Discover the secrets of thriving fruit trees with Susan Poizner, founder of Orchard People and author of multiple books on fruit tree care. In this comprehensive conversation, Susan shares her remarkable journey from BBC journalist to fruit tree expert, sparked by a community orchard project that taught her valuable lessons through trial and error.

Susan reveals the often-misunderstood purpose of pruning – not merely for size control, but as the essential foundation for disease prevention and quality fruit production. She expertly breaks down the science behind why proper pruning creates a healthier environment within the tree canopy, preventing the damp, dark conditions that fungal diseases thrive in. You'll learn the crucial differences between winter pruning (which stimulates growth) and summer pruning (which controls size), plus how to choose between open center and central leader structures based on your local climate conditions.

Beyond pruning, Susan shares practical wisdom on combating common fruit tree challenges like apple maggot, codling moth, and canker. Her innovative solutions include dormant oil sprays, orchard socks for pest prevention, and proper cleanup practices that break disease cycles. You'll discover why soil preparation matters tremendously and how annual compost application supports tree health from the roots up.

Most fascinating is Susan's insight that truly healthy trees naturally repel pests and diseases. By understanding and working with your trees' natural biology, you can create resilient fruit trees that produce abundantly with minimal intervention.

Whether you're an experienced orchardist or planning your first fruit tree, this episode provides the essential knowledge to form a successful partnership with these generous plants that can provide beauty and bounty for decades to come. Ready to transform your relationship with fruit trees? This conversation is your perfect starting point.

You can find out more about Susan and all her resources here: 

https://orchardpeople.com

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

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Until next week
Happy gardening
John

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.

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

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Until next week
Happy gardening
John

Ben Raskin takes us on a journey through the peaceful coexistence of trees and crops in a revolutionary approach to growing food. As Head of Agroforestry at the Soil Association and author of eight books, Ben shares how his 12 years as an organic vegetable grower evolved into a passion for integrating trees into horticultural systems.

The conversation reveals surprising insights that challenge conventional growing wisdom. Did you know vegetable beds sheltered by trees can be 4-5°C warmer than open ground, potentially extending your growing season by weeks? Or that many leafy crops actually prefer partial shade, especially during increasingly common heat waves? Ben expertly explains how trees buffer extreme weather conditions while fostering rich underground fungal networks that transport nutrients across remarkable distances.

Practical applications abound for gardeners of all scales. The humble wood chip emerges as an unsung hero – from its use as a soil amendment that boosts fungal populations to its potential as a sustainable peat-free propagation medium. Ben's firsthand experiments reveal that ramial wood chip – material from young branches – offers particular benefits when applied directly to soil without composting.

Beyond techniques, Ben shares a compelling vision for food system resilience in an uncertain climate future. Through his work at the Soil Association, he bridges the gap between environmental campaigners pushing for rapid change and farmers navigating practical economic realities. His perspective on diversity and resilience offers a hopeful path forward: systems that prioritize sustainability may yield less in optimal years but deliver consistently when conditions deteriorate.

Whether you're a home gardener curious about food forests or a market grower seeking climate adaptation strategies, this conversation provides both philosophical framework and practical tools for working with, rather than against, natural systems. Ready to reimagine your growing space with trees as allies?

Support the show

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

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

Until next week
Happy gardening
John

Welcome to another vibrant episode of Master My Garden Podcast, where we celebrate the arrival of March and all the planting possibilities this month holds. With the days getting longer and the promise of spring in the air, now is the perfect time to sow your seeds, whether it's vegetables, herbs, or beautiful flowering plants. In this episode, we dive deep into what you can plant, the optimal conditions for germination, and expert tips for nurturing your seedlings.

From the cabbages to herbs and the delightful annuals that elevate our outdoor spaces, our conversation weaves through essential gardening practices that help every enthusiast get the most from their garden this season. We stress the importance of paying attention to ground temperatures and light levels and how they influence successful germination. Let us guide you through the remarkable diversity of crops you can bring to life as the growing season kicks off.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your horticultural journey, our insights can help you cultivate a flourishing garden. Join us in celebrating the earth waking from its winter rest and grab your planting gear! We invite you to engage with us: What seeds are you planning to sow this March? Share your gardening story and stay connected for more tips. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us grow our gardening community!

Support the show

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

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

Step into the world of trees as we explore their immense benefits and the celebration of National Tree Week on this insightful episode. The conversation features Cormac Downey, President of the Tree Council of Ireland, shedding light on the integral role trees play in promoting biodiversity, combating climate change, and enhancing our quality of life. 

From discussing the seemingly simple act of planting a tree, this episode unfolds the complexities of nurturing these vital assets for a sustainable future. You'll discover the importance of a proactive approach to tree care, specifically within the critical first few years after planting. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or looking to start your green journey, we equip you with essential knowledge on selecting the right trees, understanding their needs, and appreciating their value within your community.

The episode also tackles pressing challenges, such as ash dieback, and the need for biosecurity in forestry practices. With an eye on the broader environmental impact, we highlight the importance of celebrating and recognizing trees as more than just objects—they are vital players in our ecosystem. 

As we gear up for National Tree Week, we encourage listeners to take part in events across the country, fostering a deeper appreciation for the green giants that provide shade, beauty, and ecosystem services. Join us as we inspire a movement towards tree awareness, and discover how you can make a difference in your community. Don't miss out—tune in, get involved, and nurture your connection with the trees around you!

To find out more about tree week visit The Tree Council Of Irelands website

https://www.treecouncil.ie

Support the show

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

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

What if you could transform your small space into a flourishing fruit paradise? Join us on the Master My Garden podcast as we unlock the secrets of growing delicious fruits at home, no matter how limited your gardening space may be. This episode is packed with practical tips and insights as John lists his six best fruits to grow at home. Including apples, strawberries, plums, Raspberries, pears and Rhubarb (I know its a vegetable). D. We promise you'll come away inspired to savor the superior taste of homegrown produce, regardless of the size of your garden.

Explore the versatility of compact fruit trees, especially the innovative Coronet apple tree, ideal for balconies and small gardens. We explore the joys of cultivating strawberries, revealing the best varieties to extend your harvest throughout the growing season. Uncover the charm of self-fertile Victoria plums and the freshness of homegrown raspberries, with handy tips on training and pruning for the best yield. Pear enthusiasts will appreciate our insights into the frost-sensitive Conference variety, while those in colder climates might use the hardy damson. Whether you're just getting your hands dirty or are a seasoned gardener, this episode is your guide to enjoying the abundant rewards of a fruitful home garden.

Support the show

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

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

Discover the secrets to creating sustainable and resilient gardens and landscapes as we welcome esteemed guests Deirdre Prince from Dublin City Council and Kinta Oakes, chairperson of the GLDA. We chat about the 2025 GLDA seminar themed "Resilient Gardens & Landscapes" 

Learn how their unique experiences provide valuable insights into integrating biodiversity with landscape design, and how these practices contribute to ecological resilience. We chat about the expert speakers who will be at the seminar and what it means to design with nature in mind.

Join us as we explore transformative shifts in drainage and landscape architecture. Say goodbye to outdated rapid water diversion methods and hello to innovative solutions like green roofs and rain gardens. We'll uncover how these practices are not only essential for managing urban stormwater but also critical in enhancing our collective resilience against extreme weather events. Discover how small changes, like choosing the right plants, can have a big impact on our environment.

Finally, we challenge traditional notions of beauty in public green spaces. Learn how letting grass grow longer and embracing native wildflower meadows are revolutionizing landscapes into thriving habitats for wildlife. Through stories from places like Phoenix Park, we discuss the importance of community education in appreciating the untamed beauty of these spaces. Tune in for a seminar preview that promises thought-provoking discussions and practical takeaways on making our gardens and landscapes more resilient and ecologically conscious.

This seminar promises to be a superb day of learning and networking with people who will build resilient gardens and landscape for the future. You can purchase your tickets here:

https://glda.ie/seminar-2025/

Support the show

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

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

Uncover the vital role of gardeners in championing biodiversity and nature conservation, particularly in Ireland, with exclusive insights from Kieran Flood of the Irish Wildlife Trust. Learn how your individual efforts can collectively make a significant impact on local ecosystems. Kieran delves into the Trust's mission to protect and restore biodiversity through empowering individuals via volunteer-driven initiatives, citizen science projects, and engaging educational events. Despite the looming challenges of biodiversity loss, we celebrate the inspiring successes and positive strides made in conservation efforts and the significant power of public support in driving governmental action.

Explore how a new EU law could revolutionize environmental restoration across various habitats, including crucial support for pollinators. The conversation emphasizes the importance of government funding and individual contributions, such as creating diverse habitats in home gardens, to foster biodiversity. Through personal victories like attracting wildlife to our gardens, we illustrate how small actions can lead to meaningful environmental contributions. The episode also touches on the broader successes in environmental conservation, highlighting the critical role of public engagement in influencing policy decisions.

Marvel at the resurgence of wildlife in Ireland, from the natural return of woodpeckers to the reintroduction of majestic birds of prey such as red kites, golden eagles, sea eagles, and ospreys. Discover how nature restoration efforts, like the rewetting of peatlands, have enabled the return of species like cranes. Practical gardening tips are shared, such as letting parts of the garden go wild and incorporating water features, to enhance local ecosystems. By viewing gardens as thriving ecosystems, gardeners can enjoy both the beauty and practical benefits of a biodiverse environment while contributing positively to the natural world.

You can find out more and support Irish Wildlife Trust here 

https://iwt.ie

Support the show

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

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

In This weeks episode John looks at the seed sowing list for February. Discover how the promise of February renews our spirits, inviting us to synchronize with nature and begin the joyful process of seed sowing. Reflecting on the trials faced by Irish gardeners after the wrath of Storm Eowyn. Gardeners and Market gardeners, in particular, felt the weight of nature's harshness, yet February's arrival brings hope and the subtle cues of warmer days on the horizon.

Join us as we navigate the essential planting activities for February, with a comprehensive guide to sowing a variety of vegetables and flowers like spring onions, early cabbage, and calabrese. Our advice comes with a touch of humor, sharing tales of mysterious disappearing parsley leaves and the joys of cultivating herbs in polytunnels. Learn how to protect your blossoming fruit trees from the pesky deer overpopulation and start heat-loving plants like peppers and tomatoes early for a bountiful harvest. And as a special treat, we share our excitement about the woodpeckers frequenting our garden, hinting at an upcoming episode dedicated to the wonders of nature. Embrace the season with our tips and encouragement, ensuring a fruitful and flourishing garden year ahead.

Support the show

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

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

The podcast explores essential potato varieties to grow in home gardens, detailing the best options for salad, early, second early, main crop, and blight-resistant potatoes. It invites listeners to reflect on personal gardening experiences while considering regional preferences and challenges.

• Importance of selecting the right potato varieties for individual gardens 
• Overview of the top salad potatoes, choosing Charlotte variety as the best salad variety. 
• Discussion on early varieties, including the versatile Sharpes Express 
• Celebrated British Queen as the ideal second early potato 
• Best main crop potato recommendations, including records 
• Growing insights on blight-resistant varieties like Sarpo Axona and Vitabella 
• Encouragement for listeners to explore various potato types and gardening identities

Support the show

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

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