Dig It - Discussions on Gardening Topics

In this Episode we chat about upcoming events and shows, plants we are starting to sow now, and some items from the news.Show and Open daysPotato Day and Green Fair, Border Events Centre, KelsoAlpine Society Spring Show, Humphrey Perkins School, Barrow upon Soar, Loughborough. LE12 8JUSouth Molton Panier Market Plant Fair, South Molton Pannier Market, Broad Street, South Molton EX36 3ABPlant Heritage hosts Evening with David Hurrion, on Zoom or in person at St. Andrew's Church Hall, Churchgate House, Downside Road, Cobham, Surrey. KT11 3EJ Central Exhibitions Homes and Garden Show, Middleton Hall, Milton Keynes shopping Centre.Alpine Garden Society Garden Show, Kirkbie Kendal School, Lound Road, Kendal LA9 7EQRare Plant Fayre, The Bishops Palace, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PDIn the NewsBarcham Trees goes Robotic. They have upgraded their tree production line to be completely robotic. Peter went to Corner Corner Restaurant and saw London's biggest commercial indoor vertical farm growing salad and herbs.Matthew Biggs designed Hospital Garden in Hertfordshire is still growing and The Apple House at Serge Hill recently held a conference on how Outdoor space and gardens can transform patients outlooks and the benefits it brings to their well being.What we are plantingWe discuss Tomatoes grown in Hozelocks GroBag Waterer the benefits of Marigolds grown close by, David has had success with Sungold, and Dwarf Marigolds. Peter has grown Beefsteak Tomatoes. David then tells us about his Potato growing method and how it improves the soil structure, as it's now about time to start thinking about First Early Potatoes. David is not a fan of Chicken Manure Pellets or Q4 Fertilizer, he relies on the compost but many of us do use fertilizer and we all agree on the benefits of earthing up.Finally we discuss treating your lawns with Chafer grub Nematodes as it's that time of year and once treated the nematodes will last a year or two. Peter scarifies, reseeds and feeds his lawn and after all the rain recently Moss has grown well so Peter is treating his with Evergreen Complete a feed, weed and moss treatment. If you want to listen to a proper Grass expert listen to this podcastMusic kindly provided by Chiltern Music Therapy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Peter chats with Ian Cross from Mr Fothergills seeds. Mr Fothergills are one of the largest seed suppliers in the UK and supply seeds to over 30 countries with a 70% market share in Australia and New Zealand. Surprisingly, Sunflowers and Beetroot are some of their best selling types of seed.Mr Fothergills has released a new Oh Sow Simple range of seeds this year which are designed, as the name suggests, to be the perfect range of simple starter seeds. They will grow with easy to follow instructions and sensible numbers in the packet. The ranges have been selected to be easy to grow and germinate. Ian gives us some great tips for growing plants from seed, from light conditions to warmth, and a brilliant idea of what to do with baby carrots that you have thinned out. Ian also gives us some ideas on reducing pests by planting lots of different types of plants to encourage lots of different species of animals. For example Blue Tits love eating aphids so giving them plants they like can help encourage them into your garden, Marigolds have a great scent to help ward off whitefly so plant them next to your Tomatoes.Ian also gives us some great suggestions for plants to grow in 10 litre pots that will give you some ideas for lovely tasting, high value veggies on your balcony or if you have a small garden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode David and Peter chat about a few News items, the record breaking amounts of rain we have had in January - the rivers are breaking their banks and lots of areas of the country are flooded - compost heaps, the new Stiga AI robot mower and British Garden Centres have secured another site at Dronfield. It's still bare root season and Peter talks of his plans to plant another bare root Cox's Orange Pipin, another Cherry and some more RaspberriesDavid tells us about Simiane shallots which he has grown from seed and also the red and white onions that he grew from sets. The other thing David has planted is Dwarf French Marigold, a flowering plant that over the years Gardeners have used for keeping whitefly away, but David has found they also help keep cats away. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Events :Great Comp Snowdrop and Plant Fair Comp Lane, Platt, Nr Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 8QS Tel: 01732 885094The Alpine Garden Society Plant Show and sale, Pershore High School, PershorePERSHORE HIGH SCHOOL, STATION ROAD, PERSHORE, WORCESTERSHIRE, WR10 2BXShepton Snowdrop Festival Plant Sale and Seed SwapSt Paul's School Hall, Paul Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5LAKingston Bagpuize Snowdrop FairKingston Bagpuize House, Kingston Bagpuize, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5AXPreston Potato DayBrighter Blooms, Walton Flats Nursery, Gillibrand Street, Walton-le-Dale, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 4AX.Frome Seed Swap and Potato DayThe Cheese and Grain Building, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BE.Nowich Seed Swap and Plant FairSt Mary Magdalene Church, Silver Road, Norwich, NR3 4TF.In the news The Forestry Commission has a new Head, Baroness Young and Peter recommends Hazelborough wood near Silverstone for its Bluebells and a lovely wood to walk in. The RHS has come up with a new naming system for Peat free plants and plants grown in Peat.Cacti and Succulents are our main topic of conversation in the episode. They are best grown in free draining, gritty soils. They also thrive in high light conditions with consistent light levels. They don't like to be over watered and it is best to allow them to dry out before watering.Echivaria, Cereus – Columnar cacti are 2 of the species we chat about. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Episode David and Peter chat about seed swaps, snow drops and our top 5 houseplants.Events and Places to Visit:18th Bletchley Seed swap is happening on 14 February 2026 - 10-2pm Address: Freeman Memorial Methodist Church Hall, Buckingham Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK3 5HH just £1 entryGatton Park Snowdrop Open Day Sunday 01 February 12.00 pm - 5.00 pm. The Park and gardens are open to view a spectacular display of snowdrops. Heralds of spring and a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way. Gardens open 12 noon – 5pm Online booking: £7 adult, children free. On the day: £9 adult, children free, subject to availabilityHole Park Snowdrop & Plant Fair Sunday, February 1st at Hole Park Gardens, Benenden Road, Rolvenden, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 4JA. From 11:00 am. Entry Cost: £8 per Adult and £2.50 per child (aged 5-17 years). Under 5's enter free of charge. Tickets include entry to Hole Park Gardens. With more than a dozen dedicated growers and nurseries from across the South East. Hole Park's garden team will also be on hand to answer your gardening queries and the Coach House Tea Room will be open for refreshments. The Bishop's Palace Snowdrop Month Daily from Sunday, February 1st, throughout February. Address: The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2PD. From 10am to 4pm daily. Entry Cost: Standard admission is £15 for adults, £7 for children (5-17 years), under 5s free. This ticket is valid for 12 months. Explore 14 acres of RHS partner gardens with extensive snowdrop displays and winter borders using a printed guide.Colesbourne Snowdrops daily from Sunday, February 1st, until March 1st. Colesbourne Park, Colesbourne, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 9NP. Experience the stunning and historic snowdrop collection at Colesbourne, known as "England's greatest snowdrop garden". Colesbourne Gardens is the premier place to see snowdrops in bloom. The collection is probably the most varied of any garden on display, with over three hundred varieties. Early Spring Show, Iris & Cyclamen at RHS Garden WisleyOn Saturday, February 14th RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB between 10am–3.30pm, which is free for RHS members,you can discover some of the best early spring flowering iris and cyclamen. Visitors can enjoy rare collections and competition classes as well as a photographic exhibition, unusual plants for sale and friendly experts available to answer your questions.Come and get the new range of Heritage seeds from Franchi this season, not in yet but will be released for sale shortly, ready for this years growing season.Young Horticulturist of the Year Competition provides a unique platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills and ambition. The competition is open to anyone across the UK and Ireland.Scotland's Gardens Scheme unveils 457 garden openings for 2026Having just finished houseplant week we wanted to share with you some varieties that we do well with. The Houseplants we discuss are our mini Showbox Houseplants, a range of mini mixed houseplants, all are tough, easy to care for, and cheap so make great starter plants. Phalaenopsis Orchids a wonderful flowering plant often used as a great, long-lasting, colourful gift. Dragon trees or Dracaena the low care houseplant that seems to do well without much water, best kept in a bright position out of direct sun and cold draughts. Fittonia is a delicate looking Houseplant which we discuss which has a great colourful foliage that likes a damp soil and does well in dappled light. Tradescantias are another plant first bought to England in the 17th Century, from South America, it's easy to propagate, care for and if cut back regularly will make a nice, compact and colourful foliage plant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this weeks episode we chat about houseplants, seed swaps, what's been in the horticultural news and onions.Visit House plants at RHS Rosemore, learn more about houseplant care and the perfect houseplant for you. With 4 talks covering ferns. cacti, orchids and Terraniums.Trumpington Seedy Sunday an event run since 2006 where you can swap your seeds, take refreshments and purchase local produce in Trumpington. Can be found at Trumpington Village Hall 75 High Street Cambridge, England, CB2 9HARHS Wisley Seed swap on 31st January with seed swapping of RHS heritage seeds and talks on how to collect, sow and grow! RHS Wisley, GU23 6QBMyddelton house ultimate snowdrop sale is on the 31st Jan at the historic Myddleton house once home to famous horticulturalist E A Bowles. Myddelton House Gardens, Bulls Cross, Enfield, EN2 9HGOther seed swap events can be found at Garden Organic's website.The last event for the month is the Houseplant and Orchid show at Gordale Garden Centre, where you can enjoy talks, demonstrations, and expert advice from multi award-winning orchid grower Sara Rittershausen of Burnham Nurseries.We talk about Beech nuts, the world's most expensive plant, Peter tries and fails to regrow onions after trying to copy a youtube video. The 5 most popular onions that we sell at the Garden Centre are Red Winter, Electric, Senshyu yellow, Radar, Centurion and Autumn Champion. We also sell lots of shallots and garlic.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for providing the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the episode we learn more about Apples and Orchards. Claire is Chairperson of Mid Shires Orchards Group and shares some of her amazing knowledge on varieties, rootstocks, the different types of Apples and what happens at Woughton on the greens community orchard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we suggest places somewhere to visit: Ashampstead Early Snowdrop and Plant Fair: A brand new early Snowdrop & Plant Fair in the heart of the Berkshire Downs that takes advantage of the increasingly early snowdrop season.Or you could go online and join theWildlife and Gardening virtual symposium where you can learn about the latest research related to nature-friendly gardening to help you make evidence-based wildlife gardening decisions.Or Log on to the Climate resilient tree selection course on zoom with John Frater.In the news The National Gardens Scheme has had it's best fund raising year ever raising over £3,875,596 for great causes. National Garden Scheme Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton said: “It's nearly 100 years since our charity was formed to support district nursing and our commitment to nursing care remains central. Long-term partnerships with Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Parkinson's UK, The Queen's Institute of Community Nursing, Hospice UK and Carers Trust are the bedrock of our donation programme. With the lion's share of this year's donation; £2,725,000, going to these much-loved nursing and healthcare charities.We talk about all the wonderful Potatoes we now have out for sale, the different types and varieties, how to chit and plant them and earth them up. We also discuss our favourite things to do with potatoes.On the 31st of January is Graft and Grow Day so next week we chat with Claire Conway-Crapp from MSOG about all things Apples.With thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The last episode of the year, so David and Peter say thank you and share a few things about the events of 2025.We also update you on Christmas Opening times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Episode Peter Chats with Pam Haig from Ripple Africa. Ripple Africa have been working in Mwaya and surrounding areas in Malawi since 2003, helping communities to achieve a sustainable future by giving a helping hand rather. We learn of the deforestation issues facing Malawi, its consequences and how their tree planting program has helped reforest large areas. Since 2004 Ripple Africa has planted 26.5 Million trees, helping reduce erosion, restore forested areas, help nature and provide firewood and lumber and a source of income in the future. Malnutrition is one of the problems in Malawi and Ripple Africa has been working very hard showing communities and farmers how to grow different crops to diversify their diet. Now they are growing Sweet Potatoes, Fruit trees and chickens and vegetables.The Chagu chagu moto is another very successful cook stove project. Its simple design using locally sourced materials, reduces the demand on firewood for cooking helping families save time, it provides a stable structure so is far safer than the 3 stone fire and has 2 burners so allows for 2 pot cooking.We also touch on education as this is another arm of the charity, and learn of the schools that they have helped to build.Our thanks to Chiltern Music for providing the title music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the heating going on indoors, we also chat about houseplant winter care — how to stop your plants drying out when the radiators fire up, simple ways to boost humidity, and why a quick “seasonal reset” can save your favourite foliage.With National Robin Day coming up, Peter and David talk about how to help garden birds through winter, from offering high-energy food to keeping bird feeders clean and disease-free. We take a look ahead to London Open Gardens 2026, a weekend where more than 100 hidden gardens across the capital will open their gates — definitely one for the diary.There's also discussion on the latest RHS peat-free trials, which show that more fertiliser isn't always better, plus the key findings from Thompson & Morgan's 2025 survey revealing how British gardeners are adapting to hotter, drier summers.Finally, we round things off with a spotlight on raspberries, covering the difference between summer- and autumn-fruiting types and some of the bare-root varieties now available at the Garden Centre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode David and Peter talk about Christmas! How to care for your cut Christmas tree, or if you have a live one the best temperature and how to look after it during the festive period. We discuss the joys of the Amarylis bulb and how to get them to last more than one year. And the other Christmas favourite the Poinsettia, where to position it and what it needs to do well. Peter talks about the Spathiphllum wallisii as his go to houseplant due to its forgiving nature and ability to survive without the greatest amount of care. The 2026 Garden Centre Calendar has been released, so come in and buy something to get your free copy (whilst stocks last). This year's edition features amazing photos of trees, shrubs and unusual plants, monthly tips and space for you to write your appointments on.We also talk about a recent Podcast with Pauline Brown and hedging and go over the importance of preparing the ground and cutting back your new plants if you want to have a thick and bushy hedge. If you need to work out how many plants you need for a new hedge use our Hedging Calculator. We also discuss the skills of laying a hedge, how severe and harsh it looks and the benefits of reviving an old hedge, watch some old video footage from YoutubePeter shares a trick to get woody stems to grow new leafy shoots on a Laurel which he used after cutting his laurel hedge back very severely. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode David and Peter chat about the recent rain and the problems this has caused across England including Monmouth.It's National Tree Week this week so get out and plant a tree! This event is organised by the National Tree Council and it's partners.Oxford University Parks Arboretum Explorer Map Launch and Tree Planting, Thursday, November 27 @ 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm, Join Oxford University Parks and Professor Martin Maiden, Professor of Molecular Epidemiology and Head of Biology in celebrating the launch of it's new online Arboretum Explorer Map by planting a tree. Following the planting ceremony, Sam Prior, the University Arboricultural Manager will do a guided walk introducing some of the more interesting trees throughout the parks.Do you want to learn how to weave words with the willows, then head outside and join a group from Crofters Café, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. Book tickets in advance for a guided walk. Or maybe you want to grow a willow tree or a hedge Buckingham Nurseries has lots of different varieties for you to plant.Aquifers across the country have started filling up again, Yorkshire still has a hosepipe ban and the Environmant Agency is concerned there may be another shortage next year as we have not had as much rainfall as usual.Frances Tophill designs her first Chelsea show garden for The King's Foundation's Curious Garden exhibit, joining her from the King's foundation will be Sir David Beckham, and from the RHS and King's Foundation Alan Titchmarsh CBE. A large part of the Charity's work is learning to live within nature and learn from it. It also offers courses from it's Headquarters in Dumfries House, Scotland.A rare orchid has been brought back from the brink of extinction and we discuss dividing Strawberries and it's nearly time for planting.Follow us @buckingham-nurseries find our website at hedging.co.uk and our special thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Pauline and Peter talk about Hedging.Our Hedging business, was started by John Brown on a small plot of Land in Harrow on the Hill, but due to a lack of space the business was moved to our present location by his son Richard back in 1970. With a vast range of Hedging, Fruit and Ornamental trees on offer and being one of the oldest Mail Order specialists in the country in this episode we learn a little more about the changes that have happened over the last 75 years and reasons why Buckingham Nurseries and Garden Centre is one of the best places to get your new hedge from. We sell most of our hedging plants in the winter when the plants are dormant. We also sell pot grown hedging which is available all year round. Before getting your hedge, it is best to prepare the soil in advance. Dig the area your hedge is going to go in before your new plants arrive, incorporate some well rotted manure or slow release fertilizer like Bonemeal, or Vitax. If drainage is an issue incorporate some grit. Once the plants arrive, plant them with Mycorrhizal fungi like Rootgrow, keep watered if needed for the first year or two to help them establish. Keep the weeds down with Landscape fabric. If you are wondering what hedges will do best for you, have a walk around your neighbourhood and see what hedges are doing well in your local area as the likelihood is you will have a similar soil type to your neighbours, so what they can grow well hopefully you will be able to do to.We also discuss some of the different types of hedges we sell from Native hedging to Peter's pet hates Rosa rugosa, and Berberis as they are painful to pack but great for creating a very secure, impenetrable hedge great for deterring burglars and trespassers who you don't want on your land.Pauline gives us some help and guidance on how to plant a hedge, care for it, from the moment it arrives to getting it established over the first couple of years, growth rates and how often you might need to cut it. Pauline also explains how the business has evolved from simple lists of plants being advertised in National Papers to more modern methods like our website and more recent advertising campaigns through the likes of YouTube and social media. Over the years our shop has gone from a simple shed with tools, fertilizers and a small range of sundries through to today's large modern shop, including our very popular Restaurant, with all the different departments from Houseplants, Cookshop and Foodhall, Giftware, Christmas and all the other departments that make up a modern destination Garden Centre worth a visit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Dig it we chat about RHS Chelsea 2026 and some of the show gardens planned for next year. The Philadelphia flower show 2026 celebrates 250 years of American independence at it's 197th show. Urban farming and Food insecurity is discussed in an article in the Guardian by David Farrier, that provides some interesting facts about where we are now and how, with a growing population, we will need to grow significantly more food than we currently are and how this might happen.As Autumn gets colder and Winter is nearing, we need to think about expanding our range of bird feeders and what we are feeding our garden birds to help the weaker species get food at our feeding stations and we hear recomendations from Honeyfields recent article in GTN. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Episode Peter and David discuss the upcoming RHS Glow Gardens, and Blenheim and Waddesdon winter lit gardens. We discuss some jobs for the week and what you can plant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode David tells uu about cropping his Christmas potatoes, Peter discovers what his compost heap has been up to and we go through a few jobs.The Garden Museum in London has a new exhibition on showing works by Rory McEwan one of the 20th century's most celebrated botanical artists. We discuss the National Memorial Arboretum in StaffordshireWe discuss compost heaps and how long they take to turn garden matter into compost, David reminds us to collect leaves we suggest cleaning patio slabs to get rid of slippy algae build ups and if you are thinking of planting a hedge or some bare root plants we suggest to get the ground prepared now ready for winter planting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, join us for a deep dive into all things autumn, from the vibrant colours of the season in the Forest of Dean and Winkworth Arboretum to historic harvests and innovative allotments. Discover the origin of the Bramley apple at Nottingham's Workhouse and Infirmary, where children's yoga adds a modern twist to the Apple Day celebrations. We'll explore the story of Buckland Abbey's reported bumper crop, see how allotments are becoming more accessible and biodiverse, and hear about the distinctive Fly Agaric mushrooms. Plus, we've got your essential gardening jobs for October, from mulching your beds to clearing leaves for leaf mould. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Dig It Peter chats with David Gale about fertilisers. David is an industry expert and has had a long, varied and successful career. From organising fertiliser trials to moving on to reformulating some of the most popular fertilisers on the market, for example Phostrogen, to teaching many, many workers in Garden Centres and Big Sheds the benefits and advantages of feeding your plants.We learn where fertilisers come from, the different types and whether organic fertilisers are better than regular and if plants can tell the difference. We discuss the difference between Bio-Stimulants like Maxicrop and fertilisers. There are many different types of plant food on the market and David gives us some great tips on when and where and how often we should feed our plants. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the new weekly format David and Peter chat about the fact its rained, splitting Rhubarb, then suggest shows to Visit – The National Garden Alpine show in Harlow Carr, Yorkshire The Apple and Harvest Show, Ely Plants Discussed: Alpines, Cyclamen, learn more with the RHS Alpine Master class series - www.youtube.com/watch?v=REWSjG5LRNk&t=36s Growing Hops- The Guardian an article by Claire RatinonProducts and suppliers mentioned:Hornes Brewery Silverstone BreweryChafor WineEnriching your plot with Green Manures, David is trying Beans this Autumn.David discusses PomPom Dahlias and how great they are.Jobs to do:Fleece tender plants, start collecting leaves for creating leaf mould in bin liners. Net your pond to help prevent leaves from building up and drain your hoses to save damage from freezing. Plant Spring bulbs and create new winter flowering pots with Cyclamen, Pansies and Ivy. Check your Bird feeders are clean and refill, and make sure bird baths have water to help wild birds. Take care of Hedgehogs making sure you don't disturb them if they are hibernating and watch out for them in Bonfire piles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Episode David and Peter discuss the impact of the lack of recent rain, on their lawns and gardens how quickly lawns green up after the rain and how to care for your lawn in winter.How the show is moving to a weekly format. Our new email for you to send questions and comments to is digit@hedging.co.uk.Lots of topics covered this week from Northampton's escaped ring necked Parakeets to Apple storageGreenfingers Charity get is biggest donation yet from visitors to Glee.Whats on:British Carrot Growers Association Demonstration Day 2025 – Thursday 2nd October 2025RHS Rosemoor Festival of flavours 4 & 5th OctoberPlants and products discussedAutumn King CarrotsWhite Lisbon OnionsSBM's bring Thermacell to market, an innovative new Mosquito repellant for outdoor use.The Coco de mer palm has grown its first full leaf at its home in the Eden Project, Cornwall.Jobs to think about:Time to think about fleecing up your tender plants. Plant next year onions, garlic and Aguadulce Broad Beans. Pull up your old vegetables if they have finished for the year and compost and start tidying up your plot for next year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter speaks with Gerry Edwards about apples and where they came from. Gerry tells us what to bring in to the Garden Centre for apple identification during our Apple Weekend and how he goes about identification. Why not come along and meet Gerry on the 27th and 28th of September!They discuss how they have evolved, which country grows the most apples and the many varieties available. Gerry gives us his favourite 5 apples to grow which are not the standard ones you will find in your local supermarket but are definitely worth the effort! They are Lord Lambourne, Laxtons Furtune, Discovery, Howgate Wonder and Lanes Price Albert.Did you know that apples can cause food allergies and why people say ‘An apple a day keeps the Doctor away!'?Gerry has written a book called' Getting started with Growing Fruit' and we discuss different plants you can grow and how to care for them. We talk through options for training apple trees so you can grow them in small spaces. We explore types of apples, how to grow new varieties and types of rootstock to grow them onHe tells us which are the best cider apples. Is it a Dabinet or a Kingston Black? Gerry has some other great suggestions of ones to try too. Fancy a trip out to see over 2000 varieties of Apple Trees? Then head to Brogdale Farm, near Faversham in Kent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month, Peter Brown is joined by new co-host David Thomas as they dig into one of the hottest UK summers on record, the impact on gardens, and how the recent rains have helped. They discuss major gardening news stories—from early harvests and dragonfly spotting to Bath's literary blooms (Britain in Bloom) and a Tree Preservation Order-protected grapefruit tree in Battersea. Discover what's on at this month's flower shows, plus practical jobs for the garden, from sowing spinach to watering tea bushes. The Dig It Top 5 strawberries are revealed, and there's plenty of planting advice for a colourful autumn and productive spring. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Matthew Biggs, best known for his appearances on the long running BBC Radio 4 programme Gardeners' Question Time. He shares his special story, which is packed with anecdotes, wisdom, solace and plant stories from his amazing career which started at Pershore College of Horticulture and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and into writing, TV and so much more.Plants mentioned: Apple Cordons, Apple varieties ‘Scrumptious' and ‘Reverend W Wilks' (cooker). Beetroot, Redcurrants, packets of annual seeds, Tomatoes, Alpines, Hanging baskets and HerbsPeople mentioned: King Charles III, passionate about gardens and nature. Bunny Guiness, Clay Jones, Christine Walkden, Ernest Wilson (plant hunter), Joseph Banks (plant hunter), Gertrude Jekyll (British horticulturist and garden designer), Mr Middleton (earliest radio and television broadcasters on gardening for the BBC), Professor Alan Gemmell, Roy Lancaster, Geoffrey Smith, William Robinson (the great plantsman) and James Wong.Places mentioned: Pershore College, Kew Gardens (Temperate House, Princess of Wales Conservatory and the Palm House. Sandringham Gardens, Buckingham Palace Gardens. Bluebell Nurseries, Hidcote Manor Gardens and The Beechgrove Garden in Scotland.Garden restoration project at Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood. A collaboration between the Hospital and Sunnyside Rural Trust at Hemel Hempstead. Matt is working with several key people including gardener designer Tom Stuart-Smith (and his wife, Sue Stuart-Smith author of The Well Gardened Mind, a Sunday Times Bestseller), National Garden Scheme new CEO Dr Richard Claxton, founder of the Gardening4health charity, and Mark Gregory, top RHS Chelsea Garden builder with over 160 RHS gardens to his credit! Mount Vernon Hospital's garden is currently at the planning and fundraising stage, it's hoped to start planting in September. Details on how to donate to this amazing project can be found on this Just Giving pageMatt's award-winning podcast, Gardening with Cancer, featuring BBC Gardeners' World gardening journalist David Hurrion can be found at this linkMatt's Desert Island plant: Handkerchief Tree (Davidia involucrate).You can find Matt's books at most independent bookshops and on second-hand book platforms such as World of Books. Instagram: @matthewbiggs55X: @plantmadmanOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After three UK heatwaves so far this summer, our plants and gardens have enjoyed a much-appreciated spell of wet weather. In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day (for the final time), explore the latest gardening news stories, what's on's and tasks to be getting on with this month.What's on14th – 17th August: Southport Flower Show, Victoria Park, Southport.15th – 17th August: RHS Garden Rosemoor Flower Show, Torrington, Devon.29th – 31st August BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair, Audley End House, Essex.If you are out and about this month - don't forget to support the National Garden Scheme, locally or if you are holidaying in the UK, search out one of the many garden treasures.NewsKew Gardens' 175-year-old Palm House will close for five years for major makeover.Sycamore Gap: Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers jailed for over 4 years for felling of iconic tree.The gardening and lifestyle retail brand sarahraven.com has been acquired by its original founder and creative director, Sarah Raven.Current hosepipe restrictions in the UK.Could selling second-hand gardening products bring in a new demographic to Garden Centres?Eden Project Dundee moves one step closer.Further expansion plans at RHS Wisley.OmVed Gardens builds UK's first food and ecology centre.The buzz about trees: Scientists at Wakehurst harness sound to understand bee abundance.Gertrude Jekyll ® named world's famous rose 2025.‘Coral Gardens' announced as Rose of the Year for 2026.The UK drought dominates RHS enquiries.Wootten's of Wenhaston future threatened due to a lack of water on site.Plant theft crime on the rise.Michael Perry aka Mr Plant Geek becomes the HTA's new ambassador.Dutch urban greening of a bus station pergola using wisteria hailed as a major success.DIG IT Top 5 Ornamental grassesTop seller is Festuca glauca ‘Compact Blue' 2nd Festuca glauca ‘Intense Blue'* 3rd Stipa tenuissima * 4th Carex Prairie Fire, and 5th Festuca ‘Elijah Blue' *RHS AGM.Plants mentioned: Apple cordon tree, Carnations, Bananas (Musa), Blackberries, Bonsai trees, Trachycarpus, Phoenix canariensis, Variegated Monstera, Dahlias, Leeks, French and Runner Beans, Lavender, Tree Ferns, Strawberries, Pinks, Cherries, Rhubarb, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Melons, Sow Marjoram, Basil, Coriander, Dill, Chives, Seed Potatoes to provide a crop for Christmas. Good varieties to consider include Charlotte, Desiree, Maris Piper and Maris Peer. Horse Chestnut and Lime trees. Take cuttings of Mint, Rosemary, and Sage.Products mentioned: Blagdon Fresh Start Pond (removes Chlorine so makes tap water safe for pond fish, Straw, Barley Straw, Bamboo canes, Plant pots, Peat-Free Seed & Cutting Compost, Perlite, Green Up Enhance Liquid Lawn Feed (it has added seaweed and a turf wetting agent which helps reduce grass stress and improves root growth), Taylors Bulbs, Tomato Feed, Nematodes to treat lawn leatherjackets, lawn edging tool, Vitax Citrus Summer Food and Water Butts.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with renowned Welsh vegetable grower and exhibitor Medwyn Williams, MBE and FNVS. A hobby that went completely out of control is how Medwyn describes his journey to growing amazing vegetables and a modest humble beginning saving seeds from leeks and carrots in the 1970s to his prolific online business today. Medwyn has won 13 Gold medals through the years at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, so he certainly knows his onions!Plants mentioned: Beetroot, Broad beans, Carrots (‘Sweet Candle', a Japanese bred variety being one of Medwyn's favourites for flavour and ‘New Red Intermediates' for length on the staging bench), Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumber, Kohl Rabi, Leek, Lettuce, Onions, Parsnips, Peas, Potatoes, Swedes, Tomatoes, and Turnips.Product mentioned: Become a member of the National Vegetable Society for advice, encouragement and to engage with keen growers. Coco fibre, Cocktail sticks for staging veg, Levingtons Composts, Perlite and Tozers Seeds. Medwin's Desert Island Tool and favourite Veg: Trowel and Brussel Sprouts.Horticultural heroes: Edwin Beckett was head-gardener for Lord Aldenham at Aldenham House in Hertfordshire. Edwin has been Medwyn's motivator in staging displays as he used to win with large stands of vegetables at London shows around the 1920s - 30s.Martin Robinson, one of the members of the famous Robinson family who introduced the world to their famous Mammoth Onions gave Medwyn advice and guidance.Places: Royal Welsh Show, Anglesey Flower Show, Ayr Flower Show, RHS Hampton Court Flower Show (Gold Medal and the RHS Tudor Rose for Best Display), RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Medwyn grew his exhibits in the research establishment greenhouse at Bangor University allowing him to start his Chelsea plants with additional light, and it's also the original home of the wheelie bin carrots and parsnips grown in pipes.Medwyn is an avid user of social media sharing his growing trials and tribulations with his followers. You can follow Medwyn on X: medwynsofangles. For seeds visit his website.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our gardens are growing apace this month and there's plenty to be getting on with as Dig It's Peter Brown and Chris Day tackle those essential tasks, plus a round-up of July's events and garden news stories from around the UK.What's on1st - 6th July: RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, Hampton Court Palace, London. 11th - 13th July: The Norfolk Garden Show, Norfolk Showground, New Costessey, Norwich. 16th - 20th July: RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire. On the 17th July Chris Baines will be giving a talk - Wildlife gardening past, present and future at the show at 11am.21st - 24th July Royal Welsh Show, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.26th - 27th July: The National Gardening & Outdoor Living Show, Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh.Until 14th September: Seedscape, the art of the seed at the Kew Garden' wild botanical garden at Wakehurst, Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex.Until 21st September: Cecil Beaton's Garden Party exhibition at the Garden Museum, Lambeth Palace Road, London. NewsFraudster, Thomas Robinson conned luxury hotels and retailers out of £580k by selling fake Scottish-grown tea is jailed for three-and-a-half years.Blue Diamond in exclusive talks to purchase Barton Grange Garden Centre.Improving plant health through voluntary collaboration is the way forward.Famous East Lambrook Manor is in new hands.Campaign to stop trees from being strangled by abandoned tree ties and rabbit guards.Radio 4's Gardeners Question Time to be recorded on 2nd August during the RHS Hyde Hall Flower Show.Pershore College Garden Centre and Wholesale Plant Nursery to close.Roof garden at the Open University to help scientist study on the impact of growing plants on top of buildings.UK heatwave results in the 1,000 year old Robin Hood Oak receiving emergency watering.Dahlia Gardinetta ® Velvet Crush named Best New plant at BBC Gardeners' World Live.Frank Matthews launches new Apple Rainbow and collects Best in Show for Prunus sumaura Fugenzo Japanese Lantern at the HTA's National Plant Show.Welsh apple register is launched.Rare Hong Kong orchid – Bulbophyllum bicolor - saved from extinction.A UK first – Baobab tree in bloom at the Eden Project.GP Richard Claxton becomes NGS Chief Executive following George Plumptre, who steps down after 15 years this Autumn.Former garden centre owner and QVC gardening channel champion Richard Jackson is awarded the MBE in the King's Birthday Honours for services to Children's Hospices (Greenfingers).Wincey Willis, ITVs first female weather presenter, local radio show host and gardening expert and columnist, has died.M&S introduce Red Diamonds Strawberry and Creme in a sandwich.DIG IT Top 5: Top cakes for the summer 5th position Raspberry & Coconut Sponge, 4th Carrot Cake, 3rd Coffee & Walnut, 2nd Chocolate Sponge with Victoria Sponge at the top spot.Plant mentions: Tomatoes, Runner Beans, Cherries, Bearded Iris, Petunia, Million Bells, Pelargoniums (cutting), Wallflowers, Sweet Williams, Foxgloves, Wisteria (pruning), Jasmine, Lavender, Bergamot, Clover, Gaillardia, Cosmos, and Egyptian Onions.Product mentions: Sprayer for misting, Solar fountain, bird bath, BBQ, and cocoon / egg chair.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Chris Baines who is recognised as one of the UK's leading independent environmentalists and greatest pioneers in wildlife gardening. His best-selling book, How To Make A Wildlife Garden was published back in 1985 and has been in print continually ever since. Chris's ethos is simply to encourage us all to think more about wildlife and give it a helping hand in our gardens!People and places: Key Inspiration from Christopher Lloyd (Great Dixter Garden) and Dame Miriam Rothschild (passionate about getting wildflowers on motorway verges and attracting butterflies). War hero General Oliver Leese (a bonsai and cacti grower, RHS Chelsea Flower Show 1984, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Kent apple Orchards, Wind in the Willows Books (Mr Toad reference). Wye College Agricultural and Horticulture Facility, Garden Organic, Sheffield Parks Department. Wildlife and Wetlands Trust created London Wetlands Centre, one of the most successful stories in Europe. English Nature, The Wildlife Trust and Wild Ken Hill, Norfolk featured on BBC SpringwatchPlant mentions: Cowslip, Crocus, Bolted Kale with flower buds, Daisies, Foxgloves, Grape hyacinths, Horse chestnut, Ivy, Michaelmas daisies, Runner beans, Silver Birch, and Saxifraga.Animal mentions: Blue Tits, Skylarks, Lapwings, Curlews, Robins, Swallows, Starlings, Swifts, Slugs, Caterpillars, Bats, Sparrow Hawks, Red Kites, Peregrine Falcons, Magpies, Foxes, Toads, Hedgehogs, Moths, Butterflies, Cabbage White Butterflies, Newts, Damsel flies, Wasps, Leatherjackets, and Woodcock.Product mentions: Bee hotels, Clay pots, Compost bins, Flexible Pond liners, and Nest boxes.Chris's garden with a large pond: Leyland Cypress, Holly, Yew, Crab Apple, Native Honeysuckle, Bird Cherry (Prunus padus), Rosa banksia, Pink Campion, Lily of the Valley, Meadow Cranesbill / non-native Geraniums, Pulmonaria (lungwort) and Wayfaring tree.Desert island must-haves: Hand lens / Macro lens binoculars and Secateurs.Media highlights: Pebble Mill at One (1989 - 92), Rich Habitat Garden created for Gardeners' World with Peter Seabrook. Blue Tits and Bumblebees (1985) one 40-minute programme, The Wildside of Town, and Countryfile one of the original presenters from 1989 - 92.The Thames Estuary Partnership: The Living Thames film won the 2019 UK Charity Film Award and has won prizes and awards on four continents. It has an introduction by Sir David Attenborough and is available worldwide through Amazon. Chris is currently working on the sequel, The Historic Thames, which is scheduled for autumn release.Chris's books: The Wild Side of Town, The RHS Companion to Wildlife Gardening (originally titled How to Make a Wildlife Garden), and A Guide to Habitat Creation.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the driest spring in over 60 years, our gardens have been amazing these past months. In this edition of DIG IT, Peter Brown and Chris Day guide us through the month of June looking at the events, topical gardening news and tasks to keep our gardens colourful and productive.What's onSaturday 7th June Royal Windsor Flower Show, Windsor Great Park, Windsor. 7th - 8th June London Open Gardens, Multiple locations, London.12 - 15th June BBC Gardeners' World Live, NEC, Birmingham.20 - 22nd June Blenheim Palace Flower Show, Blenheim, Oxfordshire.NewsThe two men who felled a tree at Sycamore Gap convicted of criminal damage.Eden Project Morecambe set to open in 2028.Good news for UK horticulture as most routine border checks on plant shipments to and from the EU will be dropped in new trade deal.Alan Titchmarsh becomes President of the National Garden Scheme as Dame Mary Berry steps down after 10 years in the role.National Garden Scheme charity funds over 100 gardens.Anne-Marie Powell's 2025 award-winning Octavia Hill Chelsea Garden finds a permanent home at Bridgemere Show Gardens in Nantwich, Cheshire.CHELSEA NEWS HEADLINESMonty Don's RHS / BBC RADIO 2 Dog Garden got tails wagging at show.Taylors Bulbs make it 32 Gold medals at Chelsea.Cosmos King and friend of the podcast Jonathan Sheppard collects Gold for his National Collection of Cosmos display.Frank P Matthews awarded Silver Guilt for Malus and trained fruit display.Cha No Niwa, Japanese Tea Garden collects top awards including the People's Award for best show garden.In the Malvern Houseplant Studio category, a gold was awarded to Babylon Beats by James Whiting of Plants by There and The Little Botanical reimagines the Hanging Gardens of Babylon through a 1980s lens.Winner of the RHS Plant of the Year 2025 goes to Philadelphus Petit Perfume Pink.The King's Rose is officially unveiled with proceeds going to The King's Foundation.The National Trust creates its first ornamental forest garden at the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire.Communities to gather in the Great Big Green Week to help beat climate change.Tribute garden to late Queen Elizabeth II takes shape at London's Regent's Park.Can you help passionate Cornish Peony gardener – Caroline Stone - and her quest to find rare types of Paeonia lactifolora, bred since the 1800s by Kelway's Nursery in Langport, Somerset? If you think you can help Caroline, contact her at www.glebegarden.co.uk DIG IT Top 5 Summer bedders in pots: 5th Dahlietta, 4th Osteospermums, 3rd Ivy Leaf Pelargoniums, 2nd Regal Pelargoniums and at the No1 spot Zonal Pelargoniums.Plants mentioned: Runner beans, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Lettuce. Forsythia, Philadelphus, Weigela, Deciduous Viburnum, Delphiniums, Lupins, Monstera, Roses, Tulips, Seasonal bedding plants, Paeonies, Petunias, and Speedplanters. Sow now Foxgloves, Poppies, Wallflowers, Sweet William, and Forget Me Nots. Encourage pollinators into the garden by planting Lavender, Aster, Coneflowers Cosmos, and Sunflowers.Products mentioned: Dutch hoe, Westland All Purpose Boost Plant Feed, Tomorite, Evergreen 4-in-1 Complete Lawn Feed, Greenhouse shading, Poppyforge plant supports, garden canes, Hozelock multi-gun, Hydrangea Colourant, houseplant compost, and pots for houseplant re-potting.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Connelly, the Skinny Jean Gardener, wants to get kids out in the garden and shares his passion for growing plants and engaging with nature. In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Lee on his mission to get children gardening as part of National Children's Gardening Week this month!Plants mentioned: Cress, Chilli peppers, Daffodils, Jasmine, Onions, Potatoes, Radish Strawberries, Tomatoes and Wildflowers.People and products mentioned: Dale Connelly, Jimmy Doherty (Jimmy's Farm), Jamie Oliver, Micheal Perry (aka Mr Plant Geek), Matthew Biggs, Jim Buttress, Chris Collins, BBC and CBBC Blue Peter. Garden Clogs, and Crocs - but they let in too much water! Wildlife gardening projects to engage children including a bug hotel.Lee's desert Island plant and tool: Chilli peppers and a Hammer (perfect for planting, according to Lee).To discover more about Lee, his podcast and his gardening activities do visit his website.Lee's book, How To Get Kids Gardening is available through bookshops and Lee's website. Lee's latest book, Children's Gardening Coach, will be available in September.Click on this link to find out about HTA's National Children's Gardening Week.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May in the Garden 2025 short notes v2It's May and as the saying goes, “N'er cast a clout till May is out”. A proverb which reminds us about the fickle British weather and its ability to bathe us in warmth one day and bring chilly winds the next! Peter Brown and Chris Day discuss what gardening tasks need to be done in one of the busiest months in the gardening calendar, plus a round-up of events and topical news stories.What's on2 - 4th May: BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair, Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire. 2 May - 10th August: Unearthed: The Power of Gardening, British Library, London.8 - 11th May: RHS Malvern Spring Festival, Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire. 20 – 24th May: RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London.24 May - 1st June National Children's Gardening Week.30 – 31st May: Scone Palace Garden Fair, Perthshire, Scotland.NewsChelsea 2025 gardens showcasing climate resilience.Monty Don's dog, Ned assists in creating first dog friendly Chelsea Garden.Frank P Matthews to debut at Chesea Flower Show showcasing Malus.England's non-woodland trees freely mapped for first time.Ancient oak tree cut down by Toby Carvery.National Trust steps in to save rare Black Poplar trees.Mixed fortunes of UK gardens visitor numbers in 2024 revealed.Biddulph Grange Stumpery renovation completed.A call for action over declining hoverfly numbers from The Wildlife Trust and RHS.Horticultural Trade Association supports Urban Green Spaces Bill.2025 Ballot open for 10 Downing Street Garden which will be open to the public for one day.Rising costs lead to Shrewsbury Flower Show cancellation.Westland Horticulture acquires Bulldog Products.Huw Richards and Gardena search for Britain's best plot in new competition.Survey conducted by Stihl highlights common garden mistakes Peter A. Cox of Glendoick, a pioneering figure in the world of horticulture and rhododendron cultivation, has died.Lawns overlooked in new builds.Wildlife gardens see a ‘change for the better' say Wildflower Gardening Forum.DIG IT Top 5 Top Fragrant Plants5th spot Lonicera Gold Flame, 4th Lavandula Hidcote, 3rd Rose Lilac Bouquet, 2nd Trachelospermum jasminoides and Lavandula stoechas at the number 1 spot.Plants mentioned: Polyanthus and Primulas – perfect for division, Swede, Beetroot, Carrots, Autumn Cabbage, autumn / winter Cauliflowers, Broccoli, Peas, Potatoes, Radish, Lettuce and Spring Onions. French and Runner beans, Sweetcorn, Courgettes, and Pumpkins. Blueberries, Cranberries and Strawberries. Sweet Peppers, Chillies, Aubergines, Melons, and Cucumbers. Summer bedding and Seasonal plants. Aquatic oxygenators, marginals, and waterlilies. Pop-in / Drop-In Speedplanters.Products mentioned: Bug Hotel, Horticultural fleece, Dutch Hoe, Ericaceous fertilisers, Garden Netting, Evergreen 4-in 1 Lawn Food, Lawn seed, Hanging baskets, and Melcourt Peat-Free Tub and Basket Compost.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Stuart Lowen, the Marketing Manager at Ball Colegrave, a leader in all areas of floriculture excellence. Stuart gives us the latest news from the seasonal plant industry, hanging basket advice, plus new bedding plants to look out for this summer.The Blue Flag winner in 2024 was Lantana Passion Fruit, a trailing spreading variety with a long flowering season of fruity, coloured flowers.The Tree of Life display at Ball featured Petunia Bee's Knees.Mad About Mangave ® Praying Hands, a unique foliage plant, similar to an artichoke that grows up like a teardrop.Plants mentioned and to look out for this summer include; Antirrhinum Snap in Black Pink. Begonia Hula, Begonia Megawatt, Begonia Angel Wings, Trumpet Flower, Bidens Bee Happy, Coleus King Jr Rose, Coleus canina (Scaredy cat), Cosmos Cherry Chocolate (bright cherry pink flowers with the chocolate fragrance, Calibrachoas, Dahlia Gardenetta range of varieties, Geranium Moonflair (ivy leaf), Impatien Beacon ® Raspberry Sundae Mixed (highly resistant to downy mildew), Impatien Glimmer ® Pink, Mandevilla Tropica Jade Red, Osteospermum Akila Hawaii Sunset Mixed, Pansy Cool Wave (trailing pansy), Petunia Fanfare Heartbreaker, Petunia Surfinia and Sunflower PetiSol.Kitchen Buddies, a range of compact growing vegetable plants including Cucumber Quick Snack, Pepper Hot Banana, Sweet Corn Pot of Gold and Tomato Tumbling Tom Yellow.Product mentions: Control-release fertiliser, Miracle-Gro and a high potash fertiliser such as Tomato Food. Water-retaining granules such as Swell-Gel. Popular Speedplanters, Pop-In/ Drop-Ins, popular for instant colourful results.The late Peter Seabrook created an amazing garden at RHS Hyde Hall in Essex called Floral Fantasia, the garden is designed to showcase and celebrate the spectacular potential of seasonal plants. The garden acts as a bridge between the growing industry and the general public. Peter's legacy lives on in this garden which you can visit to see the latest innovations, including this summer, Begonia Trials. 2025 is the Year of the Begonia.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After one of the driest March's in years, our gardens are certainly providing some amazing tree blossom, shrub and bulb colour. DIG IT's Peter Brown and Chris Day delve into the latest news, events and gardening advice for the month ahead.5th April: The Forde Abbey Spring Plant and Gardening Fair at Forde Abbey and Gardens in Somerset.5th - 6th April: Cornwall Garden Society Spring Flower Show at Royal Cornwall Show Ground near Wadebridge.5th - 6th April: Great Dixter Annual Plant Fair at Great Dixter Garden, Rye in East Sussex. Until 6th April: Sounds of Blossom at Kew Gardens in collaboration with the Royal College of Music.13th April: Plant Fair and Talks at the Garden Museum, Lambeth Palace Road, London.24 - 27th April: Harrogate Spring Flower Show at the Great Yorkshire Showground.27th April: Ramster Garden Spring Plant Fair, Chiddingfold in Surrey.NewsNew National Forest to see 20m trees planted in England by 2050.Kew gets new and revamped features this year, plus the Waterlily House reopens.European Tree of the Year 2024: Beech tree in Poland wins.Alan Titchmarsh launches YouTube channel.Weed like to be better gardeners says OnePoll Research.Dog Trust warning to dog owners as several spring flowers can be toxic.RHS community garden survey launched.The hunt is on for rare and disappearing daffodils.2024: The worst year for bumblebees recorded.Blenheim celebrates with oak saplings.Exbury Gardens celebrates 70th anniversary of public opening.Bowood House and Garden opens for the first time.Lee Connelly named Ambassador for National Children's Gardening Week 2025.Historic uniforms worn by Chelsea Pensioners repurposed and included in a new Garden at Chelsea Flower Show next month.Hillier Nurseries is now 100% peat-free.Fewer slugs expected this spring, says RHS.New groundcover Hydrangea Blush ® launched.DIG IT Top 5 Miracle Gro Lawn Care Products:1st Complete 4 in 1, 14kg A lawn treatment product that kills weeds and moss, creating a thicker, greener and healthier lawn.2nd Patch Magic Bag contains a special binder which helps keep seed from washing away. It grows 2x thicker than ordinary grass, 1.5kg3rd Complete 4 in 1, 80 sqm.4th Miracle Gro Evergreen, 360 sqm.5th Miracle Gro Evergreen, 80 sqm.Plants mentioned: Calibrachoa in the Kinder range, Sedum, Rudbeckia, root-wrapped Roses, Sweet peas, Primroses, Polyanthus, Ranunculus, Brussel sprouts, Runner and Climbing Beans, Dahlia, Gladioli, Lilies, including the variety Stargazer, wildflower seeds, Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, Rosemary, Snake Plant and Money Plant (Crassula).Products: Slug Gone, Composted Bark Chippings, Root-trainers, Horticultural Fleece, Terrocotta pot, and create your own Easter Hunt in the garden!Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT, Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Jonathon Jones OBE on all aspects of trees from the famous Tregothnan Estate in Cornwall. Jonathon discusses how a revolutionary new app – Tremap is changing the way we can record, map and share details of trees worldwide using GPS on our smart phones.Plants mentioned: Araucaria Araucana (monkey puzzle tree), Camellia sinensis (tea), Casuarina equisetifolia (She-oak or whistling tree), Grevillea robusta, Griselinia littoralis, Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea), Magnolia campbelli (the flamingo of the flower world), Montrey Cupressus, Olea (Olive tree), Lagerstroemia indica (myrtle tree), Podocarpus, Poplars, Plymouth Pears, Salix (Willow), Sycamore gap tree, Tilia (lime), and Wollemi nobilis (Dinosaur tree).Products: RootGrow, mycorrhizal fungi.Places mentioned: Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, Exeter University, Cornwall Space Cluster, Heathrow Airport (mapping Black Poplar), The Nare Hotel, Strybing Arboretum and San Francisco Botanical Garden.People: David Noble (discovered the Wollemi in 1994 along with Michael Casteleyn and Tony Zimmerman), Richard Maxwell (Business development at Tremap), Humprey Repton (garden designer) and Robert Fortune (plant explorer).Desert Island tree: Custard fruit tree (Annona squamosa).The tallest Rhododendron in the UK is at Tregothnan, closely followed by a specimen at South Lodge in Horsham, Surrey – 2m difference in height.To find out more about the Tregothnan estate, the April charity weekend and Tea.You can download the Tremap app for Free on the two main app stores Android and Apple Store or go to www.tremap.com for more details. Some 16 million trees have already been mapped on the App.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March in the Garden 2025 SHORT NOTESSpring is in the air! DIG IT's Peter Brown and Chris Day guide us through the month of March looking at events far and wide to visit, including the US and Australia, the latest news stories and the jobs to be getting on with in the garden.What's on1st March: The Alpine Society's Early Spring Show at Chelmsford City Racecourse, Chelmsford, Essex. 1 - 9th March: Philadelphia Flower Show, Pennsylvania Convention Centre, US. 15th March: Orchid and Terrarium Workshop Day at Buckingham Garden Centre with Manos Kanellos. 16th March: Rare Plants Fair at The Bishop's Palace, Wells, Somerset.17 - 23rd March: Hever Castle's Dazzling Daffodils, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent. 21st March Garden Re-Leaf Day 2025 The annual Greenfingers Charity flagship fundraising event. 26 - 30th March: Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, Australia. 29th March: Rare Plants Fair at Evenley Wood Gardens, Brackley, Northants. NewsBritain's bestselling non-fiction writer Dr David Hessayon has died aged 96 - after selling 67 million gardening guidebooks worldwide. RHS reports a 21% surge in applications across its School of Horticulture programmePeat-free education collaboration launches a new concise peat-free guide.TV personality Fiona Bruce will be joining the National Garden Scheme (NGS) as an ambassador.Storm Eowyn topples more than 10,000 National Trust trees.Petition for a total ban on neonicotinoid puts pressure on government.National Trust announce 10-year green plan.Beloved Barnsdale Gardens established 40 years ago by horticulturist and star broadcaster Geoff Hamilton, faces closure if 67-acre solar farm is built.Hillier's woodland themed garden to be created at BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair.Jekka McVicar launches her 10th thyme variety, Thymus Jekka's Bee Happy.Johnsons new Cutting Flower seed range now in Garden Centres.2025 Sweet Pea season at Eaton Walled Gardens.Best houseplants for productivity.Coffee and cocoa prices doubled due to extreme weather.New heritage pear Cornishgold ™ launched.Alan Titchmarsh gets nod in latest BAFTA winning Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl film.DIG IT Top 5 Our top selling Dahlia varieties from last year were No 5 Thomas Edison, No 4 Topmix Yellow, No 3 Anne Joy, No 2 joint Collerette Kelsey, Lady Liberty, Red Hot Chilli, Vera Frost and Xanthe and No 1 White Perfection.People mentioned: Jekka McVicar, Jessica Naish, and Nick Hamilton.Products mentioned: Premier Christmas decorations, Rotavator, Cloche, Potato growing bags, Peat free composts, Root Trainers and Bird nesting boxes.Plant mentions: Apricot, Peas, Beans, Artichoke, Asparagus, Tomatoes, Courgettes, Pumpkins, Squash, Seed Potatoes, Carrots, Fennel (Bronze), Maidenhair fern (Adiantum), Quickthorn, Blackthorn, Rhubarb varieties - Champagne, Timperley Early and Stockbridge Arrow, plastic dustbins as Rhubarb forcers, Hazel and Birch for pea sticks, Sweet Peas, Strawberries, Raspberries, Chinese money plant (Crassula), Monstera, Sansevieria, Boston fern, Prayer plants, Spathiphyllum, Lilies, Dahlias, Freesia and GladioliOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a chilly January in the UK, the days are starting to lengthen and there's signs of life as bulbs are pushing through the soil. DIG IT's Peter Brown and Chris Day discuss news, events and gardening tasks for the gardening month ahead.What's onSaturday 1st February Buckingham Garden Centre's Grow & Grow Day, 10am-4pm. Saturday 1st February to Sunday 2nd March: Peruvian Orchid Spectacular at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London. The Plant Fair Roadshows are back in full swing with the first event of the year on Sunday 2nd February at Hole Park, Rolvenden, Kent, on Sunday 2nd February.Running until 13th April: Soil - The World at Our Feet Exhibition at the Embankment Galleries, South Wing, Somerset House in London.Saturday 15th February – Sunday 23rd February: Exhibited during Eco-Week at Hever Castle & Gardens, Earth Photo will be featuring work by some of the best photographers from around the world.Thursday 20th February: Monty Don in conversation with Sophie Raworth online or in person at the Royal Geographical Society in Kensington, London, SW7 2AR. 7pm. 20th - 22nd February: Shepton Snowdrop Festival, Somerset. Free event.Discover snowdrops across the UK. NewsBritain's oldest RHS Garden is calling for compensation from the Government as it faces a ‘catastrophic' £11m loss - thanks to roadworks.Home to 100-year-old specimens, the 60-acre Coton Orchard, the largest traditional orchard in Cambridgeshire and 8th largest in the country is at risk of becoming a new bus lane. Two plant collections - Amelanchier and Witch hazel National collections have been accredited at National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.Monty Don's new British Gardens series airs on the BBC.Sarah Dyke MP's Horticultural Peat (Prohibition of Sale) Bill has been pushed back to a later date. Kew Gardens and partner scientists have identified more than 170 new species in 2024New Year's Honours for garden industry figures including Gill Hodgson founder of Flowers From the Farm and Alan Titchmarsh, CBEScotland consults on its peat-free future.Latest Thompson & Morgan survey suggests garden expenditure is set to increase in 2025.More crystal ball gazing from the RHS with its gardening predictions.Eden Project appoints 'horticultural showman' Peter Jones.Kew build two advanced glasshouses to help in major restoration projects.David Domoney becomes new brand ambassador for Keder Greenhouses.Guiness World Records searches for world's oldest glasshouse.Forest England biodiversity study reveals DNA secrets.Butterflies heading north says NatureScot.RSPB suspends sale of flat bird feeders.Suttons given the Royal Warrant of Approval.Plants mentioned: Broad bean The Sutton, New Fothergill's Oh Sow Simple range, Seed Potatoes, Pea Meteor, Sweet Peas, Carnivorous plants (Venus flytraps), Carrot Amsterdam Forcing, Asparagus crowns, root-wrapped roses, celebration roses, strawberry runners and raspberry canes can be established now, Lilies, Dahlias, Begonia corms and Hosta. Hardwood cuttings Buddleja, Dogwoods, Forsythia, Philadelphus (Mock Orange), Roses and Salix (Willows).Products mentioned: Westland New Horizon Compost, Melcourt SylvaGrow Composts, horticultural fleece, Haxnicks jackets, raised beds and water butts. Dig It Top 5: Our Top selling Fothergills flower seeds of last year. No5 ‘RHS Flowers for Insects Mix', No4 Sunflower ‘Giant Single', No3 Sweet Pea ‘Old Spice Mixed', 2nd place Poppy ‘Victoria Cross' and at No1 ‘RHS Flowers for Wildlife Bright Mix'.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supply the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT, Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with seedsman and passionate foodie Paolo Arrigo about Seeds of Italy, an importer for the prestigious seed producer Franchi Seeds. Paolo discusses the importance of regionality in food growing, how heritage seeds are now more important than ever and how the bureaucracy of the EU has caused issues for the vegetable seed market.Plants mentioned Aubergine, Kale Cavolo Nero, Basil, Spinach, Baby Leaf Spinach, Swiss Chard, Tomato, Broad beans, Garlic, Lambs Lettuce (Corn Salad), Peas, Sweet Peas, Brussel sprouts, Parsnips, Swedes, Peppers, Holy trinity of veggies – carrots, onions and celery, English Cucumbers, Spinach Monstreux de Virflay, good beefsteak tomato varieties – Marmande and Coeur Di Bue (Ox Heart), The Eternal Tomato – Principe Borghese da Appendere, Spaghetti tree, 100% Wildflowers with no fillers, Courgette for flowers Da Fiore Toscana and Papaver (Poppy)People and companies mentioned: Thomas Cook, Mozart, Montpellier Brothers, Kings Seeds, Thompson & Morgan, Real Seeds, Delia Smith, Dolmio sauces, Haxnicks cloches, Royal Horticultural Society, Eden Project, Charles Darwin, Hairy Bikers, Gallo wine, Jamie Oliver and U3A.The film, A Room with a View featured the grand tour in Victorian times and Stanley Tucci's BBC series Searching for Italy, highlighting regionality of food.Places mentioned: Apennines, Dolomites, Turin, Tuscany, Borough Market in London, RHS Harlow Carr, Kew Gardens, Lee Valley for Tomato growing and Welsh Tourist Board.Food mentioned: Meatballs, Panettone, Mushrooms, Cornish pasties (listed under Protected Food Names legislation), Buckinghamshire or Bedfordshire Clanger (savoury/sweet pasty), Devon/Cornish Scones, Pizza is a Neapolitan dish, Vesta Curries, Chick Pea Pasta, Ricotta, Dal, Parma Ham, Lime Oil, Peter's homemade Pesto, Spaghetti, Zucchini flowers and Omelettes.Ark of Taste is an international catalogue of endangered heritage foods maintained by the Slow Food movement.Seeds of Italy websiteSocials: X: @FranchiSeedsUKInstagram: @franchiseedsofitalyFacebook @SeedsOfItaly Book: From Seed to Plate by Paolo ArrigoOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter and Chris celebrate the start of the New Year in the garden with events, latest news stories and a look at those topical gardening tasks to get you out and about in the garden this January.What's OnSaturday 18th January: National Tulip Day, Meseumplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands. 1-5pm. Free entry.Sunday 19th January: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 2 – 3:30pm Discover the Botanic Gardens in British Sign Language (BSL) Tours are led by John Hope Gaterway. Ticket only. Wednesday 22nd January: 11am - 12:30pm: Talk on RHS Hyde Hall through the Years with Garden Manager, Ian Bull - who has been involved in Hyde Hall's development across the last 20 years!Thursday 23rd January: Winter Lecture Professor Simon Hiscock and The Oxford Ragwort Story. Oxford Ragwort is unique among Britian's flora.24-26th January: Time to take part in this year's RSPB Big Garden BirdwatchNewsDetection dogs sniff out the deadly tree pathogen, Phytophthora ramorum.Buckingham Garden Centre's charity of the year 2025 is Buckinghamshire Mind.The National Centre for Music in Edinburgh is to get a major garden makeover by the nationally recognised garden designer Tom Stuart-Smith.Scientists at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh aim to sequence the genomes of all 72,000 plants, animals, fungi across the UK and Ireland.Applications for the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation Scholarships for budding horticulturists closes at the end of January.New UK RHS Partner Gardens are announced for 2025 allowing RHS members to access 230 across the UK and further afield.The National Trust announce the 49 recipients of Tree of Hope, aka Sycamore Gap Tree, including one of the saplings to be planted in Milton Keynes.A £5 million national project – Nextdoor Nature and The Wildlife Trust – delivers a raft of results supporting wildlife on 1,600 community-inspired projects.2024 proved to be another landmark year for the National Garden Scheme with the charity donating a record £3,501,227 to nursing and health beneficiaries from last year's garden opening season.George Plumptre, after 15 years at the helm, is set to retire as Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme later this summer.Top horticultural supplier Mr Fothergill's have rebranded to reflect their growth, values and customer commitment.The Sun's gardening editor, Veronica Lorraine, found herself falling foul of LinkedIn's rules when she tried to promote Perennials latest naked gardeners' calendar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with horticultural journalist, garden designer and broadcaster Naomi Slade. Naomi's latest book, Chrysanthemum: Beautiful Varieties from Home and Garden, is a celebration of the ever so versatile Chrysanthemum. On the podcast we discover more about Naomi's garden design journey, plus great advice on planting and her love of plants, including some recommendations for winter interest.Plants mentioned: Apples, Cyclamen Florist types, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Daffodils, Elodea (Canadian Pondweed – now banned from sale), Herbs, Helleborus, Hardy Cyclamen Coum and C Hederifolium, Snowdrops (including Galanthus reginae-olgae 'Naomi Slade' (Monksilver Nursery), Rhubarb, Roses, Paeonies, Plums, Prunus subhirtella autumnalis (winter flowering cherry), Wild Strawberries, Tulips, consider more vigorous rootstocks in difficult soils when growing fruit trees. The aptly named Cottage Chrysanthemums range are reliable and hardy as are the varieties ‘Ruby Mound' and ‘Dulwich Pink' (RHS AGM).Scented winter plants: Sarcococca, Viburnum bodnantense, Snowdrops, Lonicera fragrantissima, Mahonia and Hamamelis (Witch Hazel). People, products mentioned: Sir David Attenborough, Gerald Durrell, photographer Georgianna Lane, Piet Oudolf, Sarah Raven and Halls of Heddon. Which Gardening, Garden News, Water Butts, Old bread knife for dividing perennial clumps in the spring.National Collection of Chrysanthemums: Norwell Nurseries and Gardens, Nottinghamshire.Show gardens mentioned: 'Never Mind The Hollyhocks' Award Winning punk-themed conceptual garden by Naomi Slade at RHS Hampton Court 2012 and The Flood Resilient Garden in conjunction with Dr Ed Barsley. Silver Medal Winner at RHS Chelsea 2024.Desert Island luxuries: Naomi's tool would be her trusted bread knife and an apple tree, maybe a ‘Bramley', would be her island tree of choice.To find out more about Naomi and her books visit her websiteOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this month's DIG IT Peter Brown discusses the latest news in the world of gardening, what's on's and as the winter kicks in, Chris and Peter look at those gardening tasks to keep your garden looking its best this month and beyond.Places to visit:Winter Flowers Week at the Garden Museum, LondonNational Memorial Arboretum mile long light trailAlnwick Castle lights showCambridge University Botanic Garden Light showKew Gardens Lights ShowPlants Mentioned:The Welsh Bramley - Gabalfa Apple, RosePerfumy Silueta Rose bred by Kordes Rosen wins several categories in Rochfords International Rose TrialsThe Woodland Trust Highlights the plight of our Native trees and encourages planting more.Collections of Hamamelis, Amelanchier and Eucalyptus held at the National Memorial Arboretum and Ventnor Botanic Gardens gain National Plant Collection status.Skippinish Oak wins the Woodland Trusts tree of the year competitionLace Bug pest spotted in LondonGarden Organic searches for comfreyA new Palm Tahina Spectablis arrives at the Eden project60 000 snowdrops planted at the National Trust property Montacute House in SomersetJane Steward champions the medlar and tries to raise its profile In the news:Cruser SB Neonicotinoid Thiamethoxam has been licensed for use on Sugar Beet in the UK despite being banned in the EU.British Horticulture will have to bear increased costs on imports due to the Common User ChargeInverary Castle wins Prestigious Gardens AwardHaig Hall in Wigan undergoes restorationBath wins prestigious RHS Britian in Bloom award for the second time, Wrexham won a Gold award for the City and Forres in Scotland also won the town award.Defra's latest Data indicates a fall in Bird speciesGreen Allotments offer a chance to win an Allotment site to try and help increase the number of allotments in the UKThe National Gardens Scheme announce gardens to visit in the New YearGreenfingers charity has a new president who takes over from Sue AllenAllett mowers announce the 2024 winner for the Creative Stripes competition We announce our support of Ripple Africa again this festive period. Our special thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT we are delighted to welcome back Jekka McVicar, top organic herb grower, consultant, and Royal Horticultural Society Judge. Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Jekka on issues affecting herbs, best growing practices, composts, tea infusions, plus we delve into Jekka's latest fabulous book, 100 Herbs To Grow.Plant mentions: Coriander, Basil, Bulbine frutescens (burn jelly plant), Lemon Verbena, Mints including Peppermint and Mentha spicata (Spearmint), Murraya koenigii (Curry tree), Nasturtium, Oregano, Rosemary, Horse Radish, Silybum marianum, Szechuan (Sichuan) Pepper, Rosemary, Thymes, Wild Rocket, Nasturtiums, Wild Strawberries and Winter Savory.People and product mentions: Jamie Oliver, Delia Smith, Borage (the gnome), Charles Dowding, Marcus Waring and garden designer Sarah Eberle. Radio 4's Just a Minute. Horticultural grit, RocketGro Peat-Free Herbs and Alpine Compost, horse manure, Jekka's own peat-free compost mix contains bark, loam, peat-free compost, plus mycorrhizal fungi. Working in some loam can help the composts porosity. Use grit rather than bark for herb mulching. Seaweed feeds are generally best for herbs. Westland Epsom salts will help keep the foliage green and healthy. Growth Technology SG Invigorator. Black plastic for horsetail and general weed suppression.Problem pests: Leaf-hoppers, rosemary beetle and thrips.Tea Infusions: Lemon verbena or lemon grass (with a gin and tonic works a treat). Citrus trilogy, a perfect mood lifter orange blossom, lime leaves and lemongrass and rosemary. Garlic leaf tea for keeping slugs away on your seedlings.Sore throat - sage tea (gargle) for coughs and cold, sprig of hyssop and thyme in hot water with some honey. For Indigestion, try fennel leaf tea which also helps reduce cholesterol.Jekka McVicar and Charles Dowding in conversation on YouTubeJekka's castaway luxury: A propagating kit with a snip, sharpened chop stick, a pair of long tweezers and a wet stone.To find out more about Jekka's story, the specialist herb farm containing over 400 culinary and medicinal herbs from all around the world and online shop. Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month on DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day discuss the latest news in the world of gardening, what's on's and as the winter kicks in, a look at those gardening tasks to keep your garden looking its best this month and beyond.Friday 8th November Final Gardeners' World programme of the season.15th November RHS Glow 2024 Rosemoor. 20th November RHS Glow 2024 Harlow Carr Garden22nd November RHS Glow at RHS Wisley and at RHS Hyde Hall26th November NGS Annual Lecture ‘Gardening for the future with Fergus Garret, Garden Museum, London. Fergus reveals how vital biodiversity can thrive in anybody's cultivated garden patch, using evidence gathered from the world-famous garden he looks after. Go in person or available live streamed.Plant mentions: Lotus (water lily), Sea buckthorn, Magnolia, Dianthus, Violas, Wisteria, Picea, Pinus, dog friendly plants, sunflowers including the variety ‘Teddy Bear', Tulips, Narcissus, Crocus, Alliums, Snowdrops, planting of bare-root hedging, shrubs and trees, Philadelphus, Dogwood, Hazel, Raspberry canes, Strawberry runners, garlic, Padron peppers, Wild service tree (sweets and beer tree), Microgreens, Cress and Amaryllis.Product mentions: Sainsbury's peat-free mushrooms, electric heron fence for ponds, Woughton Orchard in Milton Keynes, lawn blower, secateurs, loppers, composted bark, autumn lawn food, grease bands for fruit trees, cloches, horticultural fleece and clay pebbles in saucer, NewsRBG Kew scientists crack down on illegal sale of ornamental plants.Edimentals see rise in popularity.Sainsbury's becomes first UK supermarket to introduce peat-free mushroomsNick Hamilton's new book, The Right Jeans is published.The new Government's All-Party Parliamentary Gardening and Horticulture GroupLibDem MP Sarah Dyke seeks to speed up ban on peat farming with 10-minute billRoger Ward from Golden Grove Nurseries champions the use of slow growing and compact forms of conifers in new build gardensMonty Don to design a dog-friendly garden at Chelsea 2025 in conjunction with the RHS and BBC Radio 2.National Trust appoints Sheila Das as Head of Gardens and Parks.Will Armitage appointed as the new HTA President.Beechgrove Garden presenter Jim McColl dies aged 89.Capability Brown's Berrington Hall gets a floral makeover including a wisteria walk.Climate revamp for Great Fountain Garden at Hampton Court Palace.RHS issues call for urban planners to take garden provision more seriously.Otters raiding garden ponds becomes a problem in Cumbria.The Orchard Project celebrates 15 years restoring 700 public orchards.Sunflower trials at RHS Hyde Hall's Floral Fantasia.North Wales bid to bring back rare ‘sweets and beer' tree.DIG IT Top 5: Top selling Herbs of the yearNo5 Coriander, No4 Curly Parsley, No3 Chives, No2 Common Rosemary and at the top spot Garden Mint (spear mint).Our special thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Jonathon Jones, OBE and managing director of Tregothnan Estate in Cornwall, home of the amazing Garden, Camellias, magnificent trees and a Tea plantation stretching 29 miles long!People mentioned: Tea expert Chris Bond, authors Peter Blake and John Shepherd. The Ken Thomas Charitable Trust, a bursary opportunity set up for agriculturists to help fund their trips. Lord and Lady Falmouth, Plant hunter William Lobb, Dr. Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward (Wardian Case inventor), Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, Tremap Partners, Conifer Conservation, Sir Thomas Johnstone Lipton, Country Life magazine tea column. London Tea Auction and Sarah Raven.Plants mentioned: Camellia sinensis (tea), Camellia japonica, early flowering Camellia sasanqua, Growing salads out of seasons under home-made cloches, Japanese Musa (Banana), Magnolias, Eucryphia is a genus of evergreen shrubs and trees with several species native to Chile. Giant Redwoods (Sequoiadendron giganteum), Rhododendrons, Black Poplars (Populus nigra) and the recording breaking tallest Rhododendron.Places mentioned: Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, Darjeeling, North India, Cornwall Garden Society (they also have a bursary scheme), Eden Project, Jonathon's scholarship to travel to Japan and it's great gardens, Falmouth University Japanese Gardens, Myerscough College and the Smithsonian Institution.Tremap® is an easy-to-use free app on your phone which allows people to map and locate trees and shrubs anywhere in the world. It also means that Botanic gardens, parks, large and small private gardens don't necessarily need to label their rare plants as this can be done virtually. Search ‘Tremap' on your favourite APP store.Jonathon's castaway essential: A tried and trusted garden spade!Tregothnan Estate, including Tea, Experiences, Holiday Cottages and Discover.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October is a wonderful month in the garden - crisp blue skies and fantastic autumn colour to enjoy. DIG IT's Peter Brown and Chris Day look at the month as far as places to visit, what's in the world of gardening news and timely tasks to be getting on with - so not quite the month to take your foot off the pedal!What's on5th & 6th October, 10am-4pm: Buckingham Garden Centre's Apple Weekend. Apple identifying with Gerry Edwards, apple pressing and juicing with the Mid Shires Orchard group, a Heritage Apple Display featuring over 100 varieties, Jessica Naish from the Buckingham Cut Flower Farm, a fantastic Tombola, plus The Woodland Trust and BBOWT.Saturday 5th October: Autumn Plant Fair at RHS Garden Bridgewater, Manchester.Saturday 12th October, 11am-4pm: National Alpine Garden Show at RHS Harlow Carr Gardens.26th October - 3rd November: Scarecrow Hunt at Painswick Rococo Garden Trust in Stroud.News Giant mosaic made from apples at National Trust Cotehele in Cornwall last month.Weather concerns could see tulip bulb prices rise by as much as 20% in 2025, Dutch growers warn.Britain's rarest orchid discovered after one man's 15-year hunt.New rare and endangered plant exhibition opens at Kew Gardens.Plea to use less herbicides and pesticides in our towns voiced by The Pesticide Collaboration.Tulip trees as well as storing more carbon are no longer hardwood they are now Midwood! It's all about the cells, says new study.Vegetable and flower seed merchant Dobies celebrates 130th anniversary.‘Delphinium Dad' efforts rewarded with National Plant Collection status.Artists set to champion ancient plane tree.A new garden commemorating the life of Queen Elizabeth II is to be constructed in London's Regent's Park.Upcycling facemasks left over from the pandemic to cradle developing melons by the team at Bluebird Care in Stroud and Cirencester.Butterfly numbers drop disastrously reports Butterfly Conservation.Blenheim Palace introduces bee swarms to its nine new woodlands.Huge restoration for parklands at Crystal Palace.New report sheds light on why many plants have prickles.Dame Mary Berry joins 40th anniversary celebrations of the Macmillan & National Garden Scheme partnership. During the last 40 years the NGS has raised more than £19 million for Macmillan through private garden openings.David Austin launches Bring Me Sunshine ® as Climbing English Rose.DIG IT Top 5: Climbing roses As we approach the root wrap and bare-root season learn about our bestselling roses.Product mentions: Long handled bulb planters, greenhouse disinfectant, bubble insulation, hedgehog houses, lawn rake and leaf grabbers, bird feeders ready and primed with wild bird mix, sunflowers, peanuts, and fat balls. Evergreen Autumn Fertiliser, and lawn seed for overseeding and patch repair.Plant mentions: Allium ‘Rosy Dream,' Taylors Bulb of the Year and Daffodil ‘June Allyson,' Daffodil of the Year, Dogwoods, Hostas, Salix (Willows), planning for hedges, Garlic, Onions, and Shallots to plant now, pumpkins to harvest and rhubarb propagation - remove healthier outer sections to create new crowns.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT, Peter Brown turns the microphone around and chats with Chris Day about his life and times working with plants, garden centres, radio, people in horticulture, and even a few greenhouses! From a humble apprentice at Rochfords to plant publicity manager at Buckingham Garden Centre, Chris spills the beans on some of his gardening wisdom along the way. Plant mentions: Aloe Vera, Aspidistra, Basil, Beloperone guttata (shrimp or prawn plant!), Cymbidiums, Sweet peas, lawn turf, Kentia palms, Melon, Pineapple, Tomato, Cucumber, Snake plant, Mother-in-Laws (Sansevieria), African Violets (Saintpaulia), Poinsettias, Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid), Universal Winter Pansies from Colegraves, Cacti, Money plants (Crassula), Chloropytum, Venus Fly Traps and Yuccas. Floral Flame for the Manchester Olympic bid at Manchester Airport created with Begonias, Lobelia, Marigold, Parsley, Perilla, and Impatien). Product mentions: Greenhouse: Corrugated plastic, aluminium (glass to ground), Wooden greenhouse, staging, Victorian style. Paraffin heaters, thermostatically electric fan heater, Garland propagating products, LED grow lights, roller benches, red spider mite pests, pH soil tests and soil science. Wool pots and Mycorrhizal products (RootGrow). People and Place mentions: Amateur Gardening magazine, Alan Beswick, BBC Radio Manchester, BBC Three Counties Radio, Blue Peter Garden, Alan Down, Bridgemere Garden World, RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Dutch Flower Auctions at Aalsmeer, Graham Clarke, Fred Downham, Rochford Houseplants (commercial growers), Garden Centre Association, Guernsey Flower Show, Horticulture Week, Peter Seabrook, Louise Lear, Peat Free UK houseplant growers, Val Bourne, Myerscough College and Writtle College. Hotbeds, created with strawy manure, and John Innes Compost No3. Chris's Desert Island luxuries: Felco secateurs and Potato ‘Home Guard' Chris's book co-authored with Rob Keenan Amateur Gardening Complete Gardening Answers (published by Robinsons). Catch Chris's online Garden Centre postings on Facebook and Instagram Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As autumn approaches DIG IT's Peter Brown and Chris Day provide a monthly round-up to the latest horticultural events, the gardening stories making the headlines and a look at those garden tasks requiring our attention.What's on3 - 8th September RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show, Wisley, Woking, Surrey.13 - 15th September The Harrogate Autumn Flower Show, Newby Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire27 - 29th September Malvern Autumn Show. One of the UK's biggest annual harvest season celebrations, held at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern Hills, Herefordshire.5 - 6th October Buckingham Garden Centre's Apple Weekend, 10am - 4pm each day.NewsJekka McVicar appeals to gardeners to participate in the RHS climate change survey in BBC Breakfast news.Most influential in horticulture by decade survey results: Titchmarsh beats Thrower, Hamilton, Don in vote from Horticulture Week magazine.Broad beans could improve our mental health new study finds.The search is on for the Tree of the Year and voting is open until 21 October.Plant breeder Ball Colegrave announced the winners of this summers showcase.World's largest Titan Arum bloom in Meise Botanic Garden in Belgium.A new jade vine – Strongylodon juangonzalezii - is donated to Kew Gardens.Kew trees at risk from climate change.Historic allotments in Nottingham handed back to council due to rising costs.Almost 455,000 trees felled by UK councils in past 10 years. World-first project launched to track hedgehogs and reverse decline.Gardening aids better sleep new report uncovers.Knoll Gardens launch new Pennisetum Black Arrow.Dog backpacks used to help seed nature reserve.Sheffield's love of figs helps create fig tree forests.Dutch campaign encourages reducing paving for greener gardens.Couple transform their garden into £27,000 Jurassic Park - complete with 10ft T-Rex.Our DIG IT Top Tulips 5th ‘Chocolate Orange' 4th ‘Red Riding Hood' 3rd ‘Peach Blossom', 2nd ‘Queen of the Night' and at number 1 ‘Purple Rain Fusion' (a combination of different varieties from Taylors Bulbs).Plants mentioned: Acer drummondii, Crocosmia, Dahlias, Hosta, Penstemons and Roses. Apples, Apricots, Blackberries, Peaches and Strawberries. Veggies: Peas, beans, Carrots, Spring Onions, Winter and Spring Cabbage plug plants.Products mentioned: Compost bin, Wolf Fruit Picker, Rose and Autumn Lawn Fertilisers, Lawn seeds and lawn patch products. Control Vine Weevil and lawn chafers or leatherjackets with a biological control (nematodes).Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spreading the gardening word with Dave The PlantmanDIG IT hosts Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with top all-round horticulturalist and internet sensation Dave The Plantman. Dave has been creating daily 90 second videos since April 2023 and has a huge 360k following, including a younger gardening audience on TikTok hungry for advice. Dave shares his knowledge in a unique style with his signature thumbs up and ‘interesting fact' tagline. A lively chat filled with fun anecdotes and plenty of common-sense gardening is guaranteed! Plant mentions: Agapanthus, Astilbe, Buddleja (butterfly bush), Carnivorous plants, Coffee plant, Cordyline, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Dieffenbachia (dumb cane plant), Himalayan Balsam (Impatien), Potatoes, Dandelion, Skimmia, wildflowers, brambles (blackberries), Rose ‘Sheila's Perfume', Phalaenopsis orchids, Taxus baccata 'Standishii' (RHS AGM), Good scented rose ‘Chandos Beauty' and Rose ‘The Chelsea Pensioner', a charity rose launched at this year's Chelsea Flower Show. Willow (Salix) weaving. Alpines for gravel drive. People, Places and Products: Phillip Harkness, Harkness Roses. Myerscough College of Horticulture, Preston, Canal and River Trust, Barton Grange Nursery, RHS flower shows. Sulphur (coal smoke), Garlic infusion for controlling aphids – they don't like the smell, good for roses and hostas. Tomato food is excellent for roses as is chicken manure and well-rotted manure. Uncle Tom's Rose Food (Potassium phosphite).Desert island luxuries: Tomatoes (seeds could be saved for future crops). Tool: “A pair of secateurs in my holster.”Memorable quote: “My mum could put a root on a chair leg!”Dave's socials: YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Dave The Plantman's Chatterbox on Facebook and Instagram.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summer gardening reaches it's peak this month as Peter Brown and Chris Day discuss the latest stories in the world of horticulture, must-visit events and a run-down of those essential tasks to keep your garden productive and colourful in the weeks to come. What's on 31st July - 4th August: RHS Garden Hyde Hall Flower Show, Essex. 2 - 3rd August: Taunton Flower Show, Somerset.Until 4th August: 2024 Big Butterfly Count – have you got involved yet? There's still time!3 - 11th August: Singapore Garden Festival at Suntec, Singapore. 9 - 10th August: Shrewsbury Flower Show, Shropshire. 15 - 18th August: Southport Flower Show at Victoria Park, Southport. 16 - 18th August: RHS Garden Rosemoor Flower Show, Devon. 30th August - 1st September: BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair at Audley End House & Gardens, Essex. NewsNew YouTube short film filmed at the RHS Urban Show in May featuring Cloudscape and creating 7 amazing gardens. Trees for bees at Wakehurst Wakehurst is using citizen science to help discover the trees most favoured by pollinators. A unique flower shaped Cyclamen Illusia picks up top New Houseplant Award. RHS Tatton Park Show celebrates its 25th anniversary by actively promoting awards for new designers, plants people and contractors aged 31 or over. Scottish topiary artist wins major award for their Moby Dick inspired design. Gardeners urged not to plant or purchase Rhodendron ponticum as The Woodland Trust says its invasive nature is creating problems. Native vegetation does no impact insect biodiversity in small urban gardens. Rare ‘Puya sapphire tower' blooms outdoors in Scotland for the first time. Dianthus breeding specialist Whetman Pink changes hands. War against poaching succulent plants in South Africa. Manchester's Castlefield aerial garden Viaduct gets green light to develop from National Trust. OBE awarded to Horatio's Garden founder Dr Olivia Chapple. Rittershausen family orchid nursery celebrate 75 years. Dr John Grimshaw appointed Editor-in-Chief of Curtis's Botanic magazine. Head of horticulture at Garden Organics and former Blue Peter gardener Chris Collins has been named a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture. Natural History Gardens are now open and free to visit. Olympic Dahlias shine at Paris 2024 games. The 2025 rose of the year is announced. Plants, and product mentions: Hardy geraniums, Chrysanthemum, Lavender, Lupins, Delphiniums, Blueberries, Strawberry, Wisteria Amethyst Falls, Leeks, Potato/Tomato blight proection, Taylors Seed Potatoes for growing for Christmas, Sow the seeds of Basil, Borage, Dill and Fennel, Mint. Summer pruning top fruit trees, dahlias, Lilies and Gladioli staking and feeding. Children seed sowing projects for the school holidays. Cut flowers from the garden. Continue with slug, snails and earwig control. Miracle-Gro, Tomato fertiliser, garden twine and canes. Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with special guest Andrew Mikolajski. Andrew, a well-known horticulturalist, and prolific author of over 40 gardening books, including his latest, ‘Who Ate My Plants'. Andrew discusses the ongoing battle gardeners have with garden pests and diseases.Plant mentions: Grow as many varieties and species – native and non-native from the Northern Hemisphere as you can to increase insect biodiversity of wildlife to help attract predators. Marigolds as a companion planting with Tomatoes and the pairing of alliums with roses. Check vegetable seed packets for disease resilience. Lavender, Penstemon, Fuchsias and Hebes would benefit from a dose of a high potash fertiliser to help toughen them up. Use vine weevil nematode control for Heuchera, Heucherella, alpines and Fuchsias.Product mentions: Slug pellets (use the jam jar method mentioned). Sand, Garlic wash, Box Tree Caterpillar Biological Control, Provanto Fungus Fighter (for Box Blight), Pheromone Traps (codling moth and plum moth), Organic pesticides, fleece over cabbage, good drainage essentials, include sand, potting grit, or Perlite to avoid overwet compost, Potassium (K) High potash fertilisers such as Sulphate of Potash, Tomorite, to help harden growth for the winter. Nematodes for slugs and vine weevil. Ladybird larvae and adults can be introduced.Pest / Disease mentions: Aphids, Slugs, Snails, Muntjak, Deer, Rabbits, Oak Processionary Moth - a notifiable pest, Xylella fasidiosa, Box Blight, Box Tree Caterpillar, Rose Black Spot and Rose Mildew.No Mow May, or maybe simply mow less often to encourage more flowers and diversity.Look for the RHS Plants for Pollinators logo.Make friends with your fellow allotment holders, or join a gardening club / society to learn about local growing conditions if you move into a new area.Judging at RHS show.Andrew's desert island essentials: A ball of garden twine and a pair of scissors and the Rose ‘Nostalgia.' Find out more about Andrew on his websiteAndrew's book, Who Ate My Plants? is published by Michael O'Mara Books Limited.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month on DIG IT Peter Brown and Chris Day discuss the latest gardening news, what's on's and as the peak gardening season is well underway, a look at those tasks to keep your garden looking its best this month and beyond.What's on2 – 7th July: RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival is held in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace, Richmond.12th July and 4th August: The Big Butterfly Count 2024.17 – 21st July: RHS Flower Show Tatton Park in Cheshire.20th July: Great Dixter Summer Plant Fair at Great Dixter Gardens, Rye, East Sussex.NewsPlant Heritage will showcase a range of its National Plant Collections, including Kniphofia, Rubus and Hosta (miniature and small) at Hampton Court. New 4-year project by the University of London is evaluating prescribing social pursuits like gardening to children. New garden around the Natural History Museum opens this month.The BBC Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don will be out on tour to share tales from his garden at Longmeadow and gardens he has visited around the world.Belinda Howell has been appointed chair of the Peat-free Partnership to establish peat-free legislation across the UK and NI.Susan Raikes is appointed the new Director of Wakehurst at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.Nick Bailey, Gardener's World presenter is appointed director of the University Leicester's botanic garden.Percy Thrower's greenhouse, which once featured Shrewsbury's main park, The Quarry, is to be restored by Shrewsbury Men's Shed.Bumper year for Box Tree Caterpillar reveals RHS.Be alert for toxic oak processionary moth caterpillars.How to take part in the Great Stag Hunt to help record the UK's largest, and endangered beetle.Asian Hornets: help needed to irradicate imported bee-killers.The winning plants at last month's BBC Gardeners World Live Show, include Hydrangea Eclipse and Apple Peter's Gold. New plant awards annouced at the HTA Show including Digitalis Apple Blossom and Prunus Crystal Falls.This month's DIG IT top 5: Strawberry varieties. 1st Strawberry ‘Symphony' 2nd ‘Cambridge Favourite' 3rd ‘Hapil' 4th ‘Honeoye' and in 5th ‘Elsanta'.Plant mentions: Apples (variety Scrumptious), Cherries, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Delphiniums, Euonymus Jean Hugues, Euonymus Green Spire, Pears, Plum, Sweet corn, Yew, Lonicera nitida, fuchsias, Dianthus, Carnations, Purple loosestrife, and Salvia Hot Lips. Sow Foxgloves, Sweet Williams, Wallflowers and Forget-me-nots and veggies including Round Carrots, Beetroot, Radish, Lettuce, and Spring Onions. Continue to plant Tomatoes and Peppers.Product mentions: Bug Clear Ultra 2, Box Tree Caterpillar Killer Nematodes, Poppyforge plant supports, bird food, straw and terracotta pots for earwig control.Our thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Flowers are big business in Britain over 50% of British households bought cut flowers in 2022. However, according to Defra, only 14% of cut flowers sold in the UK are grown in Britain. In this edition of Dig it Peter Brown and Chris Day chat with Jessica Naish who runs a successful local flower farm in Buckingham. In the podcast we discover how Jess has developed her flower farm, plus the practicalities of growing a wide range of cut flowers from the field to the vase.Flowers mentioned: Amaranthus caudatus (Love Lies Bleeding), Centaurea cyanus (Cornflowers), Cosmos, Dahlias, Godetia, Larkspur, Nigella damascena (Love-in-a-mist), Perennial and annual Phlox, Strawflowers (Xerochrysum bracteatum), Roses (including the Timeless range of roses), Sweet peas, Sunflowers, Ten Week Stocks and Wallflowers.Fragrant foliage: Apple mint, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, and scented Pelargoniums to add fragrance to bouquets.Bulbs mentioned: Alliums, Gladioli, Lillies, Narcissi and Tulips.Buckingham brew: Nettles and Comfrey tea combo to feed plants organically.Jessica's major influence is Gill Hodgson, who set up Flowers From The Farm back in 2011. From humble beginnings, its membership is now more than 1,000 independent British growers, of which Jess is a member. The website allows you to search for your nearest local flower farmer.Peach Fuzz, Pantone Colour of the year 2024.Jess's desert island essentials: Tool - the versatile Hori Hori Knife, plus a couple of plants one of the velvety purple mophead hydrangeas and Geranium ‘Attar of Roses' famed for its amazing rose scented fragrance.Find out more about Jessica's flower farm, workshops and pick-your-own hereYou can also follow Jessica on Facebook and InstagramOur thanks to Chiltern Music Therapy for supplying the music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.