The Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast

In this episode, we kick off the new year with everything you need to know to get your garden growing strong in 2025! From planting bare-root fruit trees and pruning dormant apple trees to protecting brassicas from wind and pigeons, we cover the top jobs for January. Discover sustainable gardening tips with our 3-step Reduce, Reuse, Recycle plan, and get inspired by 10 creative projects—from wildflower patches to DIY crop covers and vertical veg gardens. Plus, we share our expert advice for starting a new plot the natural way—working with nature, encouraging biodiversity, and building healthy soil. Whether you're a seasoned allotmenteer or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and new ideas to fuel your green ambitions for the year ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this festive episode, we bring you The 12 Garden Days of Christmas — a cheerful, creative twist on the classic holiday tune, packed with practical gardening advice for the winter season. Whether you're pruning pear trees, feeding your feathered friends, or escaping the holiday chaos to sow onion seeds in the greenhouse, we've got tips to keep your plot productive and your spirits high. From mulching fruit trees and sharpening tools to planning next year’s garden in dazzling color, this episode is your winter gardening survival kit. Plus, discover top tips for protecting your veg and greenhouse in colder weather. Make a cup of something warm and escape into the garden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we roll up our sleeves and dive into essential December gardening jobs to keep your veg patch productive and protected through the colder months. From harvesting frost-sweetened parsnips and leeks to building simple DIY mini tunnels and tackling sneaky winter aphids, we’ve got your garden covered—literally. Ben Vanheems shares timely tips on composting, netting, pruning, and prepping your greenhouse for spring. Plus, Dr. Anton Rosenfeld from Garden Organic offers expert advice on how to grow organic veg all year round and avoid the dreaded "hungry gap." Whether you're sowing microgreens on your windowsill or dreaming of giant onions, this episode will help you make the most of the winter season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we dive deep into the rich, fertile world of compost with no-dig gardening expert Charles Dowding. Discover why compost is the cornerstone of a productive vegetable plot, the different types available, and how to avoid common pitfalls when buying or making your own.Plus, gardening guru Rob Smith shares his top tips for growing and preserving store cupboard staples—beans, seeds, nuts, and more—that will keep your pantry stocked through the winter months. From drying amaranth to harvesting homegrown Sichuan pepper, it's time to make your garden work all year round.Whether you're starting new beds or planning a winter larder, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you grow more, dig less, and eat better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s time to dig into the essential jobs for November! In this episode, we explore how to prepare your plot for winter and beyond. Learn how to sow broad beans, harvest and store root veg, protect delicate crops, and make your own gardener’s gold with leaf mold. We also take a deep dive into garlic—planting tips, overwintering advice, and the best varieties for UK growers. Whether you’re composting, mulching, or bubble-wrapping your greenhouse, this episode is packed with practical tips to keep your kitchen garden thriving through the colder months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this seasonal celebration of all things autumnal, we embark on a creative journey through a DIY Halloween. From vibrant glass gem corn to giant pumpkins and sustainable decorations. Then, Danielle Hayes explores the inspiring New World Food Garden at RHS Wisley, where edible diversity, no-dig principles, and community collaboration redefine what it means to grow globally and sustainably. Finally, we share our practical tips for protecting your soil over winter using green manures, mulch, and even... weeds?Whether you're carving pumpkins or planning next year's crops, this episode is packed with earthy advice and autumn inspiration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As golden leaves fall and the October sun dances between crisp mornings and balmy afternoons, Stephanie Hafferty shares her seasonal wisdom on making the most of autumn in the kitchen garden. In this packed episode, you'll learn what to sow now for winter and spring harvests, from garlic and broad beans to sweet carrots and microgreens. Discover clever ways to store your seasonal gluts, how to extend your growing season with DIY cloches, and why intercropping is a game-changer—even in the smallest spaces. Plus, Rob Smith dives deep into the fascinating history of kale, sharing expert growing tips and some exciting new varieties to try. Whether you’re planning, planting, or preserving, this episode is your October grow-along guide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In celebration of Organic September, this episode dives into how even the smallest garden can become a biodiversity haven. Alice Whitehead from Garden Organic shares simple, beautiful ways to support wildlife—from window boxes and balcony habitats to mini ponds and edible flowers. Then, Rob Smith returns with a broccoli bonanza—reviewing everything from sprouting and stem broccoli to brand-new varieties like Tyrian F1 and the super-nutritious Ben A40 F1. Whether you're working with a windowsill or a full veg patch, this episode is packed with ideas to grow greener and tastier! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September is a month of abundance and transition in the kitchen garden, and in this episode, we’re embracing it all. Stephanie Hafferty walks us through essential tasks for the month — from composting and sowing to harvesting and preserving a bounty of crops. Fruit expert David Patch joins us to share his top pear varieties for home growers, including the storied history of the classic 'Conference' and the stunning 'Durondeau.' Plus, Martin Fish takes us on a delightful visit to a historic walled garden in Lincolnshire, home to a 156-year-old grapevine and centuries of gardening tradition. Whether you're bottling chutneys or planning your overwintering crops, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration for the changing season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deliciously practical episode, Rob Smith dives into the world of homegrown snacking—from crunchy celery and colorful French beans to creamy pea dips and vibrant kohlrabi. Discover how to grow tasty, nutritious party bites even in the smallest of spaces. Then, Benedict Vanheems returns with essential advice for helping your plants thrive through scorching summer heat. Learn top watering strategies, mulching methods, and clever cooling tricks to beat the burn. Whether you’re prepping a garden platter or protecting your patch, this episode has your back. 🌱☀️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bumper August episode, the Kitchen Garden team digs into all the key jobs for the month—whether you're lifting onions, sowing winter salads, or managing a greenhouse in a heatwave. Learn how to check sweetcorn for ripeness, deter pests like vine weevils and spider mites, and keep your tomatoes and peppers thriving. Rob Smith also shares his expert advice on watering strategies, fruit tree care, and preparing for Christmas potatoes. From green manures to homemade saffron from calendula petals, there's something for every gardener in this season of plenty. Tune in and grow on! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we bring you top greenhouse and garden jobs for July—from managing heat and humidity to sowing spring cabbages and keeping your tomatoes and peppers happy. Then, professional gardener Nicola Hope shares a moving story of heritage seeds and cultural preservation, taking us from her Gloucestershire greenhouse to far-off lands like Syria, Ukraine, and Bolivia. Learn why saving seeds isn’t just practical—it’s personal. Plus, Martyn Fish drops in with tips on salads, strawberries, and citrus care to keep your crops thriving through the height of summer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this sun-soaked July episode, we dive into the must-do tasks for your veg patch, with expert tips on everything from harvesting garlic and courgettes to pollinating squash by hand. Learn how to fend off summer pests like potato blight and carrot root fly, and discover Steve Ott’s guide to growing a thriving herb garden—whether you're planting parsley in pots or crafting a pizza-themed herb display. It's a celebration of summer abundance, flavor, and fragrant greenery you won’t want to miss! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this vibrant early summer episode, we dive into the top gardening tasks for June with Joyce Russell—from pruning cherry trees to tackling weeds and getting your veg into the ground. Tony Flanagan brings sunflower sunshine to your plot with growing tips and variety picks, while we share step-by-step advice on pumpkins, peas, sweetcorn, and more. With pests to watch out for and harvests to enjoy, it's a packed guide to making the most of your kitchen garden this month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this berry-packed 150th episode, we dive deep into the delicious world of strawberries and beyond. Fruit growing expert David Patch walks us through every season of strawberry care—from planting and feeding to mulching and rotating your crop for success year after year. Plus, Rob Smith joins in to share his top varieties of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and even thornless blackberries ideal for small spaces, containers, and gardens big or small. Whether you’re after a glut for jam-making or a steady trickle of berries for your morning yogurt, this episode has you covered with practical tips, clever tricks, and juicy inspiration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rob Smith sings the praises of broad beans — the hardy, fragrant, and easy-to-grow staple of UK veg patches. Discover his expert tips on sowing, spacing, and supporting your plants, plus how to guard against blackfly and chocolate spot. From rare heirloom varieties like Crimson Flowered and Martock to low-maintenance options perfect for busy growers, there’s a bean for every plot. Martin Fish joins us in the greenhouse to cover essential May jobs: planting tomatoes and cucumbers, sowing herbs, feeding strawberries, and managing watering and weeds. Whether you're planning an autumn bean harvest or prepping for a summer glut, this episode has you covered! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we dive into the essential tasks for your vegetable patch this May. From protecting ripening fruit and earthing up potatoes, to thinning carrots and setting up sturdy supports for beans — we've got your seasonal to-do list covered. Discover smart ways to deter root fly, manage weeds, and mulch effectively for healthier crops and less effort. Plus, we share tips on caring for strawberries, preparing for late frosts, and what to sow, plant, and harvest right now. Packed with expert advice and timely reminders, this is your fortnightly fix for growing success! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just like us, our veg some times need a little bit of TLC. No more so than in winter, when food is scarce for predators and the weather can be inclement. In this podcast we give our top ten tips for care of winter veg and Rob Smith turns his gardening know how to those staples you can enjoy throughout the coldest months of the year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Squashes are members of the Cucurbita family that includes marrows, courgettes, cucumbers and melons. And like their fellow cousins, squashes are tender annuals. The winter squash can be stored for use over the winter months, making them a valuable and tasty addition to the winter table. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sissinghurst Castle Gardens are among Britain's most iconic. But did you know they also include a thriving vegetable garden? Kitchen garden editor Steve Ott takes a tour with kitchen gardener Olivia Steed Munden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sweet peppers and chili peppers have increased in popularity over recent years, and the seed catalogs are full of interesting varieties ranging from mild to very hot fruits that suit all tastes. Martin Fish gives his expert advice on growing these yourself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast KG editor Steve Ott chats to inspirational community gardener Becky Rolfe. With the help of willing volunteers, Becky has helped to create two community plots on the site in her local Norfolk village, providing prospective plot holders with the chance to gain confidence and hone their skills before taking on a patch of their own. She is also the driving force behind Hevingham Community Garden, open to the public 24/7 as a space to relax and to grow food, much of which is given to families in need in the local community and beyond. This work is part-funded by Becky herself via not-for-profit company Give Two Figs through which she sells her beautiful artworks. For more information: www.givetwofigs.co.uk : https://www.instagram.com/givetwofigs/ : https://www.facebook.com/GiveTwoFigs/ :https://www.facebook.com/groups/2958402361153787/ (the last for Hevingham Community Garden specifically)  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KG editor Steve Ott chats to organic gardening expert and regular contributor to KG Stephanie Hafferty about RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. What were the themes and highlights and what ideas will Stephanie be taking home to her own plot in beautiful Wales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast KG editor Steve Ott chats to Tayshan Hayden-Smith who many of you will know as a TV presenter on BBC’s Your Garden Made Perfect and Hampton Court Flower Show coverage. He is also a pro footballer, award-winning Chelsea Flower Show designer, green activist and founder of The Grow2Know Project and now with the release of his new book Small Space Revolution, an author too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The KG team of Steve, Emma and Tony gather to chat about the top tasks on the plot this month, to compare notes on what they have been up to in recent weeks and to talk about some of the latest gardening stories to hit the news – as well as the weather of course! For more information check out the latest issue in the shops now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KG editor Steve Ott chats to Milly Fyfe who (in no particular order) is a keen gardener, garden writer, farmer, Mum of two, home cook, food campaigner, award-winning digital marketing expert, Instagrammer and blogger as well as the owner of website www.nofussmealsforbusyparents.com (well-worth a visit for the delicious recipes alone!) Milly talks about her upbringing among a family of gardeners and her work promoting seasonal British farm produce as well as home-grown crops to parents and children alike. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KG editor Steve Ott chats to Susy Bortolot, AKA susybliving on Instagram and YouTube, about her obsession with growing her own, successional sowings and how moon phase gardening can both improve your crops, and your organisational skills in the garden! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KG readers will know Martin from his regular contributions to the magazine. A trained horticulturist, ex-nurseryman and head gardener, Martin now concentrates on his work as a writer and on giving talks at many major shows around the country where he works with wife Jill – Martin giving the gardening advice and Jill putting together delicious recipes using the produce he grows. Here he chats to the KG team about his life in horticulture and his exciting new garden in Lincolnshire. You can follow progress from the garden every month throughout 2024 in the magazine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jobs for January with the Kitchen Garden team The KG team discuss what they are doing in the garden this month including sowing chillies and aubergines, keeping the snow from your fruit cage, forcing rhubarb and 101 uses for a hot water bottle! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The KG team take a break from the rain to chat through some of the jobs they’ll be doing in November as well as discussing some of the highs and lows of the season so far – including some mixed reactions to some of the tomato varieties they’ve been trying this year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The beautiful Barnsdale Gardens near Oakham in Rutland has been peat-free for more than 30 years after its founder TV gardener Geoff Hamilton, always ahead of his time, started to experiment with peat-free composts. His son and owner of Barnsdale, Nick Hamilton, carries on his work today and with peat-based composts about to be phased out, who better to ask about getting the best from the many new peat alternative composts now appearing in garden centres. KG editor Steve Ott chats to Nick about this plus the organic pest control methods the gardeners use at Barnsdale and picks up some fascinating insights. Find out more about Barnsdale Gardens including opening times, courses and special events: www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our latest podcast KG’s Steve Ott chats to the inspirational head gardener of the National Trust’s Nunnington Hall, Nick Fraser. Thanks to the dedicated work of Nick and his team this gem of a garden in North Yorkshire has become a true haven for wildlife as well as home to a thriving veg plot, orchards, and flower borders. For more information visit: Nunnington Hall | North Yorkshire | National Trust Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We chat to Terry Walton, allotment expert from Radio 2’s The Jeremy Vine show for nearly 20 years, author, and passionate gardener about his love of gardening and growing food. Terry offers some great advice for beginners from his plot in the Rhondda Valley where he has produced his own fruit and veg since working a plot on the same site with his father at the age of 4! Terry Walton’s Plotcast launches today (27th July 2023) and will then be weekly, available on BBC Sounds. It will feature down to earth gardening advice with Terry Walton from his allotment in the Rhondda Valley. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The KG team chat to YouTuber and permaculture expert Huw Richards Huw is a renowned food growing expert, prolific YouTuber, best-selling author and leading voice in permaculture. Tony and Steve chat to him about his journey into gardening and his innovative approach to growing food. In conjunction with Huw, Readly, the one stop marketplace for digital magazines, has compiled some fascinating insights into our hobby. For more info check out our website: Kitchen gardens are a gardening priority this year says gardening expert, Huw Richards. Readly is currently giving 2 months of unlimited reading to over 7000 digital magazines and newspapers including Kitchen Garden magazine. To take advantage of this super offer visit: www.readly.com/gardening. Offer open until 31 May 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the team as they chat to no dig expert and KG regular Stephanie Hafferty about starting a new plot from scratch. Steph’s down-to-earth advice and relaxed approach is sure to inspire even the most nervous newcomer to get out into the garden and give growing your own a try. If you’d like to hear more from Steph or learn about her courses you can visit her website: Welcome to No Dig Home - Stephanie Hafferty - Organic Gardener You’ll also find a link to her YouTube channel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spring has sprung, and the KG team get together to chat about all the things they have been doing on their plots this month. Steve has been sowing peas, Emma loves her outdoor tomatoes and has some handy top tips while Tony brings us up to date with his very fiery chillies! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we interview kitchen gardener, author, and speaker, Helena Dove. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The winter may be time to give your veg patch a rest but you can still sow crops galore. Emma Rawlings offers some tips on growing microgreens.(Written by Emma Rawlings, read by Rachel Atkins). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not a fan of Brussels Sprouts? Then don't worry because this episode is actually about Sprouting Broccoli!Purple Sprouting Broccoli is so delicious and adds a welcome splash of colour to the veg garden. Kitchen Garden editor, Steve Ott, explains how to get the best out of your next sow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to the plants which take the least space in the garden, but create the strongest flavours. Herbs are it. No matter if you have a window box or several allotments, it's worth growing a few herbs to help transform your meals from good to great.(Written by Rob Smith, read by Rachel Atkins). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's always garlic on hand in Rob Smith's kitchen. This month he explains why.'If there is one thing I love to grow in the garden, it has to be garlic. With it's hot and spicy taste when eaten raw, changing to sweet and flavoursome when cooked' says Rob Smith. That's why there's always garlic on hand in Rob Smith's kitchen. This month he explains why. (Written by Rob Smith, read by Rachel Atkins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month we explain how you can manage pests and diseases in your garden without the use of chemicals. (Read by Rachel Atkins). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lettuce is one the easiest and quickest veg to grow, says Rob Smith. So this month he looks at the range of varieties you can try. (Read by Rachel Atkins, Written by Rob Smith). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month we tackle a fruit with an undeserved reputation for being tricky. Indoors, outdoors, grow them in a pot; this month David Patch maps out the options for growing grapes in the UK. (Read by Rachel Atkins). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With household budgets under strain at the moment, the Kitchen Garden editorial team takes a look at the veg you can grow to save money at the supermarkets! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bees perform such a vital role in the garden, yet for many reasons, they're struggling and need our help. Kitchen Garden editor, Steve Ott, suggests some simple ways to lend these wonderful insects a helping hand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we're discussing how gardening can help with your mental health and wellbeing with Annabelle Padwick, a mental health practitioner, professional gardener and Kitchen Garden Magazine writer. Annabelle is also the founder of Life at No.27, an allotment-based support network to help change lives across the country, accessible through self referral, GP’s, psychiatrists and local councils. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we're joined by garden designer, author, and TV presenter, Joe Swift. Joe is a regular presenter on BBC Gardeners' World and the BBC's coverage of many of the RHS flower shows. Recently Joe has written a series of expert gardening guides, covering a wide range of topics from selecting indoor plants to how to nurture wildlife in a sustainable way. There are five gardening guides in the series and they're available now from HarperCollins: https://harpercollins.co.uk/collections/books-by-joe-swift Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve, Emma and Tony gather to discuss all the jobs you could be doing on your plot during February! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast features an interview with Gardeners' World's Adam Frost. Adam is a well-known TV presenter and award-winning garden designer with seven RHS gold medals. He's also an RHS Ambassador, public speaker and published author. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.