Join Richard in this weeks pod cast in which we are having a pub quiz.

Time to test your veg gardening knowledge with 15 questions all related to vegetable gardening.

Grab a pen and pencil and lets have some fun.

Mentioned in this is Lucy’s Grow veg anywhere book available here.

Chef Scott is also back with another recipe of the week. This week its an alcohol free Irish cream Liquer

This recipe makes 8 drinks, and you will need you will need

300ml double cream

110 ml evaporated milk

4 tbsp maple syrup

50ml freshly brewed espresso

pinch of ground cinnamon

10ml vanilla extract

1tsp coco powder

Ice

Method whisk all the ingredients together and then pour over ice to serve.

Join Richard in this weeks veg grower podcast where this week its all about pruning.

You may remember at the beginning of November we started to read the rhs pruning and training as our book of the month. well this week we can put that book into action and prune some of our trees and bushes.

Using this book Richard starts off on the allotment with pruning the Autumn Raspberries, which are some of the easiest soft fruits to prune.

After that Richards attention turned to coppicing his hazel tree. Richard grows a Hazel tree to provide hazel nuts and bean sticks and coppicing is a great way to prolong the life of a tree and get hazel sticks from it.

Then Richard turned to his pear tree and gave that a tidy up ensuring that no brunches where rubbing against each other.

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In the vegetable garden located at Richard’s home, Richard has continued tackling the pruning tasks starting with Summer Raspberries.

Summer raspberries are not as easy to prune as Autumn Raspberries but Richard shares a little tip that might help make this job a little easier.

Richard also tackles pruning a grape vine which is a little trickier to prune and then has started a project of creating a three tiered espalier apple tree. Something that will really test Richards pruning skills, but hopefully create a fine looking tree too.

Chef Scott isn’t available this week but Richard has stepped in and has created a recipe that uses parts of the Brussel sprout plants that we don’t usually use, the leaves.

Ingredients

Method

Cut the hard spine out of the leaves and discard. Take the remaining leaves and roll into a cigar then using a sharp knife slice into strips.

In a pan melt the butter with the olive oil, then add the minced garlic. Once the garlic is soft add the chopped leaves and stir. Cook until the leaves are tender and serve immediately.

As Richard wraps up this weeks podcast Richard share his final thoughts on the book. He particularly says how he feels much more confident with pruning many trees and bushes.

Richard also shares what the next book on the reading list is. Grow Veg Anywhere by Lucy Chamberlain is released on the 2nd January 2025 but is available for pre-ordering now. It promises to be a good read and one definitely worth checking out.

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Welcome to an in-depth exploration of Richard’s gardening plans for 2025, as shared on the Veg Grower Podcast. Richard, an experienced gardener, offers a wealth of knowledge on crop rotation, successional sowing, and garden layout. This blog post will break down each of his tips in detail, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you optimize your vegetable garden for the upcoming year.

Richard emphasizes the critical role of planning in gardening, especially when faced with challenging weather conditions. By organizing your garden layout and crop rotation plans, you can ensure a continuous supply of vegetables throughout the year. Here are some key takeaways from Richard’s approach:

Crop rotation is essential for maintaining soil health and maximizing productivity. Richard uses both a paper sketch and a digital tool called Veg Plotter to keep track of his garden layout and crop rotation plans. This dual approach allows him to have a reference in his shed while also having access to his plans on his phone or computer.

Successional sowing involves planting certain crops at intervals to ensure a continuous supply throughout the year. This technique is particularly effective for quick-growing crops but can also apply to slower-growing varieties.

Richard’s garden layout consists of several beds designated for specific crops. He provides a virtual tour of his garden, detailing the crops he plans to grow in each bed.

Richard incorporates companion planting to deter pests and enhance the garden’s biodiversity. He plans to use nasturtiums and marigolds, which are known to attract beneficial insects and repel harmful pests.

Richard’s greenhouse is an essential part of his gardening strategy. He is implementing an autopilot watering system to simplify plant care and plans to grow cucumbers, melons, tomatoes, peppers, chilies, and strawberries in the controlled environment of the greenhouse.

Richard’s allotment plans continue the theme of crop rotation and careful planning. He describes the layout and crop rotation strategy for his allotment, ensuring that each bed is utilized effectively.

Richard’s detailed gardening plans for 2025 provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to optimize their vegetable gardening efforts. By emphasizing the importance of planning, crop rotation, and successional sowing, he offers a comprehensive approach to achieving a fruitful harvest throughout the year.

By following Richard’s insights and recommendations, you can create a well-organized and productive vegetable garden that thrives throughout the year. Happy gardening!

As the winter months settle in, gardeners often find themselves with a bit more time on their hands. This period is perfect for planning and organizing, ensuring that when the busy planting seasons arrive, everything is in place. In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard delves into the essential gardening activities for December, focusing on seed organization, planning for the upcoming growing seasons, and the benefits of microgreens and sprouting seeds. Additionally, Chef Scott adds a culinary twist with a delectable recipe for roasted sprouts with hot honey and feta cheese. Let’s break down the key insights and actionable tips from this episode.

Richard begins by emphasizing the importance of sorting through your seed collection. This annual ritual helps in identifying what you have, what needs to be discarded, and what new seeds you need to order. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively organize your seeds:

Richard introduces microgreens and sprouting seeds as the “seed of the month,” highlighting their benefits during the winter months. These tiny, nutrient-dense plants can be grown indoors, providing fresh greens even when outdoor gardening is limited.

In Collaboration with premier seeds direct, a great resource for reasonably priced seeds including microgreens and sprouting seeds

Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are harvested just after the first true leaves have developed. They are packed with nutrients and can be grown easily in small spaces. Here’s how to get started:

Sprouts are germinated seeds that are eaten raw. They are easy to grow and can be a nutritious addition to your diet. Here’s Richard’s method for growing pea shoots:

Adding a culinary twist to the gardening theme, Chef Scott shares a simple yet delicious recipe for roasted sprouts with hot honey and feta cheese. This recipe showcases how homegrown produce can be transformed into mouthwatering dishes.

Richard explores the innovative use of technology in gardening, specifically how artificial intelligence (AI) can be utilized to create a personalized seed sowing plan. By inputting data such as local climate conditions and frost dates, gardeners can receive tailored advice on when to sow different seeds.

Richard shares his experience using AI to create a comprehensive list of edible plants to grow throughout the year in Littlehampton, West Sussex. While he finds the technology helpful, he emphasizes that it should be supplemented with personal gardening knowledge and experience.

Richard concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to stay organized, embrace the winter months for planning, and consider the benefits of growing their own food. He invites feedback and questions from listeners, fostering a sense of community among gardening enthusiasts.

By following these tips and insights, gardeners can make the most of the quieter winter months, setting the stage for a successful and bountiful growing season ahead.

In this special episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, we deviate from our usual format to bring you a live Q&A session from the Bishopstoke Gardening Club. Richard, our main speaker, shares his wealth of knowledge on home gardening, addressing audience questions and providing invaluable insights. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to grow their own food, offering practical advice and organic gardening techniques. Let’s explore the key topics Richard covers, providing actionable tips and expert insights to help you cultivate a thriving garden.

Richard kicks off by discussing the recent weather challenges, such as early frost and storms in the UK. He stresses the importance of safety during these events:

One of the initial questions Richard addresses is about caterpillars on kale, likely caused by the white cabbage butterfly. Here are his organic solutions:

Garlic is a Mediterranean plant that can thrive in the UK with the right care. Richard shares his top tips:

A listener’s question about an apple tree that hasn’t produced flowers or fruit leads Richard to offer these insights:

Bindweed is a persistent garden weed, but Richard shares his approach to managing it:

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a thriving garden. Richard emphasizes the importance of soil health:

The episode also features a delightful recipe segment by Scott, who introduces Café de Paris butter. This versatile compound butter can enhance a variety of dishes:

Richard’s passion for gardening and sustainable practices shines through as he encourages listeners to share their own gardening journeys:

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove of gardening wisdom, offering practical tips, delicious recipes, and a sense of camaraderie among those passionate about growing their own food. Whether you’re dealing with pests, looking to enhance your soil, or seeking inspiration for your next meal, Richard’s insights are sure to motivate and empower you on your gardening journey.

By following Richard’s advice and embracing organic gardening methods, you can create a thriving, sustainable garden that not only provides fresh, homegrown food but also supports a healthy ecosystem.

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.

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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!