Native Plants, Healthy Planet

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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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 eric.ascalon@terracycle.com

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here

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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.

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Follow Colonial Canopy Trees - Website / Facebook / Instagram 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 

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Follow Alex Crowson - Website / Music / Instagram 

Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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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.

Learn more about Wild Ones Here.

Wild Ones Webinar on Weed Ordinances Here.  

Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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

Check out Jared the Nature Guy's Card Game Here.

Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

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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.

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Have a question or a comment?  Call (215) 346-6189.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar 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.

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.

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.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Follow Native Plants Healthy Planet - Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube 

Follow Fran Chismar Here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Follow Fran Chismar Here.

Buy a T-shirt, spread the message, and do some good.  Visit Here.