Advertise on podcast: Stories from the Garden

In this episode, Dr. A turns our attention to impatiens—plants often found in moist areas, especially along streams, and growing naturally in many parts of the world. While familiar garden impatiens may seem ordinary at first glance, Dr. A reminds us that these plants, like so many others, have fascinating stories to tell. One of the most memorable features of impatiens is the seed pods that mature after the flowers fade. Dr. A describes the remarkable moment when an impatiens seed pod is gently squeezed between your fingers—often making gardeners jump, a trait that may explain how impatiens earned its common name. It’s a simple, hands-on reminder that plants are far more dynamic than we often realize, and that even the most familiar garden residents can surprise us.

Fragrance in the garden isn’t limited to blooms alone. Dr. Allan Armitage reminds us that many plants offer scent through foliage as well as flowers. Fennel is a perfect example—simply brushing against the plant releases its unmistakable aroma. And you’re not the only one who enjoys fennel. It also serves as a host plant for the swallowtail butterfly. Don’t be surprised if you notice swallowtail caterpillars chewing on the leaves in late summer. Their presence is not a problem, but rather a sign of a healthy, living garden ecosystem.

This podcast explores the fascinating world of plants, gardens, and the unexpected lessons they teach us. Dr. Allan Armitage shares stories from his gardening experiences, delving into the origins of plant names and the intriguing history behind them. The episode highlights the story of Epimedium, also known as horny goatsweed, and its historical significance in fertility treatments.

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 a your copy from November 15-December 15, 2025. They won't be available again until Spring 2026. www.allanarmitage.net

Everybody loves dahlias — in the garden, in a vase, or as a gift to a friend. But as Dr. Allan Armitage reminds us, these showstoppers aren’t always the easiest plants to please. In this colorful episode, Dr. A dives into the world of dahlias: how to start them from tubers, the best ways to get an early bloom, and what to do when winter rolls around. From the big, bold “show dahlias” that knock your socks off to the compact pot varieties brightening up garden centers, you’ll discover which types work best in your climate and how to keep them thriving year after year.

In this charming episode of Stories from the Garden, Dr. Allan Armitage takes us back to medieval Europe to uncover the fascinating history of soapwort—or Saponaria, as botanists know it. Ever wondered where early soaps came from, or how barmaids in old English inns kept their bottles sparkling clean? You’ll learn how this humble flowering plant became an essential part of daily life long before store-bought soap existed. From its etymological roots (what exactly is a “wort”?) to its surprising modern-day uses, this story bubbles over with wit, history, and a touch of garden magic. Tune in for a delightful blend of botany, folklore, and a few sudsy surprises along the way.

Whether you’re a casual gardener or a horticulture enthusiast, this episode will change how you look at mums — not as disposable decor, but as timeless treasures of autumn color. In this episode, Dr. A explores the often misunderstood world of mums—those bright, cheerful chrysanthemums that fill garden centers every fall. Are they simply “throwaway” plants, or can they be hardy perennials that return year after year?Join Dr. A as he reveals the myths and wonders behind these beloved flowers. You’ll learn how to identify which mums can truly endure, how to care for them after the fall season, and why these vibrant blooms deserve more respect in your garden.

In this episode, Dr. A digs into one of the most widely loved—and widely grown—ground covers in the garden world: Ajuga, also known as bugleweed. Found in gardens from north to south, ajuga is a true equal opportunist, spreading across landscapes with its striking foliage and beautiful lavender to blue flower spikes. But where did the name bugleweed come from? And what exactly is a bugleweed, anyway? Join Dr. A as he explores the history, beauty, and quirks of this versatile and colorful plant that’s just as fun to talk about as it is to grow. A favorite ground coverRich foliage in many colorsLavender-blue blooms

In today’s episode, Dr. A shares the story of one of his favorite salvias—a showstopping variety that many gardeners overlook. While salvias are well-known for their vibrant reds and blues and their ability to attract pollinators, this particular salvia steals the show in fall with its forsythia-like yellow blooms. Native to Mexico and found in gardens across the globe, this plant is more than just a pretty face. Commonly known as the Forsythia Sage, it flowers through the summer but truly shines in autumn. Tune in to learn why this underappreciated salvia deserves a spot in your garden—and maybe even your heart. Great for pollinatorsSpectacular fall colorA plant with a story, just like every good garden should have.

In this episode of Stories from the Garden, renowned horticulturist Dr. Allan Armitage digs into the curious connection between dogs and dogwoods. Ever wonder how the beloved flowering tree got its name? Spoiler alert: it’s not because dogs love to nap under them! With his signature wit and storytelling charm, Dr. A unearths the myths, history, and botanical surprises behind the dogwood's name. Whether you're a plant nerd, a casual gardener, or just someone who enjoys a good story, this episode is sure to make you see dogwoods—and maybe dogs—a little differently.

If you really want to spark conversation in the garden, or possibly run people off from the smell, plant a Voodoo Lily. One of the more interesting plants you can pop in the garden, and will only show up after a few years (this one takes patience) it is well worth the show, but maybe not the smell!

A wart, you say? No! A wort! In this episode of Stories from the Garden, we step into the quiet hum of an ancient herb patch, where folklore and botany intertwine. Journey with us as we uncover the forgotten wisdom of the "worts"—old-world medicinal plants like St. John’s Wort, Lungwort, and Spiderwort—whose names and uses tell stories older than science.

Sages, often referred to as salvias, are abundant, and there are countless varieties. You’ll never be able to grow them all or learn every single one, so don’t stress about it. However, today I want to recommend a very common variety: pineapple sage.

The common names of plants often seem to have no rhyme or reason. While some of these common names come from folklore, often with little basis in today's reality, others are the result of theological and herbal studies. There are numerous books on how plants produce great herbs and how herbs can treat various diseases. But where does this come from? Dating back to 40 AD, we can trace these ideas to the Doctrine of Signatures. Listen wherever you get your podcast or at my website:

Discover the beauty and charm of Deutzia, the perfect shrub for enhancing larger gardens. Let's explore its unique features and benefits together today!