Keeping It Green

Penn State Extension

Our landscapes have many functions; they add beauty to our surroundings, provide a place to recreate, reduce stress, and clean and cool the surrounding environment. They also provide pollen and nectar for pollinators and provide habitat for birds. Keeping It Green is a weekly podcast in which Penn State extension educators talk with ornamental plant professionals and enthusiasts who add beauty and function to our landscapes. Topics will range from design, installation and maintenance, plant selection, pests, and other current horticulture topics.

  1. 6d ago

    Season 4 Episode 6 - Steve Wright, Director of Horticulture/Curator of Jenkins Arboretum and Gardens

    Steve Wright, Director of Horticulture and Curator at Jenkins Arboretum and Gardens, joins the podcast to discuss the garden’s collections, ecological work, and community programs. His fascination with big trees began while developing a forestry curriculum as a high school agriculture teacher. Reading about remarkable trees around the world led him to graduate study at Louisiana State University and, ultimately, a career in horticulture and public gardens. Wright describes Jenkins’ woodland setting and its standout collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, and native plants. He explains how the team uses research to choose plants that support pollinators and birds while creating year-round interest. The conversation also covers the Arboretum’s history, free public access, restoration projects, and the volunteers and donors who help sustain its work. Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (co-host) Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension  (co-host)  Steve Wright, Director of Horticulture/Curator of Jenkins Arboretum and Gardens Photo courtesy of Steve Wright Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 6 - Steve Wright, Director of Horticulture/Curator of Jenkins Arboretum and Gardens

  2. Jul 6

    Season 4 Episode 5 –with Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension

    In this special episode of Keeping It Green, the podcast team welcomes co-host Sandy Feather as a guest to celebrate her 29.5-year career with Penn State Extension. Sandy reflected on her journey from journalism to a horticulture educator role, discussed key industry challenges such as oak wilt, spotted lanternfly, and recent weather impacts, and shared her thoughts on trends, including native plants and sustainability. She also spoke about the importance of mentoring the next generation of green industry professionals and her plans for retirement, including volunteer work with Tree Pittsburgh and spending more time exploring one of her favorite places, the unique high-elevation landscapes of Dolly Sods in West Virginia.  Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tim Abbet, Penn State Extension (host) Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension Picture courtesy of Sandy Feather Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 5 –with Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension

  3. May 14

    Season 4 Episode 4 –with Jeremy Webber, Ornamental Crop Team Manager of Koppert Biological Systems US

    How does a kid who once dreamed of becoming a professional lifeguard while growing up in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina end up as a leader in biological pest control? Join the Green Industry podcast team as we sit down with Jeremy Webber to hear his story. After starting his career as a nursery grower, Jeremy joined Koppert more than 15 years ago and worked his way up to a national manager role, leading a team that helps growers implement integrated pest management using beneficial insects, mites, and other biological solutions. His work centers on supporting consultants and guiding growers toward more sustainable, less chemically dependent production systems. Tune in and find out how Jeremy has come full circle and keeps his toes in the saltwater.  Episode Hosts/Speakers: Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension (host)  Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (host) Jeremy Webber, Ornamental Crop Team Manager of Koppert Biological Systems US Caption – Jeremy Webber, Koppert Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 4 –with Jeremy Webber, Ornamental Crop Team Manager of Koppert Biological Systems US

  4. Feb 10

    Season 4 Episode 3 –with Jazmin Albarran, Executive Director of Seed Your Future

    Many young people who love plants never realize that horticulture is a thriving STEM field—one filled with innovation and numerous career paths. For decades, parents, teachers, and even school career counselors have unintentionally steered students away from the industry, believing it’s “just growing plants”. In reality, horticulture needs everything from conservation biologists and greenhouse technicians to sales professionals, graphic designers, and even horticultural lawyers. The industry is tackling global challenges like soil erosion, pollinator decline, and climate resilience—yet many young adults simply don’t know it exists as a viable, fulfilling career. Some only discover it after a long and winding journey from other professions. That’s where Seed Your Future comes in. This national nonprofit is dedicated to educating students, parents, and educators about the modern world of horticulture and the wide range of careers it offers. And in this episode, Executive Director Jazmin Albarran shares her own unexpected path into the field—shaped by years in youth development and mental health—and how she now works to equip teachers, guide career changers, and help the industry highlight what it does best. As Jazmin explains, the industry is hiring for passion, and there’s a place for anyone who wants to contribute to a greener, healthier world. Also, tune in and learn about the concept of “plant blindness”. Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tim Abbet, Penn State Extension (host) Jazmin Albarran, Executive Director of Seed Your Future  Photo: Laurie Carrozzino Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 3 –with Jazmin Albarran, Executive Director of Seed Your Future

  5. Jan 13

    Season 4 Episode 2 –with Nick Flax, Technical Services Specialist - Ball Seed Company

    What does it take to keep greenhouse plants healthy—and where can a career in this growing industry lead you? In this episode, Nick, a Ball Seed Company technical support specialist, shares what it’s like to troubleshoot plant problems and support diverse operations. We explore how technology, sustainability, and innovation are transforming greenhouse production, and why these changes are creating exciting new roles for both seasoned professionals and newcomers. Whether you’re curious about plant science, fascinated by high-tech greenhouses, or considering a career in horticulture, this conversation offers insider perspectives you won’t want to miss. Tune in to discover why the greenhouse industry might be your next big opportunity!   Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension (host) Nick Flax, Technical Services Specialist - Ball Seed Company Caption – photo courtesy of Tom Butzler Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 2 –with Nick Flax, Technical Services Specialist - Ball Seed Company

  6. 12/02/2025

    Season 4 Episode 1 –with Penn State Extension Educator Ruth Benner and Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Program Coordinator for Penn State University’s Landscape Contracting Major, Associate Professor

    Planning a trip to England and looking for inspiration on garden sites to explore? This episode of Keeping It Green is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Join the team as they sit down with Penn State Extension Educator Ruth Benner and Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Coordinator of the Landscape Contracting Major at Penn State University. They share highlights from their recent travels abroad, offering observations on gardens and plants across different countries—with a special focus on England and Ireland. Discover what makes botanical gardens, historic estates, and public parks in the UK so unique. The conversation dives into contrasts between British and American gardening practices, explores iconic garden designs and plant selections, and reflects on cultural attitudes toward horticulture. Plus, learn why visiting historic gardens can be an enriching educational experience for anyone passionate about plants and landscapes. Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension (host) Ruth Benner, Penn State Extension  Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Program Coordinator for Penn State University’s Landscape Contracting Major, Associate Professor Photo: Sissinghurst Castle, Ruth Benner, PSU Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 4 Episode 1 –with Penn State Extension Educator Ruth Benner and Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Program Coordinator for Penn State University’s Landscape Contracting Major, Associate Professor

  7. 10/10/2025

    Season 3 Episode 7 with Jeff Jabco, Executive Director of Scott Arboretum and Gardens

    In this episode of Keeping It Green, the team sits down with Jeff Jabco, Executive Director of the Scott Arboretum and Gardens, to explore his horticulture journey and the evolution of the Swarthmore Arboretum and Gardens. Jeff shares how the Scott Arboretum began as the Scott Foundation—established in 1929 by Swarthmore College alumni Mr. and Mrs. Scott to showcase exceptional plants for Delaware Valley home gardeners—and how it transformed into a dynamic space that blends curated plant collections with thoughtfully designed garden environments. He explains why “Gardens” was added to the name and how it better reflects the Arboretum’s mission to connect with the public. Jeff also discusses his deep ties to Penn State, where he earned his horticulture degree, launched his career with Penn State Extension, and later collaborated on research involving growing degree days and green roof systems. And what exactly is “Peony Palooza”? Tune in to find out. Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension (host) Jeff Jabco, Executive Director of Scott Arboretum and Gardens Photo Credit: Becky Robert Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 3 Episode 7 with Jeff Jabco, Executive Director of Scott Arboretum and Gardens

  8. 09/09/2025

    Season 3 Episode 6 –with Wendy Leuenberger, graduate student at Michigan State University’s Zipkin Quantitative Ecology Lab

    Wendy’s journey into entomology began with outdoor adventures alongside her dad—hunting, fishing, and exploring nature. That foundation deepened during a unique high school program located inside a zoo. That experience sparked a growing interest in insects, which she carried through undergraduate into graduate school at Michigan State University to a quantitative ecology lab rich with butterfly data. In this episode, she explores how volunteers—many trained through grassroots efforts—have contributed tens of thousands of hours to monitoring butterfly species, helping build one of the most comprehensive insect datasets in the country. The conversation touches on population trends, habitat needs, and the role of land use in shaping insect communities. Episode Hosts/Speakers: Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)  Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension (host) Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (host) Wendy Leuenberger, graduate student at Michigan State University’s Zipkin Quantitative Ecology Lab Photo caption – butterfly on Aesculus parviflora (bottlebrush buckeye), photo Tom Butzler Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you! Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!

    Season 3 Episode 6 –with Wendy Leuenberger, graduate student at Michigan State University’s Zipkin Quantitative Ecology Lab
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Ratings & Reviews

4.2
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Our landscapes have many functions; they add beauty to our surroundings, provide a place to recreate, reduce stress, and clean and cool the surrounding environment. They also provide pollen and nectar for pollinators and provide habitat for birds. Keeping It Green is a weekly podcast in which Penn State extension educators talk with ornamental plant professionals and enthusiasts who add beauty and function to our landscapes. Topics will range from design, installation and maintenance, plant selection, pests, and other current horticulture topics.

Information

  • Creator
    Penn State Extension
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Keeping It Green
  • Show Website
    Keeping It Green

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