Gardeners' Question Time Postbag Edition: Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
12 snips
Nov 7, 2025 Joining the discussion are Chris Beardshaw, an award-winning garden designer; Frances Tophill, a horticulturist and TV presenter; Anne Swithinbank, a houseplant expert; and Edward Lister, manager of Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. They tackle intriguing gardening dilemmas like how to revive a dried-out compost heap and the ideal size for a greenhouse. Edward shares fascinating insights about the Italian Garden's history, while the panel recommends drought-tolerant plants for neglect and discusses the mysteries of cedar of Lebanon seed germination.
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Thin Squash To One Or Two Fruits
- Thin butternut squash fruits to one or two of the healthiest to produce a single large, storable fruit. Keep roots warm and provide regular water to help the chosen fruits ripen and store well.
Keep Compost Moist In Hot Climates
- In hot, dry climates, keep compost moist, reduce large brown materials and cover the heap to retain moisture. Use smaller particle sizes (mow or shred) and consider composting in pits or under shade to conserve water.
Use A Keyhole Bed To Save Water
- Use a keyhole/central-pit compost system so crop watering also moistens the compost and accelerates breakdown. Place compost in the centre and water crops around it to feed beds without wasting extra water.