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Native Plants, Healthy Planet

English, Sciences, 1 season, 229 episodes, 6 days, 9 hours, 20 minutes
About
Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick interview some of the top minds in ecology, restoration, conservation, and of course, native plants. Join them on their journey towards knowledge and understanding of some of the larger problems that our ecosystems face.
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The Buzz - Spicy Winnings

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have two winners!!! Tom and Fran announce their next contest. "Tom's Petty" makes its triumphant return.  “That’s Hot” explores the Ohio prairies.  “This or That” will shine a light on a few issues.  Tom and Fran discuss the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium and also Cultivate.  "Take it of Leaf it" is brought to you by a listener question.  Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Register for the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium here. That’s Hot – Fran’s Plant / Tom’s Plant Read Fran’s Article / Read Tom’s Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/26/20241 hour, 18 minutes, 58 seconds
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Meet Homegrown National Park with Brandon Hough

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Brandon Hough, Executive Director of Homegrown National Park, to discuss what's new at HNP. Topics include Brandon's journey to HNP, how HNP has changed over the years, what the future of HNP looks like and how you can help get them there.  Brandon also shares some of his favorite success stories and heroes. Did someone say New Contest!?!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Homegrown National Park here. Register for the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/19/20241 hour, 36 minutes, 36 seconds
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The Buzz - Habitat for All

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Let's talk about future contests!  What does nursery need to do to get their Nursery Certificate?  Listen in to find out.  “That’s Hot” explores a plant that neither Tom or Fran picked.  “This or That” will cool your jets on and get you thinking about habitat.  “Listener Shout Outs” fixes a problem while “Grow Read a Book” highlights a problem.  Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Register for the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium here. That's Hot - Fran's Plant / Tom's Plant Read Fran’s Article / Read Tom’s Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/12/20241 hour, 38 minutes, 40 seconds
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Into the Weeds with Tama Matsuoka Wong

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with author Tama Matsuoka Wong to discuss how to garden like a forager. Topics include what foraging looks like in different countries and cultures, discovering your middle ground, finding value in what many consider weeds, understanding uses for native plants and not just edibility, and toasting with a native plant mocktail.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Tama Matsuoka Wong here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/5/20241 hour, 45 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Buzz - Faster than a Burning Bush

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Who wound Fran up?  Have you entered our contest!  We have Prickly Pear updates!  “That’s Hot” explores some new mentions on the podcast.  “This or That” will leave you speeding through the tall grass.  There are a ton of “Listener Shout Outs"!  "Grow Read a Book" makes a triumphant return.  Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Register for the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium here. Read Fran’s Article / Read Tom’s Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/28/20241 hour, 19 minutes, 52 seconds
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Pollinator Week with Heather Holm

Happy Pollinator Week!  Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with author Heather Holm to celebrate our native bees and wasps. Topics include debunking popular myths about native bees and wasps, diving deep into specialist bees and parasitoid wasps, exploring soft landings and native plants, and how you can do your part helping native bees.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Heather Holm here. Learn more about American Beauties Native Plants here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/21/20241 hour, 39 minutes, 11 seconds
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The Buzz - The Drunken Dentist

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Let's toast Tom's Birthday!  Tom has other news as well!  Have you entered our new contest!  “That’s Hot” involves one plant that will keep mosquitos away and one plant that will keep you away.  “This or That” exposes some of the risks from native plant awareness and green growth.  There are a ton of “Listener Shout Outs!” Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran’s Article / Read Tom’s Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/14/20241 hour, 30 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet Garden For Wildlife

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Shubber Ali (CEO - Garden for Wildlife) to discuss helping homeowners create wildlife habitats. Topics include the history of Garden for Wildlife and how their mission has changed over the years, making it easier for homeowners to find native plants, programs for non-profit organizations, ways that Garden for Wildlife give back, and Shubber's unique journey into ecology.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Garden for Wildlife here. Learn more about TrueBlew Natives here. Learn more about American Beauties Native Plants here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/7/20241 hour, 36 minutes, 36 seconds
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The Buzz - Our Ears Were Burning

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Were you talking about us?  Tom and Fran discuss the current state of the podcast.  There's also a new contest!  “That’s Hot” involves two plants you may not have in your yard.  “This or That” cuts to the waste.  There are a ton of "Listener Shout Outs!"  What are the most controversial episodes of Native Plants Healthy Planet? Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran’s Article / Read Tom’s Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/31/20241 hour, 34 minutes, 58 seconds
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Meet Joey Santore and Al Scorch from Kill Your Lawn

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Joey Santore (Crime Pays but Botany Doesn't and Kill Your Lawn) and Al Scorch (Kill Your Lawn) to talk about killing your lawn. Rants include vacuum cleaners, common names, college students, turf, and you will learn a lot about native plants and ecology.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Kill Your Lawn / Crime Pays but Botany Doesn't Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/24/20241 hour, 30 minutes, 15 seconds
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The Buzz - Saving the Buzz

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have great news!  Listen up for our disclaimer.  Tom spoils Fran with more gifts.  "That's Hot" involves cordial and foam.  "This or That" gives you the short and the long of it.  Are you listening until the end for our secrets? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about TrueBlew Natives here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/17/20241 hour, 35 minutes, 13 seconds
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Meet TrueBlew Natives

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Bob Blew (Vice President - Centerton Nurseries) to discuss TrueBlew Natives. Topics include the history of Centerton Nurseries, the inspiration for TrueBlew Natives, the role of native plants in ornamental nurseries, how nurseries factor into to agriculture in the state of NJ, and the future of native plants in the retail market place.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Learn more about TrueBlew Natives here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/10/20241 hour, 50 minutes, 17 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzed on the Buzz

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We love when listeners send us native plant based alcoholic drinks!  "That's Hot" involves some follow up this episode.  "This or That" involves government and things across the pond.  Fran comes prepared with a "Grow Read A Book".  How do Tom and Fran feel about No Mow May?  Wait until the end to find out. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about TrueBlew Natives here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/3/20241 hour, 12 minutes, 3 seconds
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The Return of Dr. Michael Curran

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick reconnect with Dr. Michael Curran (Owner - Abnova Ecological Solutions) to talk about what has happened in his life since his last visit to the podcast a year ago. Topics include work in the NJ Meadowlands, being an expert witness, pipeline work in PA, Exciting work by Dr. Douglas Tallamy, as well as cool new studies coming our of Wyoming.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Abnova Ecological Solutions. - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/26/20241 hour, 31 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Buzz - Crunch Time

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Did the winners claim their books?  "That's Hot" has two great plants this week.  "This or That" highlights a familiar name.  We have a listener question!  Tom and Fran reinforce the concept of kindness and patience. Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about TrueBlew Natives here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/19/20241 hour, 16 minutes, 7 seconds
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Meet Birdsong Landscapes

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome Austin Miller of Birdsong Landscapes to talk about meadows at home.  Discussions include what the Ohio Valley looked like before colonization, the popularity of lawn conversions, difficulties with prairie seedings, and how to forage in your own backyard. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Birdsong Landscapes - TikTok / Instagram / Facebook View Ernst Seeds Gallery of Native Plant Seedlings Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/12/20241 hour, 32 minutes, 16 seconds
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The Buzz - Eclipse It

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We announce  two winners of autographed copies of Leah Rampy's "Earth and Soul"!  After that we "cut" into "That's Hot".  "This or That" has Tom and Fran going to the same well.  Listener questions lead to Fran and Tom having questions.  Will Tom and Fran EVER answer a "Take it or leaf it"? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/5/20241 hour, 36 minutes, 21 seconds
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Meat Force of Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome Taylor Collins (Land Steward/Co-founder) of Roam Ranch and Force of Nature Meats to talk about regenerative agriculture.  Discussions include the beginnings of Roam Ranch, what regenerative agriculture looks like on Roam Ranch, what does the regenerative agriculture movement look like in general, the benefits of a healthy ecosystem, and finding a higher purpose in your surroundings. Learn more about Force of Nature and Where Hope Grows!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Learn More about Roam Ranch - Website  Learn More about Force of Nature - Website  Follow Where Hope Grows Podcast Here Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/29/20241 hour, 35 minutes, 50 seconds
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The Buzz - Saving for the Future

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Did you remember that we are giving away autographed books?  We practiced recycling with "That's Hot".  "This or That" has Tom and Fran minds in the invasive sewer.  Will Tom and Fran EVER answer a "Take it or leaf it"?  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Purchase a Thermal Pocket Printer Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/22/20241 hour, 27 minutes, 17 seconds
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The Amsonia Trials

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome back Sam Hoadley (Horticultural Research Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the results of their newly published Amsonia trials.  It's time to get excited about Amsonia!  They discuss which Amsonia performed well and which ones performed better, surprise value of many of the Amsonia species, How species rated in the trials as well as the buzz generated by this timely research. Find out what trials are next!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Mt. Cuba Center - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube / Amsonia Trials  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/15/20241 hour, 23 minutes, 29 seconds
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The Buzz - Four Years and Many More

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Happy Four Years and 200 Episodes!  Did you remember that we are giving away autographed books?  "That's Hot" is a teaser for our next guest.  "This or That" has Tom and Fran questioning EVERYTHING.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/8/20241 hour, 38 minutes, 58 seconds
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Meet the National Tree Seed Centre, Canada

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Melissa Spearing (Seed Biologist) from the National Tree Seed Centre and Dr. Stefan Weber (National Native Seed Strategy Coordinator) from the Canadian Wildlife Federation to discuss the native plant movement in Canada.  Topics include the state of native plants in Canada, biggest threats to their natural areas, the role of the timber industry in the country, and also their journey into ecology. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Melissa Spearing - LinkedIn Learn More: National tree and shrub seed supply assessment  Tree Seed Working Group Trees Against the Wind: The Birth of Prairie Shelterbelts Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here
3/1/20241 hour, 35 minutes, 57 seconds
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The Buzz - Recycled Topics

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have another Giveaway - and that's not the only announcement!  "That's Hot" puts Tom and Fran in a sticky situation.  "This or That" leaves Fran and Tom so deep down a rabbit hole they almost don't find their way back.  "Grow Read A Book" makes a triumphant return.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/23/20241 hour, 25 minutes, 54 seconds
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Live from BHWP's 24th Annual Land Ethics Symposium

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick bring The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to a live audience at the Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve's 24th Annual Land Ethics Symposium! Tom and Fran lead a Rooted Discussion on The Past, Present, and Future of Native Plants: an Industrial Perspective.  Joining Tom and Fran are Jim MacKenzie (President of Octoraro Native Plant Nursery), John Mark Courtney (Owner of Kind Earth Grower), and Donna Dahringer (Nursery Manager of Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve).  Topics include how the native plant industry has changed over the last five years, new technology being embraced by native plant nurseries, current trends in native plants, and what we see for the native plant industry in the next five years. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Octoraro Nursery - Website Follow Kind Earth Nurseries - Website Follow Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/16/20241 hour, 41 minutes, 35 seconds
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The Buzz -Feeding the Grid

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Pay attention because you will all have homework.  I hope you like follow up because there's lots of it!  "That's Hot" travels different parts of the county.  "This or That" will be a a billion times harder this week.  We have such wonderful listeners that "Listener Shout Outs" keeps getting larger and larger.  We have nothing but thanks for our kind Facebook group.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/9/20241 hour, 36 minutes, 57 seconds
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Meet American Beauties Native Plants

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Steve Castorani of North Creek Nurseries to discuss the story behind American Beauties Native Plants.  Topics include the history of the native plant movement in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, what led to the creation of American Beauties, what American Beauties represents in the market place, and the path American Beauties is taking into the future.  Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow American Beauties Native Plants - Website Follow North Creek Nurseries - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here
2/2/20241 hour, 23 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Buzz - Disclaimer

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Can you say technical difficulties?  Fran thanks everyone profusely for their kind words.  There is so much follow up that follow up becomes the topic.  "That's Hot" takes Tom and Fran out of their comfort zone.  "This or That" is the long and short of it.  You are all so kind that "Listener Shout Outs" becomes a main segment.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Help VA Bill HB528 Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/26/20241 hour, 37 minutes, 55 seconds
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Meet Fran Chismar

Host Tom Knezick turns the tables and interviews his Co-Host Fran Chismar (Sultan of Sales - Pinelands Nursery).  Topics include Fran's history in the nursery industry, when Fran fell in love with native plants, Fran's journey into finding himself, and Rain Garden or Pollinator Garden. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Fran Chismar Here Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here
1/19/20241 hour, 39 minutes, 37 seconds
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The Buzz - (kwet-la-SHO-sheet)

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  No Follow Up turns into listing our conference schedule.  "That's Hot" ties into "This or That" and "Take it or Leaf it".  Thank you for all of your feedback - we are listening!  Tom and Fran follow up on herbalism.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Ban the Sales of Invasive Plants in MD - Facebook  Buy American Dirt Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/12/20241 hour, 31 minutes, 7 seconds
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Journey into Herbalism

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Amanda Crooke of Locust Light Farm to discuss herbalism.  Topics include how to start your journey into herbalism, Amanda's favorite plants for medicinal use and making tea, and the biggest question - does your native plantings support gnomes? Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Locust Light Farm - Website  Buy The Business of Botanicals Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here
1/5/20241 hour, 13 minutes, 20 seconds
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The Buzz - Our Top 10 Episodes of All-Time

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Follow up makes Tom and Fran Swifties.  "That's Hot" is a berry good time. "Take it or Leaf it" begs "What's in the Bad?".  Tom and Fran discuss the Top 10 Episodes of all-time of the Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Register for Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserves Land Ethic Symposium Here. Learn More about 25 B Exempt Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/29/20231 hour, 8 minutes, 38 seconds
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Replaying the Hits - Deer and Native Plants Part 1 and 2

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share two of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to help bring you into the Holiday Season. First is Dr. Jay Kelly (Professor of Biology) from Raritan Valley Community College. They discuss the rising deer populations and how they relate to forest health, Predator vs. Prey, what is needed for a healthy ecosystem, and native plants that deer may or may not eat. Up second is Kip Adams (Director of Conservation) from The Quality Deer Management Association. They discuss a new merger, building a healthy ecosystem for quality deer herds, native plants that are essential for healthy deer, and the "locavore" movement and the QDMA "Field to Fork" program. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett.  Follow Dr. Jay Kelly - ResearchGate Follow QDMA - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/22/20232 hours, 2 minutes, 8 seconds
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The Buzz - What’s in the Basket?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Follow up sends Tom and Fran back to school.  "That's Hot" is a sticky situation. "Take it or Leaf it" gives a new meaning to gift basket.  "This or That" deals with your small, native plantings and the world of Elderberry.  Tom and Fran talk about shifting planting zones.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189 Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/15/20231 hour, 21 minutes, 2 seconds
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The Dam Show

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Geoffrey Goll, President and Founding Principal, at Princeton Hydro to discuss dam removal.  Topics include the history of dams and dam removal, damage dams have done to our ecosystem, qualifying a dam for removal, the challenges and work involved into removing a dam, and favorite success stories along the way. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Princeton Hydro - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Links mentioned in the episode - New Jersey Dams / The Nature Conservancy / American Rivers / World Fish Migration / Great Swamp Watershed Association / CU Maurice River Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Have a comment?  Email [email protected] Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here
12/8/20231 hour, 36 minutes, 58 seconds
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The Buzz - Human Intervention

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Guess who got their Spotify Wrapped?  "That's Hot" leaves us puzzled. "Take it or Leaf it" is fitting for Fall.  "This or That" leans heavily on human intervention.  Tom and Fran take a deep dive on true intentions.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/1/20231 hour, 30 minutes, 27 seconds
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The Truth About Mosquito Control

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Beth Yount of Penn State Extension, Philadelphia to discuss the truth about mosquito control.  Topics include misconceptions about spraying for mosquito control, impacts to beneficial mosquitos, the watershed, and food web, natural or less impactful ways to control mosquitos, and talking points if confronted by a salesperson. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Beth Yount - Website  Read Beth's Article Here. Become a Master Watershed Steward Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here. Get 10% off by using the discount code BIGFOOT until 12/1.
11/24/20231 hour, 13 minutes, 57 seconds
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The Buzz - Are You Listening?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Did we finally give away the last book?   "That's Hot" has us in the red. "Take it or Leaf it" has us asking questions.  Tom and Fran talk about some of their favorite podcasts focusing on native plants.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Don't discount it this time! Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/17/20231 hour, 28 minutes, 2 seconds
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The Buzz - What’s in the Box?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  It's been a while so let's do some follow up.  Is there still a signed copy of Camille Dungy's "Soil" to give away?  Listen to the secret to find out.  "That's Hot" is gigantic this week. "Take it or Leaf it" has us wondering what's in the box.  Tom and Fran get a surprise email.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? This time, you really want to listen.  Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Articles by The Humane Gardener - #1 / #2 / #3 / #4 / #5 / #6 / #7  Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/10/20231 hour, 32 minutes, 46 seconds
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Meet Project Pawpaw

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Adam D'Angelo of Project Pawpaw to discuss making pawpaw more accessible.  Topics include Adam's love for pawpaw, the difficulties in getting pawpaw into markets, strengthening the supply chain, advances in breeding, and how you can get involved in the future of pawpaw. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Project Pawpaw - Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / TikTok  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/3/20231 hour, 30 minutes, 14 seconds
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Meet Griff Griffith

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Griff Griffith of Redwoods Rising and the Jumpstart Nature Podcast to discuss how to spread the good word on native plants.  Topics include Griff's journey into ecology, different ways to start conversations about native plants, the history and importance of the Redwood forest, equity in nature, and the story about Griff's first viral video. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Griff Griffith - Website / Facebook / TikTok / YouTube Follow Redwoods Rising - Website / Facebook / TikTok  Follow Jumpstart Nature - Website  Learn which Indigenous tribes lived where Here.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/27/20231 hour, 44 minutes, 41 seconds
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The Buzz - You Win A Book!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  The wait is over as Tom and Fran announce not one, but two winners who will receive signed copies of Camille Dungy's new book Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden.  "That's Hot" features the idea of a new posse. "Take it or Leaf it" wonders if you should believe everything you read.  Hey, and let's promote a new podcast that is spreading the good word.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? This time, you really want to listen.  Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/20/20231 hour, 11 minutes, 54 seconds
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Live From SER!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick bring The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to a live audience at the Society for Ecological Restoration's Mid-Atlantic Conference at the Meadowlands Environmental Center in Lyndhurst, New Jersey! Tom and Fran connect with Rebecca Swadek, CERP (Director of Wetlands Management) from NYC Parks to discuss what makes the wetlands of NYC unique.  Also discussed is the importance of wetlands in urban environments, the challenges of keeping the city's wetlands and marshes healthy, winning the 2023 National Wetlands Award, and Rebecca's favorite wetlands in NYC.  We even talk about Green Roofs.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow NYC Parks - Website / Facebook / Instagram / Youtube / LinkedIn  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/13/20231 hour, 10 seconds
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The Buzz - A Blast from the Past

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  The show kicks off with an assessment of the Society of Ecological Restoration's Mid-Atlantic Conference.  "That's Hot" features berries and flowers.  "This or That" deals with tissue and fungi and marshes.  Oh My! "Take it or Leaf it" comes back to us from the past.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/6/20231 hour, 42 minutes, 22 seconds
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Meet Birdscaping Industries

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Tim Mack (Owner) of Birdscaping Industries to discuss how to be popular with birds.  Topics include finding connections with nature, the importance of native plants to birds, improving more than just birds populations, how to get started on your journey, and remembering that we are all a part of nature. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Tim Mack - Website / LinkedIn  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/29/20231 hour, 38 minutes, 30 seconds
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The Buzz - Connected at the Pedicel

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  How long should it take before Tom and Fran start talking about native plants?  "That's Hot" features Tom and Tom.  "This or That" sparks a future episode and some great questions. "Take it or Leaf it" is a video daily double.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/22/20231 hour, 32 minutes, 38 seconds
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Meet Camille Dungy

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Camille Dungy (Author and Distinguished Professor at Colorado State University) to discuss her new book Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden.  Topics include the inspiration for Soil, the progress of "The Prairie Project", finding one's relationship with nature, different voices in the environmental world, and improving equity in nature.  Listen to find out how to win a signed copy of Soil. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Camille Dungy - Website  Buy Soil - Amazon  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/15/20231 hour, 27 minutes, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Native Plant Rant

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We start off sidetracked right out of the gate! "That's Hot" has a number of surprises.  "This or That" ignites a native plant rant.  If you want sound bytes have we got a few for you. "Take it or Leaf it" asks an itchy questions.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/8/20231 hour, 21 minutes, 21 seconds
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Meet Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Mike O'Malley (Executive Director), Lori Swanson (Director of Wildlife Rehabilitation), and Erin Kiefer-Rounds (Director of Education) from Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge. Topics include the history of the refuge, The plethora of programs the refuge offers, passionate volunteers, the importance of education, the challenges of wildlife rehabilitation, and how you can help.  Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Cedar Run - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / LinkedIn  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/1/20231 hour, 26 minutes, 32 seconds
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The Buzz - Dune

 Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz - and new nicknames. "That's Hot" takes a Hot new perspective.  "This or That" picks up after itself. "Take it or Leaf it" stings just a little.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/25/20231 hour, 9 minutes, 2 seconds
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Meet TerraCycle

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Eric Ascalon (Global Director of Community Development & Strategic Partnerships) of TerraCycle to discuss recycling. Topics include the beginnings of TerraCycle and their journey to today, the difference between TerraCycle and municipal recycling programs, programs and innovations that TerraCycle offers, challenges in today's world, and the future of recycling.  Find out how you can get involved!  Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow TerraCycle - Website  Contact Eric Ascalon at [email protected] Learn about TerraCycle's Cigarette Butt Recycling Program - Website  Go to Jersey Fresh Jam - Website  Submit your entry to the Garden State Film Festival - Website  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/18/20231 hour, 30 minutes, 57 seconds
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The Buzz - Back to the Grind

Hey!  Remember us?  We're Baaaack!!!  Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  You bought merch, now we have a donation!  Find out who the recipient is.  There is a lot of things to cover before getting to "That's Hot".  "This or That" explores finds and findings. "Take it or Leaf it" hits with a bang.  The question and comment line has lit up and we have responses.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/11/20231 hour, 38 minutes, 17 seconds
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Replaying the Hits - Claudia West and Benjamin Vogt

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share two of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to help bring you into the Summer Season. First is Claudia West (Principal at Phyto Studio) Co-Author of Planting in a Post Wild World.  They discuss the principals of Ornamental design and Ecological design and how the two can work together, listening to what plants have to say, what's next for the author and Claudia gives design tips for the budding native gardener. Up second is Benjamin Vogt (Author - A New Garden Ethic: Cultivating Defiant Compassion for an Uncertain Future) of Monarch Gardens LLC.  They discuss the heart of gardening ethics and native plants, exploring your local eco-types, reception to a not-so-radical idea and...a new book?. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett.  Follow Phyto Studio - Website / Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn  Follow Benjamin Vogt - Website / Twitter / Instagram / Buy The Book Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/4/20232 hours, 29 minutes, 40 seconds
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Meet Andrew The Arborist

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Andrew Conboy (Andrew The Arborist) to native plants and social media. Topics include Andrew's path to becoming an arborist, inspirations along the way, blowing up on social media, Andrew's nonprofit Colonial Canopy Trees, and tips for the budding influencer.  Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Andrew Conboy - Instagram / TikTok / YouTube  Follow Colonial Canopy Trees - Website / Facebook / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/28/20231 hour, 29 minutes, 33 seconds
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Replaying the Hits - Rooted Discussions - Soil! The World Beneath Our Feet

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share one of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to help bring you into the Summer Season. On this episode, Fran and Tom are joined by Dr. Stephanie Murphy (Director, Rutgers Soil Testing Lab), Jennifer Maynard (CEO & Founder, Nutrition for Longevity & Greater Greens, LLC), and Ray Archuleta (Featured in Netflix Documentary "Kiss the Ground", Founder, Soil Health Academy, LLC & Understanding AG, LLC.) to discuss the topic of soil and the living ecosystem right below your feet. Conversations include the importance of soil, what is healthy soil, how have our soils changed, what are the biggest enemies of natural soil, and can we restore the degraded soil? As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett.  Follow Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory - Website / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube  Follow Nutrition for Longevity - Website / Facebook / Instagram  Follow Greater Greens - Website Follow Soil Health Academy - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow UnderstandingAg - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow Kiss The Ground - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/21/20231 hour, 26 minutes, 31 seconds
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The Return of Native Plant Trivia

Tom Knezick hosts the revenge episode of Native Plants Healthy Planet Trivia.  The trivia game that pits three native plant people against each other to see who will reign supreme!  This episode's guests are John Mark Courtney (Owner) and Joe LaMent (Grower) from Kind Earth Growers, and Co-Host Fran Chismar is in the center square.  There can be only one winner but we will find out if there are any sore losers.  Play at home and let us know how you did!  Intro music by Egocentric Plastic Men, outro music by Dave Bennett. Follow Kind Earth Growers - Website / Instagram / Facebook  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/14/20231 hour, 4 minutes, 58 seconds
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The Buzz - Applying the Information

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  For not having any follow up Tom and Fran sure have a lot to say.  "That's Hot" explores the obvious and not so obvious.  "This or That" covers applied learning and guidelines. "Take it or Leaf it" hits a little close to home.  Are you listening to the end for our secret? Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by Dave Bennett. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/7/20231 hour, 36 minutes, 33 seconds
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The Mt. Cuba Secret Tapes

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick play hooky from work to spend the day with Sam Hoadley at Mt. Cuba Center getting a preview of of upcoming trail gardens.  Tom and Fran record their thoughts on their drive home from Delaware.  Listen in to hear their thoughts on the visit.  Intro music by Andorra.  Outro music by Dave Bennett.   Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/30/20231 hour, 5 minutes, 31 seconds
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The Buzz - Right Plant Right Place

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have a Native Plant Anthem Winner!  "That's Hot" turns into "Maybe Eat".  "This or That" covers mushrooms and moths.  Tom has a "Grow Read A Book" while Fran's "Take it or Leaf it" takes a different approach this week.  Fran finally brings a secret this episode.  Intro music by RJ Comer, Outro music by ???  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/23/20231 hour, 40 minutes, 21 seconds
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Meet Completely Arbortrary

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Alex Crowson and Casey Clapp of the Completely Arbortrary Podcast to talk shop. Topics include the humble treeginnings of Completely Arbortrary, the history of their friendship, podcasting philosophies, and what the future holds next.  We also find out the craziest things Casey has done.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Completely Arbortrary - Website / Instragram / Patreon  Follow Casey Clapp - Website / Instagram  Follow Alex Crowson - Website / Music / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/16/20231 hour, 48 minutes, 9 seconds
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The Buzz - A Victorian Adventure

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have submissions for the Native Plant Anthem!  Fran says, "I'm sorry" multiple times.  There are brand new "That's Hot" and "This or That" segments.  Tom's "Grow Read A Book" segues perfectly to "Take it or Leaf it".  This episodes quickly becomes one of Fran's favorites. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article UDSA Invasive Plant Website Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/9/20231 hour, 28 minutes, 59 seconds
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Meet Native Plant Trust

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Uli Lorimer, (Director of Horticulture - Native Plant Trust) to talk about the Native Plant Trust. Topics include the work being done at Native Plant Trust, native plant resources in today's market, opinions on cultivars, the creation of the Northeast Seed Network, and how you can get involved.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Native Plant Trust - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube   Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/2/20231 hour, 19 minutes, 59 seconds
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The Buzz - Sneeze Ya Later

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There are two roads to "That's Hot" and Tom takes the road less travelled.  Fran steals his article for "This or That".  There are questions AND comments.  "Take it or Leaf it" contemplates To Pull or Not To Pull. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article UDSA Invasive Plant Website Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/26/20231 hour, 30 minutes, 14 seconds
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Meet The American Littoral Society

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Captain Al Modjeski of the American Littoral Society to talk about coastal resiliency. Topics include the history of the American Littoral Society, how oysters and Christmas Trees both help in coastal resiliency, the importance of collaboration and community, as well as how you can make a difference.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow American Littoral Society - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/19/20231 hour, 7 minutes, 38 seconds
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The Buzz - More Than We Can Carry

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Fran and Tom welcome all the new listeners!  There is a reoccurring theme throughout this episode. "That's Hot" talks about foraging while "This or That" eyes plant protection. Tom and Fran discuss upcoming episodes and also complain.  "Take it or Leaf it" ties everything together. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/12/20231 hour, 36 minutes, 57 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - The Demise and Resurgence of The American Chestnut

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Adriana Del Grosso (American Chestnut Restoration and Research Project at SUNY ESF), Erik Carlson (Graduate Student at American Chestnut Restoration and Research Project at SUNY ESF), ands Sara Fitzsimmons (Chief Conversation Officer, American Chestnut Foundation). Conversations include the history of The American Chestnut, the story behind the organizations working to bring the American Chestnut back to our forests, the trials, tribulations, and technology needed to make this comeback happen, and how close are we to seeing this dream become reality. Music by Andorra.  Follow The American Chestnut Foundation - Web / Chestnut Chat / Breeding Archive Follow The American Chestnut Research & Restoration Project at ESF - Web / Facebook Group Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/5/20231 hour, 57 minutes, 11 seconds
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The Buzz - The Secret of The Ramperoni

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Fran and Tom welcome all the new listeners!  "Grow Read A Book" from Episode 153 makes its way back into conversation. "That's Hot" has some familiar faces for a different reason.   "This or That" takes a philosophical approach. Tom and Fran repurpose "Take it or Leaf it".  Tom's Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Redbud Jelly Recipe Here. Beta Test Steve's Garden by Kudzu Solutions Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/28/20231 hour, 29 minutes, 32 seconds
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The Trials and Tribulations of Rewilding in an HOA

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Melinda Soltys to talk about her personal experiences with planting native gardens in an HOA. Topics include how her journey started and where it is now, resources available to homeowners, politics associated with HOA's, and helpful advise for those starting similar journeys.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. More Information regarding bills passed in VA Legislature Here. Take the survey Here. Wild Ones Webinar on Weed Ordinances Here.   Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/21/20231 hour, 26 minutes, 26 seconds
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The Buzz - The Dilemmas Within

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Bills and Anthems are in the follow up this week. "That's Hot" has Tom and Fran on the same page.  This may be the shortest "This or That" ever. "Take it or Leaf it" pertains to A Native Plant Every Day.  Tom's "Grow Read A Book" poses a lot of questions but we do not have answers. There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/14/20231 hour, 15 minutes, 31 seconds
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Replaying the Hits - Dr. Dwayne Estes & Samuel Thayer

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share two of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to help bring you into the Spring Season.  First is Dr. Dwayne Estes (Professor and Curator of Herbarium at Austin Peay State University and Executive Director of SGI). Discussed is debunking the myth of the mighty squirrel, the misconception of forests along the east coast, historical documentation about our lands, our undeniable connections with nature and why 25 years may be too late.  Our second episode is Samuel Thayer, internationally recognized author of Nature's Garden and The Forager's Harvest. Discussed is getting started with foraging, the do's and don't for beginners, foraging highlights by season, the historical significance of living off the land, and the ethical stance on giving back what we take.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Southeastern Grasslands Institute - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow Samuel Thayer - Website / Facebook  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/7/20233 hours, 8 minutes, 50 seconds
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The Buzz - It’s All In Follow Up

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There is tons of follow up and Tom and Fran are up to the task. "That's Hot" deals with the rare and not so rare while "This or That" discusses climate change and animal crossings.  We have a new question on the Question and Comment Line!  "Take it or Leaf it" allows the opportunity to recap.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Check out Jared the Nature Guy's Card Game Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/31/20231 hour, 35 minutes, 10 seconds
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Horticultural Therapy Week

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Laura DePrado, HTR (Owner - Final Touch Plantscaping, LLC) to talk about Horticultural Therapy Week. Topics include the origin of Horticultural Therapy and its pioneers, the benefits of Horticultural Therapy, and tips for better connections with nature.  We also learn about Laura's unique journey with Horticultural Therapy.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Final Touch Plantscaping, LLC. - Website / Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn Register of Teacup Gardens at BHWP Here.   Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/24/20231 hour, 11 minutes, 54 seconds
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The Buzz - A Brand New Segment

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Tom and Fran are on the same page this week with "That's Hot".  "This or That" discusses the loss of natives while myth busting lawns.  We have the introduction of a new segment before "Take it or Leaf it" has Tom and Fran figuring out how narrow is too narrow.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/17/20231 hour, 18 minutes, 26 seconds
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Black Gold with Dr. Michael Curran

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Michael Curran (Owner - Abnova Ecological Solutions) to talk about land management and restoration ecology as it pertains to the energy industry in Wyoming. Topics include theories of land management, the importance of data collection, technology advances in restoration, and leaving nature in a better shape than how it was found.  Dr. Curran also shares his intriguing path into ecology.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Abnova Ecological Solutions. - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/10/20231 hour, 30 minutes, 38 seconds
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The Buzz - Happy Anniversary!!!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Tom and Fran celebrate three years of the podcast!  "That's Hot" may appear to be recycled.  "This or That" discusses the loss of habitat and how to improve habitat.  We hear from a new listener on the  Question and Comment line before "Take it or Leaf it" has Tom and Fran figuring out what they cannot live without.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/3/20231 hour, 21 minutes, 36 seconds
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Ethnobotany and Succession with Dr. Daniela Shebitz

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Daniela Shebitz (Chair and Professor, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences - Kean University) to talk about land management and our connections with nature. Topics include theories of land management throughout different cultures, the importance of succession, the practice of prescribed burns, and our responsibility to reach a wider audience.  Also discussed is the one native plant you should have on your property for its medicinal value.  Dr. Shebitz introduces Tom and Fran to a native plant right in their backyards.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Dr. Daniela Shebitz - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/24/20231 hour, 26 minutes, 13 seconds
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The Buzz - It Depends

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  "That's Hot" is a precursor to A Native Plant Every Day with Tom and Fran this week.  "This or That" has Tom and Fran on the same page this week after Fran makes amends with his losing ways.  We hear from an old friend on the Question and Comment line before "Take it or Leaf it" has Tom and Fran questioning themselves.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about Pinelands Nursery Career Opportunities Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days with code NATIVEPLANTS. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/17/20231 hour, 17 minutes, 37 seconds
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Tom and Fran Go To MANTS

The Secret Tapes are back!  Tom Knezick and Fran Chismar take this episode on the road by taking advantage of their drive time while attending the Mid-Atlantic Nursery Tradeshow (MANTS) in Baltimore, MD. On the way to the show Fran and Tom share their expectations and are able to compare them to the results on the way home.  *Spoiler Alert* - The Buzz word was "Native".  Music by Andorra.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/10/20231 hour, 48 minutes
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The Buzz - Come And Get This One Cougars

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  "That's Hot" follow the blight of the ghost forest as well as offering an all-star sedge.  "This or That" takes a good look protecting cougars as they trek towards the east and protecting native plants from the threat of extinction  "Take it or Leaf it" offers solutions this week.  Tom's Petty gets theme music treatment.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about Pinelands Nursery Career Opportunities Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days with code NATIVEPLANTS. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/3/20231 hour, 27 minutes, 18 seconds
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The Carex Trials

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick welcome back Sam Hoadley (Horticultural Research Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the results of their newly published Carex trials.  It's time to get excited about Carex!  They discuss Carex that responded well to mowing, surprise value of many of the Carex species, How species rated for flower and seed pod, as well as the buzz generated by this timely research. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Mt. Cuba Center - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube / Carex Trials  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/27/20231 hour, 9 minutes, 45 seconds
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The Buzz - Into The Woods Without A Segue

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  "That's Hot" takes some interesting turns this episode.  "This or That" takes a good look protecting native wildlife and street tree diversity.  "Take it or Leaf it" ends without and answer.  Tom and Fran discuss an industry tradeshow before reflecting on their conversation with the National Wildlife Federation.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Voice Your Opinion on NJ Black Bears Here. Learn more about Pinelands Nursery Career Opportunities Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days with code NATIVEPLANTS. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/20/20231 hour, 13 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet The National Wildlife Federation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick sit down with Mary Phillips (Head of Garden for Wildlife / Certified Wildlife Habitat) from The National Wildlife Federation to talk about the multitude of programs offered by the NWF that support native plants, wildlife, and healthy ecosystems. Topics include Garden for Wildlife, Certified Wildlife Habitats, The Wildlife Native Plants Collection, The National Pollinator Garden Network, and much more.  Also discussed is the social aspect of nature and gardening with natives as well as Mary's journey into this industry.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow National Wildlife Federations - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube / Plant with a Purpose  Follow Garden for Wildlife - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / TikTok  Become a Certified Wildlife Habitat - Website  Use the Native Plant Finder - Website View the Impact of Wildlife Gardening Here.  View Consumer Wildlife Gardening Trends Here.  View Webinar on Research on Wildlife Habitat Gardens Here.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/13/202354 minutes, 22 seconds
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The Buzz - Fran and Tom’s Favorites

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have a old "new" "That's Hot" this week.  "This or That" takes a good look at Invasive plant legislation and bee biodiversity.  "Take it or Leaf it" focuses on something most nurseries of guilty of doing.  Tom and Fran discuss the their favorite Native Plants Healthy Planet Episodes of All-Time and Fran notices an underlying theme.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about Pinelands Nursery Career Opportunities Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days with code NATIVEPLANTS. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/6/20231 hour, 34 minutes, 28 seconds
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Replaying the Hits - Dr. Doug Tallamy & Dr. Enric Sala

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share two of their favorite episodes of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to help bring you into the New Year. First is Dr. Enric Sala (Author, National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, Founder of Pristine Seas) about his new book, The Nature of Nature: Why We Need The Wild.  They tackle the difficult issues facing our global ecosystems today and approach them with solutions.  Topics include reclaiming our oceans, an organic approach to economic growth, re-balancing nature, and things that you can do to help.  Our second episode is  Dr. Doug Tallamy (Professor of Entomology, University of Delaware) Author of Bringing Nature Home and Natures Best Hope. They discuss what has changed in the last 13 years since the publication of Bringing Nature Home, the root of exotic plant species and insects, accepting the role of a predator, and the urgency of growing a Homegrown National Park.  Happy New Year!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Dr. Enric Sala - Website /  Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Buy the Book Join A Homegrown National Park - Webiste Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/30/20222 hours, 11 minutes
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The Buzz - Top 10 Episodes of All-Time

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Fran gets a mystery Christmas Present.   We have a new "That's Hot" this week.  "This or That" takes a good look at California in both articles.   "Take it or Leaf it" is just in time for Christmas.  Tom and Fran get sidetracked a million times while discussing the Top 10 Native Plants Healthy Planet Episodes of All-Time.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Learn more about Pinelands Nursery Career Opportunities Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days with code NATIVEPLANTS. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/23/20221 hour, 27 minutes, 58 seconds
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Your Lawn Does What? Part 2

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick sit back down with Dr. Peter Groffman (Microbial Ecologist - Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Professor - City University of New York Advanced Science Research Center at the Graduate Center, Professor - Brooklyn College Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences) to finish their talk about social ecology. Topics include the effects of climate change and a shift of biodiversity, a new landmark case of lawns and HOA's, and encouraging words for you and your neighbors.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Dr. Peter Groffman - CUNY / Cary Institute / ResearchGate Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/16/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 40 seconds
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The Buzz -Deer Candy

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Will Tom finally get to go on vacation - find out before "Grow Read A Book."  We have a new "That's Hot" this week.  "This or That" looks at native recipes and a farmer's take on Common Milkweed.   "Take it or Leaf it" highlights a presidential tradition.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? There is new merch!  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 40% off your subscription for the next 10 days with our code NATIVEPLANTS20 or 20% off your single purchase. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/9/20221 hour, 13 minutes, 35 seconds
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Your Lawn Does What?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Peter Groffman (Microbial Ecologist - Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Professor - City University of New York Advanced Science Research Center at the Graduate Center, Professor - Brooklyn College Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences) to talk about the social aspect of urban ecology. Topics include why we have lawns and a brief history of the drivers that encourage the use of chemicals. Also discussed are the long term effects from the decisions that we make. There will be a part 2!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Dr. Peter Groffman - CUNY / Cary Institute / ResearchGate Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/2/20221 hour, 5 minutes, 16 seconds
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The Buzz - Thankful for Sweetgums

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Tom and Fran are grateful for Thanksgiving this episode before a new round of "That's Hot". This week "This or That" discusses native lawn substitutes and the effects of fertilizer. "Take it or Leaf it" highlights one of our keystone species. Tom and Fran tackle the question and comment line while sharing their thoughts on the classic villain.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Visit https://www.magicmind.co/nativeplants and get 40% off your subscription for the next 10 days with our code NATIVEPLANTS20 or 20% off your single purchase. Hurry Now!  Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/25/20221 hour, 19 minutes, 45 seconds
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Native Plants Trivia!

Tom Knezick hosts the inaugural episode of Native Plants Healthy Planet Trivia.  The trivia game that pits three native plant people against each other to see who will reign supreme!  This episode's guests are Daryl Kobesky (Co-Owner) from Sunset Farmstead, Steve Knezick (Seed Propagation Manager) of Pinelands Nursery, and Co-Host Fran Chismar is in the center square.  There can be only one winner but we will find out if there are any sore losers.  Play at home and let us know how you did!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Sunset Farmstead - Website / Facebook / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/18/20221 hour, 4 minutes, 33 seconds
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The Buzz - Bee House Bonanza

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There is a new round of "That's Hot" this episode. "This or That" discusses tick control an inclusivity. "Take it or Leaf it" discusses the pros and cons of bee houses.  Tom and Fran complain, er...talk at length about topics they are not educated on.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/11/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 59 seconds
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Native Plants Healthy Planet - LIVE!!!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick bring The Native Plants Healthy Planet Podcast to a live audience for the first time ever hosted by the Hudson County Chapter of The Native Plant Society of New Jersey at The Nature's Park Café in James Braddock Park in Bergen County! Tom and Fran reconnect with Dr. Randi Eckel from Toadshade Wildflower Farm to discuss Randi's journey through ecology.  Also discussed is the importance of The Native Plant Society and Randi outlines some of her favorite native plants. The panel takes live questions from audience members for the first time.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Toadshade Wildflower Farm - Website / Facebook Follow The NPSNJ - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Flickr  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/4/20221 hour, 24 minutes, 55 seconds
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The Buzz - Mom! Not Milkweed Again!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  How did the live podcast go?  Find out here.  There is a new round of "That's Hot" this episode. "This or That" revisits Hawaii and also discusses native fruits. Tom and Fran revisit the Milkweed Contamination Conundrum and share their thoughts on the topic.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets? Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/28/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 11 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - The Milkweed Contamination Conundrum

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined Aimee Code (Pesticide Program Director) and Sharon Selvaggio (Pesticide Program Specialist Parks, Nurseries & Natural Areas Lead) of the Xerces Society. Conversations include a recently published study about milkweed plants purchased from retail nurseries across the country and the pesticides found in these plants, how these pesticides may affect Monarchs, what this study means, and how to conduct purchasing native plants. Music by Andorra.  Follow The Xerces Society - Website / Facebook / Twitter Are Plants Sold as Pollinator-Friendly also Pollinator-Safe? The Case of Milkweed and How to Help Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/21/20221 hour, 35 minutes, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Milkweed Fluff and Other Stuff

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There is a lot of housekeeping this week before a new round of "That's Hot". "This or That" tackles invasives and climate change while "Take it or Leaf it" involves hiking courtesy. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet live Podcast Event.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets?  Tom and Fran get way off topic.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/14/20221 hour, 27 minutes, 46 seconds
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Spreading the Gospel

Tom is in Louisville at the Eastern Native Grassland Symposium.  He sits down with two fan favorites, Shannon Trimboli from Backyard Ecology and Southeastern Grasslands Institute and Kyle Lybarger from Native Habitat Project.  They discuss how they started spreading the message of native plants, meeting for the first time in person, their thoughts on cultivars, and how they garden at home.  Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Native Habitat Project - Website  / Facebook  / Instagram  / YouTube  / TikTok / Patreon  Follow Backyard Ecology - Website / Facebook / YouTube / Patreon Southeastern Grassland Institute just turned 5. Donate to their cause Here. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/7/20221 hour, 3 minutes, 33 seconds
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The Buzz - Incentives To Do Good

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There is a lot of housekeeping this week before a new round of "That's Hot". "This or That" debates the reasons for doing the right thing.  "Take it or Leaf it" gets a little complicated. In a surprise twist, "Grow Read A Book" is not a book. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet live Podcast Event.  Are you listening all the way to the end for our secrets?  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/30/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 50 seconds
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Moth Night!

Tom Knezick flies solo in a new feature called the Secret Tapes.  Tom goes out in the field for a Moth Night with Blaine Rothhauser, Bill Young, and Steve Knezick.  Why Moths?  First, they're pretty cool.  Second, they are a great reflection of the health of your habitat.  There are thousands of different types of moths, and while many are generalist feeding species, some are specialists.  Certain moths will only feed as caterpillars on walnuts, or cottonwoods, or another single genus.  This means that the presence of certain moths mean that you have certain species of plants in the area.  It was an awesome night with awesome friends, and we know you're sure to enjoy the conversation. Music by RJ Comer.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/23/20221 hour, 7 minutes, 42 seconds
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The Buzz - Bison Bison Bison

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There is a lot of housekeeping this week before a new round of "That's Hot".  A new "This or That" spills over into "Take it or Leaf it". "Grow Read A Book" takes us into circle time. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet live Podcast Event.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/16/20221 hour, 20 minutes, 18 seconds
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Meet New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Terry Doss (Co-Director of Meadowlands Research & Restoration Institute) from The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority. Topics include the history of the NJSEA as well as the Meadowlands of NJ.  Also discussed are the importance and diversity of the Meadowlands, the research being done in this grassland ecosystem, as well as what the future holds for the The Meadowlands. Terry describes her road to finding what she wanted to be. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The NJSEA - Website  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/9/20221 hour, 20 minutes, 50 seconds
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The Buzz - Sign This Petition

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Fran and Tom start off the episode with a little housekeeping before a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" that have Tom and Fran biting off more than they can chew while "Take it or Leaf it" turns out to be a much larger topic then they realized. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet live Podcast Event.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/2/20221 hour, 17 minutes, 1 second
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Meet The Nature Conservancy’s Cities Program

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Dr. Johnny Quispe  (Cities Program Manager) from The Nature Conservancy. Topics include the challenges of ecological restorations in urban environments, successes and lessons learned along the journey, achieving involvement and stewardship from the community, as well as what the future holds for the Cities Program. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow the TNC Cities Program - Website / Facebook /  Twitter /  Instagram /  YouTube / Newark Greenprint  / Whole Measures for Urban Conservation / 319(h) Press Release for Fair Street Project  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/26/20221 hour, 31 minutes, 46 seconds
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The Buzz - Then Of Course The Choice Is Yours

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We have not one, but TWO contest winners.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.   Tom has a new "Grow Read A Book" and "Take it or Leaf it" turns out to be enlightening. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet live Podcast Event.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good. Visit Here.
8/19/20221 hour, 19 minutes, 20 seconds
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Meet The Ecological Health Network

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Eve Allen  (Program Director) from the Ecological Health Network. Topics include connectivity within the ecological restoration community, challenges in identifying and strengthening those bonds, what the Ecological Health Network represents, as well as what the future holds for the EHN. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Ecological Health Network - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow Eve Allen - Blog / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/12/20221 hour, 18 minutes, 13 seconds
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The Buzz -Break Out The Faygo

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  There a a ton of "Listener Shout Outs" as we come down to the wire on our latest contest. Tom does a "Grow Read A Book" before "Take it or Leaf it" where Fran and Tom find themselves in over their heads. Find out the details on the next Native Plants Healthy Planet talk.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/5/20221 hour, 30 minutes, 40 seconds
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Meet The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Andrew Bunting (Vice President of Horticulture) from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Topics include the formation of the PHS, the wonderful work and programs they offer, How they incorporate native plants into urban gardens as well as the internationally renowned Philadelphia Flower Show, what the future holds for the PHS, and how you can get involved. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society - Website /  Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/29/20221 hour, 26 minutes, 14 seconds
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The Buzz -When Life Gives you Sumac...

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Fran and Tom follow up on a few topics before getting a message from an old friend.  There a a ton of "Listener Shout Outs".  Tom does a  "Grow Read A Book" segment but also has a complaint. Fran explains missing episode 113 before "Take it or Leaf it."  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/22/20221 hour, 24 minutes, 16 seconds
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Meet The Outdoor Equity Alliance

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Renata Barnes (Coordinator) from the Outdoor Equity Alliance. Topics include the formation of the OEA, how to go about making a change, things we can all do to make nature accessible and equitable, programs the OEA offer, and how you can get involved.  Tom and Fran ask for guidance on things they can do better.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The Outdoor Equity Alliance - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/15/20221 hour, 24 minutes, 59 seconds
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Pinelands Nursery Seed Production

Host/Producer Fran Chismar is absent so Tom Knezick takes the reigns for an inpromtu episode with his brother Steve.  The discussion starts with what it was like growing up on a native plant nursery.  Then they really dive in to how Pinelands Nursery produces wildflower seed from start to finish.  The episode ends with Steve sharing his favorite native plants and who has inspired him in nature in the outdoors.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Pinelands Nursery - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/8/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 51 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Why our Listeners Love Native Plants

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by our listeners Skip Byrnes, Deborah Rosenthal, and Alyssa Lewis to discuss their membership of The Native Plants Healthy Planet Facebook Group. Conversations include the progress on their personal properties, the root of their love of native plants, being involved in local organizations, and tips for our listeners that are just beginning their journey. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men.  Join the NPHP Facebook Group - Facebook Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/1/20221 hour, 48 minutes, 29 seconds
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The Buzz - So Far Away

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Fran and Tom follow up on a few topics before jumping into "Listener Shout Outs".  It's Pollinator Week!  Tom and Fran share some ways that you can celebrate. We have a listener question and Tom does a  "Grow Read A Book" segment. Is Fran out of his mind or out of this world with "Take it or Leaf it?  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/24/20221 hour, 20 minutes, 49 seconds
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Meet The Headwaters Podcast

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Peri Sasnett  (Digital Media at Glacier National Park) from the Headwaters Podcast.  Topics include our relationships with plants, the cultural importance of White Bark Pine, definitions of keystone species, first foods, and masting, knowing when to and how much to intervene with mother nature, and the importance of The National Park Service.  Peri shares a glimpse of Headwaters Season 3.  Cover Photo courtesy of NPS.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Headwaters Podcast - Website  Follow Glacier National Park - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/17/20221 hour, 18 minutes, 15 seconds
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The Buzz - Getting The Kids Outside

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into "Listener Shout Outs" and "Take it or Leaf it".  Our listeners take the main stage with advice on helping children interact with nature which ties in with Tom's "Grow Read A Book."  The Question and Comment line is lit up while Fran and Tom announce a new contest! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.    
6/10/20221 hour, 26 minutes, 23 seconds
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Meet Brooklyn Bridge Park

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Rebecca McMackin  (Director of Horticulture) of Brooklyn Bridge Park.  Topics include the intangibles that make Brooklyn Bridge Park unique, the obstacles of recreating nature in an urban setting, treating a park like a university, and having the courage to be a part of nature.  Rebecca shares a surprise announcement.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Brooklyn Bridge Park - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Follow Rebecca McMackin - Website / Twitter / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/3/20221 hour, 17 minutes, 18 seconds
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The Buzz - Rediscovering Our Connections With Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into "Listener Shout Outs" and "Take it or Leaf it".  This episode's questions leave us wondering about just how much Tom and Fran know.  Fran and Tom discuss ways to get your children involved with nature. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/27/20221 hour, 30 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet Children and Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Laura Mylan (CSO, External Relations) with The Children and Nature Network.  Topics include "Nature-Deficit Disorder", how race, income, identity, ability, and postal code factor into accessibility of nature, programs and partners that Children and Nature support, the benefits of interacting with nature, and how you can get involved.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Children and Nature - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/20/202258 minutes, 35 seconds
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The Buzz - How Does Your Garden Grow?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into Listener Shout Outs. Tom shares a classic book in "Grow Read A Book" before contemplating "Take it or Leaf it"?  Fran and Tom share what's happening in their home gardens. Oh, and another listener gets a Yeti!  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/13/20221 hour, 30 minutes, 18 seconds
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Meet The Insect Crisis

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick connect with Oliver Milman (Environment Correspondent at the Guardian) to talk about his new book The Insect Crisis.  Topics include the state of our insect friends, the factors contributing to their decline, the obstacles we face in reversing the trend, and what you can do locally to help.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Buy a copy of The Insect Crisis Here. Follow Oliver Milman - Website /  The Guardian / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/6/202253 minutes, 41 seconds
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The Buzz - Reflections Without A Net

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into Listener Shout Outs. Tom and Fran gush over a comment on the comment line before agreeing on "Take it or Leaf it"?  Fran and Tom reflect on numerous thoughts without fact checking them. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/29/20221 hour, 10 minutes, 12 seconds
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Meet The Native Habitat Podcast

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick reconnect with Kyle Lybarger (Native Habitat Project) to talk about his new podcast The Native Habitat Podcast.  Topics include how life has changed in the last year, what to expect from The Native Habitat Podcast, and what the future holds for The Native Habitat Project.  Bonus Content - Fran plays the Lightning Round!  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The Native Habitat Project - Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/22/20221 hour, 2 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Buzz - Reflecting On 100 Conversations

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Tom and Fran weigh in on their favorite episodes over the last two years.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into Listener Shout Outs. Do Tom and Fran finally make a definitive choice on "Take it or Leaf it"?  Fran should stop revealing secrets. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/15/20221 hour, 12 minutes, 57 seconds
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Meet The Aldo Leopold Foundation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Stanley Temple (Senior Fellow and Science Advisor) of The Aldo Leopold Foundation to discuss the topic of Land Ethics.  Topics include understanding the fundamentals of Land Ethic as proposed by Aldo Leopold, what has changed in the last seventy years, the creation of The Aldo Leopold Foundation and its mission, as well as Dr. Temple's unique path and influences in his life.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The Aldo Leopold Foundation - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here. 
4/8/20221 hour, 26 minutes, 12 seconds
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The Buzz - Take Two, Catkins!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  We are getting close to Episode 100!  Get your reviews in.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into Listener Shout Outs. Do Tom and Fran finally make a definitive choice on "Take it or Leaf it"?  Fran's Secret reveals plans for the next episode. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/1/20221 hour, 13 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet Native Plants In Small Spaces

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with listener Joan Brandwein (www.comohabitat.info) to discuss the process of converting a small property into a native plant oasis.  Topics include where to start, resources that can help, some of the discoveries you will make along your journey, and how to be inviting towards your community.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Joan Brandwien - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/25/20221 hour, 14 minutes, 16 seconds
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The Buzz - Buy This And We’ll Plant A Tree

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Did Tom get Lyme disease?  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before jumping into Listener Shout Outs.  There were a lot of five star reviews so there are a lot of shout outs. Do Tom and Fran finally make a definitive choice on "Take it or Leaf it"?  Tom's secret leaves Fran speechless. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/18/20221 hour, 20 minutes, 58 seconds
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Meet The Keystone Ten Million Trees Partnership

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Brenda Sieglitz (Assistant Director Making History Campaign; Senior Manager Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership) with The Chesapeake Bay Foundation. They Discuss the state of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, why trees and why ten million of them, who is going to pay for and plant all of these trees, and the importance of investing in provenance.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Keystone 10 Million Tree Partnership - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Follow Chesapeake Bay Foundation - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Want links from this podcast?  Visit www.nativeplantshealthyplanet.com Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/11/20221 hour, 17 minutes, 45 seconds
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The Buzz - Checking for Ticks

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz - but does Fran have a brand new voice?  There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before a caller gives Eastern Red Cedar some love. "Take it or Leaf it" leaves Tom and Fran split before they answer a question about Scale. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/4/20221 hour, 19 minutes, 51 seconds
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Meet A Native Plant Every Day with Tom and Fran (and Kelly)

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Kelly Gill (Senior Pollinator Conservation Specialist) with The Xerces Society and together they introduce you to Tom and Fran's new Podcast, A Native Plant Every Day with Tom and Fran.  Get a sneak peak of two episodes with special guest Kelly Gill as Fran recovers from his deviated septum surgery.  Music by RJ Comer Follow A Native Plant Every Day with Tom and Fran - Website  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/25/202252 minutes, 3 seconds
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The Buzz - Uncomfortable Conversations

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before answering a a thoughtful question that turns into their topic. "Take it or Leaf it" ties in with Tom's article this week making for a great, in-depth conversation. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/18/20221 hour, 27 minutes, 58 seconds
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Meet Bees in Trees

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kass Urban-Mead (Pollinator Conservation Specialist) with The Xerces Society. They discuss the importance of canopy resource and vertical habitat to wild bee populations, how wild bee populations use tree pollen, what the best native trees are for bees to use, and we find out how many questions Fran and Tom can ask in an episode.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The Xerces Society - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/11/20221 hour, 28 minutes, 49 seconds
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The Buzz - Gathering of the Juglone

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" & "This or That" this episode.  Tom and Fran follow up on a few topics before answering a barrage of wonderful questions.  "Grow Read A Book" makes a triumphant return before ending with a new "Take it or Leaf it". Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/4/20221 hour, 30 minutes, 23 seconds
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Meet Genetic Barcoding

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Tanya Dapkey (Lab Manager, Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Lab at the Patrick Center for Environmental Research) of The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, PA. They discuss Genetic Barcoding and how it relates to insects,  what the genetic barcoding of insects can teach us about stream health and a multitude of other things, the advantages and disadvantages to this technology, what the future holds and what we still need to learn.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Tanya Dapkey - Website / Twitter / Instagram Delaware River Watershed Initiative - Website  Follow Barcode of Life Systems - Website  Follow GenBank - Website Follow 500 Women Scientists Philly Pod - Website / Blog Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/28/20221 hour, 18 minutes, 44 seconds
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The Buzz - Native Plant Legislation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" this episode. We find out who won the epic battle of "This or That".  Tom talks legislation.  Fran has a complaint.  Actually, Fran has many complaints.  Tom and Fran recap their last couple episodes that are seated on different ends of the sustainable land care spectrum before ending with a new "Take it or Leaf it". Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/21/20221 hour, 41 minutes, 10 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Regulating Land Care

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Richard McCoy (Owner, Richard A. McCoy Horticultural Services, Inc.),  Lori Jensen (Executive Director, NJNLA), Dan Mabe (Founder, American Green Zone Alliance), and Christine Symington (Program Director, Sustainable Princeton) to discuss the topic of regulating land care. Conversations include the state of land care today, how electric is better than gas powered, regulations that are in the works, and the education and responsibility of both the homeowner and the landscape professional.  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by Andorra.  Follow McCoy Horticultural Services - Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube  Follow New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow American Green Zone Alliance - Website / Facebook / YouTube  Follow Sustainable Princeton - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube   Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/14/20221 hour, 55 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Buzz -Best Episodes of 2021

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" this episode. Tom and Fran reveal the Top 10 episodes of all time as well as some of their favorites from the last year.  Fran and Tom get a little philosophical before sharing their resolutions for the upcoming year. Music by RJ Comer.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/7/20221 hour, 27 minutes, 56 seconds
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Meet Lawns into Meadows

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Owen Wormser (Author of Lawns into Meadows, Owner) of Abound Design. They discuss Owen's unique upbringing, the importance of meadows and their benefits, ecological facts about maintaining turf grass, and native plants to help turn your meadows into a reality.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Owen Wormser - Websites / Instagram / Buy The Book  Buy a copy of Lawns into Meadows.  Go Here and enter the code MEADOW20 for 20 percent off your entire order plus free shipping.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.  
12/30/20211 hour, 33 minutes, 39 seconds
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The Buzz - Holiday Gift Ideas

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. Tom and Fran share some great last minute gift ideas for the Holidays. There is finally a name for the new segment! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/23/20211 hour, 20 minutes, 3 seconds
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Meet Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Andrea DeLong-Amaya (Director of Horticulture) and Joe Marcus (Native Plants of North America Program Coordinator) of Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. They discuss the legacy of the visionary Lady Bird Johnson, the history of the center and the work that they do, the incredible task behind creating the database of wildflower.org, the importance of education behind the mission of native plant awareness, and some of the things you may have missed on their website and at the center.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/17/20211 hour, 26 minutes, 5 seconds
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The Buzz - Green Infrastructure Roundup

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. Tom and Fran take a moment to reflect on the last few episodes focusing on Green Infrastructure.  Everyone gets a listener shoutout this episode!  Fran and Tom make a tough decision in a new segment. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/10/20211 hour, 28 minutes, 4 seconds
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Floating Wetland Islands

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Jack Szczepanski Ph.D. (Senior Aquatic Ecologist) of Princeton Hydro about floating wetland islands. They discuss the benefits of FWI's, the science behind them, native plants that are used in them, and the different applications in which they can be used.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Princeton Hydro - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/3/20211 hour, 27 minutes, 20 seconds
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The Buzz - We Have a Winner!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. Sol calls in with his winner of the Draw Sol contest and Tom and Fran give some helpful tips for after your Thanksgiving Day meals.  Fran and Tom reveal their guilty plant pleasures. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/26/20211 hour, 6 minutes, 20 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Green Roofs

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Kate Ancaya (Co-Founder and Landscape Architect) from Living Roofs, Inc. and Shannon Currey (Marketing Director) of Hoffman Nursery to discuss the topic of green roofs. Conversations include what exactly is a green roof, the benefits of having a green roof, what goes into green roof plant selections, and the challenges of creating a natural setting in an unnatural environment.  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by Egocentric Plastic Men.  Follow Living Roofs, Inc - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Follow Hoffman Nursery - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / LinkedIn  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.  
11/19/20211 hour, 7 minutes, 25 seconds
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The Buzz - Sol, Pigeons, and Associations

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. Tom is getting quite the reputation in the avian lover actor's guild and Fran urges the listeners to become active in their favorite organizations.  Fran and Tom pick their favorite Sol entries before posting in the Facebook Group. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/12/20211 hour, 19 minutes, 9 seconds
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Meet The Native Plant Society of New Jersery

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Hubert Ling (President) of The Native Plant Society of NJ about the 38 year history of the organization. They discuss the benefits of membership, the idea behind their annual seed exchange program, the programs that they offer, including their fall conference, as well as the friendships that can be made.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow The NPSNJ - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Flickr Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here. 
11/5/20211 hour, 23 minutes, 4 seconds
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The Buzz - Broomsticks, Cattails, and Bird Ladies

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new Halloween episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Lewis Family helps out with the Grow Read a Book Jingle as well as the topic of native plants for Halloween. The Bird Lady offers an olive branch to Tom and there is a listener shoutout to the Great White North in this Halloween Spooktacular. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/29/20211 hour, 28 minutes, 19 seconds
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Meet Nature‘s Sanctuary at West Laurel Hill Cemetery

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Gregg Tepper (Horticulturist and Author) of West Laurel Hill Cemetery and Laurel Hill Cemetery about the important practice of sustainability.  They discuss the Nature's Sanctuary, changing views on traditional perception, practices of reuse and recycling, managing for deer and invasives in a sustainable environment, and the importance of stewardship.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Laurel Hill Cemetery - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Follow West Laurel Hill Cemetery - Website / Facebook / YouTube / Nature's Sanctuary  Follow Gregg Tepper - Website / LinkedIn / Buy a book  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/22/20211 hour, 35 minutes, 43 seconds
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The Buzz - Smelling the Seeds of Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The guys take a moment to reflect on their latest Rooted Discussion before they introduce a new segment. Noele shares a competitive game that that has Tom and Fran turning up their noses. There can be only one! Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/15/20211 hour, 36 minutes, 41 seconds
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Rooted Discussion - Women in Ecology

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Carolyn Klaube (Stewardship Director) from Sourland Conservancy, Debbie Dekleva (Monarch Maverick) of Monarch Flyway, Amy Greene (Professional Wetland Scientist and Certified Senior Ecologist) former President of Amy Greene Environmental, and Dr. Randi Eckel (Owner) of Toadshade Wildflower Farm to discuss women in the field of Ecology. Conversations include choosing the road of Ecology as a profession, challenges for women in a male dominated industry, how the industry has changed over the decades and advice for anyone looking to choose this profession.  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Sourland Conservancy - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Blog / Instagram  Follow Monarch Flyway - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube / Flickr Follow Amy Greene Environmental - Website / LinkedIn  Follow Toadshade Wildflower Farm - Website / Facebook  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/8/20212 hours, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Invasive Insects and Other Musings

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz and they have brand new equipment. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode - but not in that order.  Tom's latest segment, Grow Read A Book, has you consider the way you view native plants and a listener's post in The Native Plants, Healthy Planet Facebook group goes viral.  You get a listener shoutout, you get a listener shoutout, everyone gets a listener shoutout as Tom and Fran are truly inspired.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/1/20211 hour, 34 minutes, 39 seconds
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Meet Backyard Ecology

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Shannon Trimboli (Founder and Host) of Backyard Ecology about being acceptive and nurturing towards those entering the native plant spectrum.  They discuss approaching ecology from a place of wonder and education, the beginnings of Backyard Ecology, and the paths we all take to ecological enlightenment.  Stop and smell the Sassafras.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Backyard Ecology - Website / Facebook / LinkedIn  Follow Busy Bee Nursery - Website / Facebook  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/24/20211 hour, 31 minutes, 34 seconds
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The Buzz - Growing the Circle

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode.  Sol gets excited about our new contest and Dr. Evil spreads the horror of Jumping Worms.  Tom's latest segment, Grow Read A Book, leads us into the topic of making the native plant circle larger.  They guys bite the bullet and unlock their Instagram accounts. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/17/20211 hour, 34 minutes, 50 seconds
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Meet Native Habitat Project

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kyle Lybarger (Founder, Director, and CEO) from Native Habitat Project about creating a space for conservation and restoration in social media.  They discuss the formation of a community of passionate conservation and sportspersons professionals, the beginnings of the Native Habitat Project, and the importance of spreading the native plant message.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Native Habitat Project - Website / Facebook / TikTok / Instagram / YouTube / Patreon  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/10/20211 hour, 31 minutes, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Planning for Fall Planting

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  The Podcast hits a milestone and Fran and Tom look back at some of the highlights. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode.  Sol checks in and we get a great question from a listener, and the guys discuss why Fall is for planting. Music by RJ Comer. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/3/20211 hour, 34 minutes, 43 seconds
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Meet The Trial Gardens at Mt. Cuba Center

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Sam Hoadley (Horticultural Research Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the history of their Trial Gardens.  They discuss the mission of the Trial Gardens, challenges for maintaining their scientific integrity, significant findings over the years, what's next, and the hot button issue of straight species vs. cultivars.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Mt. Cuba Center - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/27/20211 hour, 29 minutes, 28 seconds
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The Buzz - Let’s Relax

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  Tom starts a conversation on what other podcasts they like to listen to and where they go to relax. There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode, and Tom tells us about The Hidden Life of Trees in Grow Read a Book. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/20/20211 hour, 5 minutes, 32 seconds
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Meet Friends of High School Park

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Cynthia Blackwood (Park Manager) and Beth Yount (Former Board of Directors Vice President) from Friends of High School Park about the 27 year history of their organization.  They discuss what a Friends organization is and how to start a friends organization of your own. Topics also include the challenges of creating a natural preserve on the site of a former school, innovative ways of creating engagement and fund raising, strategies to restore their three ecosystems, and the importance of education.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Friends of High School Park - Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/13/20211 hour, 20 minutes, 53 seconds
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The Buzz - Growing Together

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with a new caller!  Tom and Fran talk about their celebrity guest wish list, and Tom unveils a new segment.  Discussions center around feedback from the last episode of The Buzz.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/6/20211 hour, 17 minutes, 7 seconds
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Rooted Discussion -The Business of Native Plants Part 2 - Trees and Shrubs

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Jim MacKenzie (President) from Octoraro Native Plant Nursery,  and Matt Gettinger (President) from Long Island Natives to discuss the woody side of the native plant nursery industry. Conversations include the challenges of growing woody stock, determining what to grow and the sizes to grow them to, limiting our chemical footprint, and the state of the nursery industry as a whole.  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Octoraro Native Plant Nursery - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Follow Long Island Natives - Website / Facebook / Instagram  Read about the Nursery Industry - Article  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/30/20212 hours, 44 seconds
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The Buzz - Where the Native Plants at!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with the return of Sol and a new caller!  Tom and Fran talk about something they would change professionally.  Discussions center around Tom and Fran's favorite natural areas to visit.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/23/20211 hour, 24 minutes, 39 seconds
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Meet Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Santino Lauricella (Education and Communication Coordinator) and Jean Barrell (Volunteer) from the Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve about the history of their curated native plant Museum.  They discuss the mission of the preserve, the challenges of preserving their collection, the work their nursery accomplishes, and the importance of education.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/16/20211 hour, 23 minutes, 29 seconds
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The Buzz - What is Invasive?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with the return of Doom and more!  Tom and Fran talk about new purchases they are excited about.  Discussions center around the definition of an invasive plant and the ways that invasive plants can spread.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/9/20211 hour, 15 minutes, 37 seconds
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Meet The Natural Lands at Mt. Cuba Center

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Nathan Shampine (Natural Land Manager) from the Mt. Cuba Center about the history of their Natural Lands Program.  They discuss the techniques available for managing natural areas for habitat, the importance of succession, prescribed burnings, and managing for deer pressure and invasive plants in a natural setting.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Mt. Cuba Center - Webiste / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/2/20211 hour, 1 minute, 26 seconds
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The Buzz - Pollinator Bonanza

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz to finish out Pollinator Week.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with a great new caller.  Tom tries his hand at complaining before he and Fran quickly turn things around to share 5 things they are excited about.  Discussions center around Pollinator Fun Facts.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/25/20211 hour, 8 minutes, 21 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Pollinator Week Master-Class

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Sam Droege (Wildlife Biologist, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center) from The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab, Kelly Gill (Senior Pollinator Conservation Specialist, Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Region) from the Xerces Society, and Marcus Gray (Executive Director) from Sustainable Monarch to discuss everything you need to know for Pollinator Week. Conversations include some of the best ways to celebrate Pollinator Week, where to start when building pollinator habitat, out of the box ways to help our pollinators, chemicals and insects, and the pluses and minuses of legislative action to protect pollinators? Everyone shares a mistake that they have learned from.  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Native Bee Inventory and Lab - Website / Tumblr / Flickr / Facebook / Twitter Follow The Xerces Society - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow Sustainable Monarch - Website / Facebook / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/18/20211 hour, 46 minutes, 54 seconds
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The Buzz - What’s Blooming Now?

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz and there are so many things in bloom they can't pick just one.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with the ongoing saga of Sol and a brand new caller with feedback.  Tom and Fran also discuss what they've quit cold turkey.  Discussions center around the native plants that are in bloom in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/11/20211 hour, 14 minutes, 7 seconds
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Meet Growing With Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Daron Williams (Host of Growing with Nature Podcast) about sustainably gardening food from native plants on your own property.  They discuss the concept of food forests, the difference between foraging and gardening, and how nature and restoration are something that we can all be connected with on our own properties.  Also discussed is how our listeners can make a difference in their own yard.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Growing With Nature - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/4/20211 hour, 15 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Buzz - We’re Getting Cranky

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz and boy are they cranky.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with the ongoing saga of Sol and a new evil named Doom.  Tom and Fran also discuss their ecological bucket lists.  Discussions center around the use of plastics in the nursery industry and a brand new auction idea.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/28/20211 hour, 30 minutes, 41 seconds
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Meet A Fisherman’s Perspective

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Joe Cermele (Senior Fishing Editor - Meateater, Host Bent Podcast and B-Side Fishing) about fishing as it relates to our natural areas and our eco-system.  They discuss the perfect environments for fishing, things that the fishing community do well with and can also improve upon, health of our waterways and the effects of dam removals, as well as diving into 'Seaspiracy'.  Also discussed is how our listeners can make a difference.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Joe Cermele - Instagram Follow Bent Podcast - Website Follow B-Side Fishing - Website Follow Meateaters - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Youtube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/21/20211 hour, 28 minutes, 52 seconds
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The Buzz - Busy Little Bees

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with obscure references from Sol, and Tom and Fran give you a native plant pep talk.  Discussions center around White House plantings and Fran shares an embarrassing story about his intolerance to blood.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/14/20211 hour, 4 minutes, 36 seconds
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Meet New York Restoration Project

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Jason Smith (Director of Northern Manhattan Parks, New York Restoration Project) about what exactly is a native ecosystem in an urban environment?  They discuss the beginnings of NYRP, how they have transitioned over the last 25 years, the need for education, stewardship, and sustainability, and the importance of oyster restoration in our conservation efforts.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow NYRP - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube / Sherman Creek Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/7/20211 hour, 23 minutes, 51 seconds
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The Buzz -Turf Wars!

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with a weight conscious Sol, and Tom and Fran look into their crystal balls and predict future industry trends. Tom Tom the English Muffin Man also unveils a new segment celebrating our listeners.  Discussions center around our lawns - the good and the bad.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/30/20211 hour, 36 minutes, 20 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Soil! The World Beneath Our Feet

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Dr. Stephanie Murphy (Director, Rutgers Soil Testing Lab), Jennifer Maynard (CEO & Founder, Nutrition for Longevity & Greater Greens, LLC), and Ray Archuleta (Featured in Netflix Documentary "Kiss the Ground", Founder, Soil Health Academy, LLC & Understanding AG, LLC.) to discuss the topic of soil and the living ecosystem right below your feet. Conversations include the importance of soil, what is healthy soil, how have our soils changed, what are the biggest enemies of natural soil, and can we restore the degraded soil? As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory - Website / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube  Follow Nutrition for Longevity - Website / Facebook / Instagram  Follow Greater Greens - Website Follow Soil Health Academy - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow UnderstandingAg - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow Kiss The Ground - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/23/20211 hour, 18 minutes, 33 seconds
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The Buzz - Chemically Unbalanced

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with a brand new episode of The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode. The Question and Comment line is busy with calls from former guest Kelly Gill and also Sol, and Tom and Fran reveal their biggest industry fears. Discussions center around what Tom and Fran know about general chemical use.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/16/20211 hour, 14 minutes, 26 seconds
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Meet Changing our View on Forests

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Daniel Duran (Assistant Professor, Lecturer, & Naturalist, at Rowan University) about changing our views on forests.  They discuss what exactly is a healthy forests, the magic of ecotones, ecological succession, environmental disturbance and whether we should manage the forests or should the forests manage themselves.  As an added bonus, Dan throws in his favorite unsung pollinators.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Dr. Daniel Duran - Website / ResearchGate / Twitter  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/9/20211 hour, 33 minutes, 51 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing About Trees

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are excited about trees! Welcome back to The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode and Fran's complaint hits a little close to home. Sol is back and wants to discuss under storied trees, and Tom and Fran reveal their favorite online native plant influencer. Discussions center around native trees that are perfect for habitat, foraging, and your landscape.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/2/20211 hour, 44 minutes, 5 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - Gardening with Native Plants

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by John Magee (Magee Designs, The Native Plant Podcast), Becky Laboy (Education Outreach Specialist, Ocean County Soil Conservation District, Jersey-Friendly Yards), and Richard McCoy (Richard A. McCoy Horticultural Services, Inc.) to discuss gardening with Native Plants. Topics include why to use native plants in your gardens, where to start, why the soil is so important to your gardening, and where to get your design inspiration.  You will hear about native plants you can't miss with, the myth of no maintenance, and opinions on cultivars. In the end, are you gardening for yourself, or the eco-system?  As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow Magee Designs - Website / Facebook / LinkedIn Follow The Native Plant Podcast - Website / Facebook / Instagram Follow Ocean County SCD - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow Jersey-Friendly Yards - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow McCoy Hort. Services - Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / Instagram / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/26/20212 hours, 1 minute, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing about Shrubs

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are excited about shrubs! Welcome back to The Buzz.  There's a new round of "That's Hot" and "This or That" this episode but not without controversy, Fran makes a phone call to air this week's complaint, Sol is back and needs shrub suggestions for protection from marauding sheep, and Tom and Fran reintroduce themselves. Discussions center around native shrubs that are perfect for habitat, foraging, and your landscape.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/19/20211 hour, 37 minutes, 22 seconds
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Meet Bee City USA

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Molly Martin (Bee City USA Coordinator, The Xerces Society) about Bee City USA and Bee Campus.  They discuss the history of the Bee City, the commitments associated with the program, the dangers of pesticide use, and how you can apply to be a Bee City or Bee Campus.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Bee City USA - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/12/20211 hour, 19 minutes, 58 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing about Graminoids

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are reunited and excited about graminoids! What is a graminoid?  We are glad you asked because you are going to learn all about them.  There's a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot" this episode, Fran is surprisingly complaint free this week and the guys talk about their biggest embarrassing moment in the industry. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/5/20211 hour, 24 minutes, 24 seconds
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Rooted Discussions - The Government and Restoration

Host Fran Chismar flies solo on this episode as he hosts Carl Alderson (Mid-Atlantic Restoration Coordinator, NOAA Fisheries’ Habitat Conservation, Restoration Center), Marty McHugh (Regional Manager, SumCo Eco-Contracting), Bill Young (Wetland Scientist, SumCo Eco-Contracting), and Dr. Emile DeVito (Manager of Science and Stewardship, The New Jersey Conservation Foundation) as they discuss the governments role in restoration.  Topics include highlighted accomplishments of ecological policy, does restoration exist without government, would NGO restorations or government restorations exist without the other, and what are the governments limitations in facilitating restorations. The full video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Watch the Video Feed - YouTube Follow NOAA - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Follow SumCo Eco-Contracting - Website / Facebook / Twitter  Follow New Jersey Conservation Foundation - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/26/20211 hour, 42 minutes, 6 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing about Forbs

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are excited about forbs! Tom reflects on the first year of the podcast before they take a few listener questions and phone a friend for help. There's also a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot." Fran is hesitant to play "Not That I Am One To Complain," while Tom and Fran talk about their favorite deceased personalities. Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/19/20211 hour, 34 minutes, 27 seconds
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Meet The Forager’s Harvest

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Samuel Thayer, internationally recognized author of Nature's Garden and The Forager's Harvest.  They discuss getting started with foraging, the do's and don't for beginners, foraging highlights by season, the historical significance of living off the land, and the ethical stance on giving back what we take.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow Samuel Thayer - Website / Facebook  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/12/20211 hour, 37 minutes, 30 seconds
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The Buzz - Winter Gardening Tips

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick break down a review that leads them into giving winter gardening ideas.  They field a new phone call that is NOT Sol and there's also a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot." Fran unleashes the jingle for Tom's brain child "Not That I Am One To Complain," and Tom and Fran give Business Busting Suggestions.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/5/20211 hour, 7 minutes, 28 seconds
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Meet The New Jersey Conservation Foundation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Emile DeVito (Manager of Science and Stewardship) from The New Jersey Conservation Foundation.  They discuss partnering with the government and nonprofit organizations to preserve and conserve land, restoring what we've lost while monitoring and protecting what we have, and getting ahead of invasives and deer.  They also discuss how the forests have changed in New Jersey and explain how you can get involved and help.  Music by Egocentric Plastic Men. Follow New Jersey Conservation Foundation - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/29/20211 hour, 40 minutes, 41 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing about Cultivars

What is the buzz about native plant cultivars?  Find out on this edition of The Buzz!  Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick field a new phone call from Sol which sparks a conversation about native plant cultivars.  Find out the difference between a variety and a cultivar as well as the importance of provenance. There's also a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot." Tom creates a new show segment just for Fran while both hosts each reveal a newbie mistake.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article / Read Mt. Cuba Trials Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/22/20211 hour, 24 minutes, 57 seconds
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Rooted Discussions -The Business of Native Plants

Welcome to Rooted Discussions, our roundtable conversations featuring top minds in the field of the topic at hand. On our first Rooted Discussions,  hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are joined by Steve Castorani (President, North Creek Nurseries), John Mark Courtney (Owner, Kind Earth Growers, LLC), and Carrie Stanker and Daryl Kobesky (Co-Owners, Sunset Farmstead LLC) to discuss the business of growing native plants. Topics include why we grow what we grow, the challenges of being a native plant nursery, public misconceptions of native plants as a business, and the limitations of bringing native plants to the public. As an added bonus, the video will be available on the Pinelands Nursery YouTube channel. Music by RJ Comer.  Follow North Creek Nurseries - Website / Facebook / Instagram Follow Kind Earth Growers - Website  Follow Sunset Farmstead - Website / Facebook / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/15/20211 hour, 58 minutes, 1 second
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The Buzz - Pro Tip Edition

Welcome to The Pro Tip Edition of The Buzz!  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick share some of their native plant pro tips with you and field some great listener questions. There's also a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot," and Tom and Fran each share cool stuff they are using.  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
1/8/20211 hour, 29 minutes, 46 seconds
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Meet Ducks Unlimited

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Ed Farley  (Biologist, New York Region) from Ducks Unlimited.  They break down the perfect duck habitat, what Ducks Unlimited mission is, the current state of ducks, preserving duck habitat, the beauty of duck stamps, and much more.  Tom and Fran unleash their inner nine-year-old by asking every duck question imaginable.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Ducks Unlimited - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/30/20201 hour, 24 minutes, 40 seconds
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The Buzz - Buzzing into the New Year

Happy New Year and Welcome back to The Buzz!  Meet the winner of our original theme music competition.  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick reflect on the Top 10 episodes of the year, there's a new round of "This or That" and "That's Hot," and Tom and Fran each share a money saving tip.  Did we mention that Sol called again?  Music by RJ Comer.  Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/23/20201 hour, 20 minutes, 36 seconds
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Meet The New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Michael Van Clef (Stewardship Director, Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space) from The New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team.  They break down exactly what is an invasive species and get to the heart of the issue with invasives. Discussions include innovative methods of controlling invasives and using technology to engage the public. Additionally, they also address listener questions and explain how you can get involved.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The Invasive Species Strike Team - Website / Deer Management Resources / Deer and Stakeholders  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/18/20201 hour, 34 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Buzz - Jingle Buzz!!!

Happy Holidays!  Welcome back to The Buzz.  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back and contemplate what native plants can be used for Holiday arrangements. Find out the controversy with "This or That," hear a new round of "That's Hot," and Fran geeks out over his desert island pics.  Tom and Fran also discuss the 2021 Philadelphia Flower Show.  Music by Stephen Mahar.    Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article / Alternate Article  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/11/20201 hour, 34 seconds
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Meet The Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Russ Furnari (Manager Environmental Policy Enterprise at PSE&G) from The Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership.  They discuss how big corporations give back to the environment, cooperating with non-profit organizations, working together for the greater good, and how the view of restoration has changed over the years..  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow the NJ CWRP - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
12/4/20201 hour, 35 minutes, 26 seconds
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The Buzz - A Buzzworthy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!  Welcome back to The Buzz.  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back and contemplate what native berries or nuts may have been at the first Thanksgiving. Find out who won "This or That," hear a new round of "That's Hot," Fran expresses his dismay over a listener call in and then surprises Tom with a brand new segment.  Music by Stephen Mahar.  Want to submit original theme music for The Buzz?  Make sure you tune in to find out how. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/25/20201 hour, 6 minutes, 49 seconds
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Meet Homegrown National Park

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Doug Tallamy (Professor of Entomology, University of Delaware) Author of Bringing Nature Home and Natures Best Hope. They discuss what has changed in the last 13 years since the publication of Bringing Nature Home, the root of exotic plant species and insects, accepting the role of a predator, and the urgency of growing a Homegrown National Park.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Join A Homegrown National Park - Webiste Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/20/20201 hour, 1 minute, 22 seconds
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Meet Planting in a Post Wild World

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Claudia West (Principal at Phyto Studio) Co-Author of Planting in a Post Wild World.  They discuss the principals of Ornamental design and Ecological design and how the two can work together, listening to what plants have to say, what's next for the author and Claudia gives design tips for the budding native gardener. Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Phyto Studio - Website / Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
11/13/20201 hour, 9 minutes, 39 seconds
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The Buzz - Our Very First Listeners Questions!

Welcome back to The Buzz.  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with their first three listener questions left on their question and answer line. They also revisit native plants websites suggested by the listeners, there's a new round of "That's Hot", and Tom introduces their new segment, "This or That" while Fran introduces the jingle.  Music by Stephen Mahar.  Want to submit original theme music for The Buzz?  Make sure you tune in to find out how. Read Fran's Article / Read Tom's Article Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/30/202055 minutes, 5 seconds
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Meet The Nature Conservancy

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Michelle DiBlasio (Watershed Restoration Coordinator) from The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey.  They discuss The Nature Conservancy on a local level, their successful Roots for Rivers campaign, the important work being done in the Paulins Kill with their partners at the Wallkill River Watershed Management Group, what's next and how you can help. Tom ponders names for trees and Fran unleashes his Million Dollar idea.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The Nature Conservancy of New Jersey - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow The Nature Conservancy - Website / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/23/20201 hour, 39 minutes, 25 seconds
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The Buzz - Native Plant Websites You Need To Check Out!

Welcome back to The Buzz.  On this episode, hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick are back with another round of "That's Hot!", they discuss their favorite native plants websites and revisit our listener's favorite books about native plants, Tom gives his reasons why Fran is the cause for their first one star review while Fran agrees and adds more to the list.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow these Websites - USDA Native Plant Database / Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center / Duke Farms / Taxinomic Data Center / Jersey-Friendly Yards / Audubon Society / Xerces Society / Wild Seed Project Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
10/9/202048 minutes, 1 second
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Meet The Pinelands Preservation Alliance

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Carleton Montgomery (Executive Director) and Ryan Rebozo Ph.D. (Director of Conservation Science) from The Pinelands Preservation Alliance.  They discuss the unique importance of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, how this area effects local water quality, recreation in the pines, major challenges of protecting this land and how you can help. Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The Pinelands Preservation Alliance - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/25/20201 hour, 15 minutes
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The Buzz - What Should You Be Reading?

Welcome to The Buzz.  A new monthly segment where hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick discuss a topic concerning native plants.  On this episode, Fran and Tom discuss their favorite books about native plants, books that are not directly related to ecology but share a common thread, and the books they are most excited to read.  Fran introduces the jingle to one of their newest features.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Buy These Books - Bringing Nature Home / A New Garden Ethic / A Sand County Almanac / The Nature of Nature / Planting in a Post Wild World / Plastic / American Buffalo / Big Oyster Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/18/202033 minutes, 15 seconds
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Meet The National Aquarium

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Maura Duffy (Conservation Project Manager) from The National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD. They discuss what happens beyond the physical walls at the aquarium, what their mission statement and conservation goals are, the big picture on plastic pollution, and how you can help. Tom talks about one of his favorite Instagram accounts and Fran tries to sidetrack Maura by discussing music. Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The National Aquarium - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
9/11/20201 hour, 26 minutes, 43 seconds
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Meet The Southeastern Grasslands Initiative

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Dwayne Estes (Professor and Curator of Herbarium at Austin Peay State University and Executive Director of SGI). They discuss debunking the myth of the mighty squirrel, the misconception of forests along the east coast, historical documentation about our lands, our undeniable connections with nature and why 25 years may be too late.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Southeastern Grasslands Initiative - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/28/20201 hour, 25 minutes, 15 seconds
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Meet Our Listeners

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with our listeners, including Richard McCoy (Owner, Richard A. McCoy Horticultural Services, Inc.), Rosalind Doremus, Skip Byrnes, and James Davis. They discussed how everyone got the native bug, the hardest part of gardening native, our favorite apps, and what tips we would give to others looking to rewild.  The tables get turned on Fran and Tom at the end as they are the ones fielding the questions.  Fran gets stumped.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The Native Plants, Healthy Planet Podcast - Facebook / Instagram  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/21/20201 hour, 51 minutes, 29 seconds
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Meet The Nature of Nature

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Enric Sala (Author, National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, Founder of Pristine Seas) about his new book, The Nature of Nature: Why We Need The Wild.  They tackle the difficult issues facing our global ecosystems today and approach them with solutions.  Topics include reclaiming our oceans, an organic approach to economic growth, re-balancing nature, and things that you can do to help.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Dr. Enric Sala - Website /  Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Buy the Book Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/14/20201 hour, 5 minutes, 23 seconds
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Meet Temple University Ambler Arboretum

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kathy Salisbury (Director) from the Temple University Ambler Arboretum about a range of topics including the legacy of hands on learning at the arboretum, the importance of education, women in horticulture, and inclusivity in nature and our industry.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Temple University Ambler Arboretum - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
8/7/20201 hour, 24 minutes, 18 seconds
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Meet Crafts Creek Spring Hill Brook Watershed Association

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kate Tallon-O'Callaghan (Director) from the Crafts Creek Spring Hill Brook Watershed Associations about starting a watershed association, the local significance of watersheds, the importance of education, and getting involved in local politics. Fran also learns he cannot name a body of water after himself while he is still alive.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Crafts Creek & Spring Hill Brook Watershed Association - Website / Facebook Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/31/20201 hour, 23 minutes, 35 seconds
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Meet Working Lands For Wildlife

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with John Parke (Stewardship Project Director) from New Jersey Audubon. They discuss the decline of the Northern Bobwhite Quail and the plan to bring them back, local farm stewardship, the importance of partnerships, and the best cheesesteak in Philly.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow New Jersey Audubon - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Follow Working Lands For Wildlife - Website Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/24/20201 hour, 9 minutes, 44 seconds
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Meet Deer and Native Plants - Part 2

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kip Adams (Director of Conservation) from The Quality Deer Management Association in this Part 2 of a 2 part series on Deer and Native Plants. They discuss a new merger, building a healthy ecosystem for quality deer herds, native plants that are essential for healthy deer, and the "locavore" movement and the QDMA "Field to Fork" program.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow QDMA - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/17/202046 minutes, 3 seconds
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Meet Deer and Native Plants - Part 1

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Dr. Jay Kelly (Professor of Biology) from Raritan Valley Community College in this Part 1 of a 2 part series on Deer and Native Plants. They discuss the rising deer populations and how they relate to forest health, Predator vs. Prey, what is needed for a healthy ecosystem, and native plants that deer may or may not eat.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Dr. Jay Kelly - ResearchGate Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
7/10/20201 hour, 10 minutes, 53 seconds
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Meet Sourland Conservancy

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Carolyn Klaube (Stewardship Program Coordinator) from Sourland Conservancy.  Happy Pollinator Week!  They discuss the distinct region in New Jersey known as the Sourlands and what makes it special, its very unique history, education in numbers, and thinking outside of the box in today's world to keep community involvement.  Fran, Tom and Carolyn (well, Tom and Carolyn) answer our listener's Pollinator questions.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Sourland Conservancy - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Blog / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/26/20201 hour, 39 minutes, 59 seconds
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Meet Pinelands Nursery

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Suzanne (President) and Don Knezick from Pinelands Nursery.  It's the Secret Episode!  They discuss their humble beginnings and how Pinelands Nursery started in the early 80's as a simple "side-hustle" and grew to be one of the largest native plant nurseries in the country.  Tom shares his big news and Fran reveals what happens at the nursery when the owners are away.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Pinelands Nursery - Facebook / Twitter / Instagram Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
6/12/20201 hour, 13 minutes, 1 second
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Meet The Xerces Society

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Kelly Gill (Senior Pollinator Conservation Specialist, Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Region) from the Xerces Society.  They discuss the roots of the Xerces Society, what they do for invertebrates, how the society got its interesting name, creating pollinator habitat, how agriculture is helping and hurting pollinators, art degrees, Tom goes off topic and uses big words, and Kelly tells us her spirit animal.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow The Xerces Society - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/26/20201 hour, 36 minutes, 4 seconds
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Meet A New Garden Ethic

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Benjamin Vogt (Author - A New Garden Ethic: Cultivating Defiant Compassion for an Uncertain Future) of Monarch Gardens LLC.  They discuss the heart of gardening ethics and native plants, exploring your local eco-types, reception to a not-so-radical idea and...a new book?  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Benjamin Vogt - Website / Twitter / Instagram / Buy The Book Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/12/20201 hour, 10 minutes, 56 seconds
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Meet A New Garden Ethic

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Benjamin Vogt (Author - A New Garden Ethic: Cultivating Defiant Compassion for an Uncertain Future) of Monarch Gardens LLC.  They discuss the heart of gardening ethics and native plants, exploring your local eco-types, reception to a not-so-radical idea and...a new book?  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Benjamin Vogt - Website / Twitter / Instagram / Buy The Book Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/12/20201 hour, 10 minutes, 56 seconds
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Meet The National Wild Turkey Federation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Lou Gambale (President, NJ Chapter) from The National Wild Turkey Federation.  They discuss the decline new Native Plants Healthy Planet Facebook Group, The rise and fall of wild turkey, the importance of habitat, organisational partnerships for restoration, and delicious recipes.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow National Wild Turkey Federation - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/5/20201 hour, 37 minutes, 17 seconds
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Meet The National Wild Turkey Federation

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Lou Gambale (President, NJ Chapter) from The National Wild Turkey Federation.  They discuss the decline new Native Plants Healthy Planet Facebook Group, The rise and fall of wild turkey, the importance of habitat, organisational partnerships for restoration, and delicious recipes.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow National Wild Turkey Federation - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
5/5/20201 hour, 37 minutes, 17 seconds
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Meet The Native Bee Inventory

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Sam Droege (Wildlife Biologist, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center) from The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.  They discuss the decline of native bees, the importance of native flora and fauna, recognizing the significance of specialist bees, if dandelions have merit, and unpopular opinions on honey bees.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab - Website / Tumblr / Flickr / Facebook / Twitter  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/28/20201 hour, 30 minutes, 36 seconds
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Meet The Native Bee Inventory

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Sam Droege (Wildlife Biologist, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center) from The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.  They discuss the decline of native bees, the importance of native flora and fauna, recognizing the significance of specialist bees, if dandelions have merit, and unpopular opinions on honey bees.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab - Website / Tumblr / Flickr / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/28/20201 hour, 30 minutes, 36 seconds
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Meet Audubon International

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Marcus Gray from Audubon International.  They discuss the program Monarchs in the Rough, thinking outside the box, what can be done to reverse the decline of the Monarch population, and how you can help.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Audubon International - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow Monarchs in the Rough - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/21/20201 hour, 29 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet Audubon International

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Marcus Gray from Audubon International.  They discuss the program Monarchs in the Rough, thinking outside the box, what can be done to reverse the decline of the Monarch population, and how you can help.  Music by Stephen Mahar. Follow Audubon International - Website / Facebook / Twitter Follow Monarchs in the Rough - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/21/20201 hour, 29 minutes, 54 seconds
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Meet Jersey-Friendly Yards

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Karen Walzer and Becky Laboy of Jersey-Friendly Yards. They discuss that fact that if you build it (native gardens), they will come (wildlife and pollinators).  Learn about the Jersey-Friendly Yard concept, their events, and how to get involved. Music by Stephen Maher. Follow Jersey-Friendly Yards - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/14/20201 hour, 6 minutes, 34 seconds
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Meet Jersey-Friendly Yards

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Karen Walzer and Becky Laboy of Jersey-Friendly Yards. They discuss that fact that if you build it (native gardens), they will come (wildlife and pollinators).  Learn about the Jersey-Friendly Yard concept, their events, and how to get involved. Music by Stephen Maher. Follow Jersey-Friendly Yards - Website / Facebook / Twitter Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/14/20201 hour, 6 minutes, 34 seconds
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Meet Burlington County Parks

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Jen Bulava (Lead Naturalist) from Burlington County Parks in New Jersey.  Their discussion topics cover coping with park closures during the pandemic, the diversity of programs and events the parks offer throughout the year, ways you can get involved with the parks, and the best birding spots in the park system including a Blue Heron rookery.  Music by Stephen Maher. Follow Burlington County Parks - Website / Facebook Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/9/20201 hour, 1 minute, 7 seconds
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Meet Burlington County Parks

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Jen Bulava (Lead Naturalist) from Burlington County Parks in New Jersey.  Their discussion topics cover coping with park closures during the pandemic, the diversity of programs and events the parks offer throughout the year, ways you can get involved with the parks, and the best birding spots in the park system including a Blue Heron rookery.  Music by Stephen Maher. Follow Burlington County Parks - Website / Facebook Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
4/9/20201 hour, 1 minute, 7 seconds
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The Buzz - Social Distancing

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick decide to keep it safe and do a show without a guest.  It's a serious time, but they add just the right amount of levity to get you through the day.  Subjects include a big thank you to our fans, and native plants that can be used as food, medicine, and toilet paper. Music by contest winner Stephen Maher. Recipes - Elderflower Fritters / Elderberry Juice / Buffalo Milkweed / Milkweed Shoots / Acorn Cake / Beachplum Sorbet Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/17/202052 minutes, 27 seconds
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The Buzz – Social Distancing

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick decide to keep it safe and do a show without a guest.  It's a serious time, but they add just the right amount of levity to get you through the day.  Subjects include a big thank you to our fans, and native plants that can be used as food, medicine, and toilet paper. Music by contest winner Stephen Maher. Recipes - Elderflower Fritters / Elderberry Juice / Buffalo Milkweed / Milkweed Shoots / Acorn Cake / Beachplum Sorbet Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/17/202052 minutes, 27 seconds
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Meet Duke Farms

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Thomas Almendinger (Director of Natural Resources and AgroEcology) and Charles Barreca (Ecological Research Manager) from Duke Farms.  Their discussion covers a wide array of topics including their integrated message of sustainability and knowledge, how you can get involved and help with their mission, as well as their ever popular eagle cam. Follow Duke Farms - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Eagle Cam Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/5/20201 hour, 5 minutes, 7 seconds
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Meet Duke Farms

Hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick talk with Thomas Almendinger (Director of Natural Resources and AgroEcology) and Charles Barreca (Ecological Research Manager) from Duke Farms.  Their discussion covers a wide array of topics including their integrated message of sustainability and knowledge, how you can get involved and help with their mission, as well as their ever popular eagle cam. Follow Duke Farms - Website / Facebook / Twitter / Eagle Cam Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
3/5/20201 hour, 5 minutes, 7 seconds
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Meet Fran and Tom

Welcome to our first podcast.  Meet your hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick and find out what to expect in the future.  Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/25/20208 minutes, 26 seconds
Episode Artwork

Meet Fran and Tom

Welcome to our first podcast.  Meet your hosts Fran Chismar and Tom Knezick and find out what to expect in the future. Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189. Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Follow Fran Chismar Here. Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.
2/25/20208 minutes, 26 seconds