Song and Plants

What makes lemon balm smell so good? Why is it called Melissa officinalis? What growing conditions does it prefer? Is it related to mint? What are some ways to enjoy this delightful herb? Opening tune: Botanical Berceuse by Carmen Porter (https://carmenporter.com) References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/melissa-officinalis Abolfazl Shakeri, Amirhossein...

What is the latest research regarding squash bee flower preferences, range expansion and morphology? Where did squash bees and most of the Cucurbita spp. that we grow originate? How can you encourage these amazing native bees to pollinate your squash? Dr Margarita Lopez-Uribe shares her extensive knowledge! To see more of the fantastic research projects being conducted at her lab: https://lopezuri...

Shannon shares insights into the amazing diversity of wonderful, Cucurbitaceae heirloom varieties! We explore open pollinated squash, melon, cucumber and watermelon varieties that have been developed and grown all over the world. Baker Creek Seed Company: www.rareseeds.com Opening tune: 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com)

What is the difference between a hybrid and an heirloom? How can you ensure that your saved squash seeds will grow true to the parent plant? Seed saving is the reclaiming of seed sovereignty! Opening tune: 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com) References: https://www.seedsavers.org/site/pdf/grow-save-squash.pdf https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/tools-supplies/seed-storage-gu...

How do the different Cucurbita species indicate ripeness? Subtle cues signal that the time is right for harvest. What is squash curing? Under optimal conditions, Cucurbita spp can be enjoy all winter! Opening song: Beeloved by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com) References: https://www.nda.agric.za/docs/Brochures/PG_Squash.pdf

Introducing three common, North American, pest insects that love squash as much as I do! When do they emerge? Where do they lay their eggs? What problems can they cause if their populations are high? What can be done to reduce their numbers? Opening song: Beeloved by Carmen Porter (https://carmenporter.com) References: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/VEG/BEAN/striped_cucumber_beetle.html http...

When are the optimal conditions for Cucurbita seed germination? What location characteristics are favorable for planting squash? Is indoor or direct seeding right for your situation? Keep records! Opening tune: 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter Contact at https://carmenporter.com

Squash and mastodons? Do bumble and honey bees collect Cucurbit pollen? What does some of the current research suggest about the history of squash distribution and Cucurbit bee (Peponapis pruinosa) habitat expansion? Opening and closing tune: 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter References: Logan Kistler, Lee A. Newsom, Timothy M. Ryan, Andrew C. Clarke, Bruce D. Smith, George H. Perry. Gourds and squashes...

Meet Peponapis pruinosa (Eastern cucurbit bee or squash bee)! This native bee is the most efficient pollinator for the Cucurbita genus (squash). Where do they nest? What is their life cycle? How can you encourage them to live in your garden? The opening tune is called 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter. It is available for listening at https://carmenporter.com and on all streaming platforms. References:...

Cucurbitaceae is a family with many familiar and tasty members. In anticipation of the first tune, this episode will focus on the Cucurbita genus. What are the most commonly grown species of the Cucurbita genus? And (briefly) what differentiates them from each other? If you want to chat about squash, hit contact at https://carmenporter.com/

What is bionomial nomenclature? Why is it important? What is a taxonomic hierarchy? This episode offers a brief yet practical introduction to the scientific classification system of living organisms. Did you know that there is a spider named after Johnny Cash? We'll touch on that too. If you have any favorite scientific names or stories, sent them my way at https://carmenporter.com/

Welcome to Song and Plants! In this episode we will explore the why and how this podcast came to be and what to expect moving forward! For more songs, plants, videos and smiles visit me at https://carmenporter.com