I’m your host Craig McManus. Welcome to The Garden Question Podcast, where we’re all about designing, building, and growing smarter gardens that work. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, you’ll always be inspired in every episode.
Today’s guest is Rick Vuyst, a lifelong gardener and horticultural storyteller with a career as vibrant as the gardens he’s nurtured. From co-hosting the Gardening Simplified Show to hosting the award-winning Flowerland Show for nearly 30 years, Rick has been a trusted voice in gardening media. You might also know him as "Mr. Green Thumb" from his two-decade stint on WZZM TV 13, where he shared tips, humor, and wisdom with viewers across Western Michigan.
In this insightful episode, Rick reflects on his extensive experience in the gardening industry, unpacking lessons from his decades at Flowerland garden center and exploring trends that have shaped the horticultural world. From adapting to climate shifts and embracing innovations in plant breeding to the cultural love for gardening reignited by the pandemic era, Rick offers a roadmap for the future of gardening.
We’ll also dive into his passion for photography along the Lake Michigan shoreline, humorous anecdotes from his radio days, and even adventures in Costa Rica. Rick brings a unique blend of humor, expertise, and inspiration that will leave you eager to dig deeper into your gardening journey.
Continue Listening for a conversation brimming with insights, laughs, and a renewed love for plants.
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend
00:54 Reflections on Gardening Trends and Innovations
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast
00:17 Meet Rick Vuyst: A Gardening Legend
00:54 Rick's Insights on Gardening Trends
02:06 The Impact of Climate Change on Gardening
03:10 Innovations in Plant Breeding
04:41 Generational Shifts in Gardening
05:10 Rick's Career and Industry Changes
07:26 Hilarious Moments from Live Radio
09:06 Exploring Costa Rica's Horticulture
12:45 The Revolution of Plant Branding
16:29 Rick's Media Journey as Mr. Green Thumb
18:25 Weather and Its Influence on Gardening
20:55 The Garden Simplified Show
23:37 Future Trends in Gardening
23:57 The Resurgence of Cut Flowers
25:08 The Houseplant Boom
25:52 Designing Diverse Landscapes
28:00 Understanding Rhythm in Landscaping
29:52 Debunking Garden Myths
31:05 Early Garden Memories
32:19 Pursuing Horticulture as a Career
33:00 From Gardening to Comedy
34:12 Influences and Inspirations
35:01 Valuable Garden Mistakes
36:03 Learning and Adapting in Gardening
39:41 Future Garden Plans
41:20 Favorite Plant of the Week
42:15 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
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