This week on the Veg Grower Podcast, I share a jam-packed update from both the allotment and home garden, reflecting on everything from caterpillar invasions to rainwater harvesting – with plenty of musings on the tools that truly earn their keep.

Allotment Update: Rain, Brambles & Brassicas

The long-awaited rain finally arrived in Littlehampton, giving the allotment a much-needed drink and easing the burden of watering. Rainwater always seems to perk up the plants more than tap water ever could.

However, with the rain came growth in less welcome areas. Nettles and brambles have run rampant near both sheds. One area may be transformed into a new corrugated iron bed, while the gooseberry patch might require drastic action to remove deeply rooted brambles.

The biggest issue, though, is caterpillars. With netting blown off the brassicas, cabbage white butterflies have taken full advantage. Cauliflower crops have been hit the hardest, and I’m now picking off caterpillars by hand – and letting the chickens lend a helping beak.

At Home: Companion Planting & Metal Arch Makeover

Back in the kitchen garden, there's better news. Despite no netting on the brassicas at home, there are no caterpillar problems – likely thanks to bird activity and clever companion planting. Nasturtiums, used as a sacrificial crop, are proving their worth by attracting pests away from the main crops.

I also share how an old metal arch is being transformed into a feature piece in the garden, destined to support an apple and pear tree to form an edible archway. A win for productivity and garden design.

Tools of the Trade: What’s Worth Keeping?

Inspired by recent renovations and a bit of a tidy-up, I’ve been reflecting on the tools I actually use – and which ones it’s time to pass on.

Tools I wouldn't be without:

Hori Hori Knife – for digging, cutting, and planting

Battery-powered Strimmer – lightweight and perfect for borders

Battery Hedge Trimmer – efficient and hassle-free

Secateurs – a sharp, reliable pair is essential

Perennial Spade – narrow blade for tighter spaces

normal spade – handy for bigger jobs

Fork – perfect for loosening soil

Ryobi Stick Pump – brilliant for pumping water from the butt to the beds

Hoe – fast weeding between rows

Rake – spreading compost or mulch

There’s no point keeping tools that don’t earn their place. I’m ready to clear out the clutter and make room for the tools that work hard.

Chef Scott’s Recipe of the Week

Scott’s been back in the kitchen giving cucumber a brand new lease of life. This week’s recipe pairs warm cucumber with hot smoked salmon and watercress, topped with a creamy horseradish and lemon dressing. A great way to use seasonal ingredients in a dish with a bit of flair.

And Finally…

It wouldn’t be a Veg Grower Podcast without a bit of drama – this week’s episode features a mishap with a snapped allotment key. Should I keep a battery-powered angle grinder in the car? You decide.

Thanks for listening, and a big thank you to all our Supporters Club members who keep the podcast going.