The Veg Grower Podcast

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!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into the world of automated watering systems with Jason, the head of AutoPot. This episode is packed with valuable insights into the AutoPot system, its setup, functionality, and the impressive results it can yield. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and expert tips to enhance your gardening experience.

If you are interested in buying an Autopot system. For this Richard has negotiated an affiliate code AUTO10RVG to save you some money.

Richard kicks off the episode by sharing his recent charity climb of Mount Snowdon, where he and his gardening friends raised over £4,000 to promote gardening in schools. This event underscores Richard’s commitment to encouraging others to grow their own food and his passion for gardening.

The main focus of the episode is the Auto Pot watering system, which Richard has been testing. AutoPot approached him earlier in the year to review their system, and he was eager to try it out. The AutoPot system operates without electricity, relying solely on gravity to deliver water to the plants. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the system and its components:

Richard describes the setup process, which he completed in May. Here are the steps he followed:

Richard highlights the ease of installation, noting that it took him about half an hour to set everything up. This simplicity makes the Auto Pot system accessible to gardeners of all skill levels.

The episode then transitions to Richard’s visit to AutoPot’s research and development (R&D) facility, where he meets Jason, the big boss of Auto Pot. Jason provides a deeper understanding of the technology and products offered by the company.

Jason explains that the AutoPot system was initially developed in Australia and has since evolved into a widely used watering solution in over 30 countries. The system’s key component, the Aqua Valve, controls the flow of water to the plants based on their needs.

Jason elaborates on the versatility of the Auto Pot system, which includes various setups for different gardening needs, from pots to trays. He highlights the environmental benefits of using the system, such as water conservation and reduced salinity in the soil.

Jason shares insights into the plants being grown in the R&D facility, including exotic varieties like papaya and bananas. This showcases the system’s effectiveness in a controlled environment.

Richard shares his personal experience with the Auto Pot system, particularly his success in growing tomatoes. Here are some key points:

The system has required minimal care, making it ideal for busy individuals who still want to grow their own food. Richard highlights the efficiency of the system, which has used only half of the water in the reservoir.

Comparing his tomatoes grown in the Auto Pot system to those grown in traditional pots, Richard is impressed by the size, health, and uniformity of the tomatoes produced. He reports harvesting significantly more tomatoes from the Auto Pot system, with the fruits being larger and healthier overall.

Looking ahead, Richard shares his plans to further integrate the AutoPot system into his gardening routine. Here are some of his future plans:

Richard intends to revamp his greenhouse by removing old compost and replacing it with gravel, allowing for better drainage and plant growth. He plans to use larger pots for growing tomatoes and cucumbers, as well as expanding the system to include a variety of other plants like chilies, peppers, and strawberries.

Richard discusses the potential for using the AutoPot system in his new greenhouse and potting shed, which he plans to set up with the help of an inheritance. He envisions using the Tray to Grow system for starting seedlings and young plants, emphasizing the versatility of the system.

This week Chef Scott has another delicious recipe for you. Its a good old takeaway favourite, onion Bhajis.

As the episode draws to a close, Richard reflects on the endless possibilities that the AutoPot system offers for both home gardeners and those with larger gardening projects, such as allotments. He encourages listeners to consider the benefits of the system, despite the initial investment, as it can lead to increased productivity and reduced labour in the garden.

Richard invites feedback from the audience, asking them to share their thoughts on the AutoPot system and whether they would consider using it in their own gardening practices. He expresses gratitude to Auto Pot for the opportunity to explore their R&D department and share his insights with listeners.

Richard also encourages listeners to join the podcast’s supporters club. Which offers exclusive content and seed packs for a monthly fee. This support helps sustain the podcast and allows Richard to continue sharing valuable gardening insights.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast provides a comprehensive look at the Auto Pot watering system, Richard’s successful gardening experiences, and the exciting future possibilities for integrating this technology into various gardening setups. Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced grower, the Auto Pot system offers a revolutionary approach to plant care that can enhance your gardening journey.

For more detailed insights and to stay updated on Richard’s gardening adventures, be sure to tune in to the Veg Grower Podcast and consider joining the supporters club. Happy gardening!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the host, delves into the essential tasks for September, focusing on seed sowing and the benefits of growing overwintered onions from seed. Joined by Chef Scott, who shares a delectable plum and almond crumble recipe, the episode is packed with practical advice, culinary inspiration, and tips for indoor gardening. Let’s break down the key takeaways and actionable advice from this episode.

This month the seed of the month is an onion variety called Ailsa Craig. This feature is in collaboration with premier seeds direct, an absolutely awesome supply of reasonably priced in seed in large quantities.

If you are looking to buy these seeds or any other seeds from premier seed then don’t forget our discount code psdvegpod

Richard introduces the “seed of the month,” the Alisa Craig onion variety, and explains the advantages of growing onions from seed rather than sets:

Richard provides a detailed guide on sowing onion seeds:

Richard encourages listeners to think ahead and plan for winter and spring crops. Here are some vegetables to consider sowing in September:

Chef Scott joins the episode to share a mouth-watering recipe for a plum and almond crumble. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:

Richard addresses a listener’s question about indoor plants, focusing on his experience with edible houseplants like ginger, turmeric, and cardamom.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove of practical advice, culinary inspiration, and tips for indoor gardening. Richard’s enthusiasm for growing food and Chef Scott’s culinary expertise combine to create an engaging and informative experience for listeners. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, there’s something in this episode for everyone. Happy gardening and cooking!

By following these detailed tips and insights, you’ll be well on your way to a successful September in the garden and kitchen. Don’t forget to tune in to the Veg Grower Podcast for more expert advice and inspiration!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into a variety of gardening topics, sharing his personal experiences and experiments from his allotment and vegetable garden. This episode is packed with valuable insights on soil health, mulching techniques, pest control, and even includes a delicious recipe segment and a book review. Let’s break down each topic in detail to provide actionable advice and thorough explanations for fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Richard’s innovative soil health experiment involved burying a pair of cotton underwear in his garden beds. This method, while unconventional, is a practical way to gauge the biological activity in the soil. After a few weeks, he unearthed the underwear to find that approximately 75% of it had decomposed. This significant level of decomposition indicates a healthy soil ecosystem rich in microorganisms and organic matter.

Richard experimented with various mulching techniques throughout the growing season, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Richard faced a nuisance with compost flies in his kitchen and turned to nematodes as a natural pest control method. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can target and control pest populations effectively.

Chef Scott shares a mouth-watering recipe for Moroccan meatball and aubergine bake, emphasizing the use of homegrown ingredients.

Recipe can be found here

Richard reviews “The Milkwood Permaculture Handbook,” a book that delves into the principles of permaculture, a sustainable gardening method.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast offers a wealth of information for gardeners of all levels. From innovative soil health experiments and effective mulching techniques to natural pest control methods and delicious recipes, Richard’s insights provide valuable guidance for cultivating a thriving garden. Engage with the podcast by leaving ratings and reviews, and share your own gardening experiences and questions to foster a sense of community among fellow gardening enthusiasts. Happy gardening!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest Chef Scott delve into the intricacies of greenhouse gardening, vegetable storage, and a delightful recipe to make the most of your homegrown produce. 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 and culinary experiences.

Richard begins by discussing the different types of glazing materials used in greenhouses, each with its own set of advantages and challenges.

Glass Glazing:**
Pros: Excellent light transmission, aesthetically pleasing.
Cons: Highly breakable, costly to replace (around £6 per panel), and vulnerable to storm damage.
Tip: Regularly inspect and replace broken panels to maintain optimal growing conditions.

Plastic Glazing:**
Pros: Safe for households with children, less breakable.
Cons: Poor heat retention, temperature inside mirrors outdoor conditions until heated by the sun.
Tip: Consider using additional insulation methods to improve heat retention.

Twin-Walled Polycarbonate Sheets:**
Pros: Better heat retention than single-sheet plastic, cheaper than glass, easy to cut to size.
Cons: May not be as aesthetically pleasing as glass.
Tip: If converting a glass greenhouse to polycarbonate, seek advice from experienced gardeners to ensure a smooth transition.

Richard shares his personal experiences with maintaining multiple greenhouses, highlighting common challenges and practical solutions.

Finding Replacement Panels:**
Challenge: Difficulty in sourcing second-hand glass panels of the right size.
Solution: Regularly check platforms like Facebook Marketplace and local classifieds for suitable panels.

Temperature Control:**
Challenge: Maintaining consistent temperatures, especially in plastic greenhouses.
Solution: Use thermal mass (e.g., water barrels) to stabilize temperature fluctuations and consider installing ventilation systems.

Richard emphasizes the importance of proper storage to extend the shelf life of harvested vegetables.

Harvesting:** Wait until the foliage has died down to allow the skins to harden.
Initial Storage:** Place potatoes in trays in the greenhouse to avoid pest issues.
Long-Term Storage:** Transfer to hessian sacks or brown paper bags and store in a cool, dry, and dark place like a garage.

Carrots and Parsnips:**
In-Ground Storage: Leave in the ground as long as possible, but dig up before the soil freezes.
Alternative Storage: Store in damp sand to keep them fresh.

Method:** Wrap each fruit in newspaper and place in a box in a cool, dark place.
Maintenance:** Regularly inspect stored fruit to prevent spoilage.
Tip:** Properly stored, certain varieties can last through winter and into spring.

Suitable Vegetables:** Cabbages, cauliflowers, and other produce.
Sweetcorn:** Must be cooked shortly after harvesting to preserve sweetness. Check for ripeness and boil immediately after picking.

Chef Scott shares a simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly with homegrown sweetcorn.

Ingredients:
Good quality salted butter
1 finely diced jalapeno
Zest and juice of 2 limes
Chopped coriander

Method:
Preparation: Soften the butter at room temperature.
Mixing: Combine the softened butter with the diced jalapeno, lime zest and juice, and chopped coriander in a bowl.
Shaping: Roll the mixture in greaseproof paper to create a sausage shape.
Chilling: Chill in the fridge until firm.
Serving: Slice the butter into rounds and apply liberally to freshly cooked sweetcorn.

Richard shares his excitement about his latest gardening project—building a new rhubarb bed.

Steps to Build a Rhubarb Bed:
Dimensions: Determine the size of the bed based on available space and the number of plants.
Filling: Use old compost and additional compost from your compost bin to fill the bed.
Planting: Grow rhubarb from seed to save costs and enjoy the process. Richard recommends varieties like Gaskins Perpetual and Champagne.

Richard concludes the episode by emphasizing the importance of learning from both successes and failures in gardening. He encourages listeners to share their experiences and insights, particularly regarding greenhouse glazing and vegetable storage techniques. The episode wraps up with a reminder to enjoy the fruits of your labor and make the most of the growing season.

Engage with the Community:
Share Your Tips:** Reach out via social media or email to share your gardening tips and experiences.
Stay Connected:** Join the Veg Grower Podcast community to stay updated on the latest episodes and gardening advice.

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is packed with practical advice, creative cooking ideas, and a sense of camaraderie among gardening enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there’s something to learn and enjoy in this engaging discussion.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the passionate host, delves into his recent gardening projects and shares valuable insights on improving your garden’s aesthetics and productivity. This episode covers a range of topics, from installing a water feature to preparing your allotment for the next growing season. Let’s break down each segment in detail and explore the actionable advice Richard offers to fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Richard has long desired to incorporate a water feature into his garden, believing it would enhance the garden’s appeal and attract wildlife. His previous attempts included a simple washing-up bowl filled with water, which was neither visually appealing nor functional. However, a recent visit to The Range inspired him to create a more sophisticated water feature using a large plastic plant pot and a solar-powered fountain.

Richard plans to grow watercress in his new water feature. He shares his method of buying watercress from the supermarket, placing sprigs in water to encourage root growth, and then transplanting them into a pot. The gentle trickle of water from the fountain will help the watercress thrive. Additionally, Richard is considering growing wasabi, which has similar water requirements.

Richard candidly shares the challenges he faced this growing season, including issues with squash and beans. However, he also highlights successes with potatoes and cucumbers. As summer progresses, Richard is focused on preparing for the next growing season, which he believes begins in late September or early October.

Richard emphasizes the importance of improving soil health to ensure a bountiful harvest. He discusses the use of animal manures and green manures to enrich the soil.

If you are after some green manures then check out premier seeds directs green manures. Don’t forget the discount code psdvegpod

Richard invites listeners to join the Veg Grower Podcast Supporters Club. For a small monthly fee, members gain access to exclusive content, including behind-the-scenes podcasts and a monthly package containing a newsletter and seeds suitable for planting that month. This community offers valuable resources and support for anyone interested in growing their own food.

With Chef Scott away, Richard shares a simple yet delightful recipe for making mustard powder and mustard sauce from mustard seeds.

Richard’s passion for gardening shines through in this episode, as he shares his experiences and tips for creating a thriving garden. From enhancing your garden with a water feature to improving soil health and preparing for the next growing season, Richard’s advice is both practical and inspiring. By joining the Veg Grower Podcast Supporters Club, listeners can access even more valuable resources and become part of a supportive gardening community.

As Richard wraps up the episode, he encourages listeners to leave ratings and reviews for the podcast, helping it reach a wider audience. He also invites them to connect through various platforms, fostering a sense of community among gardening enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more gardening tips and experiences in future episodes, and happy gardening!

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest chef Scott share their wealth of knowledge on gardening and cooking, focusing on the tasks and opportunities that August brings. This blog post will delve into the main themes of the episode, providing detailed, actionable advice for gardeners looking to make the most of this month. From sowing seeds to managing allotments and preparing delicious recipes, this guide will help you navigate the late summer gardening season with confidence.

Each Month we have our seed of the month feature in collaboration with Premier seeds direct. Premier seeds sell pretty much every vegetable seed you could imagine for very reasonable prices and in decent quantities. Links are of course added but we also have the discount code psdvegpod to save you even more money.

Richard introduces the Easter Egg radish, a vibrant variety that includes shades of blue, red, and purple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to growing these colourful radishes:

Sowing: Create a shallow drill about half a centimetre deep. Scatter a few seeds in the drill, spacing them out to avoid overcrowding. Succession Planting: Sow a few seeds each week to ensure a continuous harvest. This method prevents all your radishes from maturing at the same time.
Moisture Management: Keep the compost consistently moist to encourage germination and healthy growth. Radishes can bolt if they dry out. Thinning: As the radishes grow, thin them out to allow for proper spacing, aiming for one plant every two centimetres. This ensures each radish has enough room to develop.

Next, Richard discusses the purple spring onion, a delightful twist on the traditional green variety. Here’s how to grow them:

Sowing: Plant a few seeds at a depth of half a centimetre. Spring onions can be grown year-round, so sow them every couple of weeks to maintain a steady supply. Minimal Care: These onions require minimal care. Keep them weed-free and ensure they have decent compost to thrive.
Harvesting**: Spring onions can be harvested when they reach a desirable size. Regular sowing ensures you always have fresh onions available.

Richard also provides a discount code for Premiere Seeds Direct, encouraging listeners to try these varieties and share their experiences.

Richard highlights other seeds that can be sown in August, emphasizing the importance of diversifying your garden:

Salad Crops

Lettuce and Salad Leaves: Essential for a healthy diet, these can be sown throughout August. Varieties like rocket and mustard greens add diversity to your meals. Swiss Chard: Known for its vibrant stems and leaves, Swiss chard can be harvested throughout the winter, providing a continuous supply of greens.

Brassicas

Cabbages: Typically sown for spring harvests, but winter-hardy varieties can be planted now. Turnips: Quick to grow and best harvested young for better flavour. Richard has already sown his turnips and recommends them for their ease of growth.
Kohlrabi**: A unique brassica worth growing for its delicious taste and versatility in the kitchen.

Carrots and Chilies

Carrots: Although it may seem late, early varieties and round carrots can still be sown. Richard plans to salvage a crop despite earlier challenges. Chilies: August is not too late to start chilies for next year’s harvest. Richard shares his method of overwintering chili plants to ensure an early crop in the following season.

Green Manures

Chicory and Radicchio**: These hardy plants improve soil health and reduce weeds. They can withstand cold temperatures and provide a unique flavour profile.

Richard shares updates from his allotment, discussing the state of his plants and the tasks he needs to complete:

Watering and Composting

Regular Watering: Emphasizes the importance of regular watering, especially in the greenhouse where plants can quickly become stressed in hot weather. Composting: Plans to add plenty of compost to his first bed after harvesting his main crop potatoes. This enriches the soil for future plantings, particularly for his Nebraska variety crops.

Crop Updates

Peppers, Chilies, and Cucumbers: These are producing well, although they were thirsty after a week without attention. Parsnips, Cabbages, and Broccoli: All growing well, though some plants, like cauliflowers, may have gone too far. Richard views this as part of the learning process.

Challenges

Neglected Neighbouring Plot**: Richard expresses frustration over his neighbour’s neglected allotment, which has overgrown weeds encroaching on his space. He hopes the council will take action soon.

Chef Scott shares a fresh and vibrant recipe perfect for a late summer evening. Its a Beetroot, green bean and horseradish salad with hot smoked Mackerel which sounds so delicious

As the episode wraps up, Richard encourages listeners to embrace the growing season, experiment with new seeds, and enjoy the bounties of their gardens. With practical tips, inspiring stories, and delicious recipes, this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their gardening journey. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, these insights will help you make the most of August in your garden.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest Scott delve into a variety of gardening topics, offering listeners practical advice on plant propagation, pest management, soil health, and food preservation. This comprehensive blog post will break down each segment of the episode, providing detailed, actionable tips and expert insights to help you enhance your gardening and culinary skills.

Richard begins by emphasizing the importance of propagation techniques, particularly softwood cuttings, to maximize plant growth. Softwood cuttings are taken from the current year’s growth, unlike hardwood cuttings, which come from older wood. Here’s a step-by-step guide to taking softwood cuttings:

Richard also discusses another propagation method called layering, which occurs naturally in some plants like blackberries. Here’s how you can use layering to propagate plants:

By using these propagation techniques, you can increase your stock of plants like rosemary, lavender, sage, currant bushes, gooseberry bushes, Sichuan pepper plants, and olive plants, all while saving money.

Blight is a fungal disease that can devastate crops, particularly potatoes and tomatoes. Richard shares his experience with blight affecting his Aaron Victory potatoes and offers the following tips for managing this issue:

By following these steps, you can effectively manage blight and protect your crops.

Healthy soil is crucial for growing robust plants. Richard shares his insights on soil health and offers practical tips to improve it:

By focusing on soil health, you can create a thriving garden ecosystem that supports plant growth.

In the recipe segment, Scott introduces the concept of lacto-fermentation as a method for preserving produce. Here’s a detailed guide to making sour dill pickles:

Lacto-fermentation not only preserves the nutritional value of the vegetables but also enhances their flavor.

In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard and Scott provide valuable insights into gardening practices, from propagation techniques and pest management to soil health and food preservation methods. By following their expert advice, you can cultivate a thriving garden ecosystem and enhance your culinary skills. Engage with your garden, observe your surroundings, and set goals to create a sense of achievement throughout the gardening season. Share your experiences and feedback with the supportive community surrounding the podcast, and continue to learn and grow as a gardener.

In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard takes listeners on a detailed tour of his allotment, divided into two sections, 1-28A and 1-28B. He discusses the current state of his crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbages, and the challenges posed by pests like slugs and pigeons. Richard also shares his experiences with weed management, crop rotation, and his West Kent five pod hydroponic growing system. He emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and offers practical gardening tips, aiming to inspire listeners to grow their own food despite the inevitable challenges.

Richard’s allotment is divided into two sections, 1-28A and 1-28B. He acquired section 1-28A a few years ago, inheriting a well-maintained space with fruit plants. However, he’s faced challenges with weed overgrowth and even found hidden kitchen knives, which he reported to the authorities.

Tips:

Richard’s raised beds, originally for beans and peas, have been hit hard by slugs and snails. Despite using the hugelkultur method, his crops struggled this year.

Tips:

Richard has had success with broccoli but faced challenges with cauliflower and cabbages. Despite pests, his brassicas have thrived.

Tips:

Richard has plans for section 1-28B, including an apple tree and asparagus plants. His apple tree is promising, and asparagus is finally thriving.

Tips:

Richard shares his positive experience with a hydroponic growing system, especially for basil.

Tips:

In addition to gardening tips, this episode features a delicious recipe from Chef Scott. Try his mouth-watering Coq au Vin, a classic French dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Click here for the recipe.

Richard’s passion for gardening shines through as he shares practical tips and personal anecdotes. He encourages listeners to embrace the challenges of gardening, finding joy and satisfaction in growing their own food.

Engage with the Community Richard invites feedback and interaction, emphasizing the community aspect of gardening. Share your experiences, ask questions, and connect with fellow gardeners

Also don’t forget to consider becoming a member of our supporters club and help keep this podcast running

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into the intricacies of tomatoes ripening, shares an innovative upcycling project, and discusses the benefits of a new compost tumbler on his allotment. Additionally, Scott brings a delightful culinary twist with a recipe for lemon and elderflower posset with red gooseberry compote.

Richard begins by addressing a common issue many gardeners face: tomatoes not ripening as expected. He explains that the ripening process is influenced by the plant hormone ethylene, which is crucial for the development of the fruit’s colour and flavour. Environmental factors such as temperature and sunlight play a significant role in ethylene production.

Temperature:** Tomatoes require a consistent temperature range of 21-24°C for optimal ripening. Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) or below 50°F (10°C) can hinder the process.
Sunlight:** Adequate sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, which in turn supports the ripening process. Ensure your tomato plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Richard offers several practical solutions to encourage tomato ripening:

Remove Lower Leaves:** By removing the lower leaves of the tomato plant, you can improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease, which can indirectly support ripening.
Use Ethylene-Emitting Fruits:** Placing bananas near your tomato plants can help. Bananas emit ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening process.
Prune and Pinch:** Regularly prune and pinch off suckers (the small shoots that grow between the stem and branches) to direct the plant’s energy towards fruit development.

Richard introduces an upcycling project where he repurposes large tins of tomato sauce as plant pots. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also provides a cost-effective solution for gardening.

Prepare the Tins: Clean the tins thoroughly and remove any labels.
Drill Drainage Holes: Use a drill to create several drainage holes at the bottom of each tin to prevent waterlogging.
Add Perlite and Compost: Fill the tins with a mixture of perlite and compost to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability.
Planting: Richard chose to plant ginger in his upcycled pots, but you can experiment with various plants based on your preference.

Richard emphasizes the importance of creativity in gardening. Upcycling projects like this not only benefit the environment but also add a unique touch to your garden. Consider using other discarded items such as old buckets, tires, or even broken furniture to create functional and aesthetically pleasing garden features.

Richard shares his excitement about a new compost tumbler he received for his allotment. Compost tumblers offer several advantages over traditional compost bins:

Faster Composting:** The tumbling action aerates the compost, speeding up the decomposition process.
Ease of Use:** Tumblers are easier to turn and manage, making them ideal for gardeners with limited physical strength.
Pest Control:** Enclosed tumblers reduce the risk of pests such as rodents and insects.

Balance Green and Brown Materials:** Ensure a good mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Green materials include kitchen scraps and grass clippings, while brown materials include leaves and cardboard.
Maintain Moisture Levels:** The compost should be as moist as a wrung-out sponge. Add water if it’s too dry or dry materials if it’s too wet.
Regular Turning:** Turn the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process.

Scott brings a refreshing culinary twist to the episode with his recipe for lemon and elderflower posset with red gooseberry compote. This dessert is not only delicious but also highlights the use of homegrown ingredients.

You can find chef Scott’s recipe here, or on his Instagram page seed to plot 13

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast offers a wealth of practical advice and inspiration for gardeners and home cooks. From understanding the science behind tomato ripening to embarking on creative upcycling projects and efficient composting, Richard provides valuable insights that can enhance your gardening experience. Meanwhile, Scott’s delightful recipe adds a touch of culinary magic, encouraging listeners to make the most of their homegrown ingredients.

Richard also highlights his participation in a charity fundraising event organized by the Bearded Growers, aiming to get kids gardening in schools. He encourages listeners to donate to the cause and mentions the opportunity to win fantastic prizes. Additionally, he urges listeners to rate and review the podcast and consider joining the supporters club for exclusive content and benefits. Find out more by clicking the button below

For more gardening tips, creative projects, and delicious recipes, be sure to tune in to the Veg Grower Podcast and stay connected with Richard and Scott through their various platforms. Happy gardening and cooking!

Tomatoes not ripening (00:00:05)
Richard discusses the challenges of his tomato plants not ripening due to cold weather, lack of sunlight, and ethylene hormone production.

Upcycling project with tomato tins (00:07:57)
Richard shares an upcycling project using large tins of tomato sauce as plant pots, including drilling drainage holes and planting ginger plants.

Lemon and elderflower posset recipe (00:13:09)
Scott shares a recipe for lemon and elderflower posset with red gooseberry compote as a quick and simple dessert using homegrown berries.

New compost tumbler (00:15:08)
Richard expresses his excitement about receiving a compost tumbler, explaining its unique features and its role in producing compost.

Importance of mixing compost (00:17:11)
Richard emphasizes the importance of mixing compost to accelerate the production process and discusses the tools he uses for this purpose.

The new compost tumbler (00:21:25)
Richard discusses the addition of a new compost tumbler to his allotment and expresses hope for its productivity.

Fundraising event announcement (00:22:34)
Richard announces his participation in a charity fundraising event to get kids gardening in schools and encourages donations with a chance to win prizes.

Podcast wrap-up and call to action (00:23:38)
Richard encourages listeners to rate and review the podcast, discusses changes on Spotify, and invites support through the supporters club.