Podcasts about bulbs

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!The crescendo in Spring is marked by an event like no other in the world of horticulture - the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. In the heart of London the show brings together this years latest trends and looks in the world of gardening, te cream of British and international growers and some of the most spectacular sights you can get in the world of Flowers and Plants. As ever Lucy and Saul were invited to the Monday Press Day as part of their RHS Expert Group roles, and as ever their gardening senses were astounded what was on offer at the greatest garden week in the calender.LinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

While we all love a trip to the garden centre for short-term inspiration, a more measured approach to buying the right kind of plants for your plot can help you achieve a beautiful and sustainable garden, with year-round interest and resilience.This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' Sarah is joined by Gary Newell, Senior Horticultural Buyer, who advises us to ditch the impulse plant purchases and instead, follow his simple rules for matrix planting – a method he's used to great effect in his own garden at home.In this episode, discover:The art of matrix planting – a nature-led, strategic method used in landscape designWhich plants are best-suited to create a stunning, low-maintenance gardenThe four essential layers of matrix planting – from the ground-hugging base layer, to show-stopping structural shrubsProducts mentioned:Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' AGMhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-limelightHydrangea arborescens 'Incrediball' (Strong Annabelle)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-incrediballHydrangea paniculata 'Wim's Red'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-wims-redBaptisia australishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/baptisia-australisSalvia nemorosa 'Caradonna'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salvia-nemarosa-caradonnaAmelanchier lamarckiihttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/amelanchier-lamarckiiCotinus x dummeri 'Grace'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cotinus-graceCornus kousa var. chinensishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/cornus-kousa-var-chinensisPelargonium 'Attar of Roses' (Scented)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/pelargonium-attar-of-rosesAmmi majushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusCosmos bipinnatus ‘Purity'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-purityHelenium ‘Moerheim Beauty'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helenium-moerheim-beautyFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

A new product in development is the Bloomstay, which is a a device to hold a bulb in position in packaging and a vase. The 'spike' is an interconnecting device that keeps the bulb upright and allows the roots to grow downwards. Oliver Rogers talks to product designer, Thom van Rijssel about how the device works with packaging and plants. #gardeningtips #Netherlands #gardening #tulips #flowers == We're delighted to have Gro-rite Horticulture sponsoring World Radio Gardening, find out about automatic pot watering systems available for mail order delivery: bit.ly/3wCPyHy Also, don't forget – if you like what we do, why not tip Ken and team with a coffee – Buy us a coffee (bit.ly/48RLP75) – as a thank you for the work done to bring this website to life.

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!With no rain on the horizon for Lucy and plenty for Saul, the East - West divide is playing out true to form. But other traditionally damper UK regions are also experiencing dry weather, giving the gardening duo plenty to talk about. Musing aside, Saul has been busy erecting bamboo canes, whilst Lucy has been wielding her saws and fine-tuning her ears to local birdsong. Mr Walker can also now celebrate his first decade as a Head Gardener - congratulations, Mr W! Let's hope the NGS group left you a decent slice of cake on Thursday.LinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Biennials – plants which flower in their second year – may often be overlooked by us gardeners, but between their value for money, wonderful scent, and versatility they're among the best plants to sow and grow in any garden.Sarah makes the case for brilliant biennials in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', exploring how she came to appreciate their beauty, and which varieties are best for all aspects of your space.In this episode, discover:How the right mix of biennials can fill the awkward May gap with prolific blooms, all for the price of a seed packetThe best early-flowering biennials, from fragrant wallflowers to the scented sweet rocket, Hesperis matronalisMoth-pollinated varieties with rich fragrance and velvety textures to create a pollinator paradiseProducts mentioned:Rosa x odorata 'Mutabilis' (China)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/rosa-x-oderata-mutabilisRosa × odorata 'Bengal Crimson' (China)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/rosa-x-odorata-bengal-crimsonDigitalis purpurea 'Sutton's Apricot'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-suttons-apricotDigitalis purpurea f. albiflorahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-albaWild Sweet William (Saponaria officinalis)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/wild-sweet-williamMatthiola incana 'Vintage Antique Mix'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/matthiola-incana-vintage-antique-mixMalope trifida 'Vulcan'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/malope-trifida-vulcanLunaria annuahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/lunaria-annuaIceland poppy (Papaver nudicaule)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-nudicaule-champagne-bubbles-mix-f1Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!Lucy and Saul are still in energy-recovery mode after their epic three days at Beaulieu for Gardeners World Live - but they are also trying to catch up and keep up with an ever burgeoning list of garden tasks - including getting some more seeds sown, potting on all those exotic tender plants that are now coming back to life, chopping and staking the borders - on top of which Lucy is still trying to resist buying a classic car. All a week in the life of Talking Heads!Instagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensLinkedIn link:Saul WalkerIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Tom Stimpson's pint-sized garden is an inspiration for anyone with a small urban plot, and it's packed with showstopping varieties that will flower for months on end providing colour, scent, and food for pollinators in a compact space.In this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Tom, our Head of Horticulture, tells Sarah how he's brought his small town garden to life, including the irresistible combinations of dahlias and salvias that he's planting in his whopper pots for the season to come.  In this episode, discover:Tom's ingenious approach to small-space gardeningNew plant varieties to transform pots, with an eye on an upcoming dahlia called 'Tom's Choice' The art of colour-layering in garden design, choosing from palettes to co-ordinate your bordersFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!Now a fixture on Saul and Lucy's calender - the BBC Gardeners World Spring Fair is somehting the pair look forward to every year, especially as it is a chance to catch up with the wonderful garden team at Beaulieu and see what delights catch our eyes in the Ornamental and Kitchen Gardens. Alice in Wonderland is a definite theme this year - not only does the gardens have some very detailed Topiary Mad Hatters, but also the best of the Beautiful Borders had a Tea Party theme as well - congratulations to Jonathan and Bryony. Instagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensLinkedIn link:Saul WalkerSupport the show

Gardens are a multisensory experience, and while we primarily think of aesthetics, it's the scent of spring plants which is absolutely second to none.Sarah's flying solo this week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' to share her pick of favourite scented spring bulbs and other perfumed plants to envelop your senses and uplift your spirits.In this episode, discover:Spring's most wonderfully scented bulbs, from delicate narcissus to room-filling tulipsWhich bulbs are Sarah's longest-flowering, most resilient garden heroesHow to create a sensory sensation with fragrant climbers that transform your outdoor spaceProducts mentioned:Hyacinth 'Peter Stuyvesant' for Forcinghttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/hyacinth-peter-stuyvesant-for-forcingHyacinthus orientalis 'Woodstock' (Forcing)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hyacinth-woodstock-for-forcingNarcissus 'Moonlight Sensation'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-moonlight-sensationNarcissus 'Starlight Sensation'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-starlight-sensationNarcissus 'Actaea'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-actaeaNarcissus 'Geranium'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-geraniumNarcissus 'Avalanche'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-avalancheNarcissus 'Cragford' (Forcing)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-cragford-for-forcingNarcissus cordubensishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-cordubensisNarcissus 'Pipit'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-pipitTulip 'Ballerina'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-ballerinaGeum 'Totally Tangerine'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/geum-totally-tangerineTulip sylvestrishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulipa-sylvestrisTulip 'Request'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-requestAkebia quinata (Chocolate Vine)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/akebia-quinataTulip 'Sarah Raven'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-sarah-ravenFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

In this episode, Chay and Laura are joined by Clare from Motherwell, an enthusiastic allotment holder now in her fourth year of growing. Clare shares her passion for container planting, discussing the practical and personal reasons behind her approach, with a particular focus on the joy of planting bulbs.Listeners also hear about Clare's new venture—growing sweet potatoes—as she reflects on the early stages of her progress and the challenges she's encountered so far.As with many episodes, the conversation naturally drifts beyond gardening. Alongside allotment insights, the trio enjoy a lively detour into Scottish culture, chatting about classic favourites like tatties and neeps, and the ever-iconic Proclaimers.Tune in for gardening inspiration, cultural chat, and plenty of good humour.Follow Clare on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/4mcds_bloomingplot?igsh=aXNjYTR4NnU0cHFjIf you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

Are you ready to flex your brain muscles? Join us for a mind-bending challenge with 25 tricky riddles that will keep you on your toes! Whether you're a seasoned riddle-solver or just looking for a fun mental workout, this is the perfect opportunity to test your wit and creativity. Gather your friends, grab a snack, and get ready for a thrilling journey through these brain teasers. Let's see if you have what it takes to outsmart the brightest bulbs around! CreditsAnimation is created by Bright Side. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music from TheSoul Sound: https://thesoul-sound.com/ Check our Bright Side podcast on Spotify and leave a positive review! https://open.spotify.com/show/0hUkPxD34jRLrMrJux4VxV Subscribe to Bright Side: https://goo.gl/rQTJZz ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Our Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightside Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightside.official TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brightside.official?lang=en Stock materials (photos, footages and other): https://www.depositphotos.com https://www.shutterstock.com https://www.eastnews.ru ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For more videos and articles visit: http://www.brightside.me Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!While Lucy has had a fortnight of family 'fun', Saul has been hot-footing it up and down the country in the name of professional horticultural development. He even admits that his beloved Devonshire isn't the only beautiful county in the UK - high praise indeed, Yourshireans! Meanwhile in Essex, Lucy has been relying upon the therapeutic powers of gardening and phenology to keep her mind firmly focused on beautiful things - from returning sand martins, swallows and cuckoos, to planting up her beloved vegetable garden - thank goodness for gardening.Instagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensLinkedIn link:Saul WalkerIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Urban gardeners who rent will be familiar with the need to transport their portable gardens frequently, so which plants are ideal for pots and containers that are often on the move?Jemima Bowker is our beginner and balcony gardening expert with a relocation on the horizon. This week, she joins Sarah to chat about the ideal varieties for all sizes and types of container, and ways to protect and transport them during her upcoming move.In this episode, discover:The art of creating a portable garden paradise in zinc tubs and windowsill plantersPerfect plants for smaller spaces, from bush basil to Texas Wild tomatoes How to layer compost, feeding your plants and keeping containers looking pristine from May right through to autumnGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Hosts: Lucie Shelofsky, Dorothy Espe Guest: Donna Wasneski Air date: Apr 17, 2025

With home gardening, it's about planning, doing the work ahead of time, so you reap the future benefits. If you'd like brilliant colour at home this Spring, Merilyn Kuchel says plant bulbs today.

Send Me A Message!! Journey through the 35-year evolution of the O'Mahony Garden, a stunning landscape on the Cork-Limerick border that transforms an ordinary plot into five distinctive garden spaces, each with its own personality and purpose.Siobhan O'Mahony shares her gardening journey that began with essential shelter planting and gradually expanded into a thoughtfully designed landscape. The original garden focuses on low-maintenance shrubs and trees punctuated with seasonal bulbs, while the aptly named "kitchen garden" outside their kitchen door bursts with vibrant hot colours year-round. Perhaps most remarkable is the transformation of their sons' football pitch into borders with distinct colour themes – cool calming blues and pinks in one area contrasting with rich wine and magenta tones in another.The garden continues to evolve with newer areas including a practical raised bed vegetable garden featuring container-grown raspberries and a young woodland planted with 28 Himalayan birches (Betula jacquemontii) underplanted with specialist snowdrops and spring flowering bulbs. Adjacent to this, an annual wildflower meadow delivers spectacular summer colour without demanding maintenance.Siobhan's practical wisdom resonates throughout the conversation – from her colour-themed planting approaches to her strategic use of containers to maintain continuous displays near the house. Her advice for new gardeners is refreshingly realistic: focus on trees and shrubs for structure and lower maintenance, then concentrate colourful, higher-maintenance planting in smaller areas where it can be enjoyed daily.The garden welcomes visitors three times annually and hosts workshops on container gardening, vegetable growing and flower arranging. Whether you're starting your own garden journey or looking for inspiration to refine an existing space, this episode offers practical strategies for creating beautiful, manageable gardens that bring joy throughout the seasons.Visit O Mahony Garden information here:https://www.omahonygarden.comSupport the showIf there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know. Email: info@mastermygarden.com Master My Garden Courses: https://mastermygarden.com/courses/Check out Master My Garden on the following channels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ Until next week Happy gardening John

There's been some exciting breeding and hybridising using species tulips - those closely related to wild tulips - in recent years, which has made them perfect plants for withstanding tulip fire.Species tulips are a newfound favourite for Josie and Sarah at Perch Hill, and in this episode we'll hear why they're a must-have for pots in particular, and which incredible varieties have captured their attention.In this episode, discover:The remarkable resilience of species tulips to wetter springs and fungal disease A vibrant world of unique tulip varieties, from the flame-like Tulip acuminata, to Cretan natives like HildeTips for naturalising species tulips in grass and growing in pots for decades of stunning bloomsHow species tulips are the ultimate breakfast buffet for early pollinators and emerging bumblebee queensGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Bounce your balls for MercuryMacy talks this week about a well known flower with a stout and wise presence, the iris. Charlye, in a similar vein, talks about night blooming flowers and how they can be utilized in your practice. Support the showSimply CaptivatingCheck it out on Patreon.com/wbahpodcast for only $5 wbahpodcast.com_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_Want to help support the Podcast? Consider becoming a Patron!www.patreon.com/wbahpodcastAdvertise with us!Just shoot us an email over to wbahpodcast@gmail.comSnag yourself some WBAH Merch!teespring.com/stores/wbah-podcast-store_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-Come Do Yoga With Macy:patreon.com/macyaniseyogaCharm by Charlye MichelleAncestor Oil and Fire Scrying Sessionscharmbycharlye.comPlay The Sims With Charlyetwitch.tv/charlye_withawhyTwitter @charlyewithawhyOur Video EditorEldrich Kitchenm.youtube.com/channel/UC_CwBrVMhqezVz_fog716Ow_-_-_-_-_-...

Bulbs burning out on cars and in homes..."Three Things You Need to Know"...Harvard tries pushing back...weird story...earthquake in SoCalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!Lucy is off for her Easter break, so Saul invites an old friend, fellow Kew graduate and now Head of Horticultural Relations at the Royal Horticultural Society, Emma Allen, to join him in conversation about her teams role at the charity. She has a large remit of very interesting roles which includes Funding Bursaries, in which she wants to encourage a wide range of diverse backgrounds to apply for funding to help realise long held study and networking ambitions. We also chat about the evolution of the charities seven Expert Groups (formerly know as the Plant committees) and the long standing and fruitful relationships with the RHS Partner Gardens, a key benefit of being a member. Useful Links: Bursaries and Funding - Click hereRHS Expert Groups - Click HereTrials and AGMS - Click HereRHS Partner Gardens - Click HerePlant Societies - Click HereInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensLinkedIn link:Emma AllenSaul WalkerIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Bees are an absolute passion for us at Perch Hill, not just for their pollination and presence in the garden, but for their delicious and nutritious produce too.The same can be said for award-winning author and fermentation expert, Rachel de Thample, who joins Sarah this week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' to share delicious honey-inspired recipes from her new book, her pick of the best bee-friendly plants, and much more besides.In this episode, discover:Rachel's journey to writing her latest book, working at River Cottage and being introduced to Hugh Fearnley-WhittingstallThe incredible and industrious world of bees, and how it takes 12 bees a lifetime to create a single teaspoon of honey Bee-friendly herbs that are not just beautiful, but useful to bees and humans alikeA reimagined view of honey in cooking with Rachel's spectacular recipesProducts mentioned:Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/thyme-commonSummer Savory (Satureja hortensis)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/summer-savoryOregano 'Hot and Spicy'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/oregano-hot-and-spicyArtichoke 'Violet de Provence'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/artichoke-violet-de-provenceBorago officinalis (Borage)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/borago-officinalisAllium siculum (syn. Nectaroscordum)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nectaroscordum-siculumDiscover Rachel's new book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/bees--honey-9781526625465/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!With day upon day of sunshine, Saul and Lucy could be forgiven for thinking that spring is set to stay, but a brisk wind reminds them both that conditions can turn on a sixpence... That might be handy to be fair, because the soil is dry (as per normal) in Essex, but also in Saul's beloved Devon, so April, do your traditional thing, if you please. Weather waffle aside, the duo chat this week about shifting RHS peat policies and muse over why things could be taking a little longer than liked. Lucy also beams about her day filming at Audley End, and Saul braces himself for a trip up the country to be a key speaker at the Northern Hardy Plants Society key event. Come on Berlingo, don't let him down!Instagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensLinkedIn link:Saul WalkerIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Seeing as it's now autumn, a number of bulbs can be planted in the garden. Here's a few of them: Tulip A fabulous early spring colour. There's some historical stuff with the Dutch making heaps of money out of often virus-ridden “varieties” (early 1600-s AD) selling them for Fl 3000.00 per bulb (while the average yearly wage of a skilled craftsman was around Fl 300.00) – the bulb bubble burst in 1637 AD. These days they are a bit cheaper and more reliable. They grow well in South Island with very cool winters – up north they need winter chilling (taking out of the soil and put in fridge for 8 weeks). In mild climates it pays to plant later in the year, in May or June. But in South Island, planting the bulbs can start in a few weeks; order them now! Great bulb outlets: Bulbs direct Garden Post NZBulbs Fiesta Bulbs Hadstock Farm in Springston Work the soil to 20 cm deep in sunny to semi-shade positions(bulbs prefer well-drained soils). Plant 15 cm spaced and 15 cm deep – in warmer climates, plant them a bit deeper (20 cm deep). A bit of mulch over the planting site will keep weeds down. Bulb fertiliser is recommended and after flowering, some blood and bone will feed the green leaves. Do NOT cut those green leaves after flowering: they gather sunlight (photosynthesis) for re-stocking the food reserves inside the bulbs underground. Narcissus Daffodils Prep the soil to 40 cm or so – daffodils' roots go way down! Plant them 10 cm deep and spaced to 10 cm apart. Well-drained soils work best – perhaps under deciduous trees. Hagley Park is a great example. Planting them in full sun is okay too. Mass planting works well, and the bulbs will come up year after year. They are not as fussy as tulips in terms of cool winter soils. Apart from the far north, the whole of New Zealand is daffodil country. Bulbs will multiply. Crocus: the lovely smelling spring flowers Plant the corms in autumn a couple of centimetres deep and closely-spaced for best effect – they are best lifted after the foliage dies down. Of course, Saffron is a crocus, but it flowers in Autumn (March). Leucojum, also known as snowflake It has a special place in my heart: we used to have a rare and endangered native species in the wetlands where I used to roam as a nature nerd in the Netherlands. Many different varieties now – flowering in early spring, planting in early April. Bulbs in containers Most of these bulbs do well in containers. Picture a terracotta pot with these plants massed together – you can shift them inside when they flower to enjoy, or put them on the patio so you see them through the ranch-slider. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April is in full bloom, and with it comes a gardener's to-do list bursting with promise! This week, Liz Mooney from RHS Garden Wisley shares expert tips on growing a bumper potato crop, while Guy Barter reveals how to plant summer bulbs for a dazzling display. Plus, we celebrate horticultural excellence with Victoria Medal of Honour recipient Martyn Rix, reflecting on a lifetime dedicated to plants. Links: How to grow potatoes RHS People Awards  RHS Grow Your Own

There's a rich, complex, and utterly rewarding natural world that co-exists alongside ours, and relies on our gardens for food and safety – the often surprising world of small garden birds.This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Adam Nicolson shares insights from his new book, Bird School, which explores the secret life of these tiny avian visitors, so often unfurling right under our noses in our gardens and green spaces.In this episode, discover:The true reasons behind the dawn chorus, its unique sound and timingWhat inspired Adam to immerse himself in the world of small birdsHow birds perceive the world so intricately, in a way that we're yet to fully understandWhat we as gardeners can do to help protect our British bird speciesOrder Adam's new book, Bird School:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bird-School-Beginner-Adam-Nicolson/dp/000849083XFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Salix gracilistyla ‘Mount Aso'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salix-gracilistyla-mount-asoGoat willow hedginghttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/goat-willow-hedgingGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!Everyone has their indicator that spring is here - some believe the first hint of Hawthorn Blossom is the start, optimists believe that its the first sign of Daffodils, but some wait until the risk of frost has definitely past. Whatever your sign of spring it's definitely an exciting time in the garden as the accelerator pedal of growth slowly fires up the engine on our favourite flowers and plants. So join Lucy and Saul as they talk about their favourite signs of Spring but also discuss some of the practical elements of gardening that for a professional gardener well and truly mean the early part of the gardening season is upon us!LinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Spring is here in all its glory, and with it comes the perfect moment to plant and sow. This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' we've compiled our top tips and growing inspiration from not one, but seven of Sarah's all-time favourite guests.From Knepp's Charlie Harpur on his favourite plants for pollinators, to the veg varieties Jess Gough is growing at home, revisit some of Sarah's greatest guests and their timely recommendations for gardens large and small. Sarah also shares five fresh ideas for what to plant into your garden right now.In this episode, discover:Top growing tips from seven of Sarah's most illustrious gardening guestsInspiration on plants for perfume, pollinators and punchy colour combinations in your gardenSarah's top five flowers to plant now with springtime in mindFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

It's spring, and bulbs will flower soon. Nourish and protect them now with simple techniques.

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!With spring thoughts still fresh in Lucy and Saul's mind, the gardening duo report back on their respective professional weeks. Both have been busy with herbaceous border work, taming the thugs, encouraging the meek, and (of course) laying down lashings of mulch. The mighty news jingle also makes a reappearance (pls accept Lucy's 'deliberate' mistake with the insertion timing) as scholarships and greenfinger fundraisers get a well deserved shoutout.LinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Send Me A Message!! Ready to transform your garden into a symphony of summer color? This episode reveals exactly what you need to plant now for months of vibrant blooms ahead.After weeks of unusually dry weather in Ireland, we're exploring the perfect timing to establish summer-flowering plants that will reward you with an avalanche of color. The secret? A strategic mix of bulbs, bare root perennials, and carefully selected seeds that offer maximum impact for minimal investment.Discover the world of summer-flowering bulbs - from the show-stopping dinner plate dahlias with their 22cm blooms to elegant lilies that return year after year. We explore why now is the perfect time to snag bare root peonies at a fraction of their potted price, and how to position gladioli for best effect in cottage-style borders. You'll learn which bulbs offer the most reliable performance (including some underrated gems like Nerien's) and how to manage enthusiastic spreaders like Crocosmia.For the budget-conscious gardener, we reveal why bare root perennials represent exceptional value compared to container-grown plants, and share tips on scoring end-of-season bargains from online suppliers. Whether you're planning a formal border or dreaming of a meadow filled with wildflowers, this episode provides practical guidance on creating spectacular summer displays.The gardening calendar is turning rapidly toward planting season - grab your trowel and get ready to create your most colorful garden yet! And don't miss next week when we'll be tackling the art of pruning fruit trees.Support the showIf there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know. Email: info@mastermygarden.com Master My Garden Courses: https://mastermygarden.com/courses/Check out Master My Garden on the following channels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ Until next week Happy gardening John

Charles Dowding is world-renowned as a pioneer of no dig growing, and while it's great for saving time and effort, it's also proven to be more productive and better for the environment, and the soil, too.Who better to hear from on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' than the pioneer himself, as Charles joins Sarah and Josie to share his decades of experience with no dig, tips on creating your own fertile garden compost at home, and inspiring ideas for what to sow in late-March.In this episode, discover:Charles' experience with the no dig ethos in different soil types around the worldHow switching to no dig has made his crops consistently more productive across many yearsHow to convert your own organic waste into fertile compost for successful growing and improve the long-term health of your soilDiscover Charles Dowding's latest book:https://shop.charlesdowding.co.uk/products/compost-transform-waste-into-new-lifeProducts mentioned:Chervil 'Vertissimo'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/chervil-vertissimoCoriander 'Leisure'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/coriander-leaf-form-leisureMustard 'Red Frills'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/mustard-red-frillsWinter purslane (Claytonia)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/winter-purslaneWild Rockethttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/wild-rocketSalad Rocket 'Serrata'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salad-rocket-serrataMustard 'Red Frills'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/mustard-red-frillsBroad Bean 'Superaguadulce'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/broad-bean-superaguadulceLettuce Oak Leaf Collectionhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/organic-lettuce-seed-collectionPea ‘Hurst Green Shaft' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/peas-hurst-green-shaftFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!What a wonderful start to Spring as March has proved to be just the tonic to the grey months of Winter - the sunny and reasonably dry days punctured by chilly, but refreshing nights, are exactly what the budding gardener wants to continue as the spring garden comes to life. This means Saul and Lucy are beavering away whether visiting nurseries for planting inspiration, planting new hedges, or bringing you along on our adventures on Social media - the gardening pair I really revving up their horti-engines. Also this episode sees the debut (and maybe once only appearance !?) of Horticultural news!Buckland Cottage Gardens - Link hereMatt Biggs Hospital Garden - Link HereLinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the show

Like many gardeners, Joe Clark was captivated by the magic of growing his own food at a young age, and now inspires millions more to be enthralled by the same fascinating process via his popular social media channels.Joe is an advocate for planting fruit, veg and flowers that you may not ordinarily encounter in the supermarket, and on this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' he shares his favourite varieties for every taste, space, and type of garden.In this episode, discover:Joe's favourite varieties to grow for a simple, rewarding cropHardy veg perfect for growing without a greenhouseA number of tasty varieties of lesser-known fruit and veg rarely found in the shops Order Joe's book ‘Garden To Save The World':https://www.amazon.co.uk/Garden-Save-World-Feel-Good-Yourself/dp/1035032317/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Products mentioned:Tomato 'Costoluto Fiorentino'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tomato-costoluto-fiorentinoDill (Anethum graveolens)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/anethum-graveolens-dillPea ‘Blauwschokker'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/pea-blauwschokkerPea ‘Nairobi'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/pea-nairobiKohlrabi 'Kolibri' F1 (Gongylodes Group)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/kohlrabi-kolibri-f1Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Save 20% on your Magic Mind subscription! https://magicmind.com/GROWSOMETHING20 with code GROWSOMETHING20One of my goals this year for the garden is to focus a little bit more on the aesthetics of the garden, rather than just the functionality of it. I really feel like I can get more enjoyment from the gardens if I enjoy how they look and enjoy spending time in them not for just planting and weeding and harvesting, but just for the sheer joy of it.One of the ways I think I can do this is by adding flowers. I am pretty adept and growing annuals from seed but this year I'm adding bulbs to the list. Spring is also a really good time to be adding perennials to the edible areas of the garden, vegetables and fruits.Today on Just Grow Something we're talking about perennial fruit and vegetable plants best planted in spring and flowering bulbs planted in spring for summer blooms. We'll cover proper planting methods, timing, and first-year care to set you up for success. Let's dig in!References and Resources:Seed to Sprout seed-starting course: https://www.justgrowsomething.com/indoor-seed-startingJust Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch andDownloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/508637300354140/Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

Mary Stone shares her design colleague and dear friend Marty Carson's favorite summer flowering bulbs to plant in spring, adding a few other hardy deer-resistant corms to the list. A discussion on using bone meal while planting bulbs as a squirrel deterrent leads to Koleen's saga of a typo in a description of corn she ordered from a seed catalog, which turned into a humorous squirrel dilemma. Mary concludes by sharing her concern for her friend Marty after a recent emergency surgery. Life can change in a moment. Let us cherish every single day and season of our lives.Related Posts and Podcasts you'll enjoy:Spring-Planted Bulbs - Link to comePhil's Squirrel DilemmaBulbs to Extend Spring Blooms - Blog Post Ep 81. Bulbs Extending Blooms & Deterring Squirrels8888I'd love to hear your garden and nature stories and your thoughts about topics for future podcast episodes. You can email me at AskMaryStone@gmail.com.You can Follow Garden Dilemmas on Facebook and Instagram #MaryElaineStone.Episode web page —Garden Dilemmas Podcast PageThank you for sharing the Garden of Life,Mary Stone, Columnist & Garden Designer                                        AskMaryStone.comMore about the Podcast and Column: Welcome to Garden Dilemmas, Delights, and Discoveries. It's not only about gardens; it's about nature's inspirations, about grasping the glories of the world around us, gathering what we learned from mother nature, and carrying these lessons into our garden of life. So, let's jump in in the spirit of learning from each other. We have lots to talk about. Thanks for tuning in, Mary Stone Garden Dilemmas? AskMaryStone.comDirect Link to Podcast Page

We're back! And we will stay back! As we celebrate our 125th anniversary as a family business, we look forward to sharing our passion for a beautiful world!

Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and Saul as they continue their professional gardening lives in the pure heaven that is Spring!There is something in the air at the start of March 2025, and Lucy and Saul have been breathing it in with huge gulps. The weather for the week has been set to glorious, and being a gardener outside has become pure joy, as the grey of winter seems (for now) to have been dispersed. And you can hear it in the Talking Heads pair's voices, as they become giddy with this time of year. Lucy is plunging head long into her own garden, while Saul wallows in his compost heap - isn't it a great time to be alive!LinkedIn link:Saul WalkerInstagram link:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensIntro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)Support the showSupport the show

Lighter, longer days signal the start of a joyous season for gardeners, and March is the perfect month to plan for the highlights of your spring and summer garden.Arthur Parkinson returns to ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' this week to share the plants that brought him the most joy last year, the trials he'll be undertaking in his own compact garden at home, and his personal pick of long-flowering varieties for successional colour and pollinator appeal, no matter the size of your plot. In this episode, discover:How to care for Arthur's favourite China rose ‘Mutabilis' so that it flowers for longer in your gardenStandout geums for a spectacle that lasts from May right through to OctoberThe narcissi varieties that Arthur looks forward to trialling this yearStandout dahlia varieties for summer pots, from last year's favourite ‘Tartan' to classics like ‘Blue Bayou'Products mentioned:Liriope muscarihttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/liriope-muscariRosa x odorata 'Mutabilis'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/rosa-x-oderata-mutabilisRosa × odorata 'Bengal Crimson' (China)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/rosa-x-odorata-bengal-crimsonGeum 'Totally Tangerine'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/geum-totally-tangerineNarcissus 'Cragford' (Forcing)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-cragford-for-forcingDahlia 'Tartan'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-tartanDahlia 'Waltzing Mathilda'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-waltzing-mathildaDahlia 'Blue Bayou'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-blue-bayouFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Bulbs from the amaryllidaceae family can be coaxed to bloom early, but host Amanda McNulty advises against using wax in the forcing process.

The re-introduction of inheritance tax on farm assets dominated this year's National Farmers Union Conference in London. The Union President told delegates farming is facing its biggest crisis of confidence in his lifetime. Facing a frosty reception, the DEFRA Secretary Steve Reed announced a new Farm Profitability Unit to be set up with the department, but told farmers he couldn't give them the answers they wanted on inheritance tax. Elsewhere, the conference focused on growth in agriculture - through investment, exports and tech. The Climate Change Committee has called for a transformation in agriculture in its latest report. The CCC advises the UK government on ways to reduce emissions in order to meet net zero by 2050. Its 7th report sets out a plan from 2038 to 2042, and recommends a 27% drop in the number of cattle and sheep, and that we all eat less meat.The government's allowing the re-introduction of beavers into the wild in England. Up until now they've only been allowed to be released into enclosures - though there have also been some illegal releases. Wildlife groups will need a licence and to get that they'll need a 10 year plan showing the impact beavers are expected to have. The National Farmers Union has argued that farmers should be able to kill beavers should they end up in the wrong place. Scientists at Scotland's Rural College have been feeding cattle an extract from daffodil bulbs to help reduce methane. The ground-breaking research aimed at reducing emissions is called "dancing with daffodils".We round off with a bit of tradition and competition. The European Ploughing Championships are being held in Nottinghamshire we catch up with a ploughing champion who's one of the organisers

Well winter is on our doorsteps, and for the general population any thoughts of gardening stops, as the common thought is the 'garden has gone to sleep'...Well nothing could be farther from the truth, as the season of shorter days and chilly weather could be one of the most important and busy in the yearly life of your garden. Join Saul and Lucy every week as they show you exactly how busy they are, whether getting everything festive for Xmas, clearing up after the latest storm, enjoying the emergent shoots of early flowering plants or getting ready for spring and a return to the start of the great garden cycle!It's another episode of your favourite professional gardening duo, and this week, Lucy and Saul are (thankfully) getting back to practical horticulture. Saul has been busy admiring his magnolias at Stonelands, and Lucy has won the battle of the miscanthus bed on Mersea, and the thorny bed at Kingsland. Hurrah!! We also thank our marvellous listeners (yes, that's YOU!) for helping Lucy with her coastal conundrum - Griselinia littoralis is the clear winner. And spring IS springing! We're happy to be fools if it's not - because there are definite signs that this glorious season is on its way.Instagram links:Lucy lucychamberlaingardensTwitter links:Saul @GardeningSaulSupport the show

The DEFRA Secretary told Farming Today the Government will be looking into ways to prevent cheap imports of crops grown in countries which allow the use of chemicals that aren't authorised for use in the UK. But how easy will that be? We ask a trade expert.There's been a flying trade for beef and sheep this spring. The price for what's called ‘dead weight' cattle is at its highest ever according to the ADHD, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, and they say sheep prices are historically high too. So what's behind these high prices? Are they likely to last? And will we be paying more for meat in the shops?And we visit a bulb business on a smallholding in Wales where, for almost 40 years, they've been sourcing and supplying a wide range of bulbs, both native to the British Isles, and from different parts of the world.Presented by Caz Graham Produced by Heather Simons

Bees are one of the most essential species in our ecosystem, and all of our gardens play a vital role in providing food and shelter for them to thrive.Beekeeper, gardener and writer Richard Rickitt's passion for these particular pollinators is utterly infectious. In this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Richard shares what inspired him to start keeping bees at an early age, his fascination with the many species of wild bees in the UK, and the small but important changes we as gardeners can make to help protect their dwindling populations.In this episode, discover:The best bee-friendly flowers and shrubs to provide early pollen and nectarHow to create habitat for wild bees in your borders and lawnWays to make your own fantastic, affordable bee hotelThe dangers of chemicals for pollinators in modern agricultureProducts mentioned:Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Blue'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/eryngium-bourgatiiGalanthus nivalis (Common Snowdrop)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/galanthus-nivalisBluebells (Hyacinthoides non scripta)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hyacinthoides-non-scripta-bluebellsSalix gracilistyla ‘Mount Aso'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salix-gracilistyla-mount-asoOrder Beekeeping for Gardeners:https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/beekeeping-for-gardeners-9781399404846/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

The Climate Change Committee has called for a transformation in agriculture in its latest report. The CCC advises the UK government on ways to reduce emissions in order to meet net zero by 2050. Its 7th report sets out a plan from 2038 to 2042, and recommends a 27% drop in the number of cattle and sheep, and that we all eat less meat. It wants to see more woodlands, more peatlands re-wetted and more energy crops like miscanthus. Scientists at Scotland's Rural College have been feeding cattle an extract from daffodil bulbs to help reduce methane. The ground-breaking research aimed at reducing emissions is called "dancing with daffodils".Fly tipping is on the up - the latest Environment Agency figures for England show more than a million incidents of rubbish being dumped on public land last year, up 6% from the year before. Those stats don't include fly tipping on farms, and the Country Land and Business Association says in its latest survey, 90 per cent of respondents reported having rubbish - from fridges to tyres - dumped on their land in the past year. Rural groups and councils are calling for tougher penalties for fly tippers.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Narcissi are such rewarding plants to grow, tolerant of almost any site and situation. At Perch Hill in particular, it's shaping up to be a stellar spring for the humble daffodil and its more diminutive narcissus relatives.Whether it's perenniality, perfume or punchy colours that you're after in your own garden, in this week's ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' Sarah shares her personal edit of the longest-flowering and most fragrant narcissi varieties to grow.In this episode, discover:Why planting narcissi in your garden can be a viable alternative to tulips as the climate continues to changeTop varieties for long, light flowering patterns (flowering a little over a long period of time), fabulous fragrance, and superb perennialityHow best to plant your narcissi so that they stand out in a successional bulb lasagneProducts mentioned:Narcissus poeticus var. recurvus ('Old Pheasant's Eye'): https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-pheasants-eyeNarcissus 'Avalanche': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-avalancheNarcissus 'Cragford' (Forcing): https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-cragford-for-forcingNarcissus 'Starlight Sensation': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-starlight-sensationNarcissus 'Moonlight Sensation': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-moonlight-sensationNarcissus bulbocodium 'White Petticoat': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-bulbocodium-white-petticoatNarcissus 'Pipit': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-pipitNarcissus 'Minnow': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-minnowNarcissus 'Actaea': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-actaeaDutch Iris Mix: https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dutch-iris-mixAllium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-hollandicum-purple-sensationFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Alfie Nickerson is a biodynamic flower farmer making his mark in British horticulture, and his 3,500-strong dahlia field, buzzing with wildlife, is testament to that.After working for 6 years as a jobbing gardener in London, and then volunteering at Fern Verrow – the biodynamic farm of previous guest Jane Scotter – Alfie describes his journey in creating the biodiverse haven that is Burnt Fen Flowers, as well as sharing his favourite annuals and dahlias, on this week's episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange'.In this episode, discover:Alfie's early gardening experiences in London, and what drew him to the Norfolk countrysideThe incredible work behind Burnt Fen's biodynamic flower cropHow they prioritise biodiversity in their practices, and what that biodiversity gives back to the landAlfie's absolute favourite varieties of annuals and dahlias for cuttingVisit Burnt Fen Flowers: https://burntfenflowers.com/Products mentioned:Ammi majushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusHelichrysum bracteatum 'White' (Sunflower)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helichrysum-bracteatum-whiteZinnia elegans 'Giant Purple Prince'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/zinnia-elegans-giant-purple-princePapaver somniferum 'Black Swan'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-black-swanDahlia 'Jowey Winnie'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-jowey-winnieFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Bea Andrews is no stranger to Perch Hill - she was head gardener for many years, and is now back in a new guise as our visiting florist, aka Botanika Flora.It's a joy to welcome Bea back for this nostalgic episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' with Sarah as she shares her fascinating background and route into horticulture in her native Hungary, the story of how she came to Perch Hill, and the inspiration she draws from the garden and the Sussex countryside in her stunning floral designs.In this episode, discover:The early inspirations behind Bea's journey into gardening, horticulture and floristryFond memories of Perch Hill, her impeccable eye for colour, and humorous anecdotes from her time as head gardenerWhat Bea looks for in seasonal cutting, and how she combines these flowers and foliage in her unique arrangementsProducts mentioned:Bea's Summer Dahlia Collection: https://www.sarahraven.com/products/beas-summer-dahlia-collectionFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Botanika Floral: https://www.botanikafloral.co.ukGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Join Eric, @DrJoe, @TimAndrewsHere, @Autopritts, @JaredYamamoto, George, and Greg in their newly extended timeslot from 3pm-7pm as they chat about Netflix bulbs, the forgotten 90s, reverse vacuuming, and so much more! *New episodes of our sister shows: The Popcast and The Nightcap w/ Jared Yamamoto are available as well!*