Ep. 409: How to Shop for Plants Like a Pro Gardener with Mark Thompson - Outdoor Mini-Series Pt. 3

How to Decorate

We continue our outdoor mini-series by welcoming Mark Thompson to the show, co-owner of two iconic Birmingham businesses specializing in gardening and home decor. Mark shares his journey into the gardening world and provides valuable tips on how to shop for plants, care for them effectively, and tackle common gardening challenges.

Listeners will gain insights into the importance of setting realistic expectations when shopping for plants, the benefits of starting with smaller specimens, and best practices for soil preparation. The episode also covers how to maximize outdoor spaces, handle invasive plants, and achieve a thriving garden, making it a must-listen for gardening enthusiasts of all levels.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

• 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast
• 00:34 Meet Mark Thompson: Garden Shop Owner
• 01:44 Mark's Journey into Gardening
• 07:22 Opening the General Store
• 13:44 Tips for Shopping for Plants
• 18:59 Ensuring Plant Health and Maintenance
• 34:14 Garden Shop Plant Care Tips
• 36:40 Extending the Life of Houseplants
• 37:03 Houseplant Repotting and Maintenance
• 50:33 Dealing with Invasive Plants
• 53:46 Gardening for Non-Gardeners
• 01:02:33 Common Plant Problems and Solutions

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs | Shop Now
• @markg.thompson | Designer Instagram

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Happy Decorating!