Ep. 258 Gardens of the Founding Fathers |#GoodGrowing

Ep. 258 Gardens of the Founding Fathers |#GoodGrowing

From Good Growing by Chris Enroth

July 3, 2026 · 1h 7m · Episode 299

About this episode

This episode explores the gardening interests of the Founding Fathers, particularly focusing on Thomas Jefferson's contributions and practices.

As Americans prepare to celebrate the July 4 th weekend, Good Growing takes a look at the Founding Fathers as gardeners. In this episode, we explore the lesser-known side of our nation’s founders. In addition to being authors and signers of the Declaration of Independence and political leaders, many were lifelong, passionate gardeners, especially Thomas Jefferson. Listen to learn more about how his interest in gardening influenced his political thoughts, what was planted at his home, and how he recorded the vegetable trials he oversaw. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SwNTIIRZiIY Skip to what you want to know: 03:23 – Welcome, Ken and Emily 05:26 – Founding fathers as gardeners 11:53 – The farm vs the garden 15:07 – Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello 21:15 – Monticello garden terrace 26:46 – Thomas Jefferson’s Garden Book 43:10 – Using food in the kitchen 47:06 – A messy garden for Thomas Jefferson 49:10 – End of life 55:02 – Founding Fathers Fun Facts 1:04:22 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye! Contact us! Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.edu Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://…

People in this episode

Host: Chris Enroth

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Declaration of Independence

Places: Monticello

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