The Dirt on Gardening

Andre Baptiste, Graylen Brown, Derek Haynes
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Home & Garden
  • Updated Weekly

The Dirt on Gardening Podcast brings real talk and science to gardeners of every level. Hosted by Andre the Farmer, Urban Gardening with Gray, and The Chocolate Botanist, this near-weekly podcast (Tuesdays at 7 PM EST) blends casual conversation with expert insight on horticulture, botany, and practical gardening. Whether you're growing in a small urban space, tending land in the countryside, or nurturing houseplants indoors, you’ll get actionable how-to advice, plant science made approachable, and honest discussions rooted in experience. From beginner basics to advanced techniques, these three friends dig into sustainable gardening, urban farming, plant care, and the science behind how plants grow. If you love gardening tips, plant education, and authentic conversations about horticulture, then you'll dig The Dirt on Gardening!

  1. 1d ago

    Garden Swap Challenge: Surviving Each Other's Gardens 🌱

    ❓ What would you plant if you had to take care of someone else's garden? Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the fun and challenges of swapping gardens! Join us as we discuss what it would be like to take care of each other's gardens across different states. From Florida's tropical plants to North Carolina's unique climate, we explore how we would adapt and thrive in unfamiliar gardening environments. We also share personal stories, gardening tips, and the importance of community in gardening.   In This Episode: We discuss the excitement of swapping gardens and the challenges that come with it. Hear about our recent gardening adventures and plant shows. Learn how to grow sweet potato slips and what to do with extras. ☀️ Discover the best practices for keeping pests away from your greens. We share our favorite gardening products and sponsors. Explore the differences in gardening climates across states. Find out what plants we would love to grow in each other's gardens. Join the conversation about gardening tips and tricks!   ️ Our Hosts: ️ Andre the Farmer https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray https://urbangardeningwithgray.com The Chocolate Botanist https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Sponsors: ✂️ Retain Spray https://retainspray.com Sonia's Bug Spray https://soniasbugspray.com ️ Andre's Pepper Sauce https://andrethefarmer.com Join our Telegram: https://t.me/thedirtongardening  Email Us: thedirtongardening@gmail.com  SEO Keywords:  swap gardens, gardening tips, sweet potato slips, Florida gardening, North Carolina gardening, pest control, gardening community, plant shows, tropical plants, gardening challenges  Join us as we explore the world of gardening and share your thoughts on who would thrive in each other's gardens!  Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  2. Jul 21

    Dream Summer Crops & Native Plants: What We'd Grow in Florida, Texas & North Carolina

    Join us as we dive into the world of drought-tolerant plants and our favorite summer crops! In this episode, we share what makes a plant drought-tolerant and discuss our top picks for summer native plants specific to our regions: Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. We also share personal stories from our Father's Day celebrations and answer listener questions about gardening. Whether you're looking to grow longevity spinach, okra, or explore the benefits of Moringa, we've got you covered. Tune in for practical tips, engaging discussions, and a few laughs along the way!  Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  3. Jul 14

    Drought-Proof Your Garden: Essential Water-Saving Techniques

    ❓Question of the Day: What water-saving techniques have you found most effective in your garden? Episode Summary In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we dive deep into the essential strategies for drought-proofing your garden. We, Andre the Farmer, Urban Gardening with Gray, and The Chocolate Botanist, discuss practical water-saving techniques that every gardener should consider. From utilizing ollas to selecting native plants, we explore how to maintain a thriving garden even in the hottest months. We also touch on the importance of smart irrigation systems and share our personal experiences with various watering methods. Join us as we share tips and tricks to keep your plants healthy while conserving water. What You'll Learn In This Episode: * Effective watering strategies for drought conditions * The benefits of using ollas in your garden * How to select and care for native plants * Smart irrigation systems and their advantages Connect With Us: Andre the Farmer https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray https://urbangardeningwithgray.com The Chocolate Botanist https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors: Retain Spray https://retainspray.com Sonias Bug Spray https://soniasbugspray.com Andre's Pepper Sauce https://andrethefarmer.com  SEO  This episode is packed with valuable insights for gardeners interested in drought-proofing their gardens, exploring water-saving techniques, and understanding the role of native plants and smart irrigation systems. Tune in for practical advice on organic gardening, soil health, and effective pest control methods.  Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  4. Jul 7

    Beating the Heat: Summer Gardening Strategies

    ❓Question of the Day: How do you keep your garden thriving in the summer heat? In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we tackle the challenges of gardening during the hot summer months. We, Andre the Farmer, Urban Gardening with Gray, and Derek the Chocolate Botanist, share our experiences and tips for managing heat-sensitive crops and maintaining a productive garden. From using shade cloth to watering strategies, we discuss the best practices to ensure your plants stay healthy and fruitful. We also reminisce about our weekends, share some fun gardening anecdotes, and answer listener questions about various plants, including tomatoes, strawberries, and guavas. Join us as we dive deep into the world of summer gardening! What You'll Learn In This Episode * Strategies for keeping plants cool in extreme heat * The importance of shade cloth for sun-sensitive crops * Tips for watering and soil health during summer * How to manage pests like earwigs and caterpillars Connect With Us Andre the Farmer https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray https://urbangardeningwithgray.com The Chocolate Botanist https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors Retain Spray https://retainspray.com Sonias Bug Spray https://soniasbugspray.com Andre's Pepper Sauce https://andrethefarmer.com  SEO  This episode is perfect for gardeners looking for summer gardening tips, including how to manage heat-sensitive plants, watering strategies, pest control, and maintaining soil health. Keywords include gardening podcast, vegetable gardening, container gardening, organic gardening, and summer gardening strategies.  Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  5. Jun 30

    How to Make Gardening Easier on Your Body | Accessible Gardening

    ❓Question of the Day: How have you made your garden more accessible? What tools, techniques, or adaptations have made gardening easier for you or someone you know? Your garden should be a place of peace—not pain. In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we discuss practical ways to make gardening more accessible for gardeners of all abilities. Whether you're dealing with bad knees, mobility challenges, chronic pain, or simply want to garden more comfortably, we share ideas that can help you continue growing what you love. From raised beds and ergonomic tools to container gardening and creative adaptations, we explore ways to reduce strain while maximizing your enjoyment and harvest. Because everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of gardening. In This Episode Gardening with physical limitations Raised beds, containers, and vertical gardening️ Ergonomic tools and adaptive gardening equipment‍♀️ Reducing strain on your knees, back, and joints Making gardening more comfortable without sacrificing productivity Why gardening should be accessible for every bodyConnect With Us Andre the Farmer: https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray The Chocolate Botanist: https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors Retain Spray – https://retainspray.com Sonia's Bug Spray – https://soniasbugspray.com ️ Andre's Pepper Sauce – https://andrethefarmer.com Thryve Roots – https://thryveroots.com❓Question of the Day: How have you made your garden more accessible? What tools, techniques, or adaptations have made gardening easier for you or someone you know? Your garden should be a place of peace—not pain. In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we discuss practical ways to make gardening more accessible for gardeners of all abilities. Whether you're dealing with bad knees, mobility challenges, chronic pain, or simply want to garden more comfortably, we share ideas that can help you continue growing what you love. From raised beds and ergonomic tools to container gardening and creative adaptations, we explore ways to reduce strain while maximizing your enjoyment and harvest. Because everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of gardening. In This Episode Gardening with physical limitations Raised beds, containers, and vertical gardening️ Ergonomic tools and adaptive gardening equipment‍♀️ Reducing strain on your knees, back, and joints Making gardening more comfortable without sacrificing productivity Why gardening should be accessible for every bodyConnect With Us Andre the Farmer: https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray The Chocolate Botanist: https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors Retain Spray – https://retainspray.com Sonia's Bug Spray – https://soniasbugspray.com ️ Andre's Pepper Sauce – https://andrethefarmer.com Thryve Roots – https://thryveroots.com❓Question of the Day: How have you made your garden more accessible? What tools, techniques, or adaptations have made gardening easier for you or someone you know? Your garden should be a place of peace—not pain. In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we discuss practical ways to make gardening more accessible for gardeners of all abilities. Whether you're dealing with bad knees, mobility challenges, chronic pain, or simply want to garden more comfortably, we share ideas that can help you continue growing what you love. From raised beds and ergonomic tools to container gardening and creative adaptations, we explore ways to reduce strain while maximizing your enjoyment and harvest. Because everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of gardening. In This Episode Gardening with physical limitations Raised beds, containers, and vertical gardening️ Ergonomic tools and adaptive gardening equipment‍♀️ Reducing strain on your knees, back, and joints Making gardening more comfortable without sacrificing productivity Why gardening should be accessible for every bodyConnect With Us Andre the Farmer: https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray The Chocolate Botanist: https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors Retain Spray – https://retainspray.com Sonia's Bug Spray – https://soniasbugspray.com ️ Andre's Pepper Sauce – https://andrethefarmer.com Thryve Roots – https://thryveroots.com  Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  6. Jun 23

    Lab-Grown Food, Dr. Sebi & Plant Conspiracies

    Is chocolate really being grown in a lab? Is Dr. Sebi's nutritional philosophy supported by science? Are pesticides, GMOs, and "electric foods" being misunderstood online? In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, Andre the Farmer, Urban Gardening with Gray, and The Chocolate Botanist dive headfirst into some of the biggest myths and conspiracy theories circulating in the gardening and plant world.  From lab-grown foods and GMO misconceptions to black seed oil, sea moss, decoctions, and the claims often made in alternative health spaces, the conversation separates evidence from internet folklore. Along the way, the hosts discuss how misinformation spreads, why scientific literacy matters, and how gardeners can evaluate extraordinary claims with a critical eye.  Whether you're curious about food science, plant biology, or simply enjoy hearing common gardening myths challenged with humor and facts, this episode has something for you.  Topics Covered   Lab-grown fruit and food myths  Dr. Sebi and "electric foods"  GMOs and common misconceptions  Black seed oil and sea moss claims  Plant conspiracies on social media  Science-based gardening and critical thinking  Connect With the Hosts   Andre the Farmer – https://andrethefarmer.com The Chocolate Botanist – https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Podcast Sponsors Retain Spray – https://retainspray.com Sonia's Bug Spray – https://soniasbugspray.com ️ Andre's Pepper Sauce – https://andrethefarmer.com Thryve Roots – https://thryveroots.com   If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who loves gardening, plant science, and separating fact from fiction.    Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  7. Jun 9

    AI vs Real Gardeners: Plant Advice, Fake Videos & Gardening Misinformation

    In this thought-provoking episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we—Urban Gardening with Gray, Andre the Farmer, and The Chocolate Botanist—dig into one of the hottest and most controversial topics online right now: AI-generated gardening content, fake plant videos, and the future of artificial intelligence in agriculture. From viral “instant harvest” videos and impossible blue flowers to AI-generated gardening advice and fake plant hacks, we break down how to spot AI slop and separate entertainment from real growing knowledge. We discuss why misleading gardening content can hurt beginners, spread misinformation, and drown out real educators trying to teach people how to grow successfully. This episode covers:  How to identify fake AI gardening videos  Why viral plant hacks often aren’t real  AI-generated misinformation in gardening and food science  Can ChatGPT and AI tools actually help gardeners?  Using AI responsibly for garden planning and research  Why critical thinking matters more than ever online  AI vs. real gardening experience and expertise  The environmental impact of AI data centers and water use We also dive into broader conversations around technology, social media algorithms, and how AI could shape the future of agriculture, education, and online trust. Along the way, we swap stories about fake pesticide claims, dangerous foraging misinformation, and how internet fearmongering spreads faster than science. Plus:  Andre joins us live from Washington’s Olympic National Park  Gray shares a viral TikTok encounter at a resort pool  We discuss iNaturalist, mushroom identification, and why AI can’t replace real-world knowledge  Plenty of laughs, tangents, and classic Dirt on Gardening energy Whether you're curious about AI in gardening, fake viral videos, ChatGPT for plants, or the future of technology in agriculture, this episode blends science, humor, and honest conversation to help you think critically in the digital age. Resources & Sponsors Mentioned:  Andre the Farmer: https://andrethefarmer.com Urban Gardening with Gray: https://urbangardeningwithgray.com/ The Chocolate Botanist: https://bio.site/thechocolatebotanist Retain Spray: retainspray.com  Thryve Roots: thryveroots.com  Sonias Bug Spray: soniasbugspray.com Keywords (SEO): AI gardening videos, fake plant videos, ChatGPT gardening, AI slop explained, gardening misinformation, AI in agriculture, gardening podcast, fake gardening hacks, plant TikTok myths, artificial intelligence gardening   Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

  8. Jun 2

    Companion Planting, Garden Pests & Healthy Soil: Do Insects Attack Weak Plants?

    In this episode of The Dirt on Gardening Podcast, we—Andre the Farmer and Urban Gardening with Gray—dive into one of the most debated topics in gardening: why pests attack certain plants and how healthy soil impacts plant resilience. Along the way, we mix in gardening science, practical pest control strategies, gardening myths, and plenty of laughs. We explore a fascinating discussion around the Brix index, plant sugars, and the theory that insects are more attracted to stressed or unhealthy plants. Are pests really targeting weak plants first? And can healthier soil biology actually reduce pest pressure naturally? We break down the science, skepticism, and real-world gardening experiences behind the idea. This episode also covers:  Companion planting for natural pest management  Soil microbes, fertilizers, and plant health  Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and organic pest control  Why over-fertilizing can attract aphids and pests  Blueberry soil pH and feeding mistakes  Bird, squirrel, and rabbit management in the garden  Growing tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and mulberries  Blossom end rot and unusual tomato-growing practices  Starting seeds vs. transplants for different climates  Gardening in Florida vs. northern growing zones We also share updates from our own gardens, celebrate Andre’s son graduating from Georgia Tech, and even welcome a surprise guest appearance from Mama Andre, who joins the conversation to talk gardening, pineapples, and pepper sauce. Of course, no Dirt on Gardening episode would be complete without some wild tangents—from grits debates and doubles to gardening while ADHD, internet myths, and whether healthy plants really can repel pests naturally. Resources & Sponsors Mentioned:  Andre the Farmer Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com  Sonias Bug Spray: soniasbugspray.com  Retain Spray: retainspray.com  Thryve Roots: thryveroots.com  Urban Gardening with Gray  The Chocolate Botanist Whether you're troubleshooting pests, improving soil health, or just looking for honest gardening conversations, this episode is packed with practical advice, science-backed ideas, and community-driven growing knowledge. Keywords (SEO): companion planting, organic pest control, healthy soil gardening, plant pests and insects, neem oil gardening, soil microbiome plants, aphid prevention, blossom end rot tomatoes, gardening podcast, natural garden pest management   Support Our Sponsors: Retain Spray: retainspray.com Sonia’s Bug Spray: https://sonias-essentials.myshopify.com/ Thryve Roots: ThryveRoots.com Andre The Farmer’s Pepper Sauce: andrethefarmer.com #Gardening #UrbanFarming #podcast #TheChocolateBotanist #BlackPlantCreators #GrowYourOwn #Horticulture #PlantCare #andrethefarmer #FarmToBalcony #BudgetGardening #GardenTips #GardenLife #PlantParent #UrbanGardening

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Dirt on Gardening Podcast brings real talk and science to gardeners of every level. Hosted by Andre the Farmer, Urban Gardening with Gray, and The Chocolate Botanist, this near-weekly podcast (Tuesdays at 7 PM EST) blends casual conversation with expert insight on horticulture, botany, and practical gardening. Whether you're growing in a small urban space, tending land in the countryside, or nurturing houseplants indoors, you’ll get actionable how-to advice, plant science made approachable, and honest discussions rooted in experience. From beginner basics to advanced techniques, these three friends dig into sustainable gardening, urban farming, plant care, and the science behind how plants grow. If you love gardening tips, plant education, and authentic conversations about horticulture, then you'll dig The Dirt on Gardening!

Information

  • Creator
    Andre Baptiste, Graylen Brown, Derek Haynes
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Dirt on Gardening