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Gather around for a special edition of the Master My Garden Podcast, where I shift gears from our usual horticultural insights to share a heartfelt holiday greeting. As the festive season warmly embraces us, I extend my sincerest wishes for a joyous Christmas and a promising New Year to all our listeners, whether you're just down the road in Ireland or tuning in from the farthest corners of the globe. This episode is a tribute to the incredible community that has blossomed around this podcast, filled with gratitude for your unwavering support throughout the year—be it through listening, sharing, or spreading the word about our gardening adventures.

Take a moment to bask in the festive spirit, indulge in some delicious treats, and enjoy the company of loved ones. This holiday message is my way of saying thank you for being a part of our gardening family. As we pause our regular programming until January 10th, I encourage you to savor the season's joys and reflect on a fruitful 2024, while dreaming of even more growth and happiness in 2025. Until we reconvene for more gardening wisdom, may your holiday season be merry, your New Year prosperous, and your gardens ever flourishing.

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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Join me on a fascinating exploration of the top 10 most beloved episodes of the Master My Garden Podcast, where gardening enthusiasts around the world have found inspiration and practical wisdom. This year, we faced unpredictable weather, with a cold and wet spring leading into an average summer, and yet, our love for gardening remained resilient. We celebrated the creativity of June Blake's garden designs and were enlightened by the organic growing techniques from Klaus Leitenberger and the profound insights of Dr. Elaine Ingham on the soil food web.

Listeners have been captivated by our episode on sowing perennial plants in autumn, which provided a cost-effective and rewarding gardening technique that resonated with many. Companion planting expert Tangai from Dunmore Country School offered valuable advice on sustainable gardening practices, while Niall McCauley brought his garden media wisdom to light, securing his episode as a listener favorite. The classics never go out of style, as evidenced by the enduring popularity of our episodes on growing lavender and exploring wildflowers with Sandra Cofola.

With the podcast now reaching audiences in 27 countries, including gardening hotspots like Ireland, the US, and Australia, I am both humbled and thrilled by the global community we've built. As Spotify gains ground as the preferred platform, your feedback and stories shared from Dublin to Sydney have been invaluable. As we close the year, I extend heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support and look forward to fostering even deeper connections in our gardening journey together. Merry Christmas and happy gardening!

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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Unlock the secrets of timeless gardening wisdom and discover how vintage insights can transform your garden today. Join us on this week's Master My Garden Podcast as we stroll through the pages of iconic gardening books and explore their lasting impact on modern horticulture.  We'll also touch on Mary Reynolds' compelling "We Are Ark," a call to action for creating wildlife sanctuaries within our own backyards. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just beginning, this episode promises to enrich your gardening journey with historical perspectives and fresh ideas.

Our journey continues with a spotlight on home gardening and no-dig techniques that are reshaping the way we cultivate our crops. Bailey Van Tassel's "The Kitchen Garden Living" leads the way with its rich illustrations and practical guides, followed by insights from the renowned DG Hessayon's "Expert" series. We'll delve into Charles Dowding's influential teachings on no-dig gardening and Richard Perkins' transformative work in "Regenerative Agriculture." To wrap up, we're excited to share our top book recommendations for gifting, including Jimmy Blake's "A Beautiful Obsession" and TJ Maher's exquisite take on garden color harmony with his book "Grounded in the garden" These selections are sure to inspire and captivate any garden lover, providing a bounty of knowledge and a feast for the eyes. Be sure to tune in next week for a special recap of our most popular discussions from the past year!

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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What if your garden could light up even the darkest winter days with vibrant colors? Uncover the secrets of winter gardening as we share expert tips to transform your outdoor space into a midwinter wonderland. From strategically positioning plants to brighten your mood to snapping up great deals on bare-root hedging plants and bulbs, this episode promises a treasure trove of knowledge for those eager to maintain a thriving garden all year round.

Join us as we explore the magic of winter-flowering plants, focusing on the stunning hellebores that offer a burst of color with minimal care. We dive into practical advice on maximizing their bloom potential and simple propagation techniques that ensure your garden remains cheerful through the coldest months. Whether planted in the ground or in pots to brighten up entrances and windows, hellebores are a surefire way to bring a hint of spring into your winter landscape.

Garden enthusiasts will also delight in our curated list of winter-flowering champions, from the pollinator-friendly witch hazel to the reliable pansies and violas. Explore the merits of polyanthus, primroses, and cyclamens, and learn how early-flowering bulbs like narcissi and snowdrops can add splashes of color. With these insights, you’ll be well-equipped to add not only beauty to your garden but also festive cheer to your home during the holiday season. Happy gardening, and may your winter blooms be ever bright!

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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Rosie Maye, the Insomniac Gardener, and Paula Byrne Kilgar Gardens join us for a joyful and festive episode of Master My Garden Podcast! With Christmas around the corner, we promise to unwrap the best gardening gifts for 2025, catering to every gardener's wish list and every budget, from the thrifty to the extravagant. Rosie and Paula bring their shared love of gardening and holiday spirit, sharing insightful tips and personal stories that highlight the perfect balance between practicality and festive cheer. This episode is brimming with laughter, great gift ideas, and a shared passion for both gardening and Christmas

Our conversation takes off with a spirited debate about the trusty leaf blower, offering insights into selecting the right brand for interchangeable batteries, a must-have tip for any gardener. From practical tools to lavish, dream-worthy presents, our guests share their personal favorites and experiences, ensuring a well-rounded guide for all your gift-giving needs. Whether you're seeking practical advice or dreaming of the perfect gift to delight the gardener in your life, Rosie and Paula's wisdom, humor, and love for Christmas provide a delightful and informative experience. Tune in and let us guide you through a garden of gift ideas that promise to bring holiday joy and inspiration to gardeners everywhere.

The episode is packed full of gift ideas so many its hard to add links to them all but here are links to a few of the items discussed on the episode.

Buy Tickets For The Dublin Garden Trail:
https://www.kilgargardens.ie
http://www.dublingardengroup.com

Hori Hori Knife:
https://www.bellmeadowireland.com/seedsandgarden/p/niwwakihorihori?rq=hori%20hori

The Irish Garden Subscription:
https://subscribe.garden.ie

Rosabell plant Supports:
https://www.rosabellplantsupports.co.uk

RHSI Membership:
https://rhsi.ie/membership-3/

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

Send Me A Message!!

Could your garden flourish with only a sprinkle of fallen leaves? Unlock the secrets of creating nutrient-rich leaf mold to naturally boost soil health and transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem. In this episode of Master My Garden podcast, we unravel the art of turning autumn’s abundance into a gardener’s goldmine, inspired by a curious listener's question. You'll discover not just the simplicity of making leaf mold but also the patience it demands, akin to nature’s slow dance in the forest. As we embrace the seasonal shift, learn how to prepare your garden for the chill of frost, and explore the timely practice of bare root and root ball planting to ensure your garden thrives through the cold months.

Venture beyond leaf mold and step into the world of composting mastery. From the basics of balancing green and brown materials in your compost bin to exploring innovative techniques like the Bokashi bin method and worm bins, we offer valuable insights for every garden space. Whether you're dealing with a towering compost heap or trying to manage food waste in a small apartment, there's a method for you. With personal tips and tried-and-tested advice, get ready to revamp your composting routine and gear up your garden for the upcoming bare root planting season. Plus, don’t miss a sneak peek into our upcoming episode, where we'll explore perfect Christmas gifts for the garden enthusiasts in your life.

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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What if you could transform your gardening experience extend the growing season and grow warm loving plants and crops.  Discover the secrets to selecting the perfect greenhouse for your garden, inspired by a listener's inquiry about choosing the best option. Whether you're battling the unpredictable weather of Ireland or simply seeking to extend your growing season, this episode promises to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your greenhouse investment.

Explore the myriad considerations that come into play when planning to install a greenhouse. From budget constraints and location to aesthetics and intended use, each factor plays a critical role in integrating your new structure into your outdoor space. Learn why opting for a slightly larger greenhouse than initially planned can prove beneficial, and consider the pros and cons of materials like cedar wood, aluminum, and polycarbonate. With insights into heating decisions and ensuring your greenhouse complements your garden, you'll be ready to create a space that meets your unique needs.

Compare and contrast the different types of greenhouse structures, such as polytunnels, glasshouses, and polycarbonate tunnels, as we highlight their advantages and limitations. Delve into advancements in polycarbonate designs and discover why they are increasingly popular for withstanding harsh conditions. From budget-friendly pop-up greenhouses to the often overlooked but durable cold frames, we guide you through available options, ensuring you select a solution that perfectly suits your gardening journey.

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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Get ready to uncover the secrets behind crafting garden structures that are both beautiful and resilient with none other than Rosie Campbell from Rosabell Plant Supports. Rosie, a true innovator in the field, shares her journey from needing durable plant supports for her own garden to creating a thriving business that provides high-quality, mild steel garden structures designed to withstand the harsh Irish climate. You'll learn how investing in robust, aesthetically pleasing arches, trellises, and obelisks can offer a long-term solution for your garden's needs.

Let your imagination wander through a picturesque garden nestled between the mountains and the sea in County Down. Transforming this space into a lush, cottage-style haven over 20 years involved overcoming challenges like strong winds and evolving the garden with sturdy plant supports. We'll discuss the trials and joys of gardening, and how a simple change, like swapping tarmac for gravel, improved rainwater management and transformed the garden's aesthetic appeal.

Explore the creative blend of art and utility with Rosie's unique garden accessories, from whimsical metal flowers to bespoke birdbaths. Discover how her creative process, from crafting clay models to replicating them in resin, results in unique garden pieces that add charm and practicality. We also touch on exciting new projects, including modern cloches inspired by Victorian designs, illustrating a constant evolution of ideas aimed at enhancing outdoor spaces. This episode is an essential listen for any gardening enthusiast looking to marry function with beauty.

You can see all of the Rosabell range here:
https://www.rosabellplantsupports.co.uk

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

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Join us as we explore the art of bare root planting alongside experts Caitriona and Robert from Cullen Nurseries in Carlow. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of this cost-effective gardening method, perfect for large-scale projects. Katrina and Robert share their journey through the ever-evolving trends of the nursery industry—from the Leylandii craze of the 1980s to today’s focus on native and sustainable species. Gain insights into the patience and expertise required to grow plants destined for sale years down the line.

Get ready to transform your landscape with a splash of evergreen elegance. We delve into the growing popularity of hedge options like beech, laurel, and Red Robin, examining the art of trimming techniques that keep your hedges lush nearly all year round. Listen as we ponder the aesthetics of mixed hedging and the balance between uniformity and diversity in planting. The conversation delves into the demand for Portuguese laurel and the vibrant Photinia Carre Rouge, appreciated for their beauty and low maintenance.

As we round off, we shift focus to sustainable practices in gardening and nursery management—an area gaining momentum as farmers and gardeners alike embrace biodiversity.  We discuss how strategic planting not only enhances biodiversity but also nurtures the ecosystem, helping reduce pesticide reliance. This episode is your guide to hedges and hedges and how these will help you  making impactful changes in your gardening habits while contributing to environmental conservation.

You can find Cullen nurseries here:
https://cullennurseries.ie

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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

Send Me A Message!!

Join us on an enchanting journey through the world of snowdrops with our esteemed guest, Robert Miller from Altamont Plants. As we discuss the incredible acquisition of rare snowdrop varieties, learn first hand about the challenges and triumphs of managing one of Europe's largest public displays of these delicate winter flowers.

You'll gain insights into the art of snowdrop cultivation, particularly the practice of selling them "in the green" for the best results. Listen as we explore the exciting addition of over 12,500 snowdrop bulbs at Altamont, featuring more than 600 unique varieties, including some that have never been seen in Ireland before. Robert also shares how Brexit has shaped the availability of certain varieties and how Altamont is navigating these changes, offering a fresh perspective on the growing enthusiasm for snowdrop collecting.

Finally, feel the anticipation building for the upcoming annual Snowdrop Gala, a premier event for gardening enthusiasts. With an impressive lineup of speakers, including Chris Ireland-Jones, the gala promises to be a celebration of all things snowdrop. We discuss the importance of face-to-face interactions in the gardening community and ensuring the health of plants before purchase. This episode is filled with passion and excitement as we unite snowdrop lovers from around the world, and you won’t want to miss it!

Follow Altamont Plants For updates:
https://www.instagram.com/altamontplants/

Support the show

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: [email protected]

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