The Garden Question

The Garden Question


175 - Gardening Adventures, Myths, Dreams, and Inspiration - Troy B Marden

August 15, 2024

In this episode of The Garden Question podcast, host Craig McManus interviews accomplished garden designer Troy B Marden.


Troy shares his incredible journey in horticulture that began at the age of 14 and includes notable experiences at public gardens such as Calloway Gardens and Longwood Gardens.


Now based in Nashville, Troy discusses his successful career in garden and floral design, his role on the hit gardening show Volunteer Gardener, and his current ventures in leading garden tours worldwide.


Throughout the episode, they cover garden myths, Troy's favorite gardening spots, and the importance of soil management.


They also explore the dynamics of garden design, the joy of successful gardening, and invite listeners to find inspiration in their own garden experiences.


00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast

00:42 Meet Troy B Marden: A Journey in Horticulture

02:44 Troy's Dream Garden in Northern Italy

05:13 Designing and Building Gardens: Client Relationships

09:46 Transition to Leading Garden Tours

13:19 Exploring International and Domestic Gardens

25:23 Volunteer Gardener TV Show: A Tennessee Staple

31:17 Introduction to Jason and His Inspirational Gardening

32:46 Evolution of Trial Gardens

34:36 Public Gardens in Tennessee

35:57 Undiscovered Gardens in the United States

38:44 The Importance of Soil Management

39:58 Personal Gardening Philosophy

43:58 Debunking Gardening Myths

44:57 Native vs. Non-Native Plants Debate

47:25 Early Gardening Memories

49:12 Pursuing a Career in Horticulture

52:39 Valuable Gardening Mistakes

55:47 Current Plant Obsessions

56:38 Weeds and Garden Challenges

58:22 Continuous Learning in Gardening

59:27 Connecting with Troy B Marden

59:45 Conclusion and Podcast Outro