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Exploring the Intersection of Black American History, Culture, and Botany Through Trees

Jan 20, 2026

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Have you ever stopped to consider the stories that trees could tell if they could speak? In this episode of Growing Joy with Plants, I’m thrilled to welcome the incredible Beronda Montgomery, a renowned botanist and author, as we dive deep into her groundbreaking new book, When Trees Testify. Together, we explore the profound connection between humans and plants, particularly how trees bear witness to history, including the often-overlooked narratives of black American history. This conversation is not just about botany; it’s about understanding the emotional and historical significance that trees hold in our lives.

Beronda shares her enlightening journey from studying the intricate world of botany to uncovering the rich tapestry of stories that trees represent, especially in relation to African American history. We discuss the themes of land trauma, the importance of storytelling in understanding plant life, and how trees serve as living witnesses to the past. You’ll hear about Baronda’s transformative visit to a plantation that ignited her passion for exploring the historical significance of trees, and how these majestic beings can guide us toward healing and wellness rooted in nature.

As plant lovers and plant parents, we often seek ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with our green companions. This episode emphasizes the need for holistic plant care, mindful gardening, and the joy of nurturing plants as a form of home-based wellness. Beronda’s insights on the intersection of botany, personal history, and cultural heritage will inspire you to reflect on your own experiences with plants and how they contribute to your mental health and joyful living.

Join us as we unpack these vital themes and learn how to better care for our plants, whether it’s dealing with pesky plant pests, understanding humidity for plants, or mastering watering tips to keep our green friends thriving. Let’s dig into the stories that our plants hold and recognize the rich narratives they embody.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:01] Do you want to join my 2026 Growing Joy class experience?
[02:53] Meet my plant friend Beronda Montgomery!
[05:23] Why Beronda’s work extends beyond botany into history and activism
[09:23] Why When Trees Testify matters and what sparked its creation
[11:29] What is land trauma?
[14:27] What happened during their visit to the McLeod Plantation?
[15:25] The Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening
[16:51] Espoma Organic
[22:03] What is plant communication/tree communication?
[23:02] What are “witness trees” and their part in the collective history?
[25:06] How an enslaved botanist shaped the pecan industry
[28:23] How reclaiming wisdom can help heal land trauma
[32:29] Why is the Willow Tree chapter the most personal to write for Beronda?
[33:46] Uncovering the Elaine, Arkansas massacre through plants
[35:57] How trees help identify forgotten sacred spaces
[36:17] Why trees matter globally as historical indicators
[37:17] What does "Sankofa" mean?
[39:03] Why Apple trees have such a great impact on history
[42:58] Life at Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute and what’s next for Beronda
[45:27] Where to find Beronda’s work, events, and future talks

Mentioned in our conversation:

To learn more about how Beronda explores Black American history through botany,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Beronda:

Website
Instagram
Books
Bsky

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by The American Horticultural Society

Grab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardeningat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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