Host Craig McManus discusses the transformative power of gardening and the incredible impact they have on our lives with guest Jennifer Jewell.Jennifer is a garden advocate, author, and award-winning podcast and radio host, shares examples of how gardens influence our lives.She addresses the role of seed banks in preserving plant diversity, biodiversity threats from current agriculture practices, and the potential of gardeners to act as agents of positive change.She emphasizes embracing and valuing plant diversity as we interact with our gardens. They also discuss Jennifer's newest book, What We Sow, which explores the personal, ecological, and cultural significance of seed.She is the host of the national award-winning radio and podcast program "Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History and the Human Impulse to Garden.The Impact of GardenersJennifer believes that gardens and gardeners are not only sources of aesthetic beauty but influential agents of change. They have the power to plant seeds of transformation, both literally and figuratively, contributing to environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits.The Power of SeedSeeds, according to Jennifer, hold the key to transforming ecosystems and sustaining life. The conversation will shed light on some threats she believes to biodiversity posed by current agricultural practices. Conscious actions, such as building and supporting seed banks, is one way to countering these threats.The Role of Seed BanksWe'll explore the critical role seed banks play in preserving plant diversity and safeguarding biodiversity. These repositories store a wide variety of seeds, ensuring the propagation of genetic variations and acting as a crucial measure against the loss of biodiversity.Gardening for Community and ConnectivityJennifer will highlight how gardens extend beyond individual spaces, connecting us to our wider communities. They break down barriers, build connections, and foster a deeper understanding of our shared environment. Intentional gardening becomes a platform for educating and inspiring others about ecological conservation and the importance of biodiversity.Lessons in GardeningDrawing from her extensive experience, Jewell emphasizes that there isn't a one-size-fits-all style of gardening. Gardens should be designed with an understanding of local conditions, contributing positively to ecosystems.But first, let's get to know our guest a bit better.Jennifer Jewell is not only the host of the award-winning program "Cultivating Place" but also an accomplished author with notable works such as "The Earth in Her Hands" and "Under Western Skies." Her newest book, "What We Sow," explores the personal, ecological, and cultural significance of seeds. Jennifer's passion lies in elevating the way we think and talk about gardening, empowering gardeners and celebrating the interconnectedness between places, environments, cultures, and individuals.This Episode page: The Garden Question Podcast00:03 Introduction to The Garden Question Podcast00:41 Exploring the Power of Gardens with Jennifer Jewell02:00 The Role of Seed Banks in Preserving Plant Diversity02:31 Gardens as Platforms for Education and Inspiration02:37 Jennifer Jewell's Contributions to Gardening03:25 The Power of Gardeners in Effecting Change08:22 The Impact of Home Gardens on Communities13:55 The Role of Gardening in Addressing Homelessness22:40 The Power and Threats to Seeds26:04 The Importance of Seed Diversity26:41 The Threats to Seed Biodiversity30:01 The Impact of Modern Agricultural Practices on Seed Diversity38:45 The Potential of Small Diversified Farms42:13 Understanding Seed Banks42:26 The Journey of Cultivating Place43:09 The Role of Women in Seed Keeping44:08 The Importance of Seed Banks45:44 The Ancient Concept of Seed Banks46:45 The Evolution of Seed Banks49:38 The Strategic Plan of Seed Banks51:50 Exploring the Size and Variety of Seed Banks53:52 The Importance of Genetic Diversity in Seed Banks55:28