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BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast

Latest episodes

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Oct 22, 2024 • 44min

Dangerous Plants - How to Forage and not Die

Toxic plants, deadly fungi and mistaken identity in the hedgerows can all lead to unpleasant consequences. In this episode of Dangerous Plants, horticulturist Frances Tophill talks to UK forager James Wood to discuss how to enjoy nature’s bounty throughout the year, tips for how to clarify what is edible and what’s not and encourage us to forage wilder and deeper, safely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Oct 18, 2024 • 8min

Travel Tales - Gordon Castle Walled Garden, Scotland

Tucked away in the heart of the Scottish Highlands is a gardening masterpiece: the Gordon Castle Walled Garden. This eight-acre walled garden is one of the largest in Britain and a stunning example of modern horticulture blended with historic charm. The garden is divided into various sections, each with its own unique character. Be captivated by this stunning walled garden— evoking images of secret, enchanting spaces filled with vibrant blooms and rich history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Oct 16, 2024 • 1h

Dangerous Plants - The Cost of Cotton: Slavery’s Legacy and its Environmental Fallout

How has cotton, a soft staple fibre, been dangerous for centuries - and continues to be so? Threatening human life, natural resources and biodiversity, the cotton plant has wreaked havoc over the years in the slave trade, farming and industry. Joining Frances are Dr Cassandra Gooptar, Lecturer in Legacies of Slavery at the University of Hull, and Environmental Sustainability expert Inemesit Ukpanah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Oct 14, 2024 • 50min

Dangerous Plants - The Dark Side of Plant Hunting

In this lively chat, horticulturalist Tom Hart Dyke shares his thrilling adventures as a modern-day plant hunter. He delves into the dangers of exploring hostile environments while searching for rare flora and recounts his harrowing ten-month captivity by guerrillas in pursuit of orchids. Tom reflects on the ethical dilemmas faced by plant hunters and the impact of their discoveries on gardens today. His passion for unique species shines through, revealing the delicate balance between exploration and conservation in the world of botany.
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Oct 11, 2024 • 8min

Travel Tales - Alhambra Palace and Garden, Spain

The Alhambra is a magnificent fortress-palace complex perched on a hilltop, celebrated for itsawe-inspiring architecture and exquisite gardens. If you’re a garden enthusiast or someone who appreciates natural beauty, the Alhambra is a must-see. Originally a fortress before becoming a royal palace, the gardens are prime examples of Islamic design, characterized by intricate water features, lush greenery, and serene courtyards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Oct 9, 2024 • 45min

Dangerous Plants - Plants that Kill and Cure

Dr. Sarah Edwards, Plant Records Officer at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden and an ethnobotanist, dives into the fascinating world of dangerous plants. She reveals how species like cannabis and yew wield both healing powers and risks. The discussion explores the vital role of traditional knowledge in modern medicine, highlighting the Madagascar periwinkle's contributions to diabetes and cancer treatments. Additionally, she addresses ethical concerns over the exploitation of indigenous plant knowledge and the need for sustainable interactions with nature.
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Oct 7, 2024 • 47min

Dangerous Plants - Plants that Solve Crimes

How can plants be used to identify and interpret evidence to help solve crimes and what techniques can be used to do so? Discover how important forensic botany is in criminal cases and if there are plants that can ‘hold’ more evidence than others with Forensic Botanist Mark Spencer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Oct 4, 2024 • 8min

Travel Tales - Suizenji Jojuen Garden, Japan

A visit to Suizenji Jojuen Garden is all about the way the garden captures the heart and soul of Japan. It's a place where history, culture and nature come together. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves beautiful places, it has something to offer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Sep 30, 2024 • 49sec

Dangerous Plants Trailer

In this captivating discussion, Frances Tophill, a renowned British horticulturist and television presenter, unveils the intriguing world of dangerous plants. She explores their dual nature—both enchanting and perilous—delving into their roles in murder mysteries, witchcraft, and even crime-solving. Listeners will be drawn into tales of poisonous potions and the secrets held within hedgerows. Join Frances on this journey into the wild side of botany, where beauty and danger intertwine!
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Sep 27, 2024 • 35sec

Travel Tales Trailer

Visit some of the most beautiful gardens around the world with the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast. In our new series, Travel Tales: Gardens of the World, we’ll transport you to tropical paradises, spectacular botanic gardens, scenic nature parks, traditional landscape gardens, historical walled estates and hidden city gems. Join travel presenter and journalist Carmen Roberts to travel around the globe and delve into the delights of spectacular and inspirational green spaces. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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