S1E1 - Over the Garden Fence: Passing On Plant Wisdom with Steve Bustin

In this episode of Keepers of the Green, Rob is joined by Steve Bustin (  / stevebustin  ) , Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Hardy Plant Society (https://hardy-plant.org.uk) , for a conversation about how plant knowledge is shared — and why it matters more than ever. There was a time when so much gardening wisdom was passed “over the garden fence”: neighbour to neighbour, generation to generation. Practical advice about soil, pruning, planting, and patience wasn’t always written down — it was learned through experience, observation, and conversation. Together, Rob and Steve reflect on: • How deep plant knowledge is built over years of practice • The importance of communities like the Hardy Plant Society in keeping expertise alive • Why informal conversations often carry more insight than formal instruction • How we can encourage the next generation of passionate plant people • What it really means to be a keeper of knowledge This is a celebration of the gardeners, growers, and enthusiasts who quietly preserve and share their understanding — ensuring that hard-won wisdom is not lost. Whether you are new to gardening or have decades of experience, this episode is a reminder that the most valuable lessons are often shared simply, generously, and over time. Comments are open — who passed plant knowledge on to you? Subscribe to Keepers of the Green for conversations with passionate plant people and the stories behind the gardens they care for. Rob has previously created two other business focused podcasts, Futurise and A New Digital Responsibility. This podcast episode is dedicated to Jeune Price (1941-2023), passionate gardener and long time member of the Hardy Plant Society.