Caitlyn's Story: Rooted in the Garden, Harvested with Love
Welcome to "Fostering Blooms," a podcast where Shannon Foster-Boline and Caitlyn Blum delve into the beautiful chaos of gardening. This episode, we are turning the spotlight onto Caitlyn as she shares her passion for plants and the stories behind her love for gardening.
Through the Fire: A Wild Question
When a wildfire looms, what's the one plant Caitlyn would save? Without hesitation, she picks the Bathsheba rose—an apricot-colored, David Austin climbing rose. Caitlyn's attachment to this rose is a testament to her nurturing nature. Though it seemed lost at first, Caitlyn's patience paid off, as the strong rose revived, blossoming beautifully once more.
Roots of Her Passion
Caitlyn's love for gardening sprouted in her teenage years. After moving to a new property, she rallied her family to start a farm, igniting her lifelong love for plants and animals. Inspired by her parents' green thumbs, Caitlyn and her sister Chloe began sowing seeds and cultivating a personal connection with nature. Today, Caitlyn continues to nurture her garden, finding solace and meditation in its care.
Dreaming of Italy and Capers
If Caitlyn could design her dream garden anywhere in the world, she imagines it flourishing in Italy. She envisions a Mediterranean garden abundant with capers—an homage to her beloved honeymoon on the Amalfi coast with wife, Ciara. The volcanic soils and warm climate fuel her dreams of creating a lush, vibrant paradise where diverse plants thrive.
Garden Style: Cottage, Pastoral, Eclectic
Caitlyn describes her garden style as a blend of cottage charm, pastoral elegance, and eccentric flair. Living on a farm, she balances whimsy with pastoral practicality. In Caitlyn's eyes, the unexpected can always find a harmonious place in her diverse garden tapestry.
A Farm Full of Life
Caitlyn's farm is a lively canvas, featuring her wife Ciara, their adorable two-year-old son Baylor, and a motley crew of animals—miniature donkeys, milk goats, and chickens. Managing the space isn't without its challenges, but Caitlyn is ready to reclaim some land for her burgeoning garden dreams.
The Talking Garden
If Caitlyn's garden could speak, it would describe her as nurturing yet occasionally scatterbrained—a likely diagnosis of her bustling lifestyle. Gardens demand attention, and Caitlyn tends to them with dedication when the moment calls for it.
The Genesis of Fostering Blooms
Caitlyn and Shannon’s friendship blossomed over a shared love for gardening. Their connection sparked the creation of "Fostering Blooms," a podcast aimed at sharing their passion and knowledge. Caitlyn credits Shannon with reinvigorating her gardening spirit, even amidst a bustling family life. Together, they hope to inspire listeners, whether they’re planting their first tomato or envisioning expansive garden escapes on their property.
A Shared Journey and Vision
While they might not hold professional horticulture credentials, Caitlyn and Shannon's collective gardening wisdom spans thousands of hours. Their podcast celebrates plant lovers from all walks of life, understanding that time to dedicate to gardening varies greatly. Through "Fostering Blooms," they're excited to connect with beginners and experienced gardeners alike, bringing joy and inspiration to each listener’s journey.
So, join us in this vibrant exploration of flora and friendship. Let Caitlyn's stories and enthusiasm inspire your next garden venture. Whether you're just getting started or you've got a seasoned green thumb, there's always something more to learn and love in "Fostering Blooms." Catch the next episode, where more plant-fueled adventures await!
Inspired by what you’ve read? 🌿 Tune in to Fostering Blooms for more gardening insights and stories! Listen now on YouTube and Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Search "Fostering Blooms" and start listening today!!
