AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — Gardening and farming in the South come with unique challenges but plenty of rewards. A new podcast from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System aims to help listeners navigate both. “Southern Ground” is a new, research-based podcast produced by Alabama Extension at Auburn University. Hosted by Extension educators Chip East and Shane Harris, the podcast offers practical, Southern-specific guidance for many home and commercial horticultural topics.

“Gardening in the South isn’t the same as gardening anywhere else,” East said. “From soil types and pests to heat, humidity and weather extremes, people here face very specific challenges. ‘Southern Ground’ is about giving folks answers they can trust — not guesses or trends, but science-backed information they can actually use.”

East and Harris have more than 50 years of combined experience educating Alabamians and other Southerners through Extension programs. Each episode features conversations between the two hosts as they address common questions from homeowners, gardeners and commercial growers.

“There’s no shortage of gardening advice online, but not all of it applies to our region,” Harris said. “Our goal with ‘Southern Ground’ is to cut through the noise and provide clear, practical solutions based on research and real-world experiences right here in the South.”

The podcast’s tone is conversational and approachable, as East and Harris share timely tips and explain the why behind best growing practices. Designed for both seasoned gardeners and those just getting started, episode topics will follow the season, helping listeners know what to do — and what not to do — at the right time of year.

“Southern Ground” is now available for listening on the Alabama Extension website at aces.edu/go/SouthernGround. People can also listen to new and past episodes on Spotify and Apple Music. For more information on other Alabama Extension podcasts and resources, visit aces.edu.