In today's episode I have a fascinating conversation with John Bartram. America's First Botanist and a Legacy of Native Plant Explorer.
Well actually, it’s with Kirk R. Brown, a renowned garden speaker and historian who brings the legendary 18th-century botanist John Bartram to life.
Bartram, often called “America’s First Botanist,” was a trailblazer in exploring the wilds of colonial America, driven by his passion for nature and a mission to discover and catalog native plants.
With a love for gardening passed down from his grandmother and wisdom gained from Native American tribes, Bartram’s legacy lives on through his incredible contributions to American horticulture.
Kirk R. Brown, our guest, is no stranger to the art of garden storytelling. As past president of GardenComm and a Hall of Fame honoree, Kirk has captivated audiences coast-to-coast by stepping into the shoes of Bartram, Frederick Law Olmsted (episode 124 – Sculpting Nature: The Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted), and other historical giants in horticulture.
With decades of experience in garden design and education, he’s earned awards for exceptional horticulture and garden achievements. From his work as Business Manager at Joanne Kostecky Garden Design, where he crafted award-winning landscapes, to his role as National Outreach Coordinator for Magnolia Plantation, Kirk’s expertise is nothing short of impressive.
So, get ready to delve into the world of 18th-century plant exploration, the origins of American botany, and the enduring importance of native plants. You’ll leave inspired to design, build, and grow a smarter garden that works. Just like Bartram and Kirk have done across the centuries.
Follow The Garden Question Podcast and join us for a journey through garden history that speaks to everyone, from the beginner to the seasoned expert.
This is episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram – (brought to life) by Kirk R. Brown.
This has been episode 188 - A Conversation with John Bartram - (brought to life) Kirk R. Brown. Thank you Kirk you’re awesome!
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Chapter Time Line00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:56 Meet Kirk R. Brown: Bringing John Bartram to Life
01:44 Exploring the Legacy of John Bartram
02:27 Subscriber Giveaway Announcement
02:55 John Bartram's Early Inspirations
03:12 The Wisdom of Age and Gardening
04:24 The Influence of Native American Knowledge
06:35 The Importance of Observing Nature
08:45 The Role of Libraries in Botanical Education
10:12 Medicinal Uses of American Plants
10:36 Trading Knowledge with Indigenous Tribes
12:01 The British Pharmacopoeia and American Plants
12:52 The Versatility of Elderberry
15:55 Exploring and Documenting New Plants
19:04 Impact on English Garden Design
23:35 The Influence of Philadelphia in Botanical Trade
25:04 The American Philosophical Society
26:56 Carl Linnaeus and the Binomial Nomenclature
28:56 The Humorous Story of Bartremia
30:19 Moss and Correspondence with Carl
31:30 The Significance of Oaks
34:28 Bartram's Garden and Historical Meetings
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