The Veg Grower Podcast

As the festive season approaches, many of us find ourselves pondering the perfect gift ideas for gardeners in our lives. In a recent episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into this very topic, offering a wealth of gardening tips, product recommendations, and seasonal cooking ideas. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, providing detailed, actionable advice for both seasoned gardeners and those new to the hobby.

Richard emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality gardening tools and products. He shares his personal experiences with various items, highlighting their durability and effectiveness.

Starting seeds early can lead to better yields, and Richard introduces the Germy Seed Starter Kit as a valuable tool for this purpose.

Gift vouchers allow gardeners to choose their own supplies, ensuring they get exactly what they need.

Richard loves growing chilies and finds that starting them early in the season leads to better yields. He advises against purchasing overpriced gift packs of chili seeds and instead recommends buying seeds separately from reputable suppliers.

Richard discusses the Auto Pot Growing System, which he finds invaluable for watering plants efficiently.

Veggie Pods allow for year-round growing, and Richard shares his experience with a new hose connector system from Quick Hose.

A wormery is a fantastic source of liquid fertilizer and worm castings. Richard explains how he insulates his wormery during winter to protect the worms from freezing temperatures, ensuring he can continue to utilize kitchen waste for composting.

The episode also features a delightful segment by Chef Scott, who shares a recipe for a Winter Vegetable and Sausage Tray Bake. This dish is simple, adaptable, and perfect for utilizing homegrown produce.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove of gardening tips, product recommendations, and seasonal cooking ideas. Richard’s thoughtful approach to gift-giving, coupled with his practical gardening advice, makes this episode a valuable resource for anyone passionate about gardening. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a gardening enthusiast or seeking new ways to enjoy winter vegetables, the insights shared in this episode are sure to inspire and guide you through the festive season and beyond.

By following these tips and recommendations, you can enhance your gardening experience and make the most of the festive season. Happy gardening!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the host, dives deep into the world of gardening tools and their maintenance. Drawing from his personal experiences on the allotment, Richard provides invaluable advice on choosing the right tools, maintaining them for longevity, and organizing your gardening space. Additionally, Chef Scott joins the episode to share a mouth-watering recipe for celery potato chive and sour cream soup, emphasizing the benefits of growing your own herbs. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering detailed, actionable advice for gardeners of all levels.

Richard begins by discussing the ongoing debate between battery-powered and petrol-powered gardening tools. He highlights the convenience and environmental benefits of battery-powered tools, such as:

However, Richard also points out the limitations of battery-powered tools, particularly when dealing with wet, thick grass. They often struggle in these conditions, which can be a common issue on allotments.

On the other hand, petrol-powered tools are more robust and can handle tougher tasks, such as:

Richard’s advice is to assess your specific gardening needs and choose the tools that best fit those requirements. For smaller, more manageable gardens, battery-powered tools may suffice. However, for larger allotments with tougher conditions, petrol-powered tools might be the better option.

After cutting the grass, Richard utilizes the clippings as mulch for his garlic plants. He emphasizes the numerous benefits of mulching, including:

Richard shares a practical tip for mulching: use grass clippings from your lawn. This not only recycles garden waste but also provides a free and effective mulch for your plants. However, he advises ensuring the grass is free from weed seeds to avoid introducing them to your garden beds.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the organization of Richard’s sheds. He likens the process to cleaning out a wardrobe, adopting a practical rule: if he hasn’t used a tool in the past year, it’s likely he won’t need it again. This philosophy leads him to donate unused tools to charity, benefiting both his space and the community.

Richard highlights the advantages of using pegboards for tool storage in his shed:

However, he notes that the pegboards from IKEA have started to warp due to the damp environment of the shed, prompting him to consider upgrading to more durable materials in the future.

As he organizes his shed, Richard also assesses his supplies of feeds and fertilizers, ensuring everything is labeled and easy to find. He mentions the importance of replenishing supplies, especially with garden centers offering sales, and reflects on whether he truly needs all the various products he has accumulated. This self-assessment is part of his broader goal to create a more efficient and organized gardening space.

Richard explains that he likes to perform a thorough check and service of his tools at least once a year. This involves:

Richard also highlights the need to care for wooden handles by sanding them and applying oil to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle. This simple maintenance step can significantly extend the life of your tools.

In a delightful segment, Chef Scott joins the podcast to share a recipe for celery potato chive and sour cream soup. He emphasizes the value of growing herbs at home, noting that they can be expensive to buy at the store. Homegrown herbs not only save money but also add fresh, vibrant flavors to your dishes.

Scott provides a detailed list of ingredients and a step-by-step method for preparing the soup, which serves as a delicious way to utilize homegrown produce. Here’s a quick overview of the recipe:

Ingredients:

Method:

This simple yet flavorful soup is a perfect example of how homegrown ingredients can elevate your cooking.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a rich blend of practical gardening advice, tool maintenance tips, and culinary inspiration. Richard’s insights encourage listeners to reflect on their gardening practices, maintain their tools for better efficiency, and embrace the joys of cooking with homegrown produce. By following his advice, you can create a more organized, efficient, and enjoyable gardening experience.

As Richard wraps up the episode, he invites feedback and reviews from listeners, reinforcing the community aspect of the podcast and expressing gratitude for their support. He looks forward to returning next week with more gardening insights and inspiration.

By diving into the nuances of each topic, this blog post aims to provide valuable, detailed information that can guide listeners of the Veg Grower Podcast. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips and insights will help you make the most of your gardening tools and space.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many gardeners might feel inclined to hang up their trowels and wait for spring. However, in the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard encourages listeners to keep their gardening efforts alive through the colder months, especially sowing some herbs. This episode is packed with practical advice, expert insights, and delicious recipes that will inspire you to continue growing your own food, even in winter.

One of the standout segments of this episode is the “seed of the month,” where Richard shares his top recommendations for herbs to sow in November. Growing herbs indoors on a windowsill is a fantastic way to ensure a continuous supply of fresh ingredients for your kitchen.

This segment is in collaboration with Premier Seed Direct. Richards go to supplier for very reasonable priced seed in very generous quantities. Don’t forget to use discount code PSDVEGPOD

Here are Richard’s top picks:

In addition to gardening tips, the episode features a mouth-watering recipe from Chef Scott. He shares his method for preparing celeriac steaks with salsa verde, emphasizing the joy of cooking with homegrown vegetables.

Richard also shares valuable tips for continuing your gardening activities during the colder months. Here are some key takeaways:

Richard also promotes the podcast’s supporters club, which offers members exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and monthly seed packs. Joining the club is a great way to enhance your gardening experience and stay connected with the podcast community.

Towards the end of the episode, Richard reflects on the challenges posed by recent weather conditions, particularly heavy rain, and its impact on food supply. He emphasizes the importance of food security and the role that home gardeners can play in mitigating potential shortages.

Richard invites listeners to share their thoughts and experiences regarding food security and gardening strategies for the upcoming year. Engage through email, social media, or the podcast’s website, where you can leave comments or voicemails.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove of information for home gardeners. With practical tips, engaging recipes, and a focus on community, Richard inspires listeners to embrace their gardening journey and contribute to food security in their own way. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, there’s something in this episode for everyone. So, grab your gardening gloves and get ready to grow!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into the challenges and strategies of gardening in colder climates, specifically addressing a listener named Joanna from the Highlands of Scotland. Joanna’s email raises important questions about the feasibility of sowing seeds during the winter months and how to adapt gardening practices to suit harsher climates. Richard’s response is filled with practical advice, personal experiences, and expert insights that can guide gardeners facing similar conditions. Let’s break down the key takeaways from this episode.

Richard emphasizes the significance of understanding local climate conditions and gardening zones. Hardiness zones, such as the RHS hardiness zones in the UK, help gardeners determine which plants can thrive in their specific climates. For instance, Richard is in RHS hardiness zone H3, while Joanna is likely in H6, where temperatures can drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius.

Gardening success in colder climates hinges on adapting techniques based on local conditions. Richard shares his experiences visiting different regions, including Scotland, where unique gardening practices are necessary due to varying climates. He highlights the importance of observing and understanding microclimates within your garden, which can provide more favorable growing conditions even in colder areas.

Richard discusses the hardiness of certain plants that can withstand cold temperatures. He mentions varieties such as:

These plants are more resilient to cold and can provide a bountiful harvest even during the winter months.

Richard encourages gardeners to experiment with different hardy plant varieties to see what works best in their specific conditions. Keeping a gardening journal to track successes and setbacks can help refine your approach over time.

For Richard, winter is often a time for infrastructure work rather than active growing. He focuses on building and repairing garden beds, sheds, and paths while also pruning dormant plants. This preparation ensures that the garden is ready for the growing season.

Richard shares practical advice for winter gardening, emphasizing the importance of bringing seed sowing indoors. He has set up a shelf in his kitchen with heated propagators and grow lights to facilitate seed germination during the colder months. Alternative methods include placing seed trays on top of radiators to provide warmth.

Growing microgreens and herbs indoors can provide fresh produce throughout the winter. These plants require less space and can thrive in indoor conditions with adequate light and warmth.

Richard discusses the use of cloches and cold frames to protect outdoor plants from frost. He shares his experiences with various types of cloches, including those made from old plastic bottles. These structures create a microclimate that can extend the growing season and protect young plants from harsh weather.

Ensuring soil health is crucial for successful winter gardening. Richard advises enriching the soil with organic matter to retain warmth and moisture, creating a more conducive environment for seed germination. Well-drained soil is also essential to prevent waterlogging and frost damage.

Richard emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration among gardeners. He encourages listeners to connect with fellow allotment holders for advice and support. Sharing knowledge and tips can benefit everyone involved and foster a sense of connection among those who share a passion for gardening.

Gardening is a continuous learning process, and Richard reassures listeners that even seasoned gardeners face challenges. He encourages experimentation and trying new techniques, as adapting to local conditions is part of the journey.

This week Chef Scott has another delicious recipe. Its a leek crumble which is just as well as we have plenty of leeks to use.

Richard mentions a book he has been reading, “Plot 29” by Allan Jenkins, which has inspired him and aligns with the theme of exploring new ideas in gardening. This book can provide additional insights and inspiration for gardeners looking to expand their knowledge and try new approaches.

Richard’s insights in this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast provide valuable guidance for gardeners like Joanna, who are navigating the challenges of growing in colder climates. By understanding local conditions, selecting hardy plants, and utilizing indoor and outdoor gardening techniques, gardeners can continue to enjoy the rewards of growing their own food, regardless of the climate they face. Embracing community and experimentation further enriches the gardening experience, making it a fulfilling and collaborative journey.

If you have enjoyed this podcast then please rate and review on our podcast provider. Also please consider becoming a member of our supporters club by clicking the button below.

For more tips and discussions on gardening, be sure to tune in to future episodes of the Veg Grower Podcast. Happy gardening!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest Chef Scott delve into the intricacies of gardening, focusing on compost trials, seasonal planting, and a delectable recipe. This blog post will break down the key themes and tips discussed in the episode, providing you with actionable advice and expert insights to enhance your gardening experience.

Richard conducted a detailed compost trial to compare the performance of different compost types in growing tomatoes. Here’s a breakdown of his findings:

Richard emphasizes the significance of using quality compost, especially as gardeners transition to peat-free options. He notes that some gardeners have reported finding debris like bits of brick and plastic in their compost, raising concerns about quality. Here are some tips to ensure you’re using the best compost:

Richard shares his current gardening activities, focusing on sowing broad beans and peas for overwintering and planting spring bulbs.

Richard discusses planting spring bulbs like daffodils and tulips. Although he primarily grows edibles, he enjoys incorporating ornamental plants to attract pollinators and add visual interest to his garden. Here’s his approach:

Richard values listener engagement and encourages them to share their winter gardening experiences. He also addresses gardening questions and feedback from listeners, fostering a sense of community.

Richard answers a question from a listener named Lynn about using well-rotted horse manure on heavy clay soil. Here’s his advice:

Chef Scott shares a mouthwatering recipe for a pear, walnut, and salted caramel strudel. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Scott encourages listeners to check out the full recipe on the Veg Grower Podcast website and his Instagram page.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast offers a wealth of gardening tips, insights into compost quality, and a delicious recipe. Richard’s passion for gardening and Chef Scott’s culinary expertise provide listeners with valuable information and inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, these insights can help you grow healthier plants and enjoy the fruits of your labor in the kitchen.

By incorporating these tips and insights into your gardening routine, you can enhance your garden’s productivity and enjoy the process of growing your own food. Happy gardening!

In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and chef Scott delve into the world of sustainable gardening and culinary creativity. Richard shares his experiences and tips for effective ways to suppress weeds, while Scott introduces a mouth-watering recipe that encourages listeners to use homegrown produce.

Richard begins by discussing the common practice of using old carpets in gardening, particularly for weed suppression. However, he highlights the potential issues associated with this method:

Instead, Richard advocates for the use of cardboard as a biodegradable alternative. Here’s how you can effectively use cardboard in your garden:

This podcast continues thanx to the generous help of members of the supporters club. If you enjoy this podcast then please consider becoming a member and help keep this podcast running.

Richard emphasizes the importance of mulching in maintaining a healthy garden. Mulching offers several benefits:

Richard shares his experience with two types of mulch:

Another valuable resource Richard discusses is leaves, which are often considered a nuisance in public spaces. Here’s how you can make the most of fallen leaves:

Richard concludes his gardening segment by emphasizing the importance of effective mulching. Here are his key tips:

In the latter part of the episode, chef Scott introduces a delicious recipe for a sweet potato and spinach lasagne with a hint of chili. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of sweet potatoes but also encourages listeners to grow their own produce.

Scott encourages listeners to try growing sweet potatoes, highlighting their rewarding nature. Here are some tips for growing sweet potatoes:

A project Richard has wanted to do for a while is to build a hot bed. A hot bed simply uses the heat from the composting process to warm up a bed and any plants in that hot bed can thrive.

This is a simple build using an existing bed, simply needed the addition of a cover and fresh compost material.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast offers a wealth of knowledge on sustainable gardening practices and culinary creativity. Richard’s practical tips on using biodegradable materials and effective mulching techniques provide valuable guidance for gardeners. Meanwhile, Scott’s delicious recipe for sweet potato and spinach lasagne inspires listeners to incorporate homegrown produce into their meals.

As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, gardeners everywhere are gearing up for the winter months. In a recent episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard shares his extensive knowledge and personal experiences on how to prepare your garden for winter. From greenhouse maintenance to the benefits of green manures, Richard provides a wealth of practical advice to help you protect your plants and ensure a bountiful harvest come spring. Additionally, Chef Scott joins the episode to share a mouth-watering recipe for roast elephant garlic and potato soup, perfect for the season.

Richard begins by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and organized greenhouse. This is crucial for maximizing light penetration, which is essential for the growth of plants during the darker winter months.

Richard has made several modifications to improve heat retention in his greenhouse, which is particularly important as temperatures drop.

Richard expresses concern about the lack of heating in his plastic greenhouse, which is more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. He is considering adding heat to a new potting shed he plans to build, which could provide a more stable environment for his tender plants.

Richard discusses the importance of mulching perennial beds to insulate plants and protect them from the cold.

Richard emphasizes the need to closely monitor temperatures and be prepared to take action if they drop significantly.

Richard shares his experiences at the allotment, where he has been busy preparing for winter.

Richard plans to plant more brassicas in the now-empty potato beds and discusses his approach to protecting these plants.

Richard is a strong advocate for using green manures to improve soil health and suppress weed growth.

Richard shares his enthusiasm for specific green manures and their benefits.

Richard mentions using cardboard to suppress weed growth in certain beds, which he finds effective.

He also shares his experience with sowing white clover, another legume that adds nitrogen to the soil and helps smother weeds. Although he faced challenges with the clover germination, Richard remains committed to nurturing his garden and adapting his strategies as needed.

In a delightful segment, Chef Scott joins Richard to present the recipe of the week. This time, Scott shares a delicious recipe for roast elephant garlic and potato soup, accompanied by roast elephant garlic bruschetta.

Scott highlights the unique flavour profile of elephant garlic, which adds a distinct taste to the dish. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of homegrown ingredients but also encourages listeners to experiment with their own harvests in the kitchen.

The recipe in full can be found here.

As always please leave a rate and review on your preferred podcast platform, it helps this podcast get seen by more people.

This week Richard has received some questions including a question asking what pot he used for his edible pond. The link for this pot can be found here.

Also Please consider becoming a member of our supporters club. For just £5 a month you get access to extra behind the scenes podcast and a collection of seeds each month that can be sown in that every month. Click the button below for more info.

In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the host, and Scott, a chef, share their insights and experiences on gardening and cooking with seasonal produce. Richard focuses on the process of planting garlic, particularly elephant garlic, and discusses various seeds that can be sown in October. Scott complements this with a delicious recipe for an autumn vegetable gratin.

Elephant garlic is a unique variety that grows similarly to regular garlic but is much larger and milder in flavour. It is more closely related to leeks than to regular garlic, which is interesting given its name and appearance. The bulbs can grow up to 14 cm in diameter, making them a standout addition to any garden.

This feature is in collaboration with Premier Seeds Direct. Premier seed direct are my go to place for good seeds at very reasonable prices and in decent quantities. They even sell elephant garlic for growing, don’t forget to use our discount code psdvegpod.

Richard emphasizes the importance of growing food year-round and provides a comprehensive list of seeds that can be sown in October. Here are the detailed recommendations:

Chef Scott shares a comforting recipe for an autumn vegetable gratin, perfect for using up seasonal produce. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:

Richard wraps up the episode by reviewing “The Urban Vegetable Patch” by Grace Poole, a book focusing on sustainable growing practices in limited spaces. He encourages listeners to explore the book and apply its principles to their gardening efforts.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is filled with practical advice for planting and caring for garlic, as well as a variety of seeds to sow in October. Richard and Scott provide valuable insights and inspiration for listeners looking to grow their own food and enjoy seasonal recipes. By following these detailed tips and recommendations, you can extend your growing season and make the most of your garden year-round. Happy gardening!

In this weeks episode of the Veg Grower podcast, host Richard and head community gardener Jason delve into the transformative world of community gardening. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories that highlight the importance of community gardens, especially for those without personal garden space. Let’s break down the key themes and actionable tips discussed in the episode to help you understand the profound impact of community gardening and how you can get involved.

Jason begins by reflecting on how society has lost touch with the natural sources of our food. He points out that many towns have apple trees that often go unnoticed. These trees, which grow without cultivation or chemical treatments, can provide healthier options than store-bought produce. Jason emphasizes the need to rebuild this connection, encouraging people to recognize that these trees are not just part of the landscape but are sources of edible food.

Richard shares his own experience with the community orchard and expresses his desire to get involved. Jason invites him to participate in weekend activities, highlighting the collaborative nature of community gardening efforts. They discuss the smallholding at Angmering Secondary School, which serves as a hub for various gardening initiatives.

Multifunctional Spaces
The smallholding is described as a vibrant space dedicated to sustainable living and education. Jason explains that the polytunnel on the property has been used for various activities, including seed starting and sustainable living classes. The area is designed to be multifunctional, allowing students and community members to engage with gardening and learn about food production.

Resourcefulness and Recycling
Richard and Jason discuss the creative ways they utilize recycled materials in their gardening efforts. For instance, old school desks are repurposed as potting benches, showcasing the ingenuity of gardeners in reducing waste. Jason highlights the importance of reusing materials, such as wooden pallets, to create seed trays and other gardening tools.

Building Sustainable Food Systems
The conversation shifts to the Arun and Chichester Food Partnership, which aims to create a sustainable food system by connecting local charities and community groups. Jason explains that the partnership was established to facilitate collaboration among various organizations, allowing them to share resources and support one another.

Perennial Fruit and Sensory Garden
As they explore the gardens, Jason describes the perennial fruit and sensory garden, which features a variety of fruits, herbs, and flowers designed to attract pollinators. This space serves as a calming environment for visitors, encouraging them to connect with nature.

The Edible Garden

Overcoming Challenges
Next, they visit the edible garden, which is filled with vibrant plants like rainbow chard and squash. Jason shares the challenges they face, such as pest issues, but highlights the resilience of the plants. The produce grown in this garden is shared with the local community, reinforcing the idea of collective effort and support.

Inclusivity in Gardening
Jason discusses the challenges of engaging the community, noting that many people feel intimidated by gardening. He reassures listeners that prior gardening experience is not necessary to participate. The project is designed to be inclusive, welcoming individuals of all skill levels.

Building a Support Network
For those interested in starting their own community garden, Jason offers valuable advice. He suggests connecting with local councils or established community groups to gain support and resources. Collaborating with charities can also provide additional knowledge and assistance.

With tomatoes coming to an end its time to get our tomatoes in the freezer for winter storage. This week Chef Scott shares exactly how he does this. full recipe can be found here.

The episode concludes with a strong message about the power of community gardening. Richard and Jason highlight the benefits of working together to grow food, share knowledge, and foster connections among community members. By participating in community gardening initiatives, individuals can not only enjoy fresh produce but also contribute to a more sustainable and connected community.

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But if you really have enjoyed this podcast then please consider becoming a member of our supporters club. Details can be found on the button below.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into a variety of gardening topics, offering practical advice and updates from his home garden. The episode also features a culinary segment with Chef Scott, who shares a recipe for Vada Pav, an Indian street food dish. This blog post will break down the key themes and tips discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice for gardening enthusiasts and home cooks alike.

Caterpillars can be a significant pest for brassicas, especially during warmer days in winter. Richard shares several strategies to manage these pests effectively:

Richard also addresses a listener’s question about overwintering lemongrass. Here are his tips:

Richard shares updates from his home garden, highlighting his proactive approach to garden management:

Chef Scott shares a delicious recipe for Vada Pav, a popular Indian street food made with spiced potato patties. Here’s a brief overview of the recipe:

This episode of the Veg Grow Up Podcast offers a wealth of practical advice for gardeners and home cooks. Richard’s insights into managing caterpillars, overwintering lemongrass, and maintaining a productive home garden are invaluable for anyone looking to grow their own food. Chef Scott’s Vada Pav recipe adds a delicious culinary dimension, showcasing the connection between gardening and cooking with fresh produce.

By following these tips and engaging with the Veg Grow Up Podcast community, you can enhance your gardening skills and enjoy the rewards of homegrown produce. Happy gardening and cooking!