Stories from the Garden

Dr. Allan Armitage
  • 4.8 (22)
  • Home & Garden

Gardening is not brain surgery or rocket science. There is so much more to our gardens than compost and digging holes. The plants we garden with are story machines, each begging to be heard. Each week, sit back and listen to award-winning author and internationally acclaimed horticulturist Dr Allan Armitage as he talks about the “rest of the story.” For example, was there really someone called Joe Pye, and how did the poppy become the flower of remembrance? Find a little time in your day for some storytelling to fire up your curiosity and learn something interesting to share with others.

  1. Jul 3

    Dr.A's Top Picks from the Garden: Amsonia

    In this episode, Dr. Allan Armitage shares one of his favorite native perennials—the beautiful and dependable Blue Star Flower (Amsonia). While its soft blue spring blooms are charming, the real magic of these plants comes from their graceful foliage and, for some varieties, spectacular fall color. Dr. A compares two outstanding species that deserve a place in more gardens: Arkansas Blue Star (Amsonia hubrichtii) – prized for its delicate, thread-like foliage and breathtaking golden fall color, especially in cooler climates.Eastern Blue Star (Amsonia tabernaemontana) – featuring larger leaves, richer blue flowers, and excellent garden performance across a wide range of growing conditions.Along the way, you'll learn: Why Amsonia is one of the easiest native perennials to growThe differences between these two popular speciesWhich variety performs best in northern versus southern gardensWhy fall color can vary depending on your climateHow these long-lived plants bring beauty to gardens throughout multiple seasonsWhether you're looking for reliable spring flowers, outstanding fall foliage, or simply a tough, beautiful native perennial, Blue Star deserves a closer look. Mentioned in this episode: Arkansas Blue Star (Amsonia hubrichtii)Eastern Blue Star (Amsonia tabernaemontana)Native perennialsFall color in the perennial gardenThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow gardener. For more gardening resources and Dr. Allan Armitage's books, visit alanarmitage.com. See you in the garden!

    Dr.A's Top Picks from the Garden: Amsonia

  2. May 15

    Revisting Stories from the Garden, Monarda

    Spring has been a whirlwind around here, but I’ll be back soon with more stories and legends from the garden. In the meantime, join me for a fascinating detour into the history of one of the garden’s brightest stars: Monarda. You may know it as Bee Balm and assume the name comes from its irresistible appeal to bees and butterflies—and while pollinators certainly love it, the real story behind the name is far more surprising. In this episode of Stories from the Garden, we’ll uncover the history, folklore, and botanical twists behind this vibrant native plant that has charmed gardeners for generations.

    Revisting Stories from the Garden, Monarda

  3. May 8

    Dr. A chats with Lis Friemoth of The Garden Hoe

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Allan Armitage and Lis Friemoth of The Garden Hoe explore the joys and challenges of gardening. They discuss the importance of patience in horticulture, the emotional benefits of gardening, and the camaraderie that comes from sharing gardening experiences. The conversation emphasizes that gardening should be fun rather than overly serious, encouraging listeners to enjoy the process and embrace nature's unpredictability.

    Dr. A chats with Lis Friemoth of The Garden Hoe

  4. Apr 24

    Re-Release! A First Listen: The Common-Sense Gardener with Dr. Allan Armitage

    Join beloved horticulturist, storyteller, and garden sage Dr. Allan Armitage for an exclusive first listen to his upcoming book The Common-Sense Gardener. In this special episode, Dr. A reads the opening chapters himself—infusing every anecdote, bit of wit, and piece of hard-earned wisdom with the warmth and humor only he can deliver. Pull up a chair, pour a cup of something warm, and settle in for a charming conversation between gardener and garden. Grab your copy today for Mother's Day! Free Shipping on sales through May 10. www.allanarmitage.net

    Re-Release! A First Listen: The Common-Sense Gardener with Dr. Allan Armitage

  5. Apr 10

    A Guide to Growing Asters in Your Garden

    Discover how to successfully grow asters in your garden with expert tips and insights. Ideal for gardeners of all levels looking to enhance their floral displays. Asters are beloved for their vibrant colors and late-season blooms, but many gardeners have mixed feelings about these perennial plants. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of growing asters, including their limitations, care tips, and some of the best varieties to consider for your garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, you’ll find valuable insights on how to make the most of these charming flowers. https://www.chicagobotanic.org/downloads/planteval_notes/no36_asters.pdf

    A Guide to Growing Asters in Your Garden

  6. Apr 3

    Dr. A's Top Picks for the Garden: Spirea ‘Double Play Candy Corn’

    In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of Spirea, specifically the standout variety known as 'Double Play Candy Corn.' Join us as we explore why this stunning plant is a must-have for any garden enthusiast. From its eye-catching foliage to its effortless adaptability, we’ll discuss how 'Double Play Candy Corn' brings a splash of color and charm to your outdoor space. Tune in and discover why this gem deserves a place in your garden!

    Dr. A's Top Picks for the Garden: Spirea ‘Double Play Candy Corn’

  7. Mar 27

    Stories from the Garden, A few of my favorites things

    In this episode of Stories from the Garden, Dr. A reviews some of his favorite things. We have bounced back to February of 2023, and I wish I more space for all the wonderful Baptisia; I'm often recommending books, shows and gardens to visit. Find the full list of all my favorites  and follow along with me on Stories from the garden for a little more deep dives into the best of the best. https://www.allanarmitage.net/armitages-favorites

    Stories from the Garden, A few of my favorites things

  8. Mar 13

    Buttonwood and the New York Stock Exchange, you say?

    In this fascinating episode, we explore the surprising ways plants quietly shape human history. Horticulturist and storyteller Allan Armitage shares one of his favorite examples—how a simple tree became the unlikely backdrop for a moment that would change global finance. In 1792, twenty-four brokers gathered outside 68 Wall Street to bring order to the chaotic world of securities trading. Beneath the shade of a buttonwood tree—a name many people have heard but rarely recognize—they signed what became known as the Buttonwood Agreement. That document ultimately laid the foundation for the New York Stock Exchange. This episode uncovers the story behind the name “buttonwood,” the plant itself, and the quiet but fascinating role plants often play in shaping pivotal historical moments. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most influential witnesses in history are rooted firmly in the background. Perfect for gardeners, plant lovers, and anyone who enjoys discovering the hidden botanical stories woven through our world.

    Buttonwood and the New York Stock Exchange, you say?
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4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Gardening is not brain surgery or rocket science. There is so much more to our gardens than compost and digging holes. The plants we garden with are story machines, each begging to be heard. Each week, sit back and listen to award-winning author and internationally acclaimed horticulturist Dr Allan Armitage as he talks about the “rest of the story.” For example, was there really someone called Joe Pye, and how did the poppy become the flower of remembrance? Find a little time in your day for some storytelling to fire up your curiosity and learn something interesting to share with others.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Allan Armitage
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Allan Armitage
  • Show Website
    Stories from the Garden

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