Friday, April 24, 2026
Spring has a way of inviting us back to the basics—fresh air, fresh flavors, and a renewed appreciation for the world just outside our door. Earth Day arrives right in the heart of this seasonal shift, reminding us that caring for the planet doesn’t require grand gestures. Often, it begins with the small, beautiful rituals we choose every day.
On this week’s episode of The Maria Liberati Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Katie Dubow, president of Garden Media Group and a leading voice in home gardening trends. Katie shared wonderfully simple, uplifting ways to celebrate Earth Day—ideas that fit perfectly with the Italian philosophy of slowing down, savoring the season, and nurturing what we love.
?? Start with What You Have: The Beauty of Small-Scale Gardening
Katie reminded us that you don’t need acres of land—or even a backyard—to connect with nature. A windowsill herb garden, a pot of basil on the porch, or a few containers of spring flowers can bring the spirit of Earth Day right into your home.
In Italy, this is a way of life. Even the smallest balconies overflow with rosemary, mint, and thyme. Growing your own herbs not only reduces waste but also elevates every meal with fresh, seasonal flavor.
Katie’s Tip: Start with one easy plant—basil, mint, or parsley—and let your confidence grow from there.
?? Celebrate Earth Day Through Food
One of my favorite parts of spring in Italy is the return of vibrant seasonal produce. Earth Day is the perfect excuse to cook with ingredients that honor the season and the soil.
Think:
- Fresh fava beans tossed with olive oil and lemon
- A simple spring risotto with peas and mint
- Linguine with fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus
- A rustic crostata filled with early strawberries
Katie and I talked about how choosing local, seasonal foods is one of the most delicious ways to support the planet. It reduces transportation emissions, supports small farmers, and brings more flavor to your table.
?? Reconnect with Nature—Even for Just 10 Minutes
Katie shared a reminder we all need: Earth Day doesn’t have to be complicated. Step outside. Breathe deeply. Notice the birdsong, the new leaves, the scent of spring rain.
In Italy, this practice is known as la passeggiata—a gentle daily walk that reconnects you with your community and your surroundings. It’s a ritual that nourishes both body and soul.
Katie’s Tip: Take a short walk and look for three signs of spring. It’s a simple mindfulness practice that brings you into the moment.
?? Plant Something That Will Grow With You
Whether it’s a tree, a pot of lavender, or a tomato plant for summer, planting something on Earth Day creates a living reminder of your commitment to the planet.
Katie emphasized choosing plants that support pollinators—bees, butterflies, and other essential creatures that keep our ecosystems thriving. Lavender, coneflower, bee balm, and herbs like oregano and thyme are wonderful choices.
?? Make Earth Day a Family Tradition
Katie and I also talked about how Earth Day can become a joyful annual ritual. Children especially love hands-on activities like planting seeds, painting pots, or creating a small pollinator garden.
In many Italian families, gardening is passed down through generations—recipes, too. Earth Day is a beautiful opportunity to share both.
?? A Final Thought: Earth Day as a Way of Living
Earth Day isn’t just a date on the calendar. It’s an invitation to live more intentionally, more seasonally, and more connected to the world around us.
Katie Dubow’s tips remind us that caring for the planet can be joyful, creative, and deeply fulfilling. Whether you plant a seed, cook a spring meal, or simply step outside and breathe in the season, you’re participating in something meaningful.
And as always, food, nature, and community are at the heart of it all.
Listen to The Maria Liberati Show anywhere podcasts are heard
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The Basic Art of Italian cooking: Holidays and Special Occasions- 2nd edition
