Gardeners' Question Time

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.

Join botanist and houseplant expert James Wong, award-winning garden designer Matthew Wilson, and alpine plant specialist Bethan Collerton as they dive into the essential skills of gardening. They share insights on health and safety in the garden and how to combat common woes like slug infestations. James highlights easy-to-grow plants from Sheffield’s Winter Garden, perfect for novices. The panel also discusses overrated plants and their diverse preferences, all while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging atmosphere.

This week features Pippa Greenwood, a plant health specialist with extensive pest know-how; James Wong, a botanist and indoor plant explorer; and Juliet Sargeant, an award-winning garden designer focused on sustainability. They tackle whether gardening is possible in a flat without a balcony and suggest compact indoor plants. The panel also discusses the threat of the Colorado potato beetle, offering strategies to protect crops while maintaining soil health. Their diverse insights make gardening challenges seem conquerable, even in limited spaces!

Pippa Greenwood, a pest and disease specialist, joins botanist and broadcaster James Wong, award-winning garden designer Juliet Sargeant, and grow-your-own expert Bob Flowerdew for a lively discussion. They tackle common gardening challenges like why onions bolt and the best practices for pruning lilacs. Juliet suggests flowering shrubs suitable for chalky soil, while Bob offers essential tips for feeding and watering crops. The team shares strategies for thriving gardens, blending science with personal anecdotes for an engaging horticultural journey.