BY MELISSA SERENDA

Whether you are looking to learn more about botany and plants, or you just like having something to listen to while working in the garden and around the house, there are podcasts to help pass the time. Here are a few of my favorites, plus a bonus suggestion.

In Defense of Plants

https://www.indefenseofplants.com/podcast

Host Matt Candeias speaks with researchers and others about plants, ecology, and the importance of plant conservation from a more scientific perspective. Though focused on botany and ecology, the podcast covers a wide range of topics with recent episodes titled “Plants and Habitat Fragmentation”, “Uncovering the Mysteries of Galls”, and “Investigating Invasiveness.”

Planthropology

https://www.planthropologypod.com/

With its charismatic host Vikram Baliga, PhD, this podcast delves into horticulture and plant appreciation with wide-ranging and conversational interviews with experts in the field. You can also find humorous short-form musings on TikTok @theplantprof.

The next two podcasts focus primarily on houseplants.

Growing Joy

https://growingjoywithmaria.com/podcast/

Host Maria Failla goes beyond just plants to focus on planty lifestyles and the way sharing our lives with plants can bring wellness and joy in so many aspects. Recent episodes cover such diverse topics as “How to Overcome Burnout through the Healing Power of Nature” to “How to Grow Mushrooms Indoors”, and fans have a supportive and positive community online.

On the Ledge

https://www.janeperrone.com/on-the-ledge

London-based Jane Perrone focuses almost exclusively on houseplants, with an archive of hundreds of episodes that are conveniently sorted by topic for those catching up. Learn about everything from basic care to pests and diseases to propagation and more.

And a bonus podcast for those who enjoy learning about our six-legged friends and neighbors:

Arthro-Pod

http://arthro-pod.blogspot.com/

Like it or not (I happen to like it…a lot), insects are an important part of gardening. This podcast hosted by a trio of entomologists, covers all things arthropods including garden pests, as well as venturing into discussions about Monarchs, carnivorous plants, and more.