Gardening with the RHS

This week we’re exploring the lives of the pioneering women gardeners of the 20th century who paved the way for women in horticulture today… through music. Composer Omri Kochavi will be sharing how he was inspired by the book ‘An Almost Impossible Thing’ by Fiona Davison to create what he calls a 'horti-musical'. Now's the perfect time to think ahead to spring, and daffodil devotee Camilla Bassett-Smith will be joining us to share some of her favourite cultivars, and top tips on getting the most out of your bulbs. And finally we’re taking stock after a hot, dry summer. We visit Alex Paines at RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon to explore how the gardeners there are adapting what, where, and how they plant. Host: Guy Barter Contributors: Omri Kochavi, Camilla Bassett-Smith, Alex Paines Links: An Almost Impossible Thing: The radical lives of Britain's pioneering women gardeners Omri Kochavi’s website Ladies in Bloomers RHS Daffodils Daffodil Diaries project RHS Garden Rosemoor

Autumn may be here, but your garden’s productivity doesn’t have to slow down! This week, join us as Liz Mooney from RHS Wisley’s World Food Garden reveals how she keeps her allotment bursting with fruit and veg all year round. We’ll also hear from entomologist Dr Hayley Jones, who’s back to shed new light on wasps — the much-maligned but fascinating insects who’ve had a buzzing bumper year in 2025. And for those thinking beyond the traditional lawn, RHS advisor Nick Turrell offers fresh ideas to transform your garden into something truly inspiring. Host: Jenny Laville Contributors: Liz Mooney, Dr Hayley Jones, Nick Turrell Links: Social Wasps RHS Plants For Pollinators Plants for Pollinators Special Podcast Episode

Join Jassy Drakulic, a Senior Plant Pathologist specializing in fungal diseases, as she reveals effective strategies for combating powdery mildew. Liam Anderson, custodian of Wisley’s Wisteria Walk, shares invaluable tips on pruning wisteria to ensure stunning blooms. Nick Turrell encourages listeners to rethink traditional lawns, exploring their relevance in modern gardens and suggesting eco-friendly alternatives. Tune in for expert advice and fresh perspectives on garden health!

Join Tom Hart Dyke, a modern-day plant hunter and founder of the World Garden, as he shares an extraordinary tale of survival from the Panamanian jungle. Guy Barter, RHS chief horticulturist, offers essential tips for thriving plants during extreme heat and drought, including sustainable watering methods. Nick Turrell, RHS horticultural advisor, shares budget-friendly gardening hacks to help you cultivate your green space without overspending. Together, they explore how to adapt and innovate in the face of climate challenges!

Allotments are powerful spaces of regeneration, nourishment, and community, and this National Allotment Week we’re celebrating these impactful sanctuaries. Mike Farrell, Chair of the National Allotment Society talks us through how they have evolved and why in a fractured world, the diverse communities they serve are more vital than ever. Garden designer and allotmenteer Zoe Claymore explores the versatility of container gardening, and RHS Horticultural Advisor Lenka Cooke shares her hacks for dealing with any invading weeds AND how to feed your allotment at the same time. Host: Nick Turrell Contributors: Mike Farrell, Zoe Claymore, Lenka Cooke Links: National Allotment Society Zoe Claymore website More on homemade fertilisers 

Lee Connelly, The Skinny Jean Gardener, inspires kids to dig their hands into gardening with exciting projects. Giovanna Fletcher shares how gardening has become a cherished family activity, fostering closer bonds and joyful experiences for her kids. Meanwhile, horticulturist Sam Southgate discusses how to integrate wildlife into formal gardens, promoting biodiversity even in polished spaces. Together, they explore various ways to engage children with nature while offering practical tips for a vibrant summer garden.

Join Dr. Andy Salisbury, an expert on garden ecosystems, Gill Perkins from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, and horticulturist Rosie Yeomans as they shed light on supporting pollinators. Discover how smart planting choices can counter pollinator decline and hear about the fascinating world of bumblebees facing habitat loss and climate challenges. Rosie shares findings from her salvia trial, revealing which stunning varieties attract these vital insects. Gardeners hold the key to creating vibrant, pollinator-friendly spaces!

Sam Southgate, a passionate horticulturalist from RHS Garden Rosemoor, discusses creative ways to repurpose garden waste into structures that benefit both gardens and local wildlife. Mary Coates shares her intriguing research on the troublesome honey fungus and invites listeners to get involved. The conversation also celebrates the mint family, featuring innovative designs from the RHS Hampton Court. From enhancing biodiversity to brewing garden-inspired beverages, this episode is a delightful dive into vibrant gardening possibilities.

This week, we’re coming to you live from the very first RHS Flower Show at the magnificent Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire. We’ll be chatting with the rising stars of garden design – young talents competing for the coveted RHS Young Designer of the Year award. We’re also shining a light on some of the North’s finest growers, showcasing their extraordinary plants inside the vibrant floral marquee. And of course, we’ll be exploring the fresh ideas and inspiring themes blooming across the show’s breathtaking gardens.   Hosts: Gareth Richards, Jenny Laville, Mallissa Mabbitt   Contributors: Paul Hervey-Brookes, Luke Coleman, Colin Hickman, Dean Charlton, Mairi Longdon   Links:  RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse

Nothing captures the spirit of a British summer quite like Wimbledon and the iconic pairing of strawberries and cream. This week we’re diving into the fascinating history of strawberry cultivation with the RHS Head of Libraries and Exhibitions Fiona Davison, who uncovered a hidden story of pioneering strawberry-focused citizen science. Wisley’s Liz Mooney returns to run us through exactly how to keep on top of the vegetable patch during one of the busiest times in the growing season. And finally, we journey to Somerset to meet Georgie Newbury of Common Farm Flowers. Her cut flower farm is a haven for bees, butterflies, and all things that flutter and buzz. Host: Gareth Richards Contributors: Fiona Davison, Liz Mooney, Georgie Newbury Links: How the RHS transformed British strawberry growing RHS Digital Collections RHS Plant Trials and Awards Common Farm Flowers