EPISODE · Sep 14, 2025 · 50 MIN
DR WALTER VAN FLEET - FROM MEDICINE TO ROSES
from Rose Chat Podcast · host VanCleave Media Group
Dr. Walter Van Fleet from Medicine to Roses Connie Hilker Heritage Rose Foundation Trustee On today’s episode, Rose Chat Host Teresa Byington chats with Connie Hilker about one of Connie’s favorite rose heroes, Dr. Walter Van Fleet. Born in 1857, Dr. Van Fleet initially pursued a career in medicine for ten years before transitioning to the world of horticulture becoming a renowned plant breeder, especially known for his roses. Join us as we go deeper into his life, work and his wonderful roses. 🌹 MEET THE ROSE CHAT TEAM 🎙 Executive Producer & On-Air Personality Chris VanCleave – RedneckRosarian.com Chris—aka The Redneck Rosarian—is the mastermind behind the Rose Chat Podcast. He’s a nationally known rosarian, speaker, and TV personality who believes roses are for everyone, not just folks with fancy garden gloves. Whether he's talking bloom care or thorny troublemakers, Chris brings heart, humor, and a whole lot of rose wisdom to the mic. 🎙 Content Creator & On-Air Personality Teresa Byington – TheGardenDiary.com Teresa is a Master Gardener, Consulting Rosarian, and one of the kindest garden cheerleaders you’ll ever meet. She’s been growing roses for decades and still gets excited when one bursts into bloom. With stories, tips, and a dash of garden gossip, she helps make Rose Chat feel like a visit with a good friend—who just happens to be a rose expert. Wanna Keep in Touch? We’d love to pop into your inbox now and then (we promise, no spam—just roses). Click here to subscribe to Rose Chat updates!
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Rose Chat Podcast | Episode Release: “Dr. Walter Van Fleet — From Medicine to Roses” Guest: Connie Hilker, Trustee of the Heritage Rose Foundation This week on the Rose Chat Podcast, host Teresa Byington welcomes Connie Hilker—renowned rosarian and Trustee of the Heritage Rose Foundation—for a captivating conversation about one of history’s most influential rose breeders: Dr. Walter Van Fleet. Born in 1857, Dr. Van Fleet began his professional journey in medicine, dedicating a decade to healing before turning his attention to horticulture. His transition from physician to plant breeder led to groundbreaking work in rose hybridization, leaving a legacy that continues to bloom in gardens across the world. Connie Hilker shares her deep admiration for Van Fleet’s contributions, exploring his life story, his scientific approach to breeding, and the enduring beauty of the roses he created. From the beloved ‘Dr. Van Fleet’ rose to the foundational genetics behind many modern climbers, listeners will gain insight into how one man’s passion reshaped the rose world. 🎧 Tune in to discover: • The fascinating shift from medicine to horticulture • Van Fleet’s impact on American rose breeding • Connie’s personal connection to his work and legacy Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your rose journey, this episode offers inspiration and historical depth that will enrich your appreciation for heritage roses.
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DR WALTER VAN FLEET - FROM MEDICINE TO ROSES
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