On this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re exploring the heart of horticulture—the practice of cultivating plants for food, beauty, and community. Host Claude Nash sits down with two experts in the field: Stephen Porter, General Manager of Williamson Nursery in Summit, MS, and Larry Stephenson of Southern Cultured Orchards and Nursery in Independence, MS.

Stephen and Larry discuss their journeys into the world of specialty crops, sharing tips on everything from growing Southern apples to crafting the perfect graft. Along the way, they highlight the unique ways nurseries support local farmers, build stronger communities, and keep Mississippi’s horticultural traditions thriving.

Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, you’ll love this lively conversation filled with stories, advice, and a passion for growing the finest fruits in the South. Don’t miss it!

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving deep into the world of honey and the incredible process that takes it from flower to hive and finally to your table. Host Claude Nash is joined by two seasoned guests: Jeff Harris, a beekeeping extension specialist at Mississippi State University with over 53 years of experience, and Austin Smith of Smith’s Honey Farm in Petal, Mississippi, a family-owned farm known for its wildflower honey and beeswax products.

Jeff and Austin share their personal journeys into beekeeping, the evolution of the industry, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. Discover how to start a hive, what makes a queen bee exceptional, and the significance of native Mississippi plants in producing high-quality honey.

Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just curious about the art and science behind honey production, this episode offers insights, advice, and a deeper appreciation for Mississippi’s beekeeping traditions. Don’t miss this fascinating discussion!

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving into the world of honey—Mississippi’s golden specialty crop and a labor of love for local beekeepers. Host Claude Nash welcomes two special guests: Steven Coy of Coy Bee Company and Kip Isonhood of Yazoo Honey and Bee Farm.

Steven and Kip share their fascinating journeys into the world of beekeeping, from family traditions to running thriving honey operations. Learn about the challenges of maintaining bee farms, the process of harvesting honey, and the unique qualities of Mississippi’s honey.

Want to learn more about the role of Russian Honey Bees, how beekeepers build personal connections with their customers, or tips for aspiring beekeepers? Tune in for a captivating conversation that celebrates the passion, hard work, and sweetness of Mississippi’s honey industry!

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re cracking into the story of pecans—Mississippi’s beloved specialty crop and a cornerstone of Southern tradition. Host Claude Nash welcomes two special guests: Bill Duke, Vice President of Duke Pecan Company, and Art Sanders, owner of Lindy’s Pecans.

Together, they share their unique journeys in the pecan industry—from Bill’s generational family business to Art’s transformation of an overgrown orchard into a thriving farm. Learn how pecans are grown, harvested, and processed, the importance of local farmer relationships, and the tools that make it all possible.

Curious about the challenges of pecan farming or the exciting innovations shaping the industry? Tune in for an insightful conversation that celebrates the rich history and bright future of Mississippi’s pecan legacy!

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re diving into the world of pecans—North America’s only native nut and a key player in Mississippi’s agricultural scene. Host Claude Nash is joined by Max Draughn, owner of Pecan Hill Farms and former President of the Mississippi Pecan Growers Association.

From the challenges of weathering tough seasons to the growing interest in pecan farming, Max shares his journey as a farmer and offers valuable tips for hobbyists and new growers. Discover the best pecan varieties for Mississippi, how to care for your own pecan trees, and how to support local farmers who work tirelessly to bring these delicious nuts to your table.

Curious about the future of pecans in Mississippi? Want to know what makes a pecan stand out at the store? Tune in and get all the insights to grow, buy, and enjoy Mississippi’s pecan legacy!

On this episode of Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash explores how Mississippi’s specialty crops and traditions help us step into the New Year with purpose and flavor. Joining the conversation are two distinguished guests: award-winning chef Nick Wallace of Nick Wallace Culinary and Dr. Elizabeth Canales of the Mississippi State University Extension Program.

Nick shares how his southern roots and French techniques come together to redefine Mississippi cuisine, while Elizabeth highlights her extension program’s mission to support farmers and specialty crop producers across the state.

In this episode, you’ll discover the cultural significance and health benefits of New Year’s staples like black-eyed peas, turnip greens, and carrots, Chef Nick’s creative tips for preparing these classics and boosting their flavors, and Dr. Elizabeth’s vision for empowering local farmers through education and sustainability in 2025.

From the fields to the table, hear inspiring stories of community impact, sustainable farming, and traditions that bring Mississippi’s specialty crops to life. Don’t miss this chance to start the year with fresh ideas and delicious inspiration!

This time on Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash takes a closer look at the multigenerational farms and hardworking families that bring fresh, seasonal produce to Mississippi’s holiday tables. Joining the conversation are two incredible guests: Allen Eubanks of Eubanks Produce and Charlie’s U-Pick in Lucedale, and Rick Smith of Clinton’s Fresh Grown Farms.

Allen shares the inspiring history of Eubanks Produce, a family farm that began two generations ago and has grown into one of Mississippi’s largest operations, supplying fresh produce to local grocery stores and offering agritourism through Charlie’s U-Pick. Meanwhile, Rick reflects on his journey from a diverse career to farming in Clinton, where he connects directly with the community through farmers markets and Fresh Grown Farms’ Farm Share Memberships.

In this episode, you’ll hear expert tips on growing holiday favorites like greens, carrots, and turnips, and learn how advanced technology and sustainable practices play a role in modern farming. Plus, our guests discuss the joy of hands-on farming, the importance of community relationships, and their favorite holiday traditions.

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re celebrating National Poinsettia Day with a deep dive into one of the holiday season’s most iconic flowers. Host Claude Nash is joined by Teresa Gammel of Vesely’s Nursery in Sumrall, MS—a family-run nursery with a 46-year legacy in Mississippi’s Pinebelt.

Together, they explore the rich history of Vesely’s Nursery, the role of poinsettias in holiday traditions, and how the nursery has become a major supplier for fundraisers, weddings, churches, and florists across the state. From care tips for keeping poinsettias vibrant throughout the season to creative ways to incorporate them into your decor, Teresa shares her expertise and love for these stunning plants.

Tune in to hear about the community-focused events at Vesely’s, insights into customer preferences, and what it takes to grow and sustain a thriving nursery. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to add some holiday cheer to your home, this episode has something for everyone.