Gardening with the RHS The Magic of Magnolias + Growing in Tough Spots
Mar 6, 2025
Lucy Chamberlain, a kitchen gardener and author of 'Grow Food Anywhere', joins Seamus O’Brien, a magnolia expert from the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, and Alex Paines from RHS Garden Rosemore. They discuss the beauty and history of magnolias, exploring how to grow them successfully and their fascinating pollination methods. Lucy shares tips on cultivating edibles in challenging spots, while Alex introduces the chop and drop mulching technique, emphasizing its ecological benefits. It's a vibrant conversation about gardening sustainability!
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Grow Root Crops in Cold Open Areas
- Plant root crops like carrots, parsnips, and beetroots in cold, open spots to deter pests and diseases.
- Use windy, exposed areas for brassicas and leeks to reduce pest proliferation and enhance plant health.
Sun and Moisture Boost Yield
- Grow bulky, warm-loving crops like pumpkins, squashes, and courgettes in sunny and moist garden spots.
- Use enriched, moist soil and warmth to achieve high yields for crops like Florence fennel and main crop potatoes.
Magnolias: Ancient Beetle-Pollinated Plants
- Magnolias are ancient plants evolved before bees; primarily pollinated by beetles attracted to pollen.
- They display vast varieties in size, flower color, and can be cultivated for small gardens or large landscapes.
