244. Peter Hatch on the Revolutionary Garden at Monticello

What layers of history unfurled in the restoration of Monticello's gardens? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Peter Hatch who has served as the Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. During his 35 years there, he managed 2,500 acres and the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden.  He also developed many educational programs on the practice of historic garden preservation and has written four books, including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello. Tune in today to hear about Peter’s dedication to Monticello and the history of Thomas Jefferson’s love for gardening. You’ll hear: About what work Peter did that led to his role at Monticello 1:47 What the condition of Monticello was when Peter first arrived 5:40 How extensive was the garden restoration Peter undertook 13:57 About Jefferson’s process of restoring the soil 21:53 How Peter’s book was researched 27:52 About Thomas Jefferson’s true stance on slavery 43:45 How the Monticello gardens today compare to Jefferson’s day 50:38 What Peter would change (if anything) given the opportunity to restart his career 53:46 About the Guest: Peter J. Hatch served as Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello for 35 years. He was responsible for the care of 2,500 acres owned by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation and managed the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden. Peter has lectured in 38 states on the gardens of Monticello and the history of garden plants. He has written four books including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello which won Book of the Year of the American Horticultural Society in 2012. Resources: Website: https://www.peterjhatch.com/ His book: A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden at Monticello       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!