Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. on KPBS TV / Stream now with the PBS App
How are new plants discovered? In the old days, plant explorers sailed aboard tall ships in search of new plants that were beautiful, valuable, and useful. Today, they explore the wild by foot, by jet, and by jeep looking for little known treasures. On this episode, we meet renowned plant explorer and succulent breeder Kelly Griffin. Griffin has searched for the rare and beautiful on nearly every continent, including our own.

Wherever he explores, Griffin documents his finds and gathers just enough seeds or pollen (with permits of course) without threatening the survival of native populations. Griffin grows the seeds up, then uses those plants in his extensive breeding program.

He takes care to preserve the genetic diversity of plants in nature, while using their genetics to breed new succulent beauties for the commercial market and ultimately, for our home gardens.

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About The Series: More and more San Diegan's strive to make environmentally and economically responsible choices. From earth-friendly and water wise gardens to organic foods and habitat restoration, we demand options that protect our health, feed our communities, and protect our natural resources. A GROWING PASSION is an Emmy-winning lifestyle program that explores San Diego County's agriculture and horticulture.