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Master My Garden Podcast

314 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago -

Master My Garden podcast with John Jones. The gardening podcast that helps you master your own garden. With new episodes weekly packed full of gardening tips, how to garden guides, interviews with gardening experts on many gardening topics and just about anything that will help you in your garden whether you are a new or a seasoned gardener. I hope you enjoy.John

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Episodes

EP222- Slugs & Snails !!! How To Protect Your Garden and Plants From Slugs & Snails.

April 19, 2024 05:00 - 33 minutes - 23.2 MB

Ever found yourself in the garden, glaring at a slimy trail that once was your favorite lettuce? Well, you're not alone in this snail saga gardeners have always had a continuous battle with slugs and snails. This spring is not going to be any different with all the wet weather over the last number of months coupled with a mild winter, slugs and snails will be out in force.  In this weeks episode, I share the gritty details of the war on slugs.  From clean gardening practices  which help. H...

EP221- Gardening for the Soul: Des Doyle Chats About His New Book Growing Beauty

April 12, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.7 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Des Doyle, garden designer, course creator and now author all about his new book "Growing Beauty". The conversation goes in many directions as Des sharing his gardening knowledge with us, we delve into sustainability, garden design, great plant combinations, gardening for mental health and so much more. Discover the transformative power of gardening with the wisdom of Des Doyle, who returns to grace our show following his memorable insights from episod...

EP220- What To Sow In The April Vegetable Garden & Other Gardening Jobs.

April 05, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

In this weeks episode John looks at what we can sow in the April vegetable garden and other gardening jobs.  April is the month when seed sowing is at its peak with lots on the sowing list for this month.  We can begin sowing and planting outside once conditions allow. In some areas and especially in colder parts of Ireland frosts are still prevalent and will be until perhaps mid May so again proceed with caution.  If planting out veg later in the month if possible give it some form of prot...

EP219- TJ Maher Patthana Garden, Chats About His New Book "Grounded In The Garden"

March 29, 2024 06:00 - 42 minutes - 29.5 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with TJ Maher Patthana garden about his new book. Join us as we chat with TJ , whose dual passions for art and gardening have culminated in his latest masterpiece of a book, "Grounded in the Garden." This episode is a kaleidoscope of insights into how TJ's painterly eye has transformed his own space, where his adept use of colour and form creates a living canvas that is the beautiful Patthana Garden. With the spellbinding imagery of Jason Ingram and Clive ...

- EP218 Am I Too Late To Start My Veg Garden, Fireblight, Late Start Gardening & More.

March 22, 2024 06:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MB

With all the rain we have had some people are wondering are they too late to start a vegetable garden this spring. The answer is a definite no it never too late to start.  I've got the lowdown on how you can still sow seeds of success in your garden, even if you're getting a late start. Tune in as I divulge the secrets of setting up a no-dig bed in no time and how grabbing store-bought seedlings can fast-track your path to fresh, homegrown veggies. With the planting window for bare-root fr...

EP217- Edel Feighery Garden Designer Gives Her Garden Design & Planting Tips That You Can Use In Your Own Garden!

March 15, 2024 06:00 - 42 minutes - 29.4 MB

In this weeks episode John is joined by Galway based garden designer Edel Feighery to chat about all things garden design. From How to start a garden? To planning and design Tips and everything in between. Have you ever gazed at your garden, wondering how to transform it into a personal refuge that mirrors your own story? Let's embark on that journey together with Edel  garden designer whose roots in a midlands farm have blossomed into a business crafting bespoke garden sanctuaries for her...

EP216- Peter Donegan's Chat About His Upcoming Garden "A Moment In Time" At Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show & Much More

March 08, 2024 06:00 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MB

In this weeks episode John is joined by award winning garden designer Peter Donegan to hear the story of Peter's Gold medal at last years Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show.  We also chat about Peter's exciting entry into Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show with his garden titled " A Moment In Time". Join the conversation with the incredible Peter Donegan, acclaimed Irish garden designer, as he makes his third appearance with us to share the triumphs and trials of his jo...

EP215- What To Sow In March & Other Gardening Jobs!!

March 01, 2024 06:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

What vegetable seeds to sow in the month of March? That's the topic on this weeks episode.  The days are getting longer and the seed sowing list for March is also increasing. The big point to note is March is often described as "March of many weathers" and because of that we need to take care of our tender seedlings and young plants in the coming weeks.  Here is a list of some of what I will be sowing during the month ahead. Seed I am sowing Indoor in Module trays for Planting out In April...

EP214- Plant Summer Bulbs & Bareroot Perennials Now For A Summer Of Colour!

February 23, 2024 06:00 - 16 minutes - 11.5 MB

In this weeks episode John looks at summer flowering bulbs and bareroot perennial plants that you can plant now for an high colour garden this year.  Summer Flowering bulbs available now include:  Dahalias Lillium  Gladiolus Anemones Ranunculus Rudbeckias  Then when it comes to bareroot perennials the list is endless at the moment and includes: Salvias Verbena  Geum Lupin Geraniums  Dierama and many many more. Buying perennials bareroot will ensure strong plants that flower th...

EP213- Can I Build My Garden On Old Stone Drive ? Listener Question Answered.

February 16, 2024 06:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MB

Can I create my garden on an old stone drive? This is one part of a listener question from long time listener Stephen Daly. Like many of us in Ireland our houses are surrounded by driveways which in many cases are too big leaving the workable garden feeling separate to our homes. With a stone drive to be changed Stephen wonders does he need to start from scratch or can there be an easier, more cost affective method ? Listen in as John answers this in a way that might help many other who ...

EP212- What Seeds To Sow In February for a Prosperous Garden.

February 09, 2024 06:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

Have you ever been tempted to sow seeds the minute February's frost begins to thaw, only to end up with a garden of spindly plants? In our latest gardening episode, I'll guide you through the dos and don'ts of February sowing, ensuring you sow at the ideal time for robust seedling growth. We're embracing the subtle lengthening days, a signal for gardeners to prepare their soil, but with a mindful approach to avoid premature sowing. As we gingerly step into early-season planting, I'll walk ...

EP211- Paul Smyth On Developemnts at RHSI Bellefield Garden & Plans For Snowdrop Open Weekend and beyond!

February 02, 2024 06:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Paul Smyth Head Gardener of RHSI Bellefield. Paul was previously on the podcast almost a year ago in episode 160 which you can listen to here  https://www.buzzsprout.com/857398/12168966 In this episode one year on from the episode 160 we chat aboiut how Paul is putting his own stamp on Bellefield after beginning there in December 2022. There are as you would expect lots of developments including a no-dig veg and cut flower garden.  Paul along with the...

EP210- The Compost Coach Kate Flood On Turning Scraps Into soils Treasure. Expert Composting Techniques

January 26, 2024 06:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MB

Unlock the secrets to turning your kitchen scraps into garden gold as we welcome Kate Flood, Australia's composting maestro, to the show. Get ready to be equipped with the know-how for crafting the perfect compost blend, as Kate lifts the lid on the essential ingredients and processes that lead to lush, thriving gardens. Whether you're wrestling with a tiny balcony space or looking after a large garden, we've got composting tips and tricks tailored just for you. This episode is a one-stop-s...

EP209- What Are The Best Potato Varieties For Your Garden.

January 19, 2024 06:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MB

In this weeks episode John looks at what are the best potato varieties to grow from early varieties like Sharpes express, Homeguard and Duke Of York. Second earlies such as the superb British Queens. Salad potatoes like Charlotte and Pink Fir Apple. We also chat about many main crop varieties and growing blight free varieties like Vitabella, Alouette, Sarpo Axona and Carolus. If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know. Email:  info@mastermygarden....

EP208- Gardening Jobs For January & Being Patient Around Sowing Seeds!!

January 12, 2024 06:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MB

In this weeks episode of Master My Garden Podcast John chats all about gardening jobs for January. Lets be honest over the next few weeks our social media feeds will be filled with people sowing seeds and this can lead us to believe that we are falling behind in our gardens. Trust me you are not!!! January is too early for almost all veg seed. So let's buck the trend together focusing on patience and precision in our gardening endeavors! You'll discover the select floral candidates that...

EP207- Happy Christmas & New Year To All My Listeners

December 22, 2023 06:00 - 2 minutes - 1.99 MB

You've been with us through the highs and lows of 2023, and now it's time to send off the year and express a heartfelt thank you. Yes, you, our wonderful listeners who've journeyed with us, sharing the love of gardening and supporting the Master my Garden podcast - this episode is dedicated to you! Today, we're trading our gardening gloves for glasses of holiday cheer as we take a moment to appreciate your unwavering support. Feeling the warmth of the festive season, we hope you're surround...

EP206- Reflecting On The Very Difficult Gardening Year 2023 Looking Forward To 2024 and Our Top 10 Podcast Episodes To Date

December 15, 2023 06:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

Ever wondered how a year of challenging weather can impact gardening? Join us in reflecting on the gardening year 2023 in Ireland, a year marked by the wettest March on record, a scorching May, and incessant downpours in July and August. Listen in as we unpack how these erratic weather patterns affected the growth of flowers and vegetables, while also challenging our motivation to continue nurturing our garden life. Despite the rocky ride, we assure you that nature's cycle is restorative, an...

EP205- Looking After Wild birds With Niall Hatch Birdwatch Ireland. Feeding, Nesting and more!!

December 08, 2023 06:00 - 57 minutes - 39.8 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland all about wild bird in our gardens. We chat about the best foods to attract in a wide range of birds and how to set up feeding stations and nesting boxes for maximum benefit. Join us as we engage in an enlightening chat with the knowledgeable Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland. Niall chats about the Birdwatch Ireland garden bird surgery which has been running for many years and chats about some of the recent finding i...

EP204- Christmas Gift Ideas For Gardeners 2023 With Fellow Gardeners Stela & Julie Anne.

December 01, 2023 06:00 - 58 minutes - 39.9 MB

In this weeks episode I chat with two fellow gardeners Stela & Julie-Anne all about, The Best Christmas Gifts For Gardeners.  Having covered this episode before on Master My Garden podcast John was delighted to be joined by the ladies and to hear the types of gifts on their lists suitable for gardeners.  One of the overriding themes from all was to buy quality gifts that would stand the test of time and focus on sustainable gifts for the garden.  Included on the lists were lots of really ...

EP203- How To Brighten Your Garden With Plants, Trees & Bulbs This Winter.

November 24, 2023 06:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MB

Looking for ways to beat the winter blues right from your home? In this weeks episode John takes you through a journey of transforming your garden with winter colour bringing vibrancy and cheer even on the darkest days. We share invaluable tips and strategies, delving into the selection of unique plants that not only thrive during winter but also bring in a splash of color and attract delightful birds. We also emphasize the importance of planting location - keep them close to have a cheerful...

EP202- Anya Lautenbach. Anya the Garden Fairy Turning Survival Skills into a Gardening Revolution

November 17, 2023 06:00 - 35 minutes - 24.4 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Anya Lautenbach all about her gardening story, her new book "The Money Saving Gardener" and how she inspires so many people online with her channels "Anya The Garden Fairy". Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and drawn into the captivating world of gardening with Anya Lautenbach,  more lovingly known on Instagram as Anya the Garden Fairy. Not your typical gardener, Anya takes us on a unique journey through her childhood in Poland where gardening wa...

EP201- November Gardening Jobs To Get Ahead For Next Spring, Navigating Wet Conditions and Setting Up Bird Feeding Stations

November 10, 2023 06:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MB

Its safe to say that many of our gardens are a little damp at the moment with a run of many wet months here in Ireland. When its like that the garden may not seem like an enticing place however there is still lots to be done and work done now will really set your garden up for success next spring and summer.   Ever wondered how to guard your bird feeders from predators or attract a variety of birds with diverse food? Stick with us as we spill the secrets and share the importance of a water ...

EP200- Good Hedging Options For An Irish Garden? A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Caring for Hedges.

November 03, 2023 06:00 - 47 minutes - 32.5 MB

What are the best hedges for your garden?  The answer to that is wide and in order for you to choose the best hedge you should ask a few questions first.  Do I want evergreen or deciduous ? Purpose of the hedge ? Shelter, Noise filter, support biodiversity, frame your garden, create a room or space within your garden etc.  What height do I want it to grow to? What is my soil like? wet/dry etc Situation ? inland / costal How many times per year does it need to be cut? can I manage this...

EP199- Exploring the Delightful World of Daffodils with Dave & Jules Hardy Esker Farm Daffodils

October 27, 2023 05:00 - 57 minutes - 39.3 MB

In this weeks super episode the topic is Daffodils and other bulbs with Dave & Jules from  Esker Farm Daffodils Gardening enthusiasts, prepare to be dazzled by the delightful world of daffodils as we walk you through the fields of Esker Farm Daffodils in Co Tyrone with guests  Dave & Jules Hardy. Dave & Jules  are dedicated growers and are set to divulge the fascinating details of nurturing over 800 unique varieties of daffodils. From a humble hobby to a flourishing business, Dave & Jules...

EP198 Listener Question How To Create Shelter In My Windswept Garden.

October 20, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MB

What if you could transform your windswept hill into a serene shelter with just the right selection of trees? This intriguing possibility is the core of this weeks episode when're John answers a listeners question. Peggy from County Cavan asks what fast growing trees she can use to to create shelter in her garden which is situated on a windswept hill.  We venture into the realm of horticultural wisdom, explaining why conventional choices like poplars may not be the best fit for a windswept...

EP198- Listener Question How To Create Shelter In My Windswept Garden.

October 20, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MB

What if you could transform your windswept hill into a serene shelter with just the right selection of trees? This intriguing possibility is the core of this weeks episode when're John answers a listeners question. Peggy from County Cavan asks what fast growing trees she can use to to create shelter in her garden which is situated on a windswept hill.  We venture into the realm of horticultural wisdom, explaining why conventional choices like poplars may not be the best fit for a windswept...

EP197- Listener Question Answered, "Are the trees I bought suitable for my small garden"?

October 13, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MB

Ever wondered how to pick the perfect small trees for your small garden? Well, you're in for a treat! We help a listener, Susie, navigate the complexities of choosing the best plants for her cottage garden. Touching on two potential picks - the beautiful John Downey crab apple tree and the unique Cornus Controversa variagata (the wedding cake tree), we explore how to gauge their potential growth sizes and manage their development effectively. If you've ever been in Susie's shoes, struggling ...

EP196- Exploring Jennifer Jewell's Latest Book "What We Sow" On the Personal, Ecological and Cultural Significance of Seeds

October 06, 2023 05:00 - 50 minutes - 34.7 MB

This weeks John chats with Jennifer Jewell gardener, garden writer & podcaster  all about her latest book. "What We Sow" It is an enlightening discussion with Jennifer which takes us through her book and in doing so touches on so many areas of gardening. Jennifer's latest book, 'What We Sow,' delves into the profound personal, ecological, and cultural significance of seeds. A journey through her book uncovers the wide-reaching implications of seed production and distribution on our society...

EP195- Autumn Planting Bulbs. Top Tips For Super Displays Next Spring.

September 29, 2023 05:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MB

In this weeks episode John looks at spring flowering bulbs and offers top tips to ensure you get the most from your bulbs. With bulbs it is very hard to fail so even novice Gardners can make great displays.  Are you ready to transform your garden into a spring wonderland? Guaranteeing to cover everything you need to know about autumn planting, spring flowering bulbs, this episode is a must-listen for both novice and seasoned gardeners. We will walk you through the process step by step, sha...

EP194- Kieran Fitzgerald Exploring Johnstown Castle Estate: A Journey of Horticultural Restoration and Conservation

September 22, 2023 05:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Kieran Fitzgerald head gardener of Johnstown Castle Estate all about the gardens and the restoration that is ongoing down there. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the breathtaking grounds of Johnstown Castle Estate with Kieran Fitzgerald, the man tasked with preserving its grandeur. Kieran, head gardener of this magnificent castle estate in County Wexford, Ireland, shares the triumphs, challenges, and painstaking efforts behind the mai...

EP194- Ciaran Fitzgerald Exploring Johnstown Castle Estate: A Journey of Horticultural Restoration and Conservation

September 22, 2023 05:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Ciaran Fitzgerald head gardener of Johnstown Castle Estate all about the gardens and the restoration that is ongoing down there. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the breathtaking grounds of Johnstown Castle Estate with Ciaran Fitzgerald, the man tasked with preserving its grandeur. Ciaran, head gardener of this magnificent castle estate in County Wexford, Ireland, shares the triumphs, challenges, and painstaking efforts behind the mai...

EP193- Creating Spectacular Winter Planters: Essential Care Tips and Techniques

September 15, 2023 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MB

After the poor weather through July and August summer planters, window boxes and hanging baskets are not looking their best. In fact they never really got a chance to shine this year and now as the days are getting shorter they are looking worst for wear. So now is a good time to freshen up those planters to brighten your patio or front door from now through to next spring.  Can you imagine your outdoor spaces filled with vibrant colours and striking foliage in the depths of winter? What i...

- EP193 Creating Spectacular Winter Planters: Essential Care Tips and Techniques

September 15, 2023 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MB

After the poor weather through July and August summer planters, window boxes and hanging baskets are not looking their best. In fact they never really got a chance to shine this year and now as the days are getting shorter they are looking worst for wear. So now is a good time to freshen up those planters to brighten your patio or front door from now through to next spring.  Can you imagine your outdoor spaces filled with vibrant colours and striking foliage in the depths of winter? What i...

EP192- Eilís & Michael From Gaelic Fungi Farms Chat Growing Mushrooms In Carlow, Health Benefits, Growing At Home & Much More!!

September 08, 2023 05:00 - 51 minutes - 35.1 MB

Ready to embark on a captivating journey into the world of mushroom cultivation and their medicinal properties? We've got you covered! Join us as we welcome the dynamic owners of Gaelic Fungi Farm, Michael and Eilís, who reveal the intricate process of growing medicinal mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Turkey Tail. Discover how these healthy fungi are gaining popularity and the beautiful culture behind starting a mushroom farm. Imagine balancing a unique lifestyle with the hands-on process of...

EP191- From Soil to Table - A Conversation with Tom Doorley

September 01, 2023 05:00 - 45 minutes - 31.3 MB

Prepare to be transported into the luscious world of gardening and food with our guest, Tom Doorley. Acclaimed journalist, broadcaster, food critic, and Sunday Times garden columnist.  Tom invites us to relish in his tales of soil, seeds, and serenity. He unfolds his journey from his roots, growing up with gardening parents, to his current position as a highly respected garden columnist. Along the way, he sprinkles illuminating insights into his love for plants, herbs, and the captivating ...

EP190- What To Sow In The Vegetable Garden This September

August 25, 2023 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

In this weeks episode of Master My Garden podcast John looks at what to sow in the September vegetable garden.  We still hopefully have lots of great harvests coming from our vegetable gardens crops like onions, potatoes, garlic , cabbage, cauliflower coming out or do to be harvested soon. It is important to get these bare spaces filled back in with new crops for the Autumn and beyond.  September really is the last chance to sow this year and the list of what we can sow is reducing dramati...

EP189- Listener Question The Comprehensive Guide to Establishing a Wildflower Meadow

August 18, 2023 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

In this weeks episode John answers a listeners question. How to create a wildflower meadow / patch from scratch? We look at the distinctions between native Irish wildflowers and cultivated flowers used in floral meadows.  Listen to us as we map the path to your dream meadow. We tap into the wisdom of Sandra Cofola Irish Wildflower expert, sharing valuable insights from previous episodes, and discuss how wildflower meadows influence biodiversity. In this episode, we'll navigate through the...

EP188- 10 Flower Seeds To Sow At This Time of Year To Create Your Own Perennial Border!

August 11, 2023 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

What if you could transform your garden into a stunning display of color and fragrance, simply by sowing your own seeds? Join me as I revisit the perennials I sowed last autumn, revealing the secrets to their success and the benefits of creating your own perennial border from seed. From the importance of aeration when autumn sowing to the correct sowing techniques, we'll delve into the practical aspects of sowing your own flower seeds. While listing 10 flowers we can sow from seed this autu...

EP187- Listener Question Answered Is It Safe To Use Harvested Rainwater In My Vegetable Garden?

August 04, 2023 05:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MB

In this weeks episode a listener asks a question about how to safely save rainwater for use in her Potager garden. John Looks at all the pros and cons of harvesting rainwater and gives the tips to ensure you are are saving water safely.  Ever considered the benefits of rainwater for your garden? Prepare to discover how this natural resource can be a sustainable and effective alternative to mains water, offsetting dry periods and being much better for your plants. This episode also highligh...

EP186- What To Sow In The Month Of August In The Vegetable Garden

July 28, 2023 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

In this weeks episode of Master My Garden podcast John looks at what to sow in the August vegetable garden. August is generally is a month great harvests in our vegetable gardens. Great harvest means bare space when crops like onions, potatoes, garlic , cabbage, cauliflower etc come out. It is important to get these bare spaces filled back in with new crops for the Autumn and beyond. When it comes to what we can sow in August the variety of seeds that we can actually sow is reducing dram...

EP185 - Dry Flower Gardening, Wildflower Meadows & More With The Soulful Gardener Julie Anne Kelly

July 21, 2023 05:00 - 40 minutes - 27.8 MB

In this weeks episode John chats with Julie Anne Kelly The Soulful Gardener who has a fantastic garden in Ballinakill Co Laois which was featured on Irelands Garden Heros. John & Julie Anne, chat about wildflowers meadows, cut flowers gardens, drying flowers, therapeutic horticulture, sustainability, up-cycling and much more. Julie is opening her garden on Sunday 30th July with all money raised going to charity you can find the garden at Eircode R32D2H4 or to follow Julie-Anne The Soulful ...

EP184- How To Take Softwood Cuttings ?

July 14, 2023 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

Is it too late to take softwood cuttings? That was a listener query from last week.   Technically mid-July is a little late if you follow textbook rules, however, I have always found that they will root perfect at this stage of the year.   What will I need to take softwood cuttings?   An airy growing media you can mix perlite through to add air to the rootzone.   A plastic zip lock bag to put cuttings in straight away to avoid transpiration.   Rooting powder is useful but not essential....

EP183- Gardening Treasure With Harry From Kilkenny Architectural Salvage

July 07, 2023 05:00 - 49 minutes - 34.3 MB

In this weeks episode John is joined by Harry from Kilkenny Architectural salvage to chat about all the treasures they have for gardeners. There are some great topics covered including how we should reuse more and not be so quick to send our "stuff" to landfill after it is no longer useful to us. We also chat about the many treats Kilkenny Architectural salvage have for gardeners. The best sellers from that list and much more !! Your can find Kilkenny Architectural salvage  here:  https...

EP182- What To Sow In July & Other Gardening Jobs

June 30, 2023 05:00 - 19 minutes - 13.7 MB

In this weeks episode of Master My Garden podcast John looks at what to sow in July and other gardening jobs. July is a month when all our vegetable beds are heaving with produce and space for new crops can be at a premium. It is important to keep sowing so you will have plants to go in after you harvest your onions, potatoes and other crops. This will ensure you have supply right through to the autumn and winter. Sow what can we sow in July ? Direct sowing outside:   Carrots making s...

EP181- Do You Consider The Environmental Impact When You Purchase Gardening Equipment ?

June 23, 2023 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.3 MB

Do you consider the environment when you buy garden equipment?   Having visited a garden trade show this week John chats about garden equipment, and how some equipment which we might perceive as environmentally friendly because, for example, the name says 100% recycled may not be environmentally friendly.   At the show John came across many companies talking about and highlighting products made from recycled material but are these products always environmentally friendly?  Is everything as...

EP180- Gareth Austin Chats Organic Growing, Donegal Weather & Much More

June 16, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.4 MB

In this week's episode John chats with Gareth Austin.     Gareth is based in Donegal and is a superb gardener with many strings to his bow which we talk about. We centre the episode on growing food which Gareth does on a larger scale to feed family and friends all year round.    He also provides garden commentary with BBC Northern Ireland, is a Horticulture Instructor with Donegal ETB and has a master's in organic horticulture.    Gareth is a member of the Chartered Institute of Horticultu...

EP179- Garden Show Ireland 2023 With Diarmuid Gavin

June 12, 2023 05:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

John is joined by Diarmuid Gavin show ambassador for Garden Show Ireland to chat about the show and the recently completed Coronation Garden Diarmuid completed.  Garden Show Ireland returns to Antrim Castle Gardens The three-day gardening extravaganza takes place from 16-18 June 2023 Now in its 19th year, the show runs from Friday 16 – Sunday 18 June and is expected to attract some 30,000 visitors across the weekend. Northern Ireland’s largest gardening festival, the horticulture showcas...

EP178- Listeners Question On Garden Fencing Answered

June 09, 2023 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MB

In this week's episode John answers, a listener's question which comes from Imelda Morice. The question is as follows.     Imelda here from France, we spoke several months ago at the time of your 100th podcast!   We own a house and garden in Ireland, in Mayo on the coast, and we need to change the fence around the garden. I have never done this before and I am anxious to avoid mistakes that I might regret later. The present fence is made of timber, (I have photos if you wish to see them) ...

EP177- What To Sow In June & Other Gardening Jobs.

June 02, 2023 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MB

What seeds can I sow in June? That is the topic of this week's episode and John looks at what seeds you can sow in your vegetable garden in the month of June.   When we start the year the number of different seeds, we can sow increases month by month right up to May being the month where we can sow most seeds. When we get into June, however, our list starts to get smaller again. So, what can we sow in June?   Direct sowing outside:   Carrots  Parsnip (early in June last chance)  Beetroo...

EP176- Pest & Disease Problems In Your Garden. What can we do ?

May 26, 2023 05:00 - 31 minutes - 21.6 MB

Many gardeners are experiencing pest & disease problems at the moment so in this weeks episode John looks at the various pests and diseases and what we can do to ensure they don't become too big of an issue. My mantra is as always a healthy plant is less susceptible to pests and diseases so that's where we start. The way to having healthy plants is to have healthy soil and that is the starting point. From there we look at best husbandry to not give diseases the conditions they like to take...

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