Co-host of popular radio gardening show leaving air

Published 10:30 am Wednesday, July 4, 2007

JACKSON (AP) — The co-host of the popular radio show “The Gestalt Gardener” has left the air.

Leon Goldsberry, who goes by the name Dr. Dirt, has decided not to renew his contract with Mississippi Public Broadcasting.

He’s been co-hosting the show with Jackson horticulturist and author Felder Rushing since 2004.

Email newsletter signup

Dirt, 60, said he ended his relationship with MPB because of a “disagreement.”

MPB director of communications Randy Tinney said Rushing accepted the terms of the contract and Dirt opted not to.

“We hate that he’s leaving the air,” Tinney said. “Dirt and Felder had a really good show going there for a while … It was our No. 1 local show, actually.”

Felding and Dirt are known for offering down-to-earth advice about gardening, life and having fun. Dirt also is known for the intricate, creative and varied garden that surrounds his Edwards’ home.

His wide variety of flowers, plants and vegetables grow from the ground and from such recycled items as motorcycle helmets, toilet bowls and old shoes. Gardening enthusiasts from around the state and country routinely make visits to Dirt’s home. News about his yard has spread as far as Brazil, Germany, Japan and Nigeria after being featured on cable TV and in such publications as Southern Living.