Supporting Bees through Thoughtful Gardening

A Chat With Alex StottAbout AlexBIO: Alex is an event producer and passionate gardener from Melbourne's inner suburbs. Alex tends a thriving courtyard oasis, focusing on sustainability, growing from seed, and attracting local wildlife. A creative soul and nature lover, she enjoys making mosaics, repurposing secondhand finds, and relaxing in the garden after a busy day.Alex's location: Inner Suburbs Melbourne, VIC.To learn more about Alex's Courtyard Garden: My Smart Garden Article: https://mysmartgarden.org.au/case_study/alexs-courtyard-garden-in-stonnington/More about this episode:In this episode of How I Grow, Nat sits down with Alex, an event producer from Melbourne's inner suburbs who has turned a 10-by-7 meter tiled courtyard into a diverse, pollinator-friendly sanctuary. Alex shares how her gardening journey had a later start, sparked at age 35 during the Melbourne COVID lockdowns after losing her job. With a tiny budget in a rental property, Alex famously began by growing zucchinis in an old pillowcase tucked inside a milk crate. Fast forward to today, and that same trial-and-error approach has completely transformed her current ground-floor apartment courtyard. From a flat-pack greenhouse and raised veggie beds to an impressive passionfruit vine that yielded over 120 fruits last summer, Alex’s story is a beautiful look at getting creative with small spaces. Alex also shares the ups and downs of the garden, including accidentally baking plants in the summer heat of the greenhouse and dealing with the failure of a thorny youngberry bush.Beyond the garden beds, Alex speaks from the heart about how stepping out into the courtyard has become a necessary respite from a busy, and sometimes stressful, 9-to-5 job. She shares her excitement of pulling out her beloved orange tin of seeds each spring, finding pure joy in the entire process of watching a seed grow rather than just focusing on the finished vegetable. Whether she's bringing a bargain-bin grapevine back to life, creating DIY mosaics to decorate the walls, or successfully growing a coffee tree in a pot, Alex’s approach is all about experimenting and keeping things sustainable through hard-rubbish finds.It’s a refreshing reminder that you don't need acreage to create a vibrant ecosystem. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of trial and error, a desire to attract local wildlife and the willingness to just start planting.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat With Kyrra-LeighAbout Kyrra-LeighBIO: Kyrra is a backyard flower and veggie grower from regional south-west Victoria. She shares her journey on TikTok, helping others create cut flower gardens at home with simple, honest tips while studying horticulture and learning as she goes.Kyrras location: South West VictoriaTo learn more about Kyrra: TikTok: @kyrraleigh22More about this episode:In this episode of How I Grow, Nat chats with Kyrra-Leigh, a high-intensity disability worker from Southwest Victoria, who has turned her one-acre property into a prolific cut flower and vegetable haven. Kyrra shares how her obsession with plants was ignited, from growing up on her family hobby farm and bonding with her mother over a veggie patch to learning how to propagate carnations by her great-grandmother’s side. Whether she is planting her dahlias or collecting her favourite bush beans, she always lets Mother Nature take the lead. Kyrra’s story is an inspiring look at a "no-fuss," realistic approach to growing.Beyond the garden beds, Kyrra speaks from the heart about how digging in the dirt serves as her essential "grounding" ritual after long, demanding overnight shifts. She describes the therapeutic magic of hearing the bees and feeling the soil between her hands, a process that centres her when her professional life is dedicated to giving everything to others. Currently studying a Certificate III in Horticulture, she balances technical plant ID and propagation skills with a refreshingly realistic perspective. She proudly shares her "stuff ups" and DIY fixes, it’s a candid reminder that whether you have a massive paddock or just a few pots on a balcony, gardening is about the joy of giving it a go and the peace found amongst the garden beds.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat with Sam from Avonlea Cottage GardensBIO: Sam is a keen gardener, mum of five, and the creator behind Avonlea Cottage Gardens. She shares her journey of transforming bare grass into a whimsical cottage garden, inspiring others online to create beautiful, life-filled gardens of their own.Sam's location: South East Queensland, VICTo learn more about Sam:Instagram: @avonlea_cottage_gardenTikTok: @avonlea_cottage_gardensMore about this episode:In this episode of How I Grow, Nat chats with Sam, the creator behind Avonlea Cottage Gardens. Sam shares how her gardening journey began as a beautiful way to give her five children the same fond memories of picking fresh food that she had growing up. What started as a blank slate of grass and gum trees has blossomed into a stunning, sanctuary like cottage garden in the South East Region of Queensland. She also opens up about the peaceful joys of creating a space that both nurtures her family and serves as a personal creative outlet.Along with the wins, Sam keeps it relatably real about the natural ups and downs of gardening, from unpredictable weather to learning through simple trial and error. She also shares the heartwarming story behind her custom timber greenhouse, which she built using reclaimed windows and the helpful guidance of a retired builder. Looking forward, Sam talks about her shift toward relaxed, low maintenance planting and her dreamy plans to build a life sized fairy garden for her children. It’s an inspiring conversation for anyone looking to add a little more magic to their own backyard!'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

We interview Doug, one of our "The Seed Collection Community" members.BIO: A retiree, I started growing my own vegetables 2.5 yrs ago in our suburban yard on the Gold Coast, QLD with no prior experience. Gardening helps me stay active mentally and physically. I mainly grow in raised beds, pots and growbags, as is easier on my back and knees.Location: Southern Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.More about this episode:We trace Doug’s shift from health scare to thriving garden, turning sandy soil and palm stands into productive raised beds. He shares practical methods for container sweet potatoes, ginger and turmeric in pots, probiotic sauerkraut, and calm, effective pest management.• Why raised beds suit sandy soil and sore knees.• Hugelkultur-style filling with chopped palm to save soil costs.• Cool-season crops started early under shade and in pots.• Vertical sweet potato in 160-litre pots with trellis control.• Summer winners: sweet corn, ginger, turmeric.• Fermenting sauerkraut for gut health and easy storage.• Mindset of persistence, balance and simple tools'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat with Emily ToddBIO: Emily is a 26 year old garden lover and horticulture student from Melbournes outer east. Em grows flowers and tends a small kitchen garden, sharing the joy of gardening online. A creative soul and animal lover, she enjoys cooking, painting and pottering in the garden.Emily's location: Yarra Valley, VICTo learn more about Em: Instagram: @emtoddxTikTok: @emtoddxxMore about this episode:In this episode of How I Grow, Nat sits down with Emily, a 26 year old creative from the Yarra Valley who has turned her 500m2 block into a blooming sanctuary. Em shares how her obsession with plants started at a young age by her mother’s side, making mud cakes and tucking flowers into her hair, a childhood spark that eventually led her to further her knowledge with growing flowers and vegetables from scratch. From her front yard filled with dreamy roses, poppies and foxgloves to a backyard "chaos" of pumpkins rambling over her chicken coop, Em’s story is a beautiful look at how she’s teaching herself and others to get out into their gardens and create. Em tells us about her up's and down's in the garden, including losing her beloved chickens to a fox last November.Beyond the garden beds, Emily speaks from the heart about how digging in the dirt has become her "free therapy". She describes the pure magic of watching a tiny seed transform into a towering flower and how that process has taught her a level of patience she never had before. Whether she's pickling homegrown cauliflower or dreaming up new garden designs to help others start their own garden spaces, Em’s approach is all about slowing down and finding purpose in the soil. It’s a refreshing reminder that you don't need acreage to create a life full of color. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of trial and error and a genuine love for the "petals and poultry" lifestyle.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview Breanna from @tiny.garden.growingInstagram: @tiny.garden.growingBIO:  I am a passionate self taught gardener, proving that a tiny garden CAN be productive. I aim to inspire people to want to eat healthier homegrown food, garden sustainably and create habitat for native critters - irrespective of garden size!Location:  Melbourne's outer South East-----------------------------More about this episode:Do you believe a lush garden is out of reach for city dwellers? Let Melbourne's own Breanna from Tiny Garden Growing prove you wrong! On our latest episode, she takes us through her surprising journey, transforming a tiny urban space into a veritable cornucopia. Discover how creativity and a little bit of soil can work wonders, and how you, too, can yield a bountiful harvest from even the smallest of balconies or backyards. From balancing soil composition for pots to selecting the right fruit trees for cooler climates, Brianna's expertise will leave you eager to green your space, no matter the size.We chat about how involving children in the process not only educates them on the origins of their food but instills a sense of environmental stewardship. Hear heartwarming anecdotes of youngsters engaging with nature and learn why it's critical to share this knowledge with the next generation. Not only will you be nurturing plants, but you'll also be fostering a greener future with every seed sown.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview Alysse GallagherInstagram: @one_fine_farm @practical_permacultureBIO:  Our family Oscar/Hubbie & kids (Addie & Gus) are embarking on creating a Permaculture inspired homestead. After travelling Australia for 18 months, we are starting from scratch. We are documenting our journey to help show others what is possible. Location:  Northern NSW -Clarence Valley, Yaegl Country -----------------------------More about this episode:Have you ever dreamed of transforming a simple plot of land into a thriving, self-sufficient homestead? Our latest conversation with Elise from One Fine Farm is an intimate look into the realities of permaculture living, where she shares her family's journey in northern New South Wales. From the careful observation of rain patterns to the ambitious plans for crop cultivation, Elise's story is a compelling tapestry of hard-won wisdom, community spirit, and a profound connection to nature.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

In this episode, we unlock the secrets to transforming your patch of green into a thriving sanctuary for bees. Amid the challenges of industrial agriculture, diseases, and climate change, bees are facing an uphill battle, and our discussion focuses on how every flower choice and garden design can tip the balance in their favour. From the stunning salvia to the humble candytuft, we explore a palette of plants that not only please the eye but also offer a veritable buffet for our buzzing friends.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview with Taj Scicluna Instagram: @botanical_educationWebsite: www.botanicaleducation.comEmail: [email protected]: Taj is an artist who fuses together her love of Herbalism, Foraging, Writing, Cooking, Ecosystem Health, Personal Health and Education into a cohesive offering.Location: Macedon Ranges, Victoria-----------------------------More about this episode:Join us as we explore the essentials of a successful herb garden with our special guest, Taj from Botanical Education. In this informative discussion, we'll delve into the cultivation of medicinal plants and the benefits of a diverse garden for both our health and local ecosystems. Taj, an expert in plant care, shares her experiences and insights on how a close relationship with nature can enhance our environments and well-being.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Dive into the straightforward yet rewarding world of growing peas. This guide uncovers the practical aspects and benefits of adding peas to your garden. We'll talk about the basics of Pisum sativum, a versatile plant that offers both sweet and starchy flavors, depending on when you pick it. We're looking into different pea types, from traditional garden peas to the crunchier sugar snaps, and why they're great for cooking.I'll walk you through the steps of growing peas, starting from preparing the soil to supporting their growth. You'll learn how to enjoy the freshest peas right from your garden.We'll also cover how to save seeds for next year's planting, ensuring a continuous supply. The guide includes tips on selecting the right containers, avoiding overcrowding, and using trellises effectively.'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd.  Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au