As the Season Turns October
20 snips
Oct 1, 2025 Join novelist Zoe Gilbert as she dives into the world of conkers, sharing fascinating games and the historic uses of horse chestnut. She delves into foraging sweet chestnuts and the culinary marvel of chestnut flour, highlighting its roots in Italian culture. The conversation also touches on wildlife folklore, including the urban fox’s adaptability to city living. With tales of drunken butterflies and magical hawthorn trees, Zoe weaves a rich tapestry of nature, folklore, and seasonal traditions that celebrate October's charm.
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Episode notes
Autumn As A Light-Driven Reset
- Autumn signals a systemic winding-down as daylight shortens and plants reallocate resources before winter.
- Lia Leendertz links falling leaves, mellowing earth and seed strategies to the light-driven seasonal shift.
Ballad Linked To Bittersweet Berries
- Sam Lee recounts the Lord Randall ballad tied to bittersweet (woody nightshade) imagery and hunting moons.
- He connects the song's poison theme to the plant's folklore and song-thrush diet.
Plan For Little Summers In October
- Watch for St Luke's Little Summer around October 18th and expect it to end near Simon and Jude on the 28th.
- Use these folk dates to plan late-season gardening or outings around variable warm spells.
