The Garden Question

The Garden Question


178 - Plant Geeks in Love and Their Botanical Journey - Jon & Adrienne Rothling

September 05, 2024

In episode 178 of 'The Garden Question' podcast, host Craig McManus interviews Adrienne and John Rothling, directors of the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville, NC and Reynolda Gardens of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. respectively.

They share their personal and professional journeys in horticulture, the creation and maintenance of their gardens, and their experiences of integrating their personal life with their passion for plants. How they handle garden conflicts at home. Even their vacations are about plants.

 

The episode covers their innovative garden projects, their approaches to garden design and maintenance, and valuable gardening advice.

 

The couple also discusses the impact of extreme weather, working with limited resources, and fostering a love for gardening in their communities.

 



Time Line

00:00 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast

00:42 Meet the Plant Geeks: Adrian and John Rothling

01:47 Adrian's Journey to the South

02:59 How Adrian and John Met

04:18 Gardening Advice from Adrian and John

05:13 Introducing Their Gardens

06:53 Challenges and Historical Aspects of Their Gardens

14:27 Creative Projects and Innovations

21:34 Winter Projects and Community Engagement

25:08 Gardening Philosophy and Personal Stories

30:47 A Memorable Plant Mishap

31:28 Vacationing with a Green Thumb

33:51 Learning from Extreme Weather

36:40 Horticultural Discoveries and Challenges

40:10 Promoting Biodiversity in Gardens

42:31 Debunking Garden Myths

44:14 Personal Horticultural Journeys

46:14 Funny Garden Stories

49:54 Valuable Garden Mistakes

52:44 Future Garden Plans

53:52 Favorite Plants of the Week

55:22 Mentors and Inspirations

58:31 Connecting with the Rothlings