators, this particular salvia steals the show in fall with its forsythia-like yellow blooms.

Native to Mexico and found in gardens across the globe, this plant is more than just a pretty face. Commonly known as the Forsythia Sage, it flowers through the summer but truly shines in autumn. Tune in to learn why this underappreciated salvia deserves a spot in your garden—and maybe even your heart.

• Great for pollinators
• Spectacular fall color
• A plant with a story, just like every good garden should have.

In this episode of Stories from the Garden, renowned horticulturist Dr. Allan Armitage digs into the curious connection between dogs and dogwoods. Ever wonder how the beloved flowering tree got its name? Spoiler alert: it’s not because dogs love to nap under them! With his signature wit and storytelling charm, Dr. A unearths the myths, history, and botanical surprises behind the dogwood's name.

Whether you're a plant nerd, a casual gardener, or just someone who enjoys a good story, this episode is sure to make you see dogwoods—and maybe dogs—a little differently.

If you really want to spark conversation in the garden, or possibly run people off from the smell, plant a Voodoo Lily. One of the more interesting plants you can pop in the garden, and will only show up after a few years (this one takes patience) it is well worth the show, but maybe not the smell!