Whether you’re a casual gardener or a horticulture enthusiast, this episode will change how you look at mums — not as disposable decor, but as timeless treasures of autumn color. In this episode, Dr. A explores the often misunderstood world of mums—those bright, cheerful chrysanthemums that fill garden centers every fall. Are they simply “throwaway” plants, or can they be hardy perennials that return year after year?Join Dr. A as he reveals the myths and wonders behind these beloved flowers. You’ll learn how to identify which mums can truly endure, how to care for them after the fall season, and why these vibrant blooms deserve more respect in your garden.
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5:43
Stories from the Garden: Ajuga, what does a bugle have to do it with it?
In this episode, Dr. A digs into one of the most widely loved—and widely grown—ground covers in the garden world: Ajuga, also known as bugleweed. Found in gardens from north to south, ajuga is a true equal opportunist, spreading across landscapes with its striking foliage and beautiful lavender to blue flower spikes.But where did the name bugleweed come from? And what exactly is a bugleweed, anyway?Join Dr. A as he explores the history, beauty, and quirks of this versatile and colorful plant that’s just as fun to talk about as it is to grow.A favorite ground coverRich foliage in many colorsLavender-blue blooms
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Dr. A's Top Picks for the Garden: Salvia madrensis
In today’s episode, Dr. A shares the story of one of his favorite salvias—a showstopping variety that many gardeners overlook. While salvias are well-known for their vibrant reds and blues and their ability to attract pollinators, this particular salvia steals the show in fall with its forsythia-like yellow blooms.Native to Mexico and found in gardens across the globe, this plant is more than just a pretty face. Commonly known as the Forsythia Sage, it flowers through the summer but truly shines in autumn. Tune in to learn why this underappreciated salvia deserves a spot in your garden—and maybe even your heart.Great for pollinatorsSpectacular fall colorA plant with a story, just like every good garden should have.
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Stories from the Garden: What does a dog have to do with Dogwoods?
In this episode of Stories from the Garden, renowned horticulturist Dr. Allan Armitage digs into the curious connection between dogs and dogwoods. Ever wonder how the beloved flowering tree got its name? Spoiler alert: it’s not because dogs love to nap under them! With his signature wit and storytelling charm, Dr. A unearths the myths, history, and botanical surprises behind the dogwood's name.Whether you're a plant nerd, a casual gardener, or just someone who enjoys a good story, this episode is sure to make you see dogwoods—and maybe dogs—a little differently.
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Dr. A's Top Picks for the Garden: Voodoo Lily
If you really want to spark conversation in the garden, or possibly run people off from the smell, plant a Voodoo Lily. One of the more interesting plants you can pop in the garden, and will only show up after a few years (this one takes patience) it is well worth the show, but maybe not the smell!
Gardening is not brain surgery or rocket science. There is so much more to our gardens than
compost and digging holes. The plants we garden with are story machines, each begging to be
heard.
Each week, sit back and listen to award-winning author and internationally acclaimed horticulturist Dr Allan Armitage as he talks about the “rest of the story.” For example, was there really someone called Joe Pye, and how did the poppy become the flower of remembrance?
Find a little time in your day for some storytelling to fire up your curiosity and learn something interesting to share with others.
Canada - english