Rachel Darlington of Gardening At Douentza joins us to share her unique gardening journey, revealing her informal, yet knowledgeable approach to both outdoor gardening and houseplant cultivation. With a YouTube channel that caters to everyone from cacti lovers to orchid enthusiasts, Rachel brings her expertise to our listeners alongside her work as a columnist for the Irish Garden and her engaging book, "A Journey of an Irish Garden." Come learn Rachel's practical tips on orchid care, including choosing the best Phalaenopsis for ease of care, and why avoiding dyed blue orchids is a must.

We delve into the enchanting world of Douentza, Rachel's garden masterpiece, nestled in the rural landscapes of Wexford. Rachel discusses her creative use of garden rooms, each with distinct color schemes, and shares her passion for unusual plants. Hear how Rachel tackles common gardening challenges, such as box blight, we chat cloud-pruned trees, and how her evolving gardening methods can inspire you to transform your own garden spaces with vibrant themes and innovative techniques like the lasagna method for flower beds.

As Rachel celebrates a decade as a YouTuber, she reflects on her journey from casual gardening enthusiast to a professional and influential voice in the gardening community. Discover how she balances her content creation with the challenges of generating fresh ideas during quieter seasons, and how her travel adventures keep her audience engaged. Rachel also opens up about her writing journey, with her books offering rich insights into her growth as a gardener. Whether you're a novice or seasoned gardener, Rachel's experiences provide a treasure trove of inspiration and education.

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

Kickstart your gardening year with us as we explore whether the urge to plant early in January truly pays off. What if waiting just a little longer could lead to a more bountiful harvest? We navigate through the snowy challenges in Ireland and reflect on the holiday season's warmth before getting into the nitty-gritty of garden planning. Discover the art of timing when it comes to sowing seeds and the tricks seasoned gardeners use to safeguard their seedlings during the lingering winter chill. Whether you're an eager beginner or a seasoned pro, there's wisdom to be gained from knowing when to hold back for greater garden rewards.

Gain insight into the essentials of seed quality and preparation that promise a thriving garden. Learn the secret to securing the freshest seeds from trustworthy sources and how a simple germination test can save you from planting duds. We tackle the challenges of peat-free compost, offering practical tips on blending it with peat-based alternatives for consistency. Plus, we discuss how to create a pristine sowing area that enhances your plants' growth. Finally, we guide you on organizing seed potatoes, especially if you're blessed with a polytunnel or greenhouse. Join us for a practical and engaging conversation that sets the stage for a successful gardening adventure!

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

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]

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

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]

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

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]

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 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]

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

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]

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

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]

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 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]

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

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]

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