In today's episode I have a fascinating conversation with John Bartram. America's First Botanist and a Legacy of Native Plant Explorer.

Well actually, it’s with Kirk R. Brown, a renowned garden speaker and historian who brings the legendary 18th-century botanist John Bartram to life.

Bartram, often called “America’s First Botanist,” was a trailblazer in exploring the wilds of colonial America, driven by his passion for nature and a mission to discover and catalog native plants.

With a love for gardening passed down from his grandmother and wisdom gained from Native American tribes, Bartram’s legacy lives on through his incredible contributions to American horticulture.

Kirk R. Brown, our guest, is no stranger to the art of garden storytelling. As past president of GardenComm and a Hall of Fame honoree, Kirk has captivated audiences coast-to-coast by stepping into the shoes of Bartram, Frederick Law Olmsted (episode 124 – Sculpting Nature: The Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted), and other historical giants in horticulture.

With decades of experience in garden design and education, he’s earned awards for exceptional horticulture and garden achievements. From his work as Business Manager at Joanne Kostecky Garden Design, where he crafted award-winning landscapes, to his role as National Outreach Coordinator for Magnolia Plantation, Kirk’s expertise is nothing short of impressive.

So, get ready to delve into the world of 18th-century plant exploration, the origins of American botany, and the enduring importance of native plants. You’ll leave inspired to design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works. Just like Bartram and Kirk have done across the centuries.

Follow The Garden Question Podcast and join us for a journey through garden history that speaks to everyone, from the beginner to the seasoned expert.

This is episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram – (brought to life) by Kirk R. Brown.

This has been episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram - (brought to life) Kirk R. Brown. Thank you Kirk you’re awesome!

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Chapter Time Line

00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast

00:56 Meet Kirk R. Brown: Bringing John Bartram to Life

01:44 Exploring the Legacy of John Bartram

02:27 Subscriber Giveaway Announcement

02:55 John Bartram's Early Inspirations

03:12 The Wisdom of Age and Gardening

04:24 The Influence of Native American Knowledge

06:35 The Importance of Observing Nature

08:45 The Role of Libraries in Botanical Education

10:12 Medicinal Uses of American Plants

10:36 Trading Knowledge with Indigenous Tribes

12:01 The British Pharmacopoeia and American Plants

12:52 The Versatility of Elderberry

15:55 Exploring and Documenting New Plants

19:04 Impact on English Garden Design

23:35 The Influence of Philadelphia in Botanical Trade

25:04 The American Philosophical Society

26:56 Carl Linnaeus and the Binomial Nomenclature

28:56 The Humorous Story of Bartremia

30:19 Moss and Correspondence with Carl

31:30 The Significance of Oaks

34:28 Bartram's Garden and Historical Meetings

36:39 Friendship with Benjamin Franklin

40:24 Discovery of the Franklinia Tree

51:11 The Bartram Box: Transporting Plants Across Oceans

55:28 Legacy and Contributions of the Bartram Family

59:34 Connecting with John Bartram Today

01:00:55 Conclusion and Podcast Information