This is a podcast that explores plant history, culture and management through the lens of science, unfolding plant power through horticultural anecdotal stories and impressive management practices. Each episode features an interview with an expert in horticulture, bringing you the most enchanting stories behind the scenes, the pioneering research shapes the future, and the hidden power enriches our lives.
Whether you are a commercial professional looking for management best practices, students in search of horticultural career opportunities, someone questing after plant-related stories, or anyone in between, you will find content that resonates with you.
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Botrytis Blight: Gray Mold, Calcium Shields, and Building a Better Box
Season 1 · Episode 10
Monday, March 16, 2026 • Duration 49:08
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 10
Episode Title:
“Botrytis Blight: Gray Mold, Calcium Shields, and Building a Better Box”
Episode Description
What if the key to fighting one of floriculture’s most persistent enemies isn’t a fungicide — but a nutrient you can buy for $2 an acre? In this episode, host Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Jim Faust of Clemson University to tackle botrytis blight, the gray mold that haunts greenhouses and shipping boxes alike. Jim brings eight years of hands-on botrytis research and a passion for poinsettias that’s turning into a book.
From the disease triangle to the surprising power of calcium chloride sprays, Jim walks growers through practical, cost-effective strategies for managing this ubiquitous pathogen. Along the way, you’ll discover why botrytis mutates so aggressively, how a half-sprayed petunia flower proved calcium’s protective power, and why zinnia petals might be secretly doing photosynthesis. Whether you’re a commercial grower battling spring meltdowns or a plant enthusiast curious about the science behind disease management, this episode delivers both practical wisdom and fascinating plant biology.
Dr. Jim Faust — Professor of Floriculture, Clemson University. Career-long floriculturist with eight years of botrytis research in partnership with the American Floral Endowment. Currently writing a book on the domestication history of the poinsettia.
Main Topics
Meet Jim Faust (00:55)
Jim’s lifelong career in floriculture, childhood gardens with a mother who counted 200 deadheaded petunias a day, and how he met Ping at an AFE National Floral Forum meeting.
Plant Spotlight: Poinsettias (03:16)
Jim’s favorite plant and its remarkable domestication journey — from a 12–15 foot shrub in Mexico to the #1 or #2 potted flowering plant in the U.S. with only a four-to-five-week market window. Why breeders target production traits like heat tolerance rather than appearance, and the book Jim is writing to tell this “fantastic story.”
What Is Botrytis Blight? (08:19)
The causal organism Botrytis cinerea, the disease triangle (pathogen + environment + susceptible host), and why greenhouses create a “perfect storm” for infection. Jim explains why botrytis is omnipresent, can never be eradicated, and thrives in the high 60s to low 70s with high humidity.
How Botrytis Spreads and What to Look For (13:32)
Airborne spore dispersal, the critical role of sanitation, and early detection: small beige-colored lesions on petals. Jim describes botrytis as a necrotroph that devours cells as it grows, and explains the dreaded “petunia flower meltdown” that occurs during shipping.
Biorationals vs. Traditional Chemicals (22:42)
Why fungicide resistance is such a serious problem with botrytis (aggressive asexual mutation), and how biorationals can extend the useful life of chemical fungicides by interrupting rotation schedules. Jim walks through five categories: biocontrol agents, biofungicides, plant extracts/essential oils, systemic acquired resistance (SAR) products, and plant nutrients.
Calcium: The Nutrient Defense (29:52)
Jim’s signature research area. Why flower petals have only 5% of the calcium found in leaves, how calcium strengthens cell walls to resist fungal penetration, and the practical recommendation: calcium chloride sprays at 500–1,000 ppm, tank-mixed with other products, for about $2 per acre. The half-sprayed petunia experiment that proved coverage matters.
Current Research Projects (41:20)
Three exciting projects: (1) Itersonilia, a little-studied disease hitting gerbera daisy, chrysanthemum, and sunflower cut flower growers; (2) building better shipping boxes for unrooted cuttings to reduce ethylene damage; (3) post-harvest longevity for domestic cut flowers — including the discovery that zinnia petals do photosynthesis and storing them under cheap LEDs dramatically improves vase life.
Key Highlights
Botrytis has no sexual stage — it mutates aggressively, making fungicide resistance inevitable with repeated applications
Calcium chloride at 500–1,000 ppm is an inexpensive, effective tool (~$2/acre) that strengthens cell walls against fungal penetration
The “half-flower experiment”: one side sprayed with calcium resists botrytis while the unsprayed side succumbs
Zinnia petals are green on the underside, have stomata, and appear to photosynthesize — storing cut zinnias under low-level LED light (100 foot candles) dramatically extends vase life
Poinsettia is one of the top potted flowering plants in the U.S. despite being sold in only a four-to-five-week window
Key Quotes
“There’s no such thing as a bad plant, but I have a soft spot for poinsettias.” — Dr. Jim Faust
“With every application of a fungicide, you are selecting for resistance.” — Dr. Jim Faust
“There’s nothing easier than spraying a chemical. It gets awfully complicated when we go to bio-based products.” — Dr. Jim Faust
“The best strategy is to prevent them from happening so that you don’t have to deal with the big issue or the big trouble.” — Dr. Ping Yu
Educational Highlights
The Disease Triangle
Three conditions must be present simultaneously for disease to occur: (1) the pathogen, (2) a conducive environment, and (3) a susceptible host. For botrytis in greenhouses, all three are almost always present — making management, not eradication, the realistic goal.
Botrytis cinerea — Gray Mold
A ubiquitous, airborne fungal pathogen that causes gray mold (botrytis blight). It is a necrotroph, meaning it kills and devours plant cells as it spreads. It thrives in temperatures around 65–70°F with high humidity, but can grow even in 40°F coolers. The pathogen reproduces asexually and mutates aggressively, leading to rapid fungicide resistance development.
Biorationals — Five Categories
Biocontrol agents — living organisms applied to plant tissue (trickiest to use; prefer soil over aerial environments)
Biofungicides — biologically derived compounds that act like fungicides (not living; more straightforward)
Plant extracts / essential oils — can be effective (e.g., thyme oil) but risk phytotoxicity
Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) products — trigger the plant’s own defense mechanisms (take time to work; energy cost to the plant)
Plant nutrients — especially calcium, which strengthens cell walls and may serve as a stress signal
Calcium and Cell Wall Defense
Flower petals accumulate very little calcium compared to leaves (as low as 0.05% vs. 1% in leaves) because petals lack stomata and don’t transpire much water. Calcium chloride sprays at 500–1,000 ppm applied weekly — especially before periods of high botrytis risk — strengthen cell walls and reduce fungal penetration. This is the same principle behind blossom end rot in tomatoes: breeding for larger fruit without sufficient calcium transport creates vulnerability.
Zinnia Post-Harvest Discovery
Zinnia petals are green on the underside and contain stomata, suggesting they perform photosynthesis. Storing harvested zinnias under low-level LED light (~100 foot candles / 20 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹) in the low 60s°F preserves vase life significantly better than dark storage. This could help domestic cut flower growers accumulate inventory for farmer’s markets by cutting over multiple days.
Resources & Links
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
AFE Resources:
AFE Thrips and Botrytis Research Library: endowment.org/resource/tb
American Floral Endowment: endowment.org
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Funding:
This episode is supported by the American Floral Endowment Educational Grant, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit endowment.org.
About Blooms and Beyond
Blooms and Beyond explores plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower seeking practical solutions, a student exploring careers in horticulture, or simply someone who loves plants and their stories, there’s something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu of the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who share enchanting stories, cutting-edge research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your benefit: After each episode, commercial growers will have at least one useful tip for their operation, and plant enthusiasts will have an interesting fact to share. That’s how we spread plant power to more people and make our environment a little better.
Credits
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Dr. Jim Faust, Professor of Floriculture, Clemson University
Producer: Rich Braman
Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant
Episode Release Date: March 15, 2026
Episode Length: 48:51
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱
Hopping Into Action: Clemson Scientists Tackle the Two-Spotted Cotton Leafhopper
Season 1 · Episode 9
Monday, March 2, 2026 • Duration 55:19
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 9
Episode Title:
“Hopping Into Action: Clemson Scientists Tackle the Two-Spotted Cotton Leafhopper”
Episode Description
What happens when a tiny, five-millimeter insect from the Old World shows up uninvited across the American Southeast — and starts hammering everything from cotton fields to backyard hibiscus? In this urgent and information-packed episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with two Clemson University entomologists — Dr. Zee Ahmed and Dr. Tom Bilbo — to break down one of the most pressing pest threats facing the green industry, vegetable growers, and cotton producers right now: the two-spotted cotton leafhopper.
From Zee’s globe-spanning journey through Pakistan, China, South Africa, and beyond to Tom’s transformation from a spider-fearing kid to an insect-loving scientist, you’ll hear the personal stories behind the expertise. Then, the conversation dives deep into what growers need to know: how to spot this pest, why hibiscus may be driving its spread, and what early research is revealing about control strategies. The message? The sky is not falling — but scouting, scouting, and scouting is essential.
Whether you’re a commercial nursery grower worried about quarantine, an okra farmer watching your plants wilt, or just someone curious about how scientists respond to an emerging invasive pest in real time, this episode delivers the practical wisdom and collaborative spirit that makes plant science so powerful.
Dr. Zee Ahmed — Assistant Professor, Turf and Ornamental Entomology, Clemson University. Focus: sustainable pest management that is safe and cost-effective. Journey: Pakistan → Guangzhou, China → Pretoria, South Africa → University of Florida → FL Department of Agriculture → USDA Fort Pierce → Clemson.
Dr. Tom Bilbo — Assistant Professor, Vegetable and Strawberry Entomology, Clemson University, Coastal Research and Education Center, Charleston, SC. Focus: biological control, insecticide resistance, and improving insecticide use. Journey: Denison University → studied abroad in Ecuador → PhD at Clemson.
Personal Journeys (01:12 – 07:41)
How They Found the Pest (07:47 – 12:56)
Biology and Identification (13:01 – 24:08)
Scouting and Detection (24:12 – 36:12)
Management Strategies (36:17 – 49:44)
Future Plans: A Collaborative Response (49:50 – 53:53)
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Mite Watch: Spider Mite Management Secrets from 45 Years in the Greenhouse with Dr. Lance Osborne
Season 1 · Episode 8
Monday, February 16, 2026 • Duration 51:05
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 8
Episode Title:
“Mite Watch: Spider Mite Management Secrets from 45 Years in the Greenhouse with Dr. Lance Osborne”
Episode Description
What do you get when you combine 45 years of greenhouse research, a PhD on whiteflies, and an unstoppable curiosity about every tiny creature crawling through Florida’s ornamental industry? You get Dr. Lance Osborne—one of the true icons of greenhouse pest management.
In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with her former colleague at the University of Florida’s Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC) to dig deep into the world of spider mites. From their rapid life cycles and sneaky dispersal tactics to the “six-bullet” chemical rotation strategy and the power of predatory mites like californicus and persimilis, Lance brings decades of field-tested wisdom that every grower can put to work. Along the way, you’ll hear why sticky cards are useless for mites (use beans instead!), how banker plants revolutionize biocontrol, and why the best career advice from a 45-year veteran starts with “be a pain in the ass” and ends with building trust.
Plus: Lance reveals his newest excitement—discovering unknown natural enemies of mealybugs by hiding plants in the bushes and seeing what shows up. That’s real plant power in action!
Dr. Lance Osborne — Entomologist and Researcher, Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC), University of Florida, near Orlando. Nearly 45 years of greenhouse pest management research with expertise in spider mites, whiteflies, and biological control. PhD from UC Davis on greenhouse whitefly biocontrol using Encarsia formosa.
Host
Lance’s Journey to Entomology (01:00 – 03:25)
Florida vs. California & Favorite Pest (03:25 – 05:50)
Why Spider Mites Are the Top Greenhouse Challenge (05:50 – 08:24)
Spider Mite Life Cycle (08:24 – 09:45)
How Spider Mites Damage Plants (09:45 – 12:10)
Webbing, Silk & Dispersal (12:10 – 13:31)
Scouting & Early Detection (13:31 – 15:06)
Host Range (15:06 – 16:27)
Chemical Control & Resistance (16:27 – 20:06)
The Six-Bullet Rotation Strategy (20:06 – 23:50)
Biocontrol: The Predatory Mite Playbook (23:50 – 26:02)
Banker Plants & Feltiella Midges (26:02 – 29:29)
Integrating Bio & Chemical Control (29:29 – 34:09)
Cultural Practices for Prevention (34:09 – 40:20)
Advice for Growers & Junior Faculty (40:20 – 45:07)
Mealybug Biocontrol: The Next Frontier (45:07 – 48:46)
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Beyond the Blue Jacket: FFA, Service & Growing the Whole Student with Renee' Martin
Season 1 · Episode 7
Monday, February 2, 2026 • Duration 51:46
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 7
Episode Title:
“Beyond the Blue Jacket: FFA, Service & Growing the Whole Student with Renee’ Martin”
Episode Description
What do chainsaw safety, cricket flour brownies, and a grandmother’s unwavering belief in her grandson’s potential all have in common? They’re all part of the extraordinary world of FFA — and in this episode, Renee’ Martin brings that world to life with warmth, wisdom, and a heart as big as the program itself.
Join host Dr. Ping Yu and guest Renee’ Martin — former agriculture teacher, current PhD candidate, and lifelong FFA advocate — as they explore how agricultural education shapes not just careers, but whole human beings. From Renee’s roots in rural Southeast Georgia to her groundbreaking work in agricultural wellness and student mental health, this conversation reveals why FFA is so much more than blue jackets and livestock shows. It’s about service, community, critical thinking, and the kind of mentorship that can change the course of a life.
Whether you’re a grower curious about the next generation entering your industry, a teacher looking for encouragement, a student wondering what path to take, or a plant lover who wants to understand how the people behind horticulture are shaped — this episode has something powerful waiting for you.
Listen Time: ~51 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Renee’ Martin — PhD Candidate in Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communication (ALEC), University of Georgia; School Climate Specialist at Okefenokee RESA (Regional Educational Service Agency); former agriculture education teacher with 10 years of experience across middle and high school; 20+ years of FFA involvement
Host
Dr. Ping Yu — Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist, University of Georgia
Renee’s Story: From Papa’s Garden to a PhD (01:08 – 04:41)
Renee’ grew up in Waycross, a small town in Southeast Georgia, where her grandfather’s garden first planted the seeds of agricultural curiosity. She attended the Ware County School of Agricultural, Forestry and Environmental Sciences — a K-12 magnet school where students progressed from elementary introductions through advanced greenhouse management, animal showing, forestry, and even prescribed burning by high school. That pipeline of deepening experiences, combined with FFA, set the course for her career.
What Is FFA? The Three-Circle Model (04:41 – 09:52)
The FFA Mission & Motto (09:52 – 11:48)
Skills, Service & Disaster Response (11:48 – 16:05)
SAE: Bridging Students & Industry (16:05 – 18:17)
Baby Michael: An FFA Family Story (18:17 – 22:19)
From Teaching to Mental Health Research (22:19 – 28:35)
Advice for New Ag Teachers (28:35 – 30:58)
Modern Challenges & Social Media Pressure (30:58 – 33:43)
Evolving Careers in Agriculture (33:43 – 37:15)
Critical Thinking & Real-World Problems (37:15 – 39:23)
AI in Education: Tool, Not Crutch (39:23 – 43:48)
Future Plans & Building Agricultural Wellness (43:48 – 47:48)
Final Message: Just Do It (47:48 – 50:14)
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
The Queen of Flowers: From HVAC Engineer to Peony Scientist with Dr. Emily Zhou
Season 1 · Episode 6
Monday, January 19, 2026 • Duration 46:46
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 6
Episode Title:
“The Queen of Flowers: From HVAC Engineer to Peony Scientist with Dr. Emily Zhou”
Episode Description
What happens when an HVAC engineer falls in love with plants and earns a PhD studying one of the world’s most beloved flowers? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Emily Zhou, assistant professor at the University of Central Missouri, to explore her remarkable journey from engineering in China to pioneering peony research in the United States.
Peonies have captivated cultures for over 4,000 years—from ancient Chinese poetry to modern American weddings. But growing these stunning “queens of the flower world” isn’t easy. Dr. Zhou’s groundbreaking research reveals how growers can slash production time from 18 months to just 5-6 months using the right combination of chilling treatments and plant growth regulators. Whether you’re a commercial producer looking to hit the Valentine’s Day market or a plant enthusiast dreaming of growing peonies in the South, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and enchanting plant stories.
Discover why peonies need cold to bloom, how a $120 yellow peony in a one-gallon pot reflects the plant’s precious nature, and what it means when a plant scientist says she still thinks like an engineer. This is plant power at its finest!
This episode in our first season is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit their website at endowment.org.
DLI Maps and Free DLI Poster — Understanding Daily Light Integral is essential for greenhouse production. Access these free tools at endowment.org.
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Main Topics
Dr. Zhou’s Unique Journey (01:02 - 07:40)
Why Peony Is Her Favorite Plant (07:40 - 10:10)
Peony History: From China to the World (11:18 - 14:00)
Why Peonies Are Expensive (14:00 - 17:30)
Cultural Significance (16:55 - 18:20)
The Science of Vernalization (18:20 - 25:30)
Forcing for Valentine’s Day (22:05 - 28:10)
Shortening Production with GA3 (28:11 - 31:15)
Plant Retardants for Compact Plants (31:17 - 39:50)
Controlled Environment Agriculture (39:54 - 43:15)
Key Highlights
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
What is Vernalization?
Key Plant Growth Regulators for Peony Production
Hardiness Zone Guide for Peony Chilling
Peony Types
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Funding Acknowledgement
Episode Tags
The Plant Hunter: Inside the World of International Plant Exploration with Judson LeCompte
Season 1 · Episode 5
Monday, January 5, 2026 • Duration 51:39
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 5
Episode Title:
“The Plant Hunter: Inside the World of International Plant Exploration with Judson LeCompte”
Episode Description
Ever wonder how the plants at your local garden center made their way from a breeder’s field in Japan or a mountain in China to your backyard? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Judson LeCompte, Product Development Manager at Spring Meadow Nursery and international plant hunter for Proven Winners Color Choice. Judson shares the fascinating—and often hilarious—realities of traveling the globe to discover the next great shrub, rose, or hydrangea.
From navigating USDA quarantine regulations to sneaking into hotel kitchens to learn how to cook Chinese food, Judson reveals what it really takes to be a plant hunter in the 21st century. Along the way, he offers invaluable advice for young horticulturists: get uncomfortable, build your network through IPPS, and never underestimate the power of showing up.
Whether you’re a commercial grower curious about where new genetics come from, a student dreaming of a career in plant exploration, or simply someone who loves a good plant story, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of horticulture’s most unique careers.
Listen Time: ~51 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Judson LeCompte - Product Development Manager (Plant Hunter) at Spring Meadow Nursery, the woody plant provider for Proven Winners Color Choice. PhD in Horticulture from Mississippi State University. Originally from Alabama, now based in West Michigan.
Main Topics
Judson’s Journey to Plant Hunting (02:43 - 05:17)
Introduction to horticulture through his grandmother, a daylily collector and hybridizer
Volunteering at a nursery at age 14, paid in plants
Education at Auburn University (BS, MS) and Mississippi State (PhD in tea production)
Landing the “dream job” through an IPPS connection and a chance breakfast conversation
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
USDA/APHIS Import Regulations (Three Levels)
What Spring Meadow Looks For in New Plants
The Breeder Fee Model
Resources & Links
Plant Spotlight: Loropetalum 🌸
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Connect & Support
IPM Basics: Building Your Pest Management Toolbox with Dr. Erich Schoeller
Season 1 · Episode 4
Monday, December 22, 2025 • Duration 45:18
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 4
Episode Title:
“IPM Basics: Building Your Pest Management Toolbox with Dr. Erich Schoeller”
Episode Description
What if the secret to healthier plants isn’t reaching for the spray bottle, but building a smarter system? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Dr. Erich Schoeller, an entomologist and IPM specialist at the University of Georgia, to break down the fundamentals of Integrated Pest Management. From the IPM pyramid to parasitoid wasps, from banker plants to predatory mites, Erich walks us through the science-based strategies that can help growers reduce pesticide use while keeping pests in check.
Along the way, discover how a pharmacy student became an entomologist, why tephritid fruit flies are surprisingly beautiful, and the enchanting Greek mythology behind lilacs. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking to build an IPM program or a plant enthusiast curious about the tiny creatures sharing your garden, this episode delivers practical wisdom with a side of wonder.
Dr. Erich Schoeller — Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, University of Georgia. Erich specializes in controlled environment agriculture and integrated pest management for greenhouse and nursery production. His research focuses on biological control strategies for ornamental crops.
Host
Dr. Ping Yu — Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist, University of Georgia
Main Topics
Getting to Know Dr. Schoeller (00:49 - 07:15)
Career journey: pharmacy school → marine biology → forestry → entomology
Growing up in rural Wisconsin surrounded by nature
Running through fields with a sweep net collecting insects
His mom’s beautiful gardens sparking a love of plants
Favorite Insect & Plant (06:16 - 09:36)
What is IPM? (10:09 - 12:07)
Defining “Pests” (11:09 - 13:06)
Why Adopt IPM? (13:32 - 17:15)
The IPM Pyramid (17:16 - 21:24)
Banker Plants vs. Trap Crops (23:07 - 26:05)
Challenges of Ornamental IPM (26:23 - 30:07)
Biocontrol Examples (32:05 - 37:20)
Four Keys to IPM Success (38:22 - 40:43)
Future Research Directions (41:01 - 42:42)
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
What is IRAC?
Types of Biological Control Agents
The Lilac Legend
Resources & Links
AFE IPM Resources
Connect with Dr. Schoeller
Show Links
Book Recommendation
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Quick Reference: IPM Pyramid
▲
/│\
/ │ \
/ │ \ CHEMICAL CONTROL
/ │ \ (Last Resort)
/────┼────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
/ │ \ (Living Organisms)
/────────┼────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ CULTURAL/MECHANICAL
/ │ \(Sanitation, Pruning)
/────────────┼────────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ DETECTION
/ │ \ (Scouting & Monitoring)
/────────────────┼────────────────\
/ │ \
/ │ \ PREVENTION
/___________________│___________________\(Rotation, Resistant Varieties)
Start at the base — work your way up only as needed!
Inside the Green Industry: A Lifelong Journey in Horticulture with Dr. Michael Martin
Season 1 · Episode 3
Sunday, December 7, 2025 • Duration 55:36
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 3
Episode Title:
“Inside the Green Industry: A Lifelong Journey in Horticulture with Dr. Michael Martin”
Episode Description
What does it take to turn a childhood love of plants into a lifelong career? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with her dear friend and colleague Dr. Michael Martin, Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director at American Hort and the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI). From sticking azalea cuttings at age five to becoming the ultimate “matchmaker” between growers and researchers, Michael shares the winding path that led him through agricultural education, nursery inspection, native plant nursery ownership, and a PhD at the University of Georgia.
Discover what really goes on behind the scenes of the green industry—from the 18-month journey a geranium takes to reach your local garden center, to the family legacies passed down through plant cuttings for over a century. Michael offers invaluable advice for anyone considering a career in horticulture: work for others first, embrace learning, and never underestimate the power of showing up in person.
Listen Time: ~55 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Dr. Michael Martin - Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director, American Hort and Horticultural Research Institute (HRI). Lifelong horticulturist with experience spanning nursery inspection, native plant nursery ownership, and academic research.
Main Topics
Meet Michael Martin (01:24 - 02:05)
Current role at American Hort and HRI
Started in horticulture at age five, sticking azalea cuttings
“Every job I’ve had has been directly related to the horticultural industry”
What is American Hort? (02:46 - 05:35)
National Trade Association for nurseries, greenhouses, and independent retailers
Legislative arm with lobbyists in Washington, D.C.
Currently addressing cotton jassid (two-spotted cotton leafhopper) in the Southeast
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Plant Spotlight 🌿
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Growing Together: Inside AFE's Mission for Floriculture with Laura Barth
Season 1 · Episode 2
Monday, December 1, 2025 • Duration 26:58
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 2
Episode Title:
“Growing Together: Inside AFE’s Mission for Floriculture”
Episode Description
What happens when a music major moves to North Carolina and falls in love with plants? In this episode, Dr. Ping Yu sits down with Laura Barth, Research Coordinator for the American Floral Endowment (AFE), to explore how this nonprofit organization supports the entire floriculture industry—from funding research to awarding scholarships.
Discover what AFE does for growers and researchers, why the floriculture industry is “surprisingly friendly,” and how trends like AI, drones, and e-commerce are shaping the future. Plus, Laura reveals her favorite flower (hint: it looks like a craft project made of tissue paper!) and both hosts share how flowers can boost your mood—that’s plant power!
Listen Time: ~27 minutes
In This Episode
Featured Guest
Laura Barth — Research Coordinator, American Floral Endowment
Facilitates AFE’s research programs and outreach
Former AFE scholarship recipient
Background in music performance and horticulture science from NC State
Main Topics
Laura’s Journey to Horticulture (01:35 - 03:17)
First degree in music performance in Wisconsin
Moving to North Carolina sparked her love of plants
“All I wanted to do was be outside and garden”
Discovered NC State’s horticulture program in Chapel Hill
The Connection Between Art and Floriculture (04:03 - 05:15)
Creativity in floral design and landscaping
Artistic side of creating outreach materials
Famous plant paintings: sunflowers, iris, water lily, pear blossom
What is AFE? (05:46 - 06:43)
Key Highlights
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
About the Guest
Credits
Planting Seeds: How One Horticulturist Found Her Way to the Plant Jungle
Season 1 · Episode 1
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 • Duration 29:59
Blooms and Beyond - Season 1, Episode 1
Episode Title:
“Planting Seeds: How One Horticulturist Found Her Way to the Plant Jungle”
Episode Description
Welcome to the very first episode of Blooms and Beyond! Join host Dr. Ping Yu, PhD student Yan Zhang, and producer Rich Braman as they introduce you to a podcast that explores plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. In this inaugural episode, discover the personal journeys that led two people into the wonderful world of horticulture - from a childhood gardenia propagation competition in rural China to thrips research powered by passion and purpose.
Listen Time: ~29 minutes
In This Episode
Meet Your Hosts & Team
Dr. Ping Yu - Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist at the University of Georgia
Yan Zhang - First-year PhD student researching thrips and integrated pest management
Rich Braman - Systems Administrator and Developer at UGA’s Center for Urban Agriculture
Journey Stories
Ping’s Path to Horticulture (02:20 - 06:52)
Growing up in Dujiangyan, Sichuan Province, China - home to giant pandas, a 2,000-year-old irrigation system, and spicy food
A childhood gardenia propagation competition at age 10 (spoiler: she won!)
From architecture dreams to falling in love with horticulture
Educational journey: Sichuan Normal University → Nanjing Forestry University → Texas A&M → University of Florida → UGA
The fascinating crossover between landscape design and plant science
Yan’s Research Focus (00:54 - 01:34)
Specializing in thrips, integrated pest management, and ornamental plants
Previous work on bark beetles during master’s degree
Learning to see research as exploration, not just results
What Extension Work Really Means (07:18 - 09:12)
Plant Spotlight: Sunflowers 🌻
Birth of the Podcast
Paying It Forward
Key Quotes
Educational Highlights
Resources & Links
About Blooms and Beyond
Credits
Zee’s memories of collecting dragonflies in primary school in Pakistan
Tom’s childhood fear of spiders — turned into a love of entomology through a great college teacher (Tom Schultz) and studying abroad
Zee’s remarkable academic journey across four continents and three postdoctoral stops
A funny detour: learning “duōshao qián” (“how much?”) before “nǐ hǎo” to bargain in Chinese markets
Francis Reay-Jones bringing a cotton sample to Zee’s office — the first alert
A hibiscus grower at a farmer’s market with over 100 infested plants
Tom’s experience: the pest appeared in South Carolina seemingly overnight, found on nearly every okra farm
Agent Zach Snipes surveying counties and discovering widespread infestation
Timeline: first reported in the Caribbean, then Florida (2024), now across most Southeastern states (2025)
Comparison to thrips parvispinus quarantine situation in Florida
Adult size: less than 5 mm with two distinctive black spots on posterior wings
Five nymphal instars, each lasting 2–3 days on hibiscus
Egg to adult development: approximately 2–3 weeks on hibiscus
Males live ~13–14 days; females live slightly longer
Eggs laid inside the leaf — invisible to the naked eye
Damage symptom: “hopper burn” — yellowing, curling, wilting of leaves
Host range: polyphagous, with strong preference for Malvaceae family (cotton, hibiscus, okra) and Solanaceae (eggplant); also found on cucurbits (zucchini)
Why hibiscus matters: ornamental trade moves plants (and the pest) across regions — a potential dispersal driver
Start with symptom observation: yellowing, wilting, curling
Flip leaves — look at the underside along the midrib for tiny yellowish nymphs
Adults hop away when disturbed; immatures move side-to-side in a distinctive way
Hand lens (10–30x) essential for early detection
Weekly scouting critical because eggs hatch in 6–9 days and are invisible
Sticky cards: Tom’s student Sabina Parajuli found strong correlation between sticky card counts and plant counts in a zucchini trial — promising monitoring tool
Equip yourself with Zee’s GrowerTalks field guide before scouting
Cultural practices: Still early — scouting and inspecting incoming plant material are the top recommendations; cover crop residue showed fewer leafhoppers in preliminary data; mulch trials for thrips parvispinus suggest possible crossover strategies; variety resistance data anticipated in the future
Biological control: Limited data; conserve natural enemies (lady beetles and other predators observed); avoid broad-spectrum insecticides (especially pyrethroids)
Chemical control: Six treatments tested on hibiscus using different IRAC groups (contact, translaminar, systemic); translaminars and systemics performed better against nymphs; most products effective against adults; key principle — match treatment to life stage; follow-up sprays needed because eggs survive initial application; results published in GrowerTalks (December issue)
The bottom line from Zee: “Sky is not falling. We can control this pest based on our trial.”
Clemson’s internal coordination: Zee (ornamentals), Tom (vegetables), Francis Reay-Jones and Jeremy Green (cotton)
Building a multi-state Southeast working group with researchers from Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina
Lab bioassays for deeper efficacy testing
Extension articles and social media outreach
Tom’s vision: quickly generating recommendations on insecticides, mulches, cultivar susceptibility, and seasonal timing through collaborative research
“So yes, I was a nerdy nature guy.” — Dr. Zee Ahmed, on collecting dragonflies as a child in Pakistan
“I was afraid of spiders and I had my parents do a spider check in my room, you know, every night. But now I love spiders.” — Dr. Tom Bilbo
“Sky is not falling. We can control this pest based on our trial.” — Dr. Zee Ahmed
“Scouting, scouting, and scouting.” — Dr. Zee Ahmed, on the most important thing growers can do right now
“A lot of people didn’t realize what the problem was until one of our agents would get out there and be like, you have the new invasive. It’s here.” — Dr. Tom Bilbo
What Is the Two-Spotted Cotton Leafhopper?
An invasive pest (less than 5 mm) originally from the Old World, identified by two distinctive black spots on its posterior wings. It attacks plants in the Malvaceae family (cotton, hibiscus, okra), Solanaceae (eggplant), and has been found on cucurbits. First reported in the U.S. in 2024, it has spread across most Southeastern states.
What Is “Hopper Burn”?
The characteristic damage caused by leafhoppers feeding on plant tissue — symptoms include yellowing, browning, curling, and wilting of leaves. On hibiscus, the burn may be less severe than on cotton but still renders plants unsaleable.
Why Can’t You See the Eggs?
Unlike many pests, this leafhopper lays its eggs inside the leaf tissue, making them invisible from the outside. This means a plant can look clean but still harbor the next generation — which is why regular scouting (at least weekly) is critical.
IRAC Groups and Mode of Action
IRAC (Insecticide Resistance Action Committee) classifies insecticides by how they work. Zee’s trial tested contact, translaminar (penetrates leaf tissue), and systemic (moves through the plant) products. Rotating between different IRAC groups helps prevent the pest from developing resistance.
What Are Sticky Cards?
Yellow adhesive cards placed in fields or nurseries to trap flying insects. Tom’s research suggests they could be a practical early-detection tool for two-spotted cotton leafhoppers, especially because the pest is so small and hard to spot visually.
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Mentioned in This Episode:
Zee Ahmed and colleagues’ field guide for two-spotted cotton leafhopper on hibiscus — published in GrowerTalks (December issue, available online)
Clemson University Cooperative Extension resources
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
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Share with fellow growers, researchers, and plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Blooms and Beyond explores plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower seeking practical solutions, a student exploring careers in horticulture, or simply someone who loves plants and their stories, there’s something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu of the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who share enchanting stories, cutting-edge research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your benefit: After each episode, commercial growers will have at least one useful tip for their operation, and plant enthusiasts will have an interesting fact to share. That’s how we spread plant power to more people and make our environment a little better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Producer: Rich Braman
Guests: Dr. Zee Ahmed (Clemson University) and Dr. Tom Bilbo (Clemson University)
Episode Release Date: March 1st, 2026
Episode Length: 55:18
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱
Dr. Ping Yu — Assistant Professor and Ornamental Horticulture Extension Specialist, University of Georgia
Growing up as a “wild kid” in Cape Canaveral, Florida—running around outside all day collecting insects
Headed to UC Davis for pre-vet, but couldn’t handle the blood and gore
Switched to working with other organisms, but they kept going extinct—so he turned to insects (“I knew I wouldn’t have to worry about losing them”)
PhD on greenhouse whitefly biocontrol with Encarsia formosa, followed by a mosquito postdoc (“It’s no fun collecting 10,000 mosquitoes off my leg every morning”)
Hired at MREC for spider mite work and has been there ever since
Florida described as “a zoo” with something crawling everywhere—perfect for someone with a short attention span who loves variety
Favorite pest leans toward whiteflies, but spider mites were the job he was hired to do
Told he’d “never work on whiteflies” in Florida—five years later, whiteflies arrived anyway (“I didn’t bring them, I swear”)
A Georgia study by Will Hudson confirmed spider mites are the most-sprayed pests in ornamentals nationwide
Spider mite management is the foundation of any IPM program
Florida’s year-round warm temperatures mean no diapause, no winter break in the life cycle
As you reduce pesticide pressure for one pest, others emerge—it’s been “an ongoing saga”
Tetranychus evansi (tomato red spider mite) specifically targets tomatoes and eggplant
“If I have a plant, I can probably get a mite to go on it”
No magic bullet—resistance can be localized to individual greenhouses
First step: confirm the pest identification and assess infestation level
Remove heavily infested plants entirely (“a lost cause is just a waste of time and money”)
Scout after treatment to verify the chemical actually worked
Some chemicals like Avid act slowly—mites may look alive but are dead on their feet (“You could touch them and they’d fall over like tipping cattle”)
Some newer products take up to seven days—patience and record-keeping are essential
Lance’s philosophy: “It’s like a gun—you’ve only got six bullets”
Rotate chemistry class every 4–5 days for active infestations
Use 3–4 different modes of action maximum (not more)
With 5–6 chemicals in rotation, the odds increase that one is a “dud” the mites are resistant to, breaking your cycle
Consider residual activity—don’t switch too quickly or you’re just layering the same chemistry
Scout after every application to confirm efficacy
Nymphal stages are most susceptible to chemical treatment; eggs are least susceptible
Neem oil: Lance is “not that excited” about it for mites
Even water and soap can knock off small larvae
Lance is a lifelong biocontrol advocate, working on it since day one at MREC
His predecessor Dr. Hamlen pioneered work with Phytoseiulus persimilis and Phytoseiulus macropilis (indigenous to Florida)
Californicus (Neoseiulus californicus): Lance’s top recommendation
Generalist feeder—survives on one egg per day
Can establish in crops and persist even when spider mite populations are low
More tolerant of pesticide residues than persimilis
Selected strains are highly resistant to bifenthrin/Talstar
“Let them be your scouts”—release before you even find spider mites
Persimilis (Phytoseiulus persimilis): The knockout specialist
More voracious than californicus, knocks populations down faster
Highly host-specific—only feeds on two-spotted spider mites and a few others
Extremely sensitive to pesticides (“You open a bottle across the room and they almost die”)
Best used in combination with californicus for heavy infestations
Banker plant systems maintain biocontrol populations in the greenhouse year-round
Feltiella acarisuga (predatory midge): remarkable searcher that flies throughout the greenhouse
Can locate spider mites on a new plant across the greenhouse within three days
In Florida outdoors, colonizes mite-infested plants within two weeks
Complements predatory mites—flies where crawling mites can’t reach
Combination approach: midges search the whole greenhouse while predatory mites work locally
Certain soft chemicals (like Sultan) can be used alongside predators
For growers new to biocontrol: use chemicals at end of crop cycle to “clean up” before shipping
Biocontrol suppliers have trained field staff who know which predators tolerate which chemicals—use them as resources
Extension agents, university researchers, and experienced growers can help get programs started
Start small: put a bean plant in the nursery, let mites colonize, add predators, and observe
Disney World successfully used persimilis on roses but learned biocontrol isn’t a universal “cure-all”
The biggest hurdle for growers: lack of training and resources, though consultants are rapidly increasing
Quarantine incoming plants: don’t spread new material throughout the nursery immediately
Dip new plant material: 1% dish soap solution (local growers use Publix brand) controls mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids on unrooted cuttings with no disease increase
Manage dust: mites thrive along roads where dust coats webbing and protects them
Eliminate pet plants: untreated personal plants in greenhouses become pest reservoirs
Control weeds in aisles: untreated weeds harbor pest populations
Water management: high-pressure water can dislodge mites
Pruning: mites prefer new growth; opening the canopy improves spray coverage
Spray coverage is critical: build custom nozzles spraying both up and down; don’t rely solely on translaminar or systemic products like Kontos
Indicator plants over sticky cards: bean plants show mite damage quickly; sticky cards “catch more scouts than spider mites”
Water-sensitive indicator cards placed under leaves reveal whether spray coverage is actually reaching the target
For growers: “Be a pain in the ass”—researchers and extension specialists are here to help and don’t get enough visitors
MREC runs a plant clinic every Tuesday
Seeing younger people bring plants in is encouraging
Be excited, seek out people who can help, build relationships
For junior faculty: Be inquisitive, curious, and open your eyes
Take time to enjoy the work despite mounting paperwork
Become part of the industry—join organizations like HRI and FNGLA
Build trust with growers; don’t BS people (“If they’re still in business, they’re probably smarter than I am”)
Find mentors and collaborators—“we can’t do this ourselves”
Grant funding comes easier when people see you cooperate
Lance’s donut shop story: chance encounters with growers led to world-changing discoveries—the Delphastus beetle came from a grower’s backyard, and the PFR-97/Ancora fungus came from plants in his greenhouse
Lance’s current excitement: discovering unknown natural enemies of mealybugs
Method: place infested plants in bushes outdoors, retrieve them, and see what colonizes
Finding predators, parasitoids, flies, ladybugs, and even a caterpillar feeding on mealybugs
Some species are so new they can’t be identified yet—specimens sent to Gainesville for analysis
Three most promising agents: a parasitoid, a ladybug, and a tiny fly—all now in colonies at MREC
A Madeira mealybug parasitoid still awaiting identification
Ultimate goal: find a commercial company willing to rear these natural enemies for sale
Banker plant system already developed for mealybugs, but growers prefer purchasing and releasing
“Spider mites were the most sprayed pests in ornamentals nationwide… So that was a logical place to start in trying to develop an IPM program.” — Dr. Lance Osborne
“It’s like a gun. You’ve only got six bullets.” — Dr. Lance Osborne, on chemical rotation strategy
“Let them be your scouts. Let them run around and look for spider mites.” — Dr. Lance Osborne, on releasing predatory mites preventively
“You don’t BS people in this industry because if they’re still in business, they’re probably smarter than I am.” — Dr. Lance Osborne
“Something’s eating them all.” — Dr. Lance Osborne, on the mystery of why mealybugs disappear outdoors
Spider Mite Life Cycle
Five developmental stages: egg → larva → protonymph → deutonymph → adult. Each immature stage has a feeding phase and a resting/molting phase. A complete generation can occur in as little as two weeks under warm conditions, making rapid population growth a constant threat in greenhouses.
Why Scouting Beats Sticky Cards for Mites
Unlike whiteflies and thrips, spider mites don’t fly and won’t reliably land on sticky traps. Instead, use indicator plants (lima beans work well—mites love them and damage shows quickly) and direct leaf inspection with a quality 10–20x hand lens.
The Chemical Rotation Dilemma
Spider mites develop localized pesticide resistance rapidly. Lance recommends limiting rotation to 3–4 modes of action rather than 5–6, because every additional chemistry increases the chance of including one the local population is already resistant to—creating a gap that allows the population to rebound.
Biocontrol Pairing StrategyNeoseiulus californicus is the generalist “workhorse”—release preventively to establish a resident population that scouts for mites and survives on alternative food sources. Phytoseiulus persimilis is the specialist “knockout punch”—deploy into heavy infestations for rapid population reduction. Combining both provides the best results.
Banker Plants
A system where non-crop plants maintain populations of beneficial organisms in the greenhouse year-round. For spider mites, banker plants support predatory mites and Feltiella midges even when pest populations are low, providing continuous biological surveillance.
Translaminar vs. Systemic Activity
Many modern miticides are translaminar—they penetrate through the leaf to reach mites feeding on the underside. A few, like Kontos (spirotetramat), are systemic. However, good physical spray coverage remains essential; don’t rely solely on the chemistry to reach the target.
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Guest Contact:
Dr. Lance Osborne can be reached at the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC), University of Florida — contact via email for PowerPoints and PDFs of his presentations
🌻 AFE Resources — Mites & Insect Pests:
In addition to the resources and information our guest shared in this episode, AFE has additional resources for mites and other insect pests that can be found on AFE’s website at endowment.org. Whether you’re dealing with spider mites, whiteflies, thrips, or other greenhouse pests, AFE’s research library is a valuable starting point for science-based management strategies.
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow growers and plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Funding & Acknowledgment:
This episode in our first season is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit their website at endowment.org.
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Dr. Lance Osborne, Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC), University of Florida
Production: University of Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture
Producer: Rich Braman
Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant (2025–2026)
AFE-Sponsored Episode: This is one of five AFE-sponsored episodes in Season 1, with topics shaped by AFE’s research priorities. Spanish translation of show notes available.
Episode Release Date: February 15th, 2026
Episode Length: 50:46
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
FFA — originally Future Farmers of America, now the National FFA Organization (renamed in the 1980s to reflect a broadened mission) — is built on a three-circle model: classroom instruction, Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), and FFA activities. Renee’ explains a critical distinction: FFA is intracurricular, not extracurricular — it’s woven directly into the curriculum standards, not tacked on. The program is available in middle school and high school, and Georgia is pioneering programs at the elementary level. The goal isn’t to make every student a farmer; it’s to develop agricultural advocates and leaders who understand where their food, fiber, and natural resources come from.
Renee’ shares the FFA mission — to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture education — and the motto that students truly live out: “Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, and living to serve.” She describes how the motto maps onto the student experience: learn the basics, put them into action, build career skills, and ultimately give back to your community.
FFA teaches both technical skills (greenhouse management, animal science, small engine maintenance, chainsaw operation, generator safety) and the soft skills that employers consistently rank highest: communication, collaboration, time management, leadership, and simply showing up on time. But the conversation really lights up around service. From Hurricane Katrina in 2005 — when FFA chapters across the country raised money and shipped supplies — to Hurricane Helene in 2024, when students taught community members how to safely operate chainsaws and generators, FFA cultivates a deep heart of giving back. Ping shares her own experience calling South Georgia growers during Helene and witnessing the agricultural community rally around each other.
Supervised Agricultural Experiences are the bridge between classroom learning and the real working world. Renee’ shares the story of visiting a student’s SAE project on Sapelo Island — accessible only by ferry — at age 22, and describes a student who began an SAE at a veterinary clinic cleaning cages, progressed to assisting with procedures, and eventually became a paid intern over three years. SAEs represent a community investment in the future workforce, connecting students with mentors and industry partners in authentic settings.
In one of the episode’s most moving moments, Renee’ shares the story of “Baby Michael” — a student she taught at Ware County who was being raised by his grandmother. His grandmother believed deeply in FFA, always having his official dress ready on a moment’s notice. When she passed away during his early college years, Michael folded into Renee’ and her husband’s family — becoming, in every sense, their son. Today, Baby Michael is an agriculture teacher himself and a program specialist at FFA Camp Covington. Renee’ also shares how multiple middle school students who competed in agriscience fairs through her program have become Foundation Scholars at UGA, conducting their own research.
After a decade of classroom teaching, Renee’ transitioned to Okefenokee RESA as a school climate specialist, working across nine districts in Southeast Georgia on wraparound services — ensuring students have food, water, shelter, and clothing. This work exposed gaps in how pre-service teachers are prepared to handle student mental health, behavior management, and relationship building. Her PhD research now focuses on how agriculture teachers — who often see the same students from 6th through 12th grade — are uniquely positioned to recognize student needs, create safe classroom spaces, and support the whole child in ways other subject teachers often can’t.
Renee’ offers grounded, generous wisdom for teachers just starting out: avoid comparing your first year to an established program that took decades to build. Pick your core focus areas in year one and add gradually. Give yourself grace. Give your students grace. And her signature advice? “Don’t die on the hill of the pencil” — if a kid needs a pencil, just give them the pencil. Don’t take student behavior personally; they may be carrying something from outside your classroom. Build relationships from day one rather than waiting. And rethink grading — meaningful projects over busy work, always.
Today’s students face pressures previous generations didn’t. Social media creates constant comparison culture and a stream of world stressors that Renee’ describes as “the news six inches from your face at all times on a personalized screen.” Teachers feel it too — the pressure to make elaborate social media content for plant sales, greenhouse tours, and program promotion. Renee’s message is clear: what you see on social media doesn’t have to be your reality, and it probably took 47 takes to get that cute dance video. Follow your own path.
Agricultural careers have expanded far beyond traditional farming. Renee’ points to paths in agricultural communications, LED lighting research, marine biology, and government leadership — including a friend who holds a high-level position with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture through an agricultural communications degree. The key she teaches students: “What skills do I have? What do I like? How do I merge them?” Jobs are constantly evolving (the shift from HPS to LED lighting alone revolutionized an entire sector), and the students who learn to adapt and think critically will thrive.
The agriscience fair teaches students to tackle actual problems — not hypothetical ones. Renee’ highlights a project where students made cricket flour brownies to address protein deficiency and climate change simultaneously, learning the what, why, and how of genuine problem-solving. With climate change visibly altering landscapes and the whole food system growing more complex (feed and grain to cattle to marketing to grocery to plate), critical thinking isn’t optional — it’s essential.
AI is here, and the agricultural education community is navigating it head-on. Renee’ describes teaching students (and colleagues) to build a knowledge base so they can recognize when AI generates impossible information — like a plant “five times the size of a building.” She notes the emergence of agriculture-specific AI tools like Breeze ETA alongside general platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Her advice: “Use AI for organization, not creation” — it will make up citations and invent facts. The goal is teaching students to verify, think critically, and use AI as a tool to master rather than a crutch to rely on.
Renee’ is graduating in May 2026 and has a full slate ahead: conference presentations in Costa Rica, Cuba, and Kentucky, plus growing work with the Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance. She’s teaching Youth Mental Health First Aid and QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training, addressing high suicide rates in certain agricultural communities. Her work extends to post-Hurricane Helene support for growers who lost infrastructure (including chicken house collapses in Coffee County), AgrAbility programs for injured farmers, and creating accessible mental health materials in multiple languages for the diverse workforce on Georgia farms. Her vision: open-access support that reaches everyone, not just limited groups.
Renee’s parting words are beautifully simple: “Just do it.” Join FFA, try other Career Technical Student Organizations, get experiences outside the four walls of your school. She hopes listeners see how deeply agricultural education and FFA support the whole student — the exact thing every educator is being asked to do. It’s never too late to start: whether you’re in high school, college (Collegiate FFA), or just curious about horticulture (UGA Hort Club, anyone?). Build your collaborative nature and connect with the field.
“The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture education.” — Renee’ Martin
“Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, and living to serve.” — FFA Motto, shared by Renee’ Martin
“Don’t die on the hill of the pencil. Give them the pencil.” — Renee’ Martin
“The news is six inches from your face at all times on a personalized screen.” — Renee’ Martin
“Use AI for organization, not creation, because it will create random things.” — Renee’ Martin
“What ag teachers do every single day is exactly what we want all teachers to do.” — Renee’ Martin
What is FFA?
The National FFA Organization (formerly Future Farmers of America, renamed in the 1980s) is a youth organization that develops students’ potential for leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. It operates through a three-circle model: classroom/laboratory instruction, Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), and FFA organizational activities. FFA is intracurricular — built into the agriculture curriculum, not added as an afterthought.
What are SAEs?
Supervised Agricultural Experiences are real-world work and learning opportunities in agriculture, supervised by community members, employers, or agriculture teachers. They range from veterinary clinic internships to on-farm production projects, giving students hands-on industry experience while building professional skills and community connections.
What are CTSOs?
Career Technical Student Organizations are co-curricular student groups aligned with Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE). FFA is one of several CTSOs; others include FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), and SkillsUSA, among others.
QPR Suicide Prevention Training
QPR stands for Question, Persuade, Refer — a widely used evidence-based training that teaches individuals to recognize warning signs of suicide and connect people to help, similar to how CPR training prepares bystanders to respond to cardiac emergencies.
What is Okefenokee RESA?
A Regional Educational Service Agency serving nine school districts in Southeast Georgia, providing shared resources, professional development, and specialized support services including school climate and wraparound services for students.
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
FFA Resources:
National FFA Organization: ffa.org
Georgia FFA: georgiaffa.org
Connect with Renee:
LinkedIn: Renee’ Martin
Okefenokee RESA on Facebook
UGA Programs Mentioned:
UGA ALEC Department (Instagram)
UGA Graduate Student Association / GSA (Instagram)
UGA Hort Club
Additional Resources:
Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
AgrAbility (assistance for farmers with disabilities or injuries)
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers and educators
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Renee’ Martin, PhD Candidate, UGA ALEC; School Climate Specialist, Okefenokee RESA
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Episode Release Date: February 1st, 2026
Episode Length: 51:32
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
Featured AFE Resource:
Dr. Emily Zhou — Assistant Professor, University of Central Missouri, Department of Agriculture. Former R&D Scientist at Bowery Farming (indoor vertical farm). PhD research focused on herbaceous peony production, vernalization, and plant growth regulators. Background in HVAC engineering with 10+ years industry experience before transitioning to horticulture.
From HVAC engineer in China and European companies to plant scientist
Arriving in the U.S. in 2002 and discovering Virginia Tech’s horticulture program
Filling the gap: taking undergraduate and graduate courses to build plant science foundation
The moment of asking “What do you love? What is your passion?”
How engineering and horticulture came together in controlled environment agriculture
“I gained my Doctor of Philosophy out of that”
Four years of PhD research requiring data collection through every holiday season
The beauty of watching a crown develop into the most beautiful flower
Horticultural therapy: plants adding value to mental and spiritual wellbeing
Native to China with 3,000-4,000 years of cultivation history
Appears in ancient Chinese poetry as a flower of love
Medicinal uses: white root peony and red root peony for herbal medicine
Peak cultivation during Tang and Song dynasties around the Yellow River
Luoyang’s 1,300-year-old peony gardens still thriving today
Spread to Japan, then Europe in late 1800s, then America in early 19th century
Limited cultivars adapted to southern climates
Yellow peony cultivar: $120 for a small one-gallon pot (2017)
Cut flower value: over $6 per stem for weddings
American Peony Society registers thousands of herbaceous cultivars
Tree peony, herbaceous peony, and Itoh hybrids offer diverse options
Requires skill to grow well—“queen of the flowers” for a reason
Top 10 most famous flowers in China, representing prosperity
Tree peony is China’s national flower
In the U.S.: symbolizes freedom, pioneering spirit, and true love
Used extensively in weddings
“It’s not just the plant, it’s everything about the plant”
Peonies are geophytes (underground storage organs) like tulips and daffodils
Underground crown develops buds during summer after flowering
Buds set by September/October—critical not to cut foliage too early
Without adequate chilling, plants grow shoots but no flowers
Natural chilling depends on weather; controlled chilling provides consistency
Zone 6 and below: natural chilling sufficient
Zone 7: borderline—may need supplemental chilling
Controlled chilling: 3 weeks (21 days) at 40°F is sufficient
Sarah Bernhardt cultivar: #1 cut flower worldwide, 50% of peony market
After chilling, greenhouse forcing produces flowers in about 2 months
Netherlands is biggest producer; U.S. growers in Oregon, Washington, Great Lakes region
Southern growers must use forced chilling to hit Valentine’s market
Traditional containerized production: 18 months for marketable plants
Gibberellic acid (GA3) can replace some chilling requirement
Ideal concentration: 100 parts per million, applied as drench
Best timing: one week after finishing chilling, when moving to greenhouse
Result: Production shortened to 5-6 months (Valentine’s supply: 3-4 months)
Cost: less than 10 cents per pot
“You can do a thousand pots in one day”
Problem: Heavy flower heads droop, especially in rain/wind
Uniconazole more effective than paclobutrazol for herbaceous peonies
Application: 15 ppm uniconazole, 12 oz drench per one-gallon container
Benefits: More compact, stronger stems, greener foliage, more marketable
Apply after chilling—not as pre-plant dip (preserves fungicide treatment)
Drench method best: ensures uniform application across variable plant sizes
Few people doing CEA when Dr. Zhou started her PhD
Postdoc: Built indoor vertical farm, conducted hydroponic research
Industry experience at Bowery Farming as R&D scientist
Why many vertical farms have failed: “We don’t know enough”
Engineers want universal systems; plant scientists know each plant needs different conditions
Returned to academia to train next generation of growers and researchers
Dr. Zhou’s PhD took 4 years because peony research requires waiting a full year between trials
Sarah Bernhardt peony occupies 50% of the worldwide cut flower peony market
GA3 treatment can reduce peony production from 18 months to 5-6 months at less than 10 cents per pot
Uniconazole drench at 15 ppm creates compact, marketable plants with stronger stems
Zone 7 is the “borderline”—growers there may need both GA3 and forced chilling
China has cultivated peonies for 3,000-4,000 years; tree peony is China’s national flower
The Netherlands is the world’s biggest peony producer; U.S. production centers in Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes
“I gained my Doctor of Philosophy out of that… I took so long a time and so much effort on this. And it’s rewarding. It is such a beautiful plant.” — Dr. Emily Zhou
“They are speaking two different languages, but I know both of them.” — Dr. Emily Zhou, on bridging engineering and plant science
“It’s not just the plant, it’s everything about the plant.” — Dr. Ping Yu, on plant power
“We don’t know enough. And my idea is going back to academia being a professor.” — Dr. Emily Zhou, on why vertical farms struggle and why education matters
“You just learn the things, you never know when one day you can use them.” — Dr. Emily Zhou
Vernalization is the process where plants require a period of cold temperatures to trigger flowering. For peonies, this means exposure to temperatures around 40°F (4°C) for several weeks. Without adequate chilling, peonies will grow vegetative shoots but won’t produce flowers.
Zone 7: Borderline—may benefit from GA3 + forced chilling
Zone 8+: Requires forced chilling in cold room (40°F for 3 weeks minimum)
Herbaceous Peony: Dies back to ground each winter, most common for cut flowers
Tree Peony: Woody stems persist; China’s national flower
Itoh Peony: Hybrid of tree and herbaceous; best characteristics of both
Connect with Dr. Emily Zhou:
LinkedIn: Search “Emily Zhou University of Central Missouri”
University of Central Missouri, Department of Agriculture
Research Publications:
Virginia Tech Extension publications on peony production and GA3 application
(Links to be added in show notes at bandbpod.com)
AFE Resources for This Episode:
DLI Maps: Interactive Daily Light Integral maps to help growers understand light availability by location — visit endowment.org
Free DLI Poster: Download AFE’s free Daily Light Integral poster for your greenhouse or classroom
Explore more research and educational resources at endowment.org
Organizations Mentioned:
American Peony Society (cultivar registration)
Battlefield Farms, Virginia (commercial peony production)
Bowery Farming (indoor vertical farming)
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Full show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Emily Zhou, University of Central Missouri
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
This episode in our first season is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit their website at endowment.org.
Episode Release Date: January 18th, 2026
Episode Length: 46:46
Working with 75+ External Breeders (19:09 - 22:44)
Range from backyard hobbyists to university breeders like Tom Ranney
Common pitfall: breeding for one trait while forgetting the rest
Chinese breeders focused on plant patents for promotion—not sales
The joy of finding overlooked gems in a breeder’s collection
Delicate communication: “This is that breeder’s life work”
Bridging Academia and Industry (22:44 - 28:20)
Helping young faculty understand promotion requirements
Why academics should work at garden centers
End caps reveal what excites consumers
The breeder fee and marketing fee model at Proven Winners
How marketing dollars flow back to drive demand
Culture Shock and Culinary Adventures (28:20 - 34:09)
China’s biggest culture shock—but it’s changed dramatically in 15 years
Drawing the line at horse sushi
Recreating favorite dishes at home after every trip
Sneaking into hotel kitchens to watch chefs cook
“If it’s good enough for the local people, it’s good enough for me”
The Rose Revolution (39:28 - 45:18)
Traditional rose breeding funneled through European rose houses
Breaking the mold with Pheno Geno Roses (Netherlands/Serbia partnership)
Four PhD women in Serbia doing “amazing work”
The Flavor Line: edible roses that actually taste good
Managing the Veterans Memorial Rose Garden at Mississippi State
Rose rosette disease: not as disastrous as first thought
Trialing philosophy: “death and destruction” to find the strong ones
Does a PhD Help? (45:18 - 47:53)
“I never went to college with the goal of getting a PhD”
Graduating during the recession—grower jobs paid less than Home Depot
What academia teaches: perseverance, navigating gray areas, building bridges
You don’t need a PhD for this job—just plant knowledge, people skills, and willingness to travel
Advice for Young Horticulturists (47:53 - 49:29)
Join IPPS—every job and assistantship traces back to those connections
Never take an introduction for granted
Build your network: phone numbers, Facebook, LinkedIn
Find a mentor doing what you want to do
“You really only got one chance to burn a bridge”
“I’m a six-year-old everywhere I go. I have a lot of fun visiting my breeders and my friends.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“I think being uncomfortable for certainly a young horticulturist is a great thing.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“We definitely believe in the IPPS motto of seeking and sharing. And we think that by sharing with our partners, we raise all the tides.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“There’s no perfect plant. Everything in the catalog needs to be replaced. There has to be an improvement.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“So I’m really just a talent scout. My job is to make breeders successful. And if they’re successful, then they keep bringing us plants.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
“You really only got one chance to burn a bridge. And it could screw up your entire career.” — Dr. Judson LeCompte
Level 1: Standard Import
Requires phytosanitary certificate from country of origin
Import permit from USDA
Relatively straightforward process
Level 2: Post-Entry Quarantine
Required for medium-risk plants (hydrangeas, roses)
Plants held at approved nursery or university site
Typically 2-year quarantine period
Multiple inspections per year
Level 3: Controlled Import Permit
Most stringent requirements
Specialized quarantine facility required
Threat screening, monthly inspections
All runoff water must be collected and treated
USDA provides program if nursery lacks facilities
Consumer appeal - Must look good at point of sale
Consumer performance - Must perform in the landscape
Compact habit - Industry trending toward smaller plants
Foliage interest - Color that changes throughout the year
Seasonality - Looking good when people are shopping (spring/summer)
Best in class - Must be the best version of that plant type
When Proven Winners sells a plant, they collect:
Breeder fee - Goes directly to the plant’s breeder
Marketing fee - Builds a budget to remarket that plant
This creates a virtuous cycle: successful plants generate marketing dollars that drive more sales, which benefits growers who don’t need their own marketing departments.
IPPS (International Plant Propagators’ Society) - Southern Region
ASHS (American Society for Horticultural Science)
Raulston Arboretum - Host of the Southeastern Plant Symposium
Breeders & Companies Referenced:
Spring Meadow Nursery / Proven Winners Color Choice
Pheno Geno Roses (Netherlands/Serbia)
J. Berry Nursery (Texas)
Tom Ranney - NC State University
Chris Warner - UK rose breeder
Mr. Suzuki - Japanese loropetalum breeder
Conard-Pyle / Star Roses
Monrovia
Regulatory Resources:
USDA APHIS Plants for Planting Manual (online)
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Judson shared the story of pursuing loropetalum breeder Mr. Suzuki in Japan for years—even “stalking” his house on Google Maps! The persistence paid off when he finally joined Proven Winners and could sit down for tea with his “rock star” breeder.
Loropetalum chinense, commonly called Chinese fringe flower, is prized for:
Striking purple/burgundy foliage
Delicate, ribbon-like flowers
Compact cultivars for smaller gardens
Year-round color interest
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Judson LeCompte, Spring Meadow Nursery / Proven Winners Color Choice
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Episode Release Date: January 4th, 2026
Episode Length: 51:30
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱
Love what you’re hearing?
Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform
Leave a review to help others find the show
Share with fellow plant lovers
Visit bandbpod.com for more resources
Conversations like this only happen when you support the show. For more information and ways to support us, please visit bandbpod.com.
🌿 Every plant has a story—and someone had to go find it. 🌿
Favorite insect: Tephritid fruit flies — brightly colored with fascinating wing patterns, remembered from childhood apple picking
Favorite plant: Lilacs (Syringa) — his grandmother’s patio surrounded by lilacs created lasting memories of their spring fragrance
The Greek mythology of Syringa: the nymph who escaped the god Pan by transforming into a lilac shrub
IPM = Integrated Pest Management (sometimes IPPM for Integrated Pest and Pathogen Management)
A science-based decision support system aimed at reducing plant protection products to levels that are economically sustainable and safe for environment and human health
A combination of tactics working together as a program
Arthropod pests: insects and mites (arachnids)
Insects can vector plant pathogens — controlling pests often controls disease
Weeds are pests too — they compete for resources AND harbor insects
Simply put: anything unwanted causing economic damage to your crop
Pros:
Reduces reliance on synthetic broad-spectrum insecticides
Protects soil health and beneficial microorganisms
Slows pesticide resistance development
Safer for environment and human health
The Resistance Problem:
Insects reproduce rapidly (10-12 generations per year in warm climates)
Hundreds of thousands of individuals = rapid evolution of resistance
Over-reliance on single active ingredients breeds resistance
Managing Resistance:
Rotate products with different modes of action (check IRAC categories)
Use maximum label rates to reduce surviving populations
Don’t repeatedly use the same active ingredient
Layer 1 — Prevention (Base):
Crop rotation — don’t keep the same crop in the same greenhouse year-round
Resistant varieties — plant breeders develop varieties less susceptible to pest damage
Prevention is the best medicine — saves money by avoiding problems
Layer 2 — Detection:
Active scouting — walking through crops, thorough inspection, taking notes
Passive scouting — sticky traps that attract and catch flying insects
Document where and when problems occur for predictability
Layer 3 — Control:
Cultural/Mechanical control — sanitation, pruning, proper clothing, gloves
Biological control — using living organisms to control pests
Chemical control — the last resort (biorational → targeted → broad spectrum)
Banker Plants (Biological Control):
Non-crop plants placed in or adjacent to the crop
Support natural enemies/biological control agents
Help predators, parasitoids, and beneficial organisms thrive
Trap Crops (Cultural Control):
Plants more attractive to pests than your actual crop
Pests prefer the trap crop, leaving your main crop alone
Example: Sweet alyssum attracts thrips away from impatiens
Can spray or destroy trap crop to eliminate concentrated pests
Low tolerance for damage — ornamentals are sold for aesthetics; any visible pest damage reduces value
Crop diversity — hundreds of different plants in a small space, each with different pest susceptibilities
Complexity — many pests requiring many tactics in limited area
Closed environments — in greenhouses, natural enemies can’t migrate when prey is depleted; populations collapse
Cons of IPM:
Can cost ~20% more than traditional chemical control
Technically complex and requires ongoing education
More frequent monitoring required
Takes longer to work than broad-spectrum insecticides
For Sweet Potato Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci):
Parasitoid wasps: Encarsia formosa (developed in 1920s), Eretmocerus species
Commercial suppliers often provide mixes for best coverage
For Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis):
Predatory bugs: Orius insidiosus
Predatory mites: Amblyseius swirskii
No effective parasitoids available for thrips
Generalist vs. Specialist Biocontrol:
Swirskii and Orius are generalists — feed on thrips, whiteflies, spider mites
But no “magic bullet” controls everything
Specialists often more effective for specific pests
Still need different solutions for mealybugs, scales, fungus gnats
Education — Know what your options are and how they work; train your employees too
Know Your Risks — Identify entry points for pests and susceptible crop locations; focus monitoring on high-risk areas
Diligence — Scout weekly or bi-weekly; consistent detection prevents small problems becoming big ones
Patience — IPM takes longer than chemical pesticides; give it time to work
LED lighting effects on pest behavior (quality, spectrum, intensity)
Nanobubble technology and higher oxygen environments
Entomopathogenic nematodes in enhanced oxygen conditions
Pest management in vertical farms and hydroponic systems
“IPM is basically a science-based decision support system, which essentially aims to reduce the use of plant protection products to levels that are economically sustainable and that are safe for the environment and human health.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“They often say prevention is the best medicine, right? It helps you deal with problems before they even arise, which will ultimately save you money.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“If they don’t know what they’re looking for and don’t know how to properly document the problems, your whole IPM pyramid is going to basically collapse.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“We might not have a natural enemy that controls everything, but we do have natural enemies that control one thing and they do it very well.” — Dr. Erich Schoeller
“It’s not just for the IPM to work, basically for a lot of things in life. You kind of have to wait and see if this works.” — Dr. Ping Yu
The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee categorizes pesticides by their mode of action — how they kill or affect pest physiology. When rotating products, choose different IRAC groups to slow resistance development. Check pesticide labels or the IRAC website for mode of action codes.
| Type | How It Works | Examples |
|——|–––––––|–––––|
| Predators | Hunt and eat pests directly | Orius bugs, Delphastus beetles, predatory mites |
| Parasitoids | Lay eggs inside pests; larvae consume host from within | Encarsia formosa, Eretmocerus wasps |
| Entomopathogenic fungi | Infect and kill pests through fungal disease | Beauveria bassiana |
| Entomopathogenic nematodes | Microscopic worms that infect soil-dwelling pests | Applied through irrigation or drenching |
The scientific name for lilac, Syringa, comes from Greek mythology. The nymph Syringa transformed herself into a lilac shrub to escape the pursuing god Pan. Finding only the shrub, Pan fashioned its hollow stems into the first pan pipes (also called a syrinx). Lilacs are among the first to bloom in spring, symbolizing new life, the arrival of spring, and first love — especially in European traditions.
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly — A novel mentioned by Dr. Yu featuring lilacs in its setting
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Dr. Erich Schoeller, University of Georgia Department of Entomology
Producer: Rich Braman, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture
Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant
This episode is made possible through an educational grant from the American Floral Endowment, whose research priorities helped shape the topics that are featured. To learn more about AFE and access their research and educational resources, visit endowment.org.
Episode Release Date: December 21, 2025
Episode Length: 45:11
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌿
🌻 Every plant has a story. Every pest has a natural enemy. And every grower has the power to build a smarter system. 🌿
Service organization helping growers with pest, disease, and regulatory issues
The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) (04:18 - 05:35)
Research foundation arm of American Hort
Provides scholarships, research grants, and leadership academy
100% industry-supported—no federal or state funding
Michael’s role as “matchmaker” connecting growers with researchers
Michael’s Career Journey (06:02 - 10:42)
Mentors: Bob and Bill Head at Head-Lee Nursery, Jeff and Lisa Beasley at Transplant Nursery
High school ag teacher in Walhalla, South Carolina showed horticulture as a career
Bachelor’s and Master’s at Clemson University (agricultural education focus)
Taught for one year, decided it wasn’t for him
Worked as nursery inspector in South Carolina for five years
Started native plant nursery serving Lake Keowee riparian zone requirements (10 years)
PhD at University of Georgia under Matthew Chappell
Connected through Paul Thomas (“PT”) in a chance hallway encounter
The Journey of a Plant (11:43 - 14:37)
Geranium cuttings for Spring 2026 are being produced now (September 2025)
Cuttings produced in Central and South America, shipped to U.S. for finishing
6-8 month journey from cutting to consumer purchase
Plant breeders work 5-10 years ahead developing new varieties
“Hundreds, if not thousands of people involved” in getting one plant to market
Purchased for 25 cents at Park Seed grower’s days as a child
Either Tricyrtis hirta or T. formosana ‘Stolonifera’
Still growing on family farm 30-40 years later
Shade plant that flowers in fall
Symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, elegance, and long life in Asian culture
Family Plant Legacies (18:40 - 20:49)
Philadelphus odorata (mock orange) passed through four generations
Mother’s cutting came from grandmother in Greenville, SC
Plant has been in family for over 100 years
Shortia galacifolia (Oconee bells) story: lost for 100 years after Asa Gray’s pressed specimen was sent from England to France, rediscovered by child playing in woods
Green Industry Status (21:16 - 24:28)
Industry did “phenomenally well” during and after COVID
Many discovered indoor gardening and gardening in general
Curbside pickup became permanent sales methodology for some nurseries
2025 has been a “good year”—not great, not terrible
Fall is best time to plant, though consumers prefer spring
American-Made vs. Imported Plants (24:28 - 29:03)
Trees and woody shrubs: predominantly sole-source produced in U.S.
Herbaceous annuals: cuttings mostly from Central and South America
Day length and temperature requirements make offshore production practical
Poinsettia cuttings produced in Central/South America during summer
“You can put a thousand cuttings in a regular cardboard box”
Quality Standards Evolution (29:43 - 31:00)
20 years ago, quality standards had to be written into contracts
Now high quality is the expectation and industry norm
Growers “pride themselves on having high quality plants”
Trade Show Changes (31:00 - 33:53)
Named varieties were rare when Michael started; now they’re expected
Trade shows have consolidated due to cost
Growers have become “more selective in the shows that we exhibit at”
Some growers used to do 8-10 shows per year
Industry Challenges (33:54 - 36:55)
Labor is the biggest issue
Legislative team working on H-2A and H-2B visa programs
Automation increasing, particularly for jobs with higher injury rates
Phytosanitary work offers excellent job security
Cotton jassid currently affecting Southeast (cotton, okra, ornamentals)
Researcher-Grower Relationships (37:44 - 40:22)
“Call. Call the grower and say, ‘Hey, can I come and meet you?’”
Growers want to see your face and know you care
Walking the rows reveals information they won’t share over phone/email
Anecdotal observations can become research opportunities
Growers want to be involved and see how their support is used
Non-traditional transfers: leadership or outside parties take over gradually
American Hort provides roadmaps for both types
May be 10-year gradual transition plans
“Start putting feelers out” at trade shows if interested in ownership
Advice for Young Growers (50:30 - 53:33)
Work for somebody else first—don’t open your own business day one
Some family operations require 5-10 years elsewhere before joining
Go on nursery and greenhouse tours, take pictures
Join associations: American Hort, IPPS, state associations
“That knowledge, that information that they have as growers, that is so valuable that I honestly can’t put a price on it”
“I am currently the Science Research and Regulatory Programs Director with American Hort in the Horticultural Research Institute, HRI. I have been working in the horticulture industry almost my entire life. One of my first jobs was when I was five, sticking azalea cuttings, because that was the easiest job I could do.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“There is nothing wrong with deciding, ‘Hey, this is not where I want to be. I need to go back and look at something else.’” — Dr. Michael Martin
“When you go to buy, let’s say, a geranium in the spring, that’s the finish line for that plant… The companies that produce the cuttings for the geraniums, they’re producing those cuttings for the spring of 2026 right now.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“This plant, through its lineage, at least for a hundred years, has been in our family. And so, like you…, I like the history of plants just as much as I do the plants themselves.” — Dr. Michael Martin (on his family’s Philadelphus)
“They are your competitors, but they’re happy to help you because your success is their success.” — Dr. Michael Martin
“Work for somebody else first. That is my first suggestion. Don’t open your own business day one. Go get experience.” — Dr. Michael Martin
What is American Hort?
The National Trade Association serving nurseries, greenhouses, independent retailers, and anyone working in ornamental horticulture. They advocate for the industry through legislative efforts, provide regulatory guidance, and help growers navigate challenges like pest outbreaks and policy changes.
What is HRI (Horticultural Research Institute)?
The research foundation arm of American Hort that provides scholarships, research grants, and leadership development. Entirely industry-funded, HRI connects growers with researchers to solve real-world production challenges.
Plant Production Timeline
Spring annuals: Cuttings produced 6-8 months ahead in Central/South America
Woody plants: Even longer production cycles
New varieties: 5-10 years of breeding and development before reaching market
Phytosanitary Work
Plant health inspection and protection, including disease, insect, and invasive plant monitoring. Career opportunities exist at state level, federal level (USDA APHIS PPQ), and within large nursery operations.
Key Agencies & Organizations Mentioned
USDA APHIS - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
PPQ - Plant Protection and Quarantine (division of APHIS)
National Plant Board - State plant health regulatory officers
SPHDs - State Plant Health Directors (federal officers in each state)
IPPS - International Plant Propagators’ Society
Succession Planning Types
Traditional: Family-to-family generational transfer
Non-Traditional: Transfer to non-family leadership or outside parties, often through gradual multi-year transition plans
Tricyrtis (Toad Lilies)
Native to Japan (T. hirta) and China/Taiwan (T. formosana)
Shade-loving perennials that bloom in fall
Orchid-like flowers with spotted patterns
In Asian culture: symbolize good fortune, prosperity, elegance, and long life
Shortia galacifolia (Oconee Bells)
Very limited distribution in northern South Carolina
Lost to science for 100 years after botanist Asa Gray’s pressed specimen was sent from England to France
Rediscovered when a child brought flowers home from the woods
Example of how plant history connects us to botanical exploration
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Featured Guest: Dr. Michael Martin, American Hort / HRI
Producer: Rich Braman
Episode Release Date: December 7th, 2025
Episode Length: 55:30
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Funds research, internships, scholarships, and educational programs
An endowment: “the money isn’t going anywhere”
Industry-funded, resources go back to industry for free
Both Ping and Laura are former AFE scholarship recipients
Floriculture Industry Status (07:26 - 08:11)
Cut flower production: field, greenhouse, hoop house
Young plants, finished plants, all stages of growth
Perennials, bulbs, foliage, and succulents
Growing interest in locally grown cut flowers
U-Pick Farms and Georgia’s Floriculture (08:12 - 08:58)
Rise of small cut flower farms with u-pick options
Industry Culture: “Surprisingly friendly”—competitors share knowledge openly
Plant Power: Flowers boost mood and represent a lifestyle choice
“I’m trying to write this essay about why I want to do this, and I’m like, ‘You know what? I really just kind of want to be outside.’ Hmm, maybe that’s my answer.” — Laura Barth
“I absolutely think there is a connection between art and horticulture. And especially in floriculture, when you’re seeing floral designers and some of the landscaping, I think there really is creativity to a lot of our industry.” — Laura Barth
“The best thing about AFE is that it is an endowment so the money isn’t going anywhere. We’re supported by the industry through industry funds and everything we put out goes directly back to the industry for free.” — Laura Barth
“You don’t have to spend a ton of money to reinvent the wheel. And also I would say our industry is surprisingly friendly and surprisingly open with how much knowledge we’re willing to share.” — Laura Barth
“I call it plant power, and it can really influence your mood. If you don’t feel well or if you feel upset, go out for a walk and then see all those plants outside… they can make you feel happy again.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“I think that’s the reason that our whole industry thrives… Because if we’re all eating, it’s better for everybody.” — Laura Barth
What is AFE (American Floral Endowment)?
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the floriculture industry through:
Research funding
Scholarships and internships
Educational programs (including GrowPro webinars)
Resources that go back to the industry for free
What is Sustainabloom?
Launched by AFE in 2022, Sustainabloom is a resource hub where people from all segments of the floriculture industry can find resources to help them become more sustainable, no matter where they are in their journey.
What is Floriculture?
The segment of horticulture focused on flowering and ornamental plants, including:
Cut flower production (field, greenhouse, hoop house)
Potted plants (young plants to finished)
Perennials, bulbs, foliage, and succulents
Hard goods (faux flowers, ribbons, supplies)
What are Hard Goods?
In the floral industry, “hard goods” refers to non-living floral supplies including high-quality faux/artificial flowers, ribbons, wire, containers, and other materials used in arrangements.
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Laura Barth serves as the Research Coordinator for the American Floral Endowment, where she facilitates research programs and outreach. Her journey to horticulture began unexpectedly—after earning a degree in music performance, a move from Wisconsin to North Carolina opened her eyes to the beauty of plants and flowers. She went on to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in horticulture science from North Carolina State University. As a former AFE scholarship recipient herself, Laura understands firsthand the impact of AFE’s programs on the next generation of horticulturists.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu
Guest: Laura Barth, American Floral Endowment
Producer: Rich Braman
Episode Release Date: November 30th, 2025
Episode Length: ~27 minutes
“Till next time, stay healthy and go plants!” 🌱🌻🌿
Supporting commercial nursery and greenhouse growers
Tackling irrigation, nutrients, substrate management, and production issues
Interdisciplinary collaboration with entomology, plant pathology, and weed science
The power of extension agents serving Georgia’s green industry
The Science of Sun-Tracking (10:04 - 12:00)
Meet Helianthus annuus (sun + flower + annual)
How young sunflowers track the sun from east to west
The role of auxin in creating heliotropic movement
Uneven cell growth that bends the stem toward light
The Art of Van Gogh (12:00 - 14:09)
Vincent van Gogh’s sunflower series (1887-1889)
Sunflowers as symbols of gratitude, friendship, and the cycle of life
Bold yellows exploring light, hope, and spiritual radiance
Why sunflowers inspire courage: “Life is worth living and there’s always hope. Just keep going on.”
From Thrips Talks to Blooms and Beyond (14:50 - 19:24)
How Yan’s PhD research sparked the idea
American Floral Endowment Educational Grant support
Originally planned as six episodes about thrips management
Expanded to cover the broader “plant jungle” and plant power
“Once you step in, you don’t want to step out”
The Vision (19:26 - 23:55)
Tagline: Plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science
Weaving enchanting stories with practical management practices
Every plant has a story to tell
Serving two audiences: commercial professionals seeking solutions AND plant enthusiasts wanting to brag about cool plant facts
Topics You’ll Hear About:
Irrigation management
Plant hunting
Labor management and techniques
Career preparation
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Historical and cultural plant stories
And so much more!
Mentors Who Changed Everything (25:00 - 27:54)
Dr. James Robbins (retired professor, University of Arkansas)
Dr. Mengmeng Gu (now Dean of Extension at Colorado State University)
A chance meeting in Nanjing that opened doors to the American dream
The power of encouragement: “Why don’t you start preparing your English test and see how it goes?”
Philosophy: “Pay it forward” to help the next generation
“Every plant has a story to tell. They didn’t just magically show up today in your garden or nursery. They have been selected, hybridized, shipped long distances. Somewhere along the line, they have crazy stories to tell.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“Every time I saw sunflower, I would have the courage to carry on with whatever struggle that I may have. Life is worth living and there’s always hope. Just keep going on.” — Dr. Ping Yu
“My experience taught me how to see research as an exploration, not just about the results, but about learning from every attempt.” — Yan Zhang
“Nobody really cares about your research unless they can relate to your research.” — Dr. Ping Yu (quoting her PhD professor)
“We really do never go anywhere alone, do we?” — Rich Braman
What is IPM (Integrated Pest Management)? A comprehensive approach to pest control that combines multiple strategies:
Cultural practices
Biological control
Chemical control (when necessary)
Goal: Minimize economic and environmental risks while keeping pests at manageable levels
Scientific Name Fun Fact:Helianthus annuus breaks down to:
Helios = sun (Greek/Latin)
Anthos = flower
Annuus = annual Scientific names can tell you characteristics of the plant!
Visit the Show:
Website: bandbpod.com
Show notes and additional resources at bandbpod.com
Get Involved:
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a review
Share with fellow plant lovers
Support the show (details at bandbpod.com)
Funding: This episode is supported by the American Floral Endowment Educational Grant, whose mission is to fund educational programs to promote more young people into the horticulture industry.
Blooms and Beyond is a podcast that covers plant history, culture, and management through the lens of science. Whether you’re a commercial grower looking for management solutions, a student exploring horticulture careers, or someone who just loves plants and their stories, you’ll find something here for you. Hosted by Dr. Ping Yu from the University of Georgia, each episode features interviews with experts who bring enchanting stories, pioneering research, and practical wisdom from the world of horticulture.
Your Takeaway: When you walk away from each episode, commercial professionals should have at least one piece of advice to help with production, and plant enthusiasts should have one cool fact to share about plants. Because that’s how we spread plant power to a larger audience and make the environment a little bit better.
Host: Dr. Ping Yu Featured Guests: Yan Zhang, Rich Braman Producer/Technical Host: Rich Braman Support: American Floral Endowment Educational Grant
Episode Release Date: November 17th, 2025
Episode Length: 29:53
