Growing Joy with Plants (formerly Bloom & Grow Radio‪)‬ Maria Failla- Happy Plant Lady and Author of Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness

Introducing the Bad Seeds Podcast, by our dear friend, Summer Rayne Oakes!
Bad Seeds is a new podcast from School of Humans and iHeart Podcasts that investigates a growing area of crime that you might have never heard of: plant crime. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, plant crime has been on the rise. From timber poaching in Zambia to cactus smuggling in the US' national parks, Bad Seeds explores a variety of cases where people have stolen plants - having huge repercussions on our environment and in turn...us.  
All of Bad Seeds' episodes are out now. You can listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Head over to subscribe and binge! 

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-bad-seeds-112229352/
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-seeds/id1680791653
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1MsbtuahueZqPiGa5SA9Yn


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Succulents are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are perfect for us busy plant parents. They're also total badasses. However, they can be quite tricky to care for if you don't know what you're doing. In this episode, I have invited my “succy” friend Andrea from Justsuccit.com to shed some light on the facts and fiction surrounding succulent care!

In this episode, we learn:[00:17] Why succulents can mislead and frustrate people[07:34] How did Andrea become the expert succulent plant lady she is[08:48] Fascinating geometry of echeveria and other rosette-type succulents[11:25] How Andrea’s multifaceted business operates[12:13] Carefully tending to succulents is important due to their specific care needs[14:09] 3 reasons why you’re killing your succulents[14:51] Where can you find a fast-draining potting mix for succulents, cacti, and citrus plants?[17:01] Where can you pre-order garlic to grow your own bulbs and scapes?[19:26] Why you should try succulents[19:59] Are lithops considered succulents?[22:44] How do you stop killing your succulents? (aka succulent care!)[23:27] #1 Before watering, check the soil[25:09] Adaptations in succulent leaves that are affected by watering[26:36] #2 Place your succulents in direct sunlight[31:23] #3 Beware when your succulents start stretching[33:46] #4 Place your succulents in fast-draining soil[35:56] #5 Keeping airflow in check[38:00] Few ways to propagate your succulent[38:09] #1 Leaf propagation[41:13] #2 Stem propagation[44:20] What are the best practices for removing a fully withered leaf?[44:44] Plant life parallel: a poetic act of a mother plant nourishing offspring[48:17] How can you “embrace the succ” and ensure you and your succulent thrive?[50:54] Most powerful lesson Andrea learned from her succulents
Mentioned in our conversation:Soltech Grow lightsEspoma Organic Cacti Potting MixPlant-Life Parallel ReelAbraham Hicks
For Andrea's recommended succ care,check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicMake sure your succulents have the right soil and nutrients! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.
Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.
Territorial Seed CompanyGrow your own garlic! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.
Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow Andrea and JustSuccIt:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria


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Have you ever thought about the healing power of plants beyond just their aesthetic appeal? As plant parents, we know how much fun it is to take care of our plants, but did you know that therapeutic horticulture is a practice being used in hospitals, retirement homes, and even correctional facilities? Today, we're exploring the concept of therapeutic horticulture with the guidance of expert teacher Hilda Krus, who has been a horticultural therapist for over two decades, working with inmates at Rikers Island, New York's largest jail. Let’s dive in!
In this episode, we learn:[08:16] How Hilda Krus became a therapeutic horticulture expert[17:06] What is AHDA?[21:07] Is horticultural therapy the same as therapeutic horticulture?[24:34] Need a plant-based meal delivery system that eases bloat and boosts energy?[27:41] How creating a comfortable and easy space in a garden requires intentional work[31:53] What lessons did Hilda learn after working at Rikers Island for 20 years?[42:15] How can horticultural therapy programs get government funding?[49:09] Hilda describes her routine and a student's typical day at Rikers[51:21] What is the layout of the garden at Rikers Island?[53:46] How is the food they grow on-site at Rikers Island being used?[56:26] Did any of Hilda's students choose to work in horticulture after finishing her class?[59:14] Are you looking to create a spa-like ambiance in your home with beautiful chimes? [01:01:37] Inspiring stories in Rikers' therapeutic horticultural program[01:03:56] What is the Horticultural Society of New York?[01:11:03] What classes does Hilda teach at NYBG?[01:12:13] Hilda’s recommended horticultural books!
Check out the Therapeutic Horticulture Summer Intensive at the NYBG!

Mentioned in our conversation:Soil Science IIntroduction to Plant ScienceThe Science of Tree CommunicationIntroduction to Horticultural TherapyTherapeutic Horticulture Certificate ProgramGrowing Joy Episode 37: Horticultural TherapyAmerican Horticultural Therapy AssociationHorticultural Society of New YorkBook by Sue Stuart-Smith The Well-Gardened MindBook by Rebecca L. Haller, Christine L. Capra Horticultural Therapy Methods
For more insights on therapeutic horticulture,check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:SakaraMake eating healthier easier with science-backed, plant-rich nutrition programs and wellness essentials right to your door! Sakara provides ready-to-eat meals that are nutritionally designed to deliver results — from weight management and eased bloat, to boosted energy and clearer skin. Enjoy delicious meals that have a perfect balance of plants,protein and fats, while also taking control of your physical health.
Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.
Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!
Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow the Horticultural Society:
Hilda’s LinkedIn
Website
Instagram
Twitter

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe

Did you know that plants can also be friends? If you’ve followed me on Instagram this year, you will know about the love affair I am having at The Lodge at Woodloch, a luxury resort and spa, about an hour from where I live. A very interesting aspect of the Lodge at Woodloch is the Blackmore Farm, their regenerative organic farm that grew 9500 lbs of produce for the Lodge’s Restaurant last year! And it is run by only two guys, Sam and Derrick, whom I’ve invited to share their passion for soil biology and sustainable gardening… and to spill all the beans (pun intended) on their companion planting secrets!

In this episode, we learn:[08:09] How The Lodge at Woodloch’s farm developed over the years[12:20] What is the significance and meaning of companion planting?[13:10] The "fruit, root, leaf, aromatic herb, and flower" formula for companion planting[14:05] The relationship between plant taste and companion planting[14:46] Borage, Borage, Borage![16:46] Where can you get a huge selection of flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruits this winter?[18:15] Philosophy behind The Lodge’s motto and how it can be applied to small-scale gardens[26:04] How did Sam and Derrick begin their journey into gardening without formal degrees in agriculture?[28:59] Gardening's growing popularity and valuable lessons from experienced gardeners[30:03] Benefits of using borage as a trap crop in the garden[34:26] Why it’s important to harvest companion plants as they mature[37:01] How companion planting helps you to stay on top of pests and diseases[38:42] When planting potatoes, are you supposed to remove the roots along with the greens of shallow-rooted greens?[39:12] What to do if the roots of the greens and onions become intertwined[39:21] Is it harmful to remove roots from the soil?[42:18] How often does The Lodge use natural pesticides?[45:10] Direct sow or pot-start: which is best for planting established seedlings?[46:43] What should you plant withA annual flowers like zinnias or sunflowers?[49:36] What’s a good companion plant for roses?[52:08] Best way to plant potato leeks[53:43] What does “blanching” mean?[55:26] A few tips for succession planning[59:32] Where can you find Sam and Derrick work on social media?
Mentioned in our conversation:The Biggest Little FarmGrow bagThe Lodge at Woodloch Passion Classes
For Sam and Derrick's fave companion planting combos,check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:Territorial Seed CompanyDon't let the winter blues stop you from gardening! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.
Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow The Lodge at Woodloch:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Plant friends, we are changing things up. We're taking a detour from our typical long-form content to introduce a new format — mini-episodes — taken from our rich conversations. These episodes are meant to be your bite-sized lessons about how to use nature to bring joy into your life. And in this first episode, inspired by our recent interview on aromatic gardening, we’re going to talk about 5 practical steps to incorporate scent into our daily routines.

In this episode, we learn:[00:26] What these mini-episodes are about[01:18] Why smell is important for memory and stress relief[02:39] #1 Going for a restorative post-rain walk[03:21] #2 Utilizing essential oils[03:59] Different ways to diffuse essential oils[04:43] Some essential oils and plants you can use![06:04] #3 Growing scented plants (if you’re not into oils)[08:06] #4 Interplanting aromatic plants with edible plants[08:39] #5 Making yourself a mini bouquet
Check out the 5 tips in detail,read the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Do you love the smell of fresh flowers or the aroma that wafts through your home as you cook with herbs? Smell might not be the first thing we think of when it comes to gardening, but it's actually a super powerful way to bring joy to our gardens! In fact, our sense of smell has strong associations with our long-term memories and emotions. Today, we're chatting with my friend Amy Anthony, a certified clinical aromatherapist and aromatic gardener, who will share her expertise on how aromatic gardening can cultivate joy, calm, and memories through scent.

In this episode, we learn:[05:08] How Amy's passion for plants led to her expertise in aromatherapy[06:46] How the process of obtaining an aromatherapy certification works[09:33] How scents can trigger memories through the olfactory system[14:28] Is the connection between the olfactory system and the brain due to the nose's proximity?[16:57] Where can you find high-quality potting mix and fertilizer for your garden?[19:06] Are you searching for personalized and premium wind chimes for Mother's Day?[22:37] What is aromatic gardening and which plants are its focus?[24:54] Various plants that repel pests or deer[26:26] Can you easily grow aromatic plants, distill their oil, and use it at home?[27:41] Why you should add aromatic plants to your garden [30:57] Amy grows aromatic plants to make tea, hydrosols, and tinctures[34:51] What are the recommended methods for brewing lemon balm tea?[36:56] What’s your go-to resource for identifying plant diseases, preventing animal damage, and setting up a successful garden?[37:52] Amy's recommended plants to promote relaxation[40:09] Which plants are ideal for an afternoon energy boost?[42:31] Which plants promote connection with oneself or others in the context of aromatherapy or sensuality?[45:50] What non-culinary herbs should you try growing?[49:20] Which staple plant is recommended for aromatic gardening?[53:04] Where can you find Amy on social media?
Mentioned in our conversation:Book by Dr. Qing Li Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and HappinessPoem by Twyla M. Hansen The Other WomanNYC Aromatica Plant TalksNYC Aromatica Online Classes
For a list of herbs, flowers, and their benefits,check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!
Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.
Espoma OrganicMake sure your aromatic herbs and plants are getting the right nutrients! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.
Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.
The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by Susan MulvihillThis gardening season, arm yourself with The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by veggie-growing guru Susan Mulvihill of YouTube Susans in the Garden!This book will become your go-to resource for all natural pesticide free solutions and troubleshooting for the gardening woes that will inevitably arise in your garden. The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook will help you properly identify over 28 bacterial and fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and potato scab, limit da