00:20
Deb Mackey introduces herself, explaining her role at Green Mountain College and her long-time residence in Poultney, Vermont.
00:40
Deb discusses her childhood gardening experiences with her family and how it led to her love for gardening.
00:59
Jim Graves, a professor of biology and plant ecologist, relates his gardening interests to his grandmother's influence and his own interest in natural systems.
01:53
Alice Prince, a retired dental assistant from Richmond, Vermont, talks about her passion for gardening and the peace it brings her.
02:14
Philip Ackerman-Leist, the director of the Green Mountain College Farm and Food project, shares his family's history with gardening and how for him it is therapeutic.
02:54
Jenny Prince, owner of an online gardening business, shares her view on gardening as a way to ensure reliable and controlled food sources.
03:39
Discussion of challenges in growing tomatoes due to pests and diseases and the satisfaction derived from gardening.
04:14
The saturation of organic farms in Vermont is mentioned, leading to a discussion about the diversity of crops grown in the state.
05:01
Philip Ackerman-Leist comments on interesting crops like squash and root types that differ from those grown in the south, as well as historical aspects.
05:30
Ackerman-Leist talks about the strength of Vermont's organic agriculture community, the seasonal nature of growing in the state, and the sense of purity associated with it.
06:00
The sense of community among farmers and sharing information, including using email lists to communicate about issues like tomato blight.
07:09
Information about the challenges of gardening, including weather changes and the short growing season in Vermont that can be somewhat unpredictable.
07:59
Further challenges in Vermont relating to the cold winters that limit crop choices and the need for improving soil quality.
08:55
The ongoing struggle with removing rocks in New England gardens and the recurrence of rocks even after they have been cleared.
09:28
Alice Prince talks about the environmental challenges of sudden weather changes, including frost warnings, and the need to protect plants.
10:07
Advice for new gardeners, including starting small and engaging in activities at the Green Mountain College farm to gain experience.
10:50
Jenny Prince's advice for new gardeners to keep it simple by ensuring to water, feed, and nourish the plants, and not to get overwhelmed by memorizing pests and diseases. Instead, focus on basic plant care.
11:16
Jim Graves suggests to start small with gardening by growing favorites or easy herbs, and to get used to gardening before expanding.
