Gardeners' Question Time

Why do indoor cyclamen develop sticky leaves? What’s the secret to growing taller sweet peas? And how can we make our gardens more fungi-friendly?This week, Kathy Clugston and the Gardeners’ Question Time panel return to Claygate in Surrey, ready to tackle listeners’ gardening dilemmas. Joining Kathy are horticultural experts Bob Flowerdew, Juliet Sargeant, and Pippa Greenwood, bringing their deep knowledge and lively discussion to the table.Later in the programme, Bunny Guinness shares seasonal tips and practical advice to help you make the most of your garden as autumn sets in.Producer: Matt Smith Junior Producer: Rahnee PrescodA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4.

What is this mysterious vegetable growing in my vegetable patch? Can you identify this mysterious plum? How can I make my cottage garden look full of life?Kathy Clugston hosts a lively Potting Shed edition of Gardeners’ Question Time, recorded at the vibrant GQT Summer Garden Party held at RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex.Joining her is the show’s renowned panel of horticultural experts — Bob Flowerdew, Christine Walkden, James Wong, Bunny Guinness, Dr Chris Thorogood, Matthew Wilson, and Pippa Greenwood — ready to tackle gardening dilemmas from enthusiastic visitors.From tackling vine weevils and dealing with contaminated soil, to coaxing supermarket-bought pear trees into fruiting, the panel shares practical advice, clever solutions, and plenty of gardening wisdom throughout the programme.Junior Producer: Rahnee Prescod Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali A Somethin Else Production for BBC Radio 4.

Join houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank, garden designer Chris Beardshaw, and horticulturist Frances Tophill as they delve into the evolution of the Eden Project. They discuss seasonal gardening strategies, effective planting tips, and the management of unusual garden worms. The trio also shares personal anecdotes about their inspirations in horticulture and care techniques for plants facing challenges. With a focus on creativity, they highlight engaging gardening projects for families and the importance of integrating wildflowers into urban spaces.

In a delightful discussion, horticultural experts Bob Flowerdew, a fruit and veg guru, Pippa Greenwood, a plant pathologist, and garden designer Juliet Sargeant unravel the secrets of gardening on clay soil. They tackle pressing questions like eradicating pesky fungus gnats and the best practices for watering during droughts. The panel shares personal stories about cultivating delicious homegrown produce and the benefits of south-facing gardens, all while addressing how to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.

The discussion dives into the fate of a once-thriving pear tree and the personality of weeds. Listeners get practical tips on growing fruit trees and managing slug infestations while enjoying laughter and expert advice. The panel debates the use of wound sealers in pruning and shares insights from the vibrant Rutland Flower Show. There's a spotlight on artisanal gardening crafts and the joy of harvesting rhubarb, all wrapped in a community spirit that celebrates the joy of gardening.

In this lively discussion, pest and disease detective Pippa Greenwood, botanical explorers James Wong and Dr. Chris Thorogood, and proud plantswoman Christine Walkden share expert insights and practical tips for gardeners. They tackle how gardening clubs can attract younger members, and dive into strategies for coping with heat and water scarcity. The panel playfully discusses the significance of Latin plant names and imagines their dream plant superpowers. It's a celebration of creativity and community in the gardening world!

Join horticultural experts Matthew Pottage, RHS head gardener; Bunny Guinness and Matthew Wilson, visionary garden designers; and Bob Flowerdew, the king of edibles, as they dive into a vibrant garden party atmosphere. They share essential gardening tips, including tricks for maintaining healthy plants during drought and insights on transplanting palms. The conversation turns whimsical with dark humor, exploring playful garden murder mysteries and innovative planting techniques. Listen for clever anecdotes and practical advice to enhance your gardening journey!

Bunny Guinness, a garden designer known for her expertise in dry shade, and Dr. Chris Thorogood, a botanist from Oxford, dive into the wonders of Finsbury Circus Gardens. They tackle intriguing questions about plant resilience against shot hole disease and recommend alternatives like Zelkova and Toona sinensis. Listeners will learn about fern life cycles, the moisture contributions of houseplants, and tips for extending perennial longevity. Their conversations reveal both the complexities and joys of urban gardening.

Explore the whimsical world of garden gnomes, with humorous anecdotes from gardening experts on their charm and significance. Learn practical tips for growing carrots in sandy soil and the importance of using natural mulch. Dive into the vital role of plant health inspectors at airports, safeguarding against invasive pests. Uncover insights into gardening in shaded areas with hardy perennials and the challenges of maintaining monkey puzzle trees amid slug infestations. Enjoy heartfelt stories that connect memories with beloved plants, fostering a sense of community among garden lovers.

This lively discussion dives into the mysteries of brown magnolia leaves and the secrets to caring for tamarisk shrubs. Experts share tips on the tricky art of growing poppies, revealing what it takes for successful germination. An exciting visit to the Carbon Garden at Kew underscores sustainable gardening practices, focusing on carbon's ecological role. The panel provides hilarious anecdotes and practical advice for managing overgrown jasmine and pest issues, all while maintaining a lighthearted atmosphere filled with camaraderie.