I’m your host Craig McManus. Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast, where we’re all about designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, you’ll always be inspired in every episode.

Today’s guest is Rick Vuyst, a lifelong gardener and horticultural storyteller with a career as vibrant as the gardens he’s nurtured. From co-hosting the Gardening Simplified Show to hosting the award-winning Flowerland Show for nearly 30 years, Rick has been a trusted voice in gardening media. You might also know him as "Mr. Green Thumb" from his two-decade stint on WZZM TV 13, where he shared tips, humor, and wisdom with viewers across Western Michigan.

In this insightful episode, Rick reflects on his extensive experience in the gardening industry, unpacking lessons from his decades at Flowerland garden center and exploring trends that have shaped the horticultural world. From adapting to climate shifts and embracing innovations in plant breeding to the cultural love for gardening reignited by the pandemic era, Rick offers a roadmap for the future of gardening.

We’ll also dive into his passion for photography along the Lake Michigan shoreline, humorous anecdotes from his radio days, and even adventures in Costa Rica. Rick brings a unique blend of humor, expertise, and inspiration that will leave you eager to dig deeper into your gardening journey.

Continue Listening for a conversation brimming with insights, laughs, and a renewed love for plants.

00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast

00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend

00:54 Reflections on Gardening Trends and Innovations

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast

00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend

00:54 Rick's Insights on Gardening Trends

02:06 The Impact of Climate Change on Gardening

03:10 Innovations in Plant Breeding

04:41 Generational Shifts in Gardening

05:10 Rick's Career and Industry Changes

07:26 Hilarious Moments from Live Radio

09:06 Exploring Costa Rica's Horticulture

12:45 The Revolution of Plant Branding

16:29 Rick's Media Journey as Mr. Green Thumb

18:25 Weather and Its Influence on Gardening

20:55 The Garden Simplified Show

23:37 Future Trends in Gardening

23:57 The Resurgence of Cut Flowers

25:08 The Houseplant Boom

25:52 Designing Diverse Landscapes

28:00 Understanding Rhythm in Landscaping

29:52 Debunking Garden Myths

31:05 Early Garden Memories

32:19 Pursuing Horticulture as a Career

33:00 From Gardening to Comedy

34:12 Influences and Inspirations

35:01 Valuable Garden Mistakes

36:03 Learning and Adapting in Gardening

39:41 Future Garden Plans

41:20 Favorite Plant of the Week

42:15 Closing Remarks and Contact Information