Season 4 Episode 1 –with Penn State Extension Educator Ruth Benner and Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Prog...

Planning a trip to England and looking for inspiration on garden sites to explore? This episode of Keeping It Green is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!


Join the team as they sit down with Penn State Extension Educator Ruth Benner and Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Coordinator of the Landscape Contracting Major at Penn State University. They share highlights from their recent travels abroad, offering observations on gardens and plants across different countries—with a special focus on England and Ireland.


Discover what makes botanical gardens, historic estates, and public parks in the UK so unique. The conversation dives into contrasts between British and American gardening practices, explores iconic garden designs and plant selections, and reflects on cultural attitudes toward horticulture. Plus, learn why visiting historic gardens can be an enriching educational experience for anyone passionate about plants and landscapes.


Episode Hosts/Speakers:


Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host) 


Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension (host)


Ruth Benner, Penn State Extension 


Dr. Margaret Hoffman, Program Coordinator for Penn State University’s Landscape Contracting Major, Associate Professor


Photo: Sissinghurst Castle, Ruth Benner, PSU


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Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website (https://extension.psu.edu/trees-lawns...) !