Freshly Picked

Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce
  • 5.0 (2)
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The “Freshly Picked” podcast will be all around specialty crops: those highly cultivated fruits, nuts, trees, plants, and flowers we grow in Mississippi. We want to let folks know, through engaging interviews with growers, chefs, horticulturalists, and goods makers that specialty crops are worth seeking out. Each 30-minute Freshly Picked podcast episode will highlight a particular specialty topic, and will contain a fresh mix of interviews, recipes, innovations in agriculture, and more.

  1. 02/13/2025

    Gardening Tips for Every Season

    On this episode of Freshly Picked, we delve into essential gardening tips and techniques to help you prepare for the upcoming season. Host Claude Nash welcomes Dr. Eddie Smith, a horticulture expert and Mississippi State University Extension Agent, to discuss how to care for your holiday plants and get your garden ready for spring. Dr. Smith shares his insights on rejuvenating poinsettias, Christmas cacti, and amaryllis, as well as how to plan for a successful spring garden with proper soil testing, pruning, and selecting the right plants. From native plants and their environmental benefits to setting realistic gardening goals, Dr. Smith covers it all. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration to help your garden flourish. Tune in to learn how to nurture your plants and make the most of your gardening space this spring!

    34 min

  2. 02/06/2025

    Growing Smarter: How Education and Innovation Shape Mississippi Horticulture

    On this episode of Freshly Picked, we explore how horticulture serves as both a science and an art to enrich Mississippi agriculture. Host Claude Nash welcomes two distinguished guests who are leading the way in education and innovation: Dr. Jeff Wilson, assistant horticulture professor and State Master Gardener Coordinator at Mississippi State University, and Bill Rivers, owner of Rivers Nursery in Brandon, MS, a family-owned business thriving since 1979. Dr. Wilson shares how Master Gardener programs inspire communities, while Bill Rivers highlights the vital role nurseries play in shaping local horticulture. From nurturing personal connections to introducing groundbreaking advancements, they delve into the many ways horticulture builds stronger communities and supports farmers across the state. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or curious about the future of Mississippi agriculture, this episode offers fresh insights, practical tips, and plenty of inspiration to help you grow along with us. Tune in to celebrate the power of plants and the people who cultivate them!

    39 min

  3. 01/30/2025

    Rooted in Horticulture: Growing Mississippi’s Specialty Crops

    On this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re exploring the heart of horticulture—the practice of cultivating plants for food, beauty, and community. Host Claude Nash sits down with two experts in the field: Stephen Porter, General Manager of Williamson Nursery in Summit, MS, and Larry Stephenson of Southern Cultured Orchards and Nursery in Independence, MS. Stephen and Larry discuss their journeys into the world of specialty crops, sharing tips on everything from growing Southern apples to crafting the perfect graft. Along the way, they highlight the unique ways nurseries support local farmers, build stronger communities, and keep Mississippi’s horticultural traditions thriving. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, you’ll love this lively conversation filled with stories, advice, and a passion for growing the finest fruits in the South. Don’t miss it!

    32 min

  4. 01/23/2025

    From Hive to Honey Jar: Mississippi’s Beekeeping Journey

    This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving deep into the world of honey and the incredible process that takes it from flower to hive and finally to your table. Host Claude Nash is joined by two seasoned guests: Jeff Harris, a beekeeping extension specialist at Mississippi State University with over 53 years of experience, and Austin Smith of Smith’s Honey Farm in Petal, Mississippi, a family-owned farm known for its wildflower honey and beeswax products. Jeff and Austin share their personal journeys into beekeeping, the evolution of the industry, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. Discover how to start a hive, what makes a queen bee exceptional, and the significance of native Mississippi plants in producing high-quality honey. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just curious about the art and science behind honey production, this episode offers insights, advice, and a deeper appreciation for Mississippi’s beekeeping traditions. Don’t miss this fascinating discussion!

    48 min

  5. 01/16/2025

    The Buzz on Beekeeping: Mississippi’s Sweetest Crop

    This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving into the world of honey—Mississippi’s golden specialty crop and a labor of love for local beekeepers. Host Claude Nash welcomes two special guests: Steven Coy of Coy Bee Company and Kip Isonhood of Yazoo Honey and Bee Farm. Steven and Kip share their fascinating journeys into the world of beekeeping, from family traditions to running thriving honey operations. Learn about the challenges of maintaining bee farms, the process of harvesting honey, and the unique qualities of Mississippi’s honey. Want to learn more about the role of Russian Honey Bees, how beekeepers build personal connections with their customers, or tips for aspiring beekeepers? Tune in for a captivating conversation that celebrates the passion, hard work, and sweetness of Mississippi’s honey industry!

    33 min

  6. 01/09/2025

    Nuts About Pecans: Celebrating Mississippi’s Legacy

    This time on Freshly Picked, we’re cracking into the story of pecans—Mississippi’s beloved specialty crop and a cornerstone of Southern tradition. Host Claude Nash welcomes two special guests: Bill Duke, Vice President of Duke Pecan Company, and Art Sanders, owner of Lindy’s Pecans. Together, they share their unique journeys in the pecan industry—from Bill’s generational family business to Art’s transformation of an overgrown orchard into a thriving farm. Learn how pecans are grown, harvested, and processed, the importance of local farmer relationships, and the tools that make it all possible. Curious about the challenges of pecan farming or the exciting innovations shaping the industry? Tune in for an insightful conversation that celebrates the rich history and bright future of Mississippi’s pecan legacy!

    30 min

  7. 01/02/2025

    Cracking the Code: The Pecan’s Journey in Mississippi

    This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving into the world of pecans—North America’s only native nut and a key player in Mississippi’s agricultural scene. Host Claude Nash is joined by Max Draughn, owner of Pecan Hill Farms and former President of the Mississippi Pecan Growers Association. From the challenges of weathering tough seasons to the growing interest in pecan farming, Max shares his journey as a farmer and offers valuable tips for hobbyists and new growers. Discover the best pecan varieties for Mississippi, how to care for your own pecan trees, and how to support local farmers who work tirelessly to bring these delicious nuts to your table. Curious about the future of pecans in Mississippi? Want to know what makes a pecan stand out at the store? Tune in and get all the insights to grow, buy, and enjoy Mississippi’s pecan legacy!

    38 min

  8. 12/26/2024

    Fresh Starts and New Year’s Traditions with Mississippi’s Specialty Crops

    On this episode of Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash explores how Mississippi’s specialty crops and traditions help us step into the New Year with purpose and flavor. Joining the conversation are two distinguished guests: award-winning chef Nick Wallace of Nick Wallace Culinary and Dr. Elizabeth Canales of the Mississippi State University Extension Program. Nick shares how his southern roots and French techniques come together to redefine Mississippi cuisine, while Elizabeth highlights her extension program’s mission to support farmers and specialty crop producers across the state. In this episode, you’ll discover the cultural significance and health benefits of New Year’s staples like black-eyed peas, turnip greens, and carrots, Chef Nick’s creative tips for preparing these classics and boosting their flavors, and Dr. Elizabeth’s vision for empowering local farmers through education and sustainability in 2025. From the fields to the table, hear inspiring stories of community impact, sustainable farming, and traditions that bring Mississippi’s specialty crops to life. Don’t miss this chance to start the year with fresh ideas and delicious inspiration!

    30 min
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out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The “Freshly Picked” podcast will be all around specialty crops: those highly cultivated fruits, nuts, trees, plants, and flowers we grow in Mississippi. We want to let folks know, through engaging interviews with growers, chefs, horticulturalists, and goods makers that specialty crops are worth seeking out. Each 30-minute Freshly Picked podcast episode will highlight a particular specialty topic, and will contain a fresh mix of interviews, recipes, innovations in agriculture, and more.

Information

  • Creator
    Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce
  • Show Website
    Freshly Picked