Jim Borland 1946-2024

By Keith Funk: It is with a heavy heart that I announce that Jim Borland, a towering figure in the world of horticulture and beloved garden radio talk show cohost, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 27. For thirty remarkable years Jim and I shared the airwaves as The Garden Wise Guys. Jim’s voice was a cornerstone of Saturday morning radio, where his encyclopedic knowledge and passion for gardening and unique sense of humor brought joy, inspiration, and invaluable insights to listeners across the nation.

A champion of xeric and no-water gardening, Jim was a relentless advocate for sustainable and innovative landscapes. His expertise in native plants, propagation techniques, and horticultural science set him apart as a true visionary. Jim’s influence extended far beyond our radio show; he was a renowned plant collector and explorer, introducing new and exciting species to the gardening community, including the highly celebrated Pawnee Buttes Sand Cherry.

Jim’s impact was also deeply felt at the Denver Botanic Gardens, where he served as the head of propagation for many years. His dedication to advancing horticultural practices was matched only by his commitment to educating others. Through his writings, lectures, and personal mentorship, Jim inspired countless individuals, both young and old, nurturing a new generation of horticulturists with his wisdom and enthusiasm.

At home, Jim’s life was as vibrant as the gardens he cultivated. Alongside his devoted wife Dorothy, he transformed their corner property in Denver into a harmonious blend of traditional and avant-garde landscapes. While Dorothy’s knot garden and perennial borders celebrated classic beauty, Jim’s dedication to composting, no-water landscapes, and growing vegetables, showcased his energetic and innovative spirit. His love for starting plants from seeds and cuttings was not merely a preference but a necessity, driven by his desire to cultivate what was often unavailable in the trade.

During his time as a grad student at Colorado State University, Jim ran research greenhouses. His contributions to the horticultural industry were manifold, but it was his personal connections with people that truly defined his legacy. He was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to me and so many others. His passion for gardening was matched only by his dedication to his friends, family and community.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy, whose shared journey in gardening was a testament to their enduring partnership. His legacy lives on through the gardens he cultivated, the plants he introduced, and the countless lives he touched with his knowledge and generosity.

As we say goodbye to Jim, we remember him not only as a horticultural giant, but as a beloved husband, mentor, and friend. His spirit will continue to inspire us as we tend to our own gardens, always striving to cultivate beauty and knowledge as he did so masterfully throughout his extraordinary life.