Smarty Plants
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Publishing Details
About This Podcast
Smarty Plants is a podcast exploring invasive insects and noxious weeds that threaten Minnesota’s natural and agricultural resources. Experts from the MDA’s Plant Protection Division cover important topics engaging the public in efforts to protect our environment.
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Recent Episodes
S2E20 Bee the Change
Having a perfectly manicured lawn in your front yard is often a goal for many homeowners. But all that freshly mowed grass doesn't make a great habitat for Minnesota’s pollinators. Dan Shaw and Erin…
S2E19 Consumer Protections on the Smallest Scale
Sitting down with a big bowl of salad or admiring the beauty of our plants, it isn't always in the forefront of our minds where those things came from, a tiny little seed. Lucky for us it is a…
S2E18 Managing Eco-Anxiety
The environment around us is changing. Invasive plants and pests affect native species, the climate is different, and major weather events are happening more frequently. Watching these rapid changes…
S2E17 Shop Local - Even for Your Holiday Tree!
Listen in to hear all the benefits for purchasing a real locally grown holiday tree. John Krueger, a Minnesota Christmas tree grower, and Rachel Wandrei of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's…
S2E16 Creepy Crawlies
Spiders tend to elicit fear from people. Their eight legs, extra eyes, fast moves, and love for dark, hidden places can be startling. However, the wonderful world of spiders isn't as scary as it…
S2E15 Are Invasive Plants Just a Click Away?
Shopping online is now easier then ever, making our favorite products often accessible and delivered to our homes with just a click or two. On this episode of Smarty Plants, Amy Morey from the…
S2E14 EAB Biocontrol
Emerald ash borer (EAB) has become widespread in Minnesota and is a major threat to our state's ash trees. Efforts to limit EAB populations using biocontrol in Minnesota are underway. Learn about…
S2E13 Painful Plants
Not only do noxious and invasive weeds damage our natural resources, but they also can be harmful to people. Emilie Justen from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Roger Becker from the…
S1E12 Participatory Science: Your Involvement Matters
The public's involvement in invasive species work is a powerful tool in successful management. Angie Ambourn, Entomologist from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and Angela Gupta, Regional…
S1E11 Tribal Weed Management
Weed management is important throughout Minnesota, with many different entities doing essential work to minimize the effects noxious and invasive weeds have on our environment. Minnesota's 11…
S1E10 Making a Fuss about Red Star Rust
Junipers, crab apple, and apple trees are all important tree species in Minnesota. In fact, apple varieties of Minnesota origin are among the top sellers in the country, making the health of these…
S1E9 Living with EAB
Minnesota has been living with emerald ash borer (EAB) since it was first found here in 2009. Over the years, the invasive insect and its effect on trees have become more widespread, causing…
S1E8 Harmful Weeds Make the List
There are many different weeds that can cause harm to our landscapes, forests, and agricultural land. Weeds that are of high concern for their dangerous impacts often land on the Noxious Weed List.…
S1E7 Making Plans for a Healthy Garden
An essential part of garden planning is making sure that seeds or plants that you are planting are free from diseases and noxious weeds. Do some proactive planning for this spring and learn the key…
S1E6 Invasive Pests vs. Minnesota Cold
Minnesota's cold weather can have a big impact on invasive pest such as insects and noxious weeds. Learn how cold temperatures affect pest behaviors and the consequences of warmer winters. Smarty…
S1E5 Unwanted Holiday Pests
Making the holidays extra festive with Christmas trees, wreaths, and other greenery is something many of us love. However, invasive insects and noxious weeds can be hiding in our beautiful décor.…
S1E4 Irritating Insects
Fall can be a particularly irritating time when it comes to bugs, as often times you will see many taking up residence in your toasty home. In fact, sometimes it can feel like an all-out invasion.…
S1E3 Plants Get Sick Too
Just like people, plants can get sick. Fungi, bacteria, and other pathogens are common causes of plant diseases. Learning to identify when plants are sick and taking proper steps to contain these…
S1E2 Worrisome Weeds
Managing weeds can sometimes feel overwhelming. But a little knowledge can make the job easier. Learn what noxious weeds are, what to look for on your property, weed management, and tips for fall…
S1E1 The Plant Protectors!
Plant protection experts Mark Abrahamson and Tony Cortilet introduce the important work of the Plant Protection Division within the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The division’s work is…
Frequently Asked Questions
Smarty Plants has published 20 episodes since July 2024, covering topics in Government, Home & Garden.
Smarty Plants is currently highly active with new episodes monthly. Average episode length is 34m.
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