Hort Culture

Apr 13 2025 109 ep. 50 mins 4
Hort Culture Podcast artwork

Welcome to Hort Culture, where a group of Extension professionals and plant people talk about the business, production and joy of farming. So, join us for a chat on the culture of horticulture.

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Shape Up Your Landscape: Spring Pruning 101

Apr 13 2025 53 mins  
In this episode of Hort Culture, we dig into the do's and don'ts of spring pruning for landscape trees and shrubs in central Kentucky. We talk about the benefits of dormant pruning while plants are still asleep, and how timing your cuts can impact flowering later on. Learn why early bloomers like forsythia and lilac should be pruned after they flower, while late bloomers and non-fl

Spring Rhythms: A Day in the Life of a Grower

Apr 06 2025 55 mins  
Spring has sprung, and with it comes the daily dance of decisions, dirt, and dedication. In this episode of Hort Culture, we step into the boots of Jessica and Alexis to explore what a typical spring day looks like for many growers. From sunrise planning sessions to soil prep, planting, and pest patrol, we uncover how growers prioritize tasks, adapt to ever-changing conditions, and

Finding Your Fit – Farmers Market Personality Types

Mar 30 2025 54 mins  
In this episode, we dive into how different personality types influence success in farmers markets and other direct sales channels. We discuss the social energy of in-person selling, the efficiency of wholesale, and the balance of CSA models. Self-awareness is key—knowing your strengths can help shape a business model that truly fits you. We also explore online marketing, vendor

Insects, Insights, and Open Minds: Dr. Ric Bessin Reflects on Entomology Extension Work

Mar 23 2025 51 mins  
In this episode of Hort Culture, we sit down with Dr. Ric Bessin, who reflects on over 30 years as an entomologist with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. Dr. Bessin shares some of his most memorable stories from the field, from accusations of helicopter bug drops to the unexpected challenges of working in the field. He offers advice to his younger self and t

Digging Into Our Garden Personalities

Mar 16 2025 46 mins  
In this episode of Hort Culture, we're getting introspective! We take a look at some of the personality tests and assessments we've taken over the years and explore how the results show up in our gardening styles. Are we meticulous planners or spontaneous plant experimenters? Do we thrive on structure, or are we all about the wild, untamed beauty of nature? Join us for a lively con

Kentucky's Forests: A Conversation with State Forester Brandon Howard

Mar 09 2025 47 mins  
In this episode of Hort Culture, we speak with Brandon Howard, Kentucky State Forester, about the state's vital forests. We discuss the Kentucky Division of Forestry's role, the challenges facing our woodlands like invasive species, and the importance of sustainable management practices. Brandon highlights the crucial role of urban forestry and community engagement, offering advice

Gardening 101: Am I Too Late to Start

Mar 02 2025 56 mins  
In this special episode of Hort Culture, our very own Brett Wolff flips the script and plays the role of a brand-new gardener with lots of questions about getting started. He approaches the team with concerns like, "Am I too late to start a garden this year?" "What should I plant first?" and "How do I keep from killing everything?" Join us as we break down the gardening calendar,

A Conversation With Kentucky's State Apiarist, Amanda Skidmore

Feb 23 2025 57 mins  
On this episode of Hort Culture, we delve into the fascinating world of bees with special guest Amanda Skidmore, Kentucky's State Apiarist. Amanda shares insights into the current state of honey bees and native pollinators in the Commonwealth, discussing some of the challenges they face as well as some programs to support them and help populations grow. She highlights the crucial r

Alexis' Favorite Things: Grower Essentials for 2025

Feb 16 2025 18 mins  
In this solo episode, Alexis shares some of her favorite things she has been using this year that could be useful for commercial growers or home gardeners. From hand hoes to help with weeding between close plantings to temperature controllers for heating and cooling, and even a recommendation for the book Profit First1.... Alexis highlights tools and resources that have made a sign

3-year Average Weekly Prices at Kentucky Farmers Markets: 2022-2024

Feb 09 2025 57 mins  
In this episode of the Hort Culture podcast, our very own co-host Brett Wolff dives into the key findings and insights from his fact sheet, "3-Year Average Weekly Prices at Kentucky Farmers Markets: 2022-2024." He discusses the importance of understanding price trends for both farmers and consumers, highlighting the factors that influence weekly price fluctuations at Kentucky farme