Graduate Certificate in Pollinator Garden Design Methods
Published on June 20, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, everyone! I'm thrilled to have Dr. Sarah Peterson here with us today. She's an expert in pollinator garden design and the lead instructor for the Graduate Certificate in Pollinator Garden Design Methods. Sarah, welcome! It's great to have you. GUEST: Thank you! I'm excited to be here and discuss the importance of pollinator-friendly gardens. HOST: Fantastic! To start, could you share a bit about your experience in this field and what led you to create this course? GUEST: Of course. I've been studying entomology and ecological gardening for over 15 years. I saw a need for a comprehensive program that combined design principles with practical skills to create pollinator-friendly habitats. HOST: That's so important. Now, let's talk about current trends in the industry. What are some key things you're seeing in pollinator garden design right now? GUEST: There's a growing emphasis on native plants and using region-specific species to support local pollinators. We also see more focus on creating continuous bloom throughout the seasons. HOST: Interesting. Now, every field has its challenges. What have you found to be some of the biggest hurdles in teaching or implementing pollinator garden design methods? GUEST: One challenge is helping students understand that designing for pollinators goes beyond just plant selection. It's also about creating the right structure, microclimates, and maintenance practices to support these vital creatures. HOST: That makes sense. Looking toward the future, where do you see this area heading? What changes or advancements can we expect? GUEST: As climate change continues to impact ecosystems, I believe we'll see an increased demand for garden designs that not only support pollinators but also adapt to changing conditions and help mitigate environmental challenges. HOST: Absolutely. Sarah, thank you so much for joining us today and shedding light on this crucial topic. It's been a pleasure learning from your expertise. GUEST: Thank you for having me! It's been a pleasure sharing my insights and experiences with your audience.
