Native Plants, Healthy Planet
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick interview top minds in ecology, restoration, conservation, and native plants. They explore the challenges facing ecosystems and discuss solutions for a healthier planet.
Episodes
Replaying the Hits with Owen Wormser
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with Owen Wormser (Author of Lawns into Meadows) of Abound Design. They discuss Owen's unique upbringing, the importance of meadows and their benefits, ecological facts about maintaining turf grass, and native plants to help turn your meadows i
The Buzz - Bad Crotches
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” spills the tea and even adds honey. “This or That” speaks to preservation and understanding. “Listener Shoutouts” gets hype and “This or That” takes an unexpected turn. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s
Leaving the Land Better Than We Found it with Kyle Wendtland
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Kyle Wendtland (Wyoming Energy Authority Director of Fossil Fuel Development) to discuss reclamation work in the state of Wyoming. Topics include the biggest threats to Wyoming's ecosystems, the challenges of recreating sagebrush ecosystems and the presence of large animals, how the reclamation industry has changed over the decades, the role reclamat
The Buzz - Growing Together
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” highlights some backyard favorites. “This or That” speaks to Darwin and Gauwane. “Listener Shoutouts” gives gratitude and respect and "This or That" makes a triumphant return. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fra
The Beasts from the East with Andrew Moore
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Andrew More (Author Pawpaw: In Search of America’s Forgotten Fruit) to discuss his new book The Beasts of the East: The Fall and Rise of America’s Eastern Wilderness. Topics include doing justice to ecological events through research, collaboration in the field of restoration ecology, the importance of large animals to our ecological web, and signs o
The Buzz - Thanks For Your Comments
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” highlights a memorial and a tribute. “This or That” questions how we look at restoration. “Listener Shoutouts” spark some great questions and “Grow Read A Book” makes a triumphant return! Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – F
Skype a Scientist with Sarah McAnulty
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Sarah McAnulty (Biologist and Executive Director of Skype a Scientist) to discuss Squid and Native Plants in urban setting. Topics include making science accessible to schools, getting the idea of native plants to an unsuspecting patron, marketing in unconventional ways, and the connection between education and art. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men,
Remembering Captain Al Modjeski
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives by remembering Captain Al Modjeski of the American Littoral Society. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with Captain Al about coastal resiliency. Topics include the history of the American Littoral Society, how oysters and Christmas Trees both help in coastal resiliency, the impo
Land Stewardship Planning with Charlotte Lorick
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Charlotte Lorick (Head of Biodiversity Conservation at Oak Spring Garden Foundation) to discuss collaboration in Land Stewardship Planning. Topics include finding your inner Plant Whisperer, misconceptions about land stewarship planning, plant blindness, and tips on starting your own land stewardship plan. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro musi
The Buzz - The Trees Have Eyes
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. What is the demographic this month and does it include jokes?. “That’s Hot” highlights some great spring blooms. “This or That” both feature how plants interact. We have plenty of "Listener Shoutouts" and "This or That" makes a triumphant return! Are you listening to the end for our secret? In
Collaboration in Ecology with Douglas Tallamy, Michael Curran, and Timothy Robinson
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Doug Tallamy (Author, Homegrown National Park, and Professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware), Michael Curran (CEO Abnova Ecological Solutions) and Timothy Robinson (Professor in the University of Wyoming Department of Mathematics and Statistics) to discuss collaboration in ecology. Topics include t
The Buzz - Native Plant Month
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Is there a new host?!? Welcome to Native Plant Month. “That’s Hot” highlights a listener suggestion. “This or That” highlights a community that hurts and a community that helps. Tom and Fran are boots to the ground with a new Mt. Rushmore. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Out
Education and Community with Beth Ginter of the Chesapeake Conservation Landscaping Council
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Beth Ginter (Executive Director) of the Chesapeake Conservation Landscaping Council, to discuss education, community, and quality in stewardship. Topics include the beginnings of the CCLC, the importance of the Turning a New Leaf Conference, why training matters, and how you can become involved. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Be
The Buzz - A Ribbiting Experience
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Did you hear? The Buzz is HOT! Welcome to National Frog Month. “That’s Hot” highlights emerging color. “This or That” tackles theft and highlights a former guest. Tom and Fran get stuck with a Mt. Rushmore. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s
NJ Coastal and Climate Resilience Conference Part 2 with Joshua Moody
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Joshua Moody (Research Scientist at NJDEP), to discuss Coastal Resilience. Topics include Coastal Resilience, the NJCCRC Conference and the importance of collaboration, the wonders of Atlantic White Cedar habitat, Josh's journey through ecology, and the promise of a better future. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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The Buzz - If You Think Native Plants are Boring, You're in Luck!
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. It’s still conference season! Tom shares his experience at his latest speaking engagement. “That’s Hot” is sticky in more ways than one. “This or That” tackles biodiversity, or lack thereof. Tom and Fran sink into a new Mt. Rushmore. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro musi
NJ Coastal and Climate Resilience Conference with Terry Doss and Amanda Archer
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Terry Doss (Co-Director and Chief Restoration Scientist) of the Meadowlands Research and Restoration Institute, and Amanda Archer (Coastal Training & Engagement Coordinator) of Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve, to discuss Coastal Resilience. Topics include Coastal Resilience, the NJCCRC Conference and the importance of collabo
The Buzz - Can You Smell That Smell?
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. It's conference season! We have a Canada Goose update. “That’s Hot” is touring the Southern United States. “This or That” tackles Climate Change and Urban Endangered Plants. Tom and Fran have a new Mt. Rushmore. Can you smell what Tom and Fran are cooking? Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music b
Harmful Algal Blooms with Dr. Fred Lubnow and Jenn Rogers
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Fred Lubnow (Senior Technical Director) of Princeton Hydro, and Jenn Rogers (Executive Director) of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, to discuss Harmful Algal Blooms. Topics include What is a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) and what does it mean for you, how and why do HAB's occur, what technology is used to monitor and prevent them from occurring
The Buzz - Caaryaaa!
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Tom and Fran spill the tea. “That’s Hot” pits Northeast vs Southwest. “This or That” travels abroad so make sure you check travel times. Tom and Fran have a new Mt. Rushmore. Are you listening to the end for our musical secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s P
Roots So Deep with Mike McGraw and Santino Lauricella
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Mike McGraw (Senior Project Manager. Regulatory Compliance and Wildlife Surveys; Senior Wildlife Biologist) of Princeton Hydro, and Santino Lauricella (Education Manager) of Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, to discuss the Roots So Deep Documentary. Topics include how Mike became involved with the project, generational shifts in family owned agricul
The Buzz - Film at 11
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. The Roots So Deep screening was a success! Could there be video in the future? “That’s Hot” pits East Coast vs West Coast. “This or That” offers hope and answers. Tom and Fran have plenty of shout outs this episode. We have a caller! Are you listening to the end for a secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music b
Meet Bill Jones of Carolina Native Nursery
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Bill Jones (Founder and President) of Carolina Native Nursery to discuss resilience in native plants and mankind. Topics include starting a nursery, choosing to grow native plants, devastation at the hands of a hurricane, resurgence after the storm, and the importance of community. It wouldn’t be a show without talking about our favorite native plant
The Buzz - Well Hello Polly
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Between a Reddit AMA, a Roots So Deep screening, MANTS, and NDAL there is a ton of follow up! “That’s Hot” is gold and green. “This or That” offers hope and information. Tom and Fran have plenty of shout outs this episode. Are you listening to the end for a secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Ben
Mt. Cuba Center Solidago Trials with Sam Hoadley
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome back Sam Hoadley (Horticultural Research Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the results of their soon to be published Solidago trials. It’s time to get excited about Solidago! They discuss which Solidago performed well and which ones performed better, surprise value of many of the Solidago species, How species rated in the trials as well as the buz
The Buzz - Top 10 of 2025
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There are winners for the Roots So Deep Screening! “That’s Hot” strings together chewing gum and milk. “This or That” deals with Hope and Change. We talk about our Top 10 Episodes of 2025 and the Top 10 Episodes of All Time. Tom has a secret. Make sure you listen to the end. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by
Replaying the Hits with Heather Holm
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with author Heather Holm to celebrate our native bees and wasps. Topics include debunking popular myths about native bees and wasps, diving deep into specialist bees and parasitoid wasps, exploring soft landings and native plants, and how you c
Replaying the Hits with Camille Dungy
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with Camille Dungy (Author and Distinguished Professor at Colorado State University) to discuss her new book Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden. Topics include the inspiration for Soil, the progress of "The Prairie Project",
Replaying the Hits with Daniela Shebitz
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with Dr. Daniela Shebitz (Chair and Professor, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences - Kean University) to talk about land management and our connections with nature. Topics include theories of land management throughout different cultures,
Replaying the Hits with Kyle Lybarger
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes from the Native Plants Healthy Planet Archives. In this episode, Tom and Fran talk with Kyle Lybarger (Founder, Director, and CEO) from Native Habitat Project about creating a space for conservation and restoration in social media. They discuss the formation of a community of passionate conservation and sportspersons profess
Grievances for All with John Mark Courtney and Santino Lauricella
Happy Festivus! Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with John Mark Courtney (Owner, Kind Earth Growers) and Santino Lauricella (Education Manager, Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve), to celebrate the Airing of Grievances. Topics include light native plant snacks and drinks, Mt. Rushmore of ecological heroes, and Feats of Strength with a Plant ID quiz. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro
The Buzz - Native Plant Work
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Want to see Roots So Deep with us? Tune in to find out how to win tickets! “That’s Hot” is for the birds but may be hard to swallow. “This or That” shows the world who we are and how to heal you. In a new segment we have a listener topic. Fran has a secret? Make sure you listen to the end. Intro music by RJ Comer,
Planning for the Future with David McKinney
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with David McKinney, Curator of Collections and Grounds at Iowa Arboretum and Gardens, to discuss the future of our natural ecosystems. Topics include how David found his love for native plants, stewardship of natural lands at the arboretum, what climate change means for pollinators, non-native plants in urban environments, and it wouldn’t be a show witho
The Buzz - Green Friday
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Check out our Black Friday Promo!!! Where in the World is Tom Knezick? “That’s Hot” is all in the fall color. Why did “This or That” cross the Highway - It's all in our memory. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Want to see Roots So Deep with us? "Take it or Leave it" makes a triumphant return. Are yo
Cues to Care with Katie Fisk
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with environmental educator Katie Fisk to discuss Cues to Care. Topics include Katie's journey into environmental stewardship, tips for creating biodiversity on your own property, creating habitat affordably, the value of environmental education, and it wouldn't be a show without favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave
Replaying the Hits with Andrew the Arborist and Griff Griffith
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share two of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast that highlight Native Plant Influencers. First is Andrew Conboy (Andrew The Arborist) to discuss native plants and social media. Topics include Andrew's path to becoming an arborist, inspirations along the way, blowing up on social media, Andrew's nonprofit Community Canopy Project,
/r/nativeplantgardening with Rob and Friend
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Rob and Skunk (Moderators of the subreddit Native Plant Gardening) to discuss the consequences that led to this episode of the podcast. Topics include the Native Plant Gardening Community, adding cues to care in gardens, advice for the native plant beginner, and favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
Fol
The Buzz - Frankenshrub
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There is plenty of follow up this episode. “That’s Hot” feels like fall in the air and the scent of salt. “This or That” pits conservation vs conservation. Did we give you a shoutout this week? There is a brand new segment this episode just in time for Halloween. Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro mu
Painting the Landscape with Philip Juras
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with artist Philip Juras to discuss painting the natural world. Topics include allowing yourself to be moved by our natural environments, inviting the audience into your perspective, historical significance of the landscapes that Philip paints, and favorite places to get inspired. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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The Buzz - Remember the Moths
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There is plenty of follow up this episode. “That’s Hot” visits the south and appeals to the foragers. “This or That” pits butterflies against moths. Did we give you a shoutout this week? There is a brand new segment this episode so get your list ready. Are you listening to the end for Fran's Listener Shoutout? Intr
Community Stewardship with Robert Aluck of Sourland Conservancy
Pull up a chair and grab a Pawpaw Ale as Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Robert Aluck (Stewardship Director) of Sourland Conservancy . Topics include engaging the community and partners to maximize your efforts, finding purpose in native plants, achieving organizational goals, and and the importance of ecological outreach. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennet
The Buzz - Mt Rush-More
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There is plenty of follow up this episode. “That’s Hot” is something old and something new. “This or That” goes into the weeds with messaging and survival. Did we give you a shoutout this week? There is a brand new segment this episode so get your list ready. Are you listening to the end for a secret? Intro music b
Ecological IQ with Preston Montague
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with ecological landscape architect Preston Montague. Topics include adding human elements to ecological landscapes, finding your niche in the ecological world, doing justice with current projects, giving props to gardening heroes, and favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
Follow Preston Montague Here.
Have
The Buzz - Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” is both black and white and gray. “This or That” researches ticks and introduces bison. Did we give you a shoutout this week? "Take it or Leaf it" is a little stream of consciousness. Hey Mom, how about a some Meatloaf? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s
The Return of Rebecca McMackin
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick reconnect with Rebecca McMackin. Topics include what has happened in Rebecca's world since her last visit to the podcast such as Ted Talks and discussing environmentalism with Neko Case. We also discuss favorite native plants, horticultural media, and upcoming projects. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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Ha
The Buzz - So You Want To Start A Nursery
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Let's talk about the Land Ethic Symposium. “That’s Hot” is both near and far. “This or That” talks about hope for both birds and trees. Did we give you a shoutout this week? What advice to Tom and Fran have about starting a Native Plant Nursery. Stay tuned in for the secret as it becomes this episode's outro music.
Plant One On Me with Summer Rayne Oakes
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with environmentalist, activist, and author Summer Rayne Oakes. Topics include Summer's path into ecological landscaping, the importance of education and storytelling, combining the love of ecology and nature with homesteading, and favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
Follow Summer Rayne Oakes Here.
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The Buzz - The Art of Reconnection
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. How many magazine covers has Tom been on? “That’s Hot” is nothing to sneeze about. “This or That” talks about shapes and connections. A listeners phones in about AI. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s Plant
Read Fran’s Articl
Listening to Nature with Amy Martin from Threshold Podcast
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Amy Martin (Executive Producer, Threshold Podcast) to talk about Listening to Nature. Topics include Amy's path from a fam in Iowa to creating Threshold Podcast, adding perspective and humility to the human experience, the journey to becoming one with nature, and meaningful experiences along the way. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by D
The Buzz - Cheesed Out
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Let's talk about Ireland and Iowa - and how much cheese is too much? Tom goes to PPA. “That’s Hot” is home and away. “This or That” deals with making a difference and needing more. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s Plant
Read
Native Lawns with Todd Bittner of Cornell Botanic Gardens
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Todd Bittner (Director of Natural Areas, Cornell Botanic Gardens) to talk about Native Lawns. Topics include the history of Native Lawn 1.0 and its advantages, New York Times coverage, surprise performers and workhorses in native lawn settings, what comes next, and of course, favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Da
The Buzz - Out of Proportion
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. The burning question is are there more voices??? Listen to find out. Tom and Fran go to Cultivate “That’s Hot” brings The Chop! “This or That” gives Muskrat Love in a tiny forest, while “Take it of Leaf it” has unlimited growth potential. Can we talk ferns? Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intro music by RJ Com
Crossings with Ben Goldfarb
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Ben Goldfarb (Author of Crossings, Eager) to talk about road ecology. Topics include the history of road ecology, how our highway systems impact wildlife, how have wildlife crossings improves, what type of wildlife is impacted most, and of course, favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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The Buzz - Do More Better
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Find out what it is like to record the same episode twice. Tom wins a prestigious award!!! “That’s Hot” discusses dye and drugs. “This or That” discusses evolution and ethnobotany, while “Take it of Leaf it” talks about the housing situation. Let me stand next to your fire! Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intr
Bad Naturalist with Paula Whyman
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Paula Whyman (Author of Bad Naturalist) to talk about creating change and finding ecological peace. Topics include collecting professional advice, figuring out the best place to start a project, understanding the historical context of your ecological restoration, and of course, favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by
The Buzz - Don't Mess with the Zohran
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. We have a little Reddit Follow Up this week. “That’s Hot” discusses spines and spikes, “This or That” debates lists and sizes, and “Take it of Leaf it” is a rare treat. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s Plant
Read Fran’s Arti
Making Real Change with Edwina von Gal
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Edwina von Gal (Founder at Edwina von Gal + Co. and Founder at Perfect Earth Project) to talk about making real ecological change in our gardens. Topics include global ground rules, changes in the landscape design world, embracing being an expert, the creation of the Perfect Earth Project, and of course, favorite native plants. Music by Egocentric P
The Buzz - Planting on Common Ground
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Our Facebook Group has the BEST content! “That’s Hot” discusses yellow and blue. “This or That” takes a look under the ground as well as the health of our forests. Don't you dare call “Take it of Leaf it” lazy. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s Hot
Meet Meadow Lab
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Claire Chambers of Meadow Lab and Sam Monaghan of Wildflower Turf UK to talk about an exciting new product that is making its way to the United States. Topics include the concept of wildflower sod, the benefits of wildflower sod compared to traditional restorations that are done by seeding, the journey of perfecting wildflower sod as well as the jour
The Buzz - The Perfect Balance
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Let's talk about our Facebook Group! “That’s Hot” highlights two plants we have never seen in the wild...that we know of. “This or That” is good over here but not over there. "Take it of Leaf it" gets called some bad names. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a sec
Moving Art with Louie Schwartzberg
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with award winning director and cinematographer Louie Schwartzberg (Fantastic Fungi, Wings of Life, Moving Art) to talk about finding a connection with nature. Topics include being thankful for the little things, the art of storytelling, rooting for the underdog, and the healing properties of nature. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave B
The Buzz - Personal Evolutions
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” highlights some favorites that we don't give enough love to. “This or That” dives deep into some heavy topics. "Tom's Petty" rises up to defend our friends. Fran and Tom zoom out and see a larger picture. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a secret.
Ecological Ethics with Kelly Norris
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Kelly Norris (Author and Founder/Curator of The Public Horticulture Company, to talk about ecological ethics. Topics include the ecological gardening movement, inspirations for his books New Naturalism and Your Natural Garden, Kelly's favorite gardening trends, and finding your love for native plants. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by
The Buzz - Keeping it Tight
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There is fire abound! “That’s Hot” highlights what was found in a cemetery and a hunting field. “This or That” focuses on what is not there and what could be there. “Take it of Leaf it” might not contribute. A listener shares a great website resource. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of th
Restoring Environmental Function with Patrick Cullina
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Patrick Cullina (Owner, Patrick Cullina Horticultural Design and Consulting) to talk about ecological gardening in public spaces. Topics include finding horticulture as a career, incorporating function and systems in urban and public spaces, the beginnings of the High Line in NYC, and Pat's favorite underused native tree. Music by Egocentric Plastic
The Buzz - Finding the Sweet Spot
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. Why are Tom and Fran NOT in the same room? “That’s Hot” recalls a harmless prank. “This or That” builds roadways to new worlds. “Take it of Leaf it” has a funny take. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a secret. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s
Meet Arlington National Cemetery with Kelly Wilson and Greg Huse
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Kelly Wilson (Horticulturalist) and Greg Huse (Urban Forester) of Arlington National Cemetery to discuss the heritage of horticulture at the cemetery. Topics include honoring those who gave their lives for this country through horticulture, the challenges of maintaining excellence, implementing ecological strategies into current and future projects,
The Buzz - How Does Your Funding Grow?
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” picks a page. “This or That” is a little more uplifting this week. “Take it of Leaf it” leads to a very interesting discussion about university funding. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a secret. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
That’s H
Knowledge is Power with Dr. Jared Barnes
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Jared Barnes (Associate Professor of Horticulture at Stephen F. Austin State University) to talk about inspiring people to garden. Topics include the power of knowledge and education, the rise of ecological gardening, current gardening trends, and Jared's journey into horticulture. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
Fo
The Buzz - No Clues Given
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” picks an edible and a botanical. “This or That” has Tom and Fran realizing how much they do not know. “Take it of Leaf it” puts a round object in a square hole.. Did we give you a shoutout this week? There are secrets galore this episode as well as some pettiness! Listen to the end of the episode f
Native Plants Connections with Ken Parker
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Ken Parker (Owner – Native Plant Guy Consulting) to talk about human interaction with native plants. Topics include reconnecting Indigenous Tribes with traditional foods and healthier eating, interesting medicinal uses for native plants, and inspirations in ecology. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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The Buzz - Keep Your Cats Indoors
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” picks a number and takes and interesting turn. “This or That” has Tom and Fran trying not to press the panic button and find some good and make some sense. “Take it of Leaf it” asks what kind of steward you are. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Grow Read a Book takes to the mountains! Listen t
How to Love a Forest with Ethan Tapper
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Ethan Tapper (Owner - Bear Island Consulting and Author of How to Love a Forest) to talk about his book How to Love a Forest. Topics include Ethan's journey into forestry, the challenges of stewardship, signs of a healthy forest, being a steward of wildlife, and learning to write a book. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
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Celebrating Five Years and 250 Episodes
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back to celebrate five years, 250 episodes, and over a half a million downloads of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast. That celebration does not come without technical difficulties. Thank you to all of our listeners who have made the journey with us and took the time to call in to our show. “That’s Hot” asks, "What is your favorite native plant?
The Philadelphia Flower Show with Andrew Bunting
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Andrew Bunting (Vice President of Horticulture) from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Topics include how gardening has changed over the years as well as the view on native plants, PHS and the wonderful work and programs they offer, how they incorporate native plants into urban gardens as well as the internationally renowned Philadelphia Flower
The Buzz - Split on the Split
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” is an oldie but a goodie. “This or That” leads to some difficult discussions. “Take it of Leaf it” has Tom and Fran on opposite ends. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Grow Read a Book is a surprise! Listen to the end of the episode for a secret. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Be
Mt. Cuba Center Vernonia Trials with Sam Hoadley
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome back Sam Hoadley (Horticultural Research Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the results of their newly published Vernonia trials. It's time to get excited about Vernonia! They discuss which Vernonia performed well and which ones performed better, surprise value of many of the Vernonia species, How species rated in the trials as well as the buzz gen
The Buzz - The Gift that Keeps on Giving
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. We've been exhibiting and speaking. Find out how it's been going. “That’s Hot” takes to the trees. “This or That” deals with fire and rain. “Take it of Leaf it” leaves Tom and Fran collecting their thoughts. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a follow up to Tom’s secret.
Ecological Ramblings with Mike McGraw
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Mike McGraw from Princeton Hydro to discuss all things ecology speaking. Topics include the journey from a big city to wildlife biologist, the impact of deer, the documentary "Roots so Deep" and regenerative farming, and making your own ecological impact. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett.
Follow Princeton Hydro H
The Buzz - Top 10 Episodes of All-Time
Happy New Year! Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. “That’s Hot” ironically, looks good in the snow. “This or That” talks about raking and preserving. “Take it of Leaf it” is a little general. Tom and Fran break down our Top 10 of All-Time and our Top Ten of 2024. Did we give you a shoutout this week? Listen to the end of the episode for a follo
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