The Veg Grower Podcast

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the host, delves into the essential tasks for September, focusing on seed sowing and the benefits of growing overwintered onions from seed. Joined by Chef Scott, who shares a delectable plum and almond crumble recipe, the episode is packed with practical advice, culinary inspiration, and tips for indoor gardening. Let's break down the key takeaways and actionable advice from this episode. The Seed of the Month: Alisa Craig Onions This month the seed of the month is an onion variety called Ailsa Craig. This feature is in collaboration with premier seeds direct, an absolutely awesome supply of reasonably priced in seed in large quantities. If you are looking to buy these seeds or any other seeds from premier seed then don't forget our discount code psdvegpod Why Choose Seeds Over Sets? Richard introduces the "seed of the month," the Alisa Craig onion variety, and explains the advantages of growing onions from seed rather than sets: Cost-Effective: Seeds are generally more economical than sets. Reduced Bolting: Onions grown from seed are less prone to bolting, a common issue with overwintered onions. Healthier Plants: Starting from seed can lead to stronger, more resilient plants. Sowing Alisa Craig Onion Seeds Richard provides a detailed guide on sowing onion seeds: Materials Needed: Plug plant trays, seed compost. Sowing Depth: Plant seeds at a depth of about 1 cm. Germination Conditions: Maintain a warm environment, ideally around 20°C (68°F), to ensure successful germination, which typically takes about two weeks. Care for Seedlings: Once germinated, ensure the seedlings receive plenty of light and are kept moist but not waterlogged. Thin out the seedlings to prevent overcrowding. Planting Out Timing: Transplant the seedlings into the garden when they are large enough to handle, usually after 6-8 weeks. Spacing: Space the plants about 10-15 cm apart to allow for proper growth. Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Other Seeds to Sow in September Richard encourages listeners to think ahead and plan for winter and spring crops. Here are some vegetables to consider sowing in September: Spring Cabbages: Choose hardy varieties that can withstand colder temperatures. Cauliflowers: Opt for winter-hardy types. Root Crops: Turnips and radishes are quick-growing and can be harvested before the first frost. Salad Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and arugula can be sown for a quick harvest. Tips for Maximizing Garden Space Interplanting: Plant fast-growing crops between slower-growing ones to make the most of your garden space. Thinning: Regularly thin out seedlings to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth. Culinary Delight: Plum and Almond Crumble Chef Scott joins the episode to share a mouth-watering recipe for a plum and almond crumble. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe: Ingredients Plums: 500g, pitted and sliced. Almonds: 100g, ground. Flour: 150g. Butter: 100g, cold and cubed. Sugar: 100g, divided (50g for the fruit, 50g for the crumble topping). Cinnamon: 1 tsp. Method Prepare the Fruit: Toss the sliced plums with 50g of sugar and cinnamon. Spread them evenly in a baking dish. Make the Crumble Topping: In a bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, and remaining sugar. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping over the plums. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Indoor Gardening: Edible Houseplants Richard addresses a listener's question about indoor plants, focusing on his experience with edible houseplants like ginger, turmeric, and cardamom. Propagation and Care Ginger: Start with a fresh ginger root.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into a variety of gardening topics, sharing his personal experiences and experiments from his allotment and vegetable garden. This episode is packed with valuable insights on soil health, mulching techniques, pest control, and even includes a delicious recipe segment and a book review. Let's break down each topic in detail to provide actionable advice and thorough explanations for fellow gardening enthusiasts. Soil Health Experiment: The Underwear Test Understanding Soil Health Richard's innovative soil health experiment involved burying a pair of cotton underwear in his garden beds. This method, while unconventional, is a practical way to gauge the biological activity in the soil. After a few weeks, he unearthed the underwear to find that approximately 75% of it had decomposed. This significant level of decomposition indicates a healthy soil ecosystem rich in microorganisms and organic matter. Key Takeaways: Microbial Activity: The decomposition of the underwear suggests a high level of microbial activity, which is crucial for breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients into the soil. Organic Gardening Practices: Richard attributes the positive results to years of adding compost and avoiding pesticides and chemicals, which support a thriving soil ecosystem. Actionable Advice: Conduct Your Own Test: Try burying a piece of cotton fabric in your garden to assess soil health. Check it after a few weeks to see the level of decomposition. Enhance Soil Health: Regularly add organic matter such as compost, leaf mould, and well-rotted manure to your soil. Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides that can harm beneficial microorganisms. Mulching Techniques: Pros and Cons Exploring Different Mulch Types Richard experimented with various mulching techniques throughout the growing season, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. 1. Straw Mulch Pros: Excellent for retaining moisture and suppressing weeds. Cons: Increased slug and snail activity, especially in wet weather. 2. Grass Clippings Pros: Free resource from mowing the lawn, helps retain moisture. Cons: Not as effective as straw for weed suppression, may require additional watering. 3. Homemade Compost Pros: Reduces watering needs, provides nutrients to plants. Cons: Contains weed seeds, leading to some weed growth. 4. Heart of Eden Mulch Pros: Significantly reduces watering needs. Cons: Less effective in weed suppression, with bindweed and brambles still growing through. 5. Rocket Grow Mulch Pros: Most effective for weed suppression, helps retain moisture. Cons: None mentioned, highly appreciated for its performance. Key Takeaways: Straw: Best for water retention. Rocket Grow Mulch: Best for weed suppression. Actionable Advice: Choose the Right Mulch: Select mulch based on your specific garden needs. For moisture retention, straw is ideal, while for weed suppression, Rocket Grow mulch is highly effective. Monitor and Adjust: Keep an eye on how different mulches perform in your garden and be ready to adjust your approach based on weather conditions and pest activity. Nematodes for Pest Control: A Natural Solution Battling Compost Flies Richard faced a nuisance with compost flies in his kitchen and turned to nematodes as a natural pest control method. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can target and control pest populations effectively. Key Takeaways: Effectiveness: Richard reported a significant reduction in both compost flies and larvae after applying nematodes. Sustainability: Using nematodes aligns with sustainable gardening practices by reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Actionable Advice: Apply Nematodes: Purchase nematodes specific to the pests you're dealing with and follow the application instructions carefully.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest Chef Scott delve into the intricacies of greenhouse gardening, vegetable storage, and a delightful recipe to make the most of your homegrown produce. This blog post will break down the key themes and tips discussed in the episode, providing you with actionable advice and expert insights to enhance your gardening and culinary experiences. Greenhouse Gardening: Types of Glazing Materials and Maintenance Understanding Greenhouse Glazing Materials Richard begins by discussing the different types of glazing materials used in greenhouses, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Glass Glazing:**Pros: Excellent light transmission, aesthetically pleasing.Cons: Highly breakable, costly to replace (around £6 per panel), and vulnerable to storm damage.Tip: Regularly inspect and replace broken panels to maintain optimal growing conditions. Plastic Glazing:**Pros: Safe for households with children, less breakable.Cons: Poor heat retention, temperature inside mirrors outdoor conditions until heated by the sun.Tip: Consider using additional insulation methods to improve heat retention. Twin-Walled Polycarbonate Sheets:**Pros: Better heat retention than single-sheet plastic, cheaper than glass, easy to cut to size.Cons: May not be as aesthetically pleasing as glass.Tip: If converting a glass greenhouse to polycarbonate, seek advice from experienced gardeners to ensure a smooth transition. Challenges and Solutions in Greenhouse Maintenance Richard shares his personal experiences with maintaining multiple greenhouses, highlighting common challenges and practical solutions. Finding Replacement Panels:**Challenge: Difficulty in sourcing second-hand glass panels of the right size.Solution: Regularly check platforms like Facebook Marketplace and local classifieds for suitable panels. Temperature Control:**Challenge: Maintaining consistent temperatures, especially in plastic greenhouses.Solution: Use thermal mass (e.g., water barrels) to stabilize temperature fluctuations and consider installing ventilation systems. Preparing for Winter: Vegetable Storage Techniques Storing Potatoes Richard emphasizes the importance of proper storage to extend the shelf life of harvested vegetables. Harvesting:** Wait until the foliage has died down to allow the skins to harden.Initial Storage:** Place potatoes in trays in the greenhouse to avoid pest issues.Long-Term Storage:** Transfer to hessian sacks or brown paper bags and store in a cool, dry, and dark place like a garage. Storing Root Vegetables Carrots and Parsnips:**In-Ground Storage: Leave in the ground as long as possible, but dig up before the soil freezes.Alternative Storage: Store in damp sand to keep them fresh. Storing Apples and Pears Method:** Wrap each fruit in newspaper and place in a box in a cool, dark place.Maintenance:** Regularly inspect stored fruit to prevent spoilage.Tip:** Properly stored, certain varieties can last through winter and into spring. Freezing Vegetables Suitable Vegetables:** Cabbages, cauliflowers, and other produce.Sweetcorn:** Must be cooked shortly after harvesting to preserve sweetness. Check for ripeness and boil immediately after picking. Culinary Delight: Chef Scott’s Jalapeno, Coriander, and Lime Butter Recipe Chef Scott shares a simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly with homegrown sweetcorn. Ingredients:Good quality salted butter1 finely diced jalapenoZest and juice of 2 limesChopped coriander Method:Preparation: Soften the butter at room temperature.Mixing: Combine the softened butter with the diced jalapeno, lime zest and juice, and chopped coriander in a bowl.Shaping: Roll the mixture in greaseproof paper to create a sausage shape.Chilling: Chill in the fridge until firm.Serving: Slice the butter into rounds and apply liberally to freshly cooked sweetcorn.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the passionate host, delves into his recent gardening projects and shares valuable insights on improving your garden's aesthetics and productivity. This episode covers a range of topics, from installing a water feature to preparing your allotment for the next growing season. Let's break down each segment in detail and explore the actionable advice Richard offers to fellow gardening enthusiasts. Water Feature Project: Adding Beauty and Functionality The Inspiration and Setup Richard has long desired to incorporate a water feature into his garden, believing it would enhance the garden's appeal and attract wildlife. His previous attempts included a simple washing-up bowl filled with water, which was neither visually appealing nor functional. However, a recent visit to The Range inspired him to create a more sophisticated water feature using a large plastic plant pot and a solar-powered fountain. Benefits of a Water Feature Aesthetic Appeal: A water feature can transform the look of your garden, making it more inviting and serene. Wildlife Attraction: Birds, insects, and other wildlife are drawn to water, increasing biodiversity in your garden. Plant Growth: Certain plants, like watercress, thrive in moving water, making a water feature an ideal environment for them. Growing Watercress and Wasabi Richard plans to grow watercress in his new water feature. He shares his method of buying watercress from the supermarket, placing sprigs in water to encourage root growth, and then transplanting them into a pot. The gentle trickle of water from the fountain will help the watercress thrive. Additionally, Richard is considering growing wasabi, which has similar water requirements. Allotment Updates: Overcoming Challenges and Preparing for the Future Reflecting on the Growing Season Richard candidly shares the challenges he faced this growing season, including issues with squash and beans. However, he also highlights successes with potatoes and cucumbers. As summer progresses, Richard is focused on preparing for the next growing season, which he believes begins in late September or early October. Soil Health: The Key to a Successful Garden Richard emphasizes the importance of improving soil health to ensure a bountiful harvest. He discusses the use of animal manures and green manures to enrich the soil. Types of Animal Manures Horse Manure: Rich in nutrients but should be well-rotted before use to avoid burning plants. Chicken Manure: High in nitrogen, making it excellent for leafy greens. Compost it before application. Cow, Sheep, and Alpaca Manure: Each has unique benefits and should be composted to enhance soil fertility. Green Manures Phacelia: A fast-growing green manure that shades out weeds and protects the soil during winter. It also helps ward off pests. Field Beans: As legumes, they fix nitrogen in the soil, essential for plant growth. Mustard: Effective at breaking up compacted soil and adding organic matter. If you are after some green manures then check out premier seeds directs green manures. Don't forget the discount code psdvegpod Preparing for the Next Season Clear Empty Beds: Remove spent plants and debris to prevent disease and pests. Mulch with Compost: Add a layer of compost to enrich the soil and improve its structure. Plan Crop Rotation: Rotate crops to prevent soil depletion and reduce pest and disease build-up. Supporters Club: Join the Community Richard invites listeners to join the Veg Grower Podcast Supporters Club. For a small monthly fee, members gain access to exclusive content, including behind-the-scenes podcasts and a monthly package containing a newsletter and seeds suitable for planting that month. This community offers valuable resources and support for anyone interested in growing their own food. Recipe Section: Homemade Mustard Powder and Sauce...

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest chef Scott share their wealth of knowledge on gardening and cooking, focusing on the tasks and opportunities that August brings. This blog post will delve into the main themes of the episode, providing detailed, actionable advice for gardeners looking to make the most of this month. From sowing seeds to managing allotments and preparing delicious recipes, this guide will help you navigate the late summer gardening season with confidence. Seed of the Month Of August: Easter Egg Radishes and Purple Spring Onions Each Month we have our seed of the month feature in collaboration with Premier seeds direct. Premier seeds sell pretty much every vegetable seed you could imagine for very reasonable prices and in decent quantities. Links are of course added but we also have the discount code psdvegpod to save you even more money. Easter Egg Radishes Richard introduces the Easter Egg radish, a vibrant variety that includes shades of blue, red, and purple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to growing these colourful radishes: Sowing: Create a shallow drill about half a centimetre deep. Scatter a few seeds in the drill, spacing them out to avoid overcrowding. Succession Planting: Sow a few seeds each week to ensure a continuous harvest. This method prevents all your radishes from maturing at the same time.Moisture Management: Keep the compost consistently moist to encourage germination and healthy growth. Radishes can bolt if they dry out. Thinning: As the radishes grow, thin them out to allow for proper spacing, aiming for one plant every two centimetres. This ensures each radish has enough room to develop. Purple Spring Onions Next, Richard discusses the purple spring onion, a delightful twist on the traditional green variety. Here’s how to grow them: Sowing: Plant a few seeds at a depth of half a centimetre. Spring onions can be grown year-round, so sow them every couple of weeks to maintain a steady supply. Minimal Care: These onions require minimal care. Keep them weed-free and ensure they have decent compost to thrive.Harvesting**: Spring onions can be harvested when they reach a desirable size. Regular sowing ensures you always have fresh onions available. Richard also provides a discount code for Premiere Seeds Direct, encouraging listeners to try these varieties and share their experiences. Additional Seeds for August Richard highlights other seeds that can be sown in August, emphasizing the importance of diversifying your garden: Salad Crops Lettuce and Salad Leaves: Essential for a healthy diet, these can be sown throughout August. Varieties like rocket and mustard greens add diversity to your meals. Swiss Chard: Known for its vibrant stems and leaves, Swiss chard can be harvested throughout the winter, providing a continuous supply of greens. Brassicas Cabbages: Typically sown for spring harvests, but winter-hardy varieties can be planted now. Turnips: Quick to grow and best harvested young for better flavour. Richard has already sown his turnips and recommends them for their ease of growth.Kohlrabi**: A unique brassica worth growing for its delicious taste and versatility in the kitchen. Carrots and Chilies Carrots: Although it may seem late, early varieties and round carrots can still be sown. Richard plans to salvage a crop despite earlier challenges. Chilies: August is not too late to start chilies for next year’s harvest. Richard shares his method of overwintering chili plants to ensure an early crop in the following season. Green Manures Chicory and Radicchio**: These hardy plants improve soil health and reduce weeds. They can withstand cold temperatures and provide a unique flavour profile. Allotment Update Richard shares updates from his allotment, discussing the state of his plants and the tasks he needs to complete: Watering and Composting

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and guest Scott delve into a variety of gardening topics, offering listeners practical advice on plant propagation, pest management, soil health, and food preservation. This comprehensive blog post will break down each segment of the episode, providing detailed, actionable tips and expert insights to help you enhance your gardening and culinary skills. Propagation Techniques: Maximizing Plant Growth Softwood Cuttings Richard begins by emphasizing the importance of propagation techniques, particularly softwood cuttings, to maximize plant growth. Softwood cuttings are taken from the current year's growth, unlike hardwood cuttings, which come from older wood. Here’s a step-by-step guide to taking softwood cuttings: Gathering Cuttings: Use sharp secateurs to cut approximately ten centimeters from various plants. Place the cuttings in a plastic bag with labels to keep them moist and organized. Preparing the Cuttings: Cut the stems at an angle just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves to prepare the cuttings for rooting. Using Rooting Hormone: Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to enhance the success rate. Planting the Cuttings: Place the cuttings in pots filled with seed and cutting compost, which is more sandy and allows roots to penetrate easily. Keep the compost moist and cover the pots with a lid or plastic bag to maintain humidity. Layering Richard also discusses another propagation method called layering, which occurs naturally in some plants like blackberries. Here’s how you can use layering to propagate plants: Securing a Branch: Secure a branch to the ground to encourage it to root and create a new plant. Using a Plant Pot: Place a plant pot filled with compost under the branch to make it easier to propagate various plants. By using these propagation techniques, you can increase your stock of plants like rosemary, lavender, sage, currant bushes, gooseberry bushes, Sichuan pepper plants, and olive plants, all while saving money. Tackling Blight on Potatoes Blight is a fungal disease that can devastate crops, particularly potatoes and tomatoes. Richard shares his experience with blight affecting his Aaron Victory potatoes and offers the following tips for managing this issue: Identifying Blight: Look for early signs of blight, such as dark spots on leaves and stems. Types of Blight: Understand the difference between early blight (rare in the UK) and late blight (more common and can kill crops overnight). Removing Infected Parts: Cut away the infected foliage to prevent further spread. Disposing of Infected Foliage: Ideally, burn the infected material. If bonfires are restricted, consider composting or burying the foliage deep in the soil. Growing Resistant Varieties: Focus on growing blight-resistant varieties while experimenting with different types to find the best flavor. By following these steps, you can effectively manage blight and protect your crops. Exploring Soil Health Healthy soil is crucial for growing robust plants. Richard shares his insights on soil health and offers practical tips to improve it: Testing Soil Health: Bury an old pair of underwear in your garden beds. If the underwear decomposes significantly within a month, it indicates healthy soil with active microbial life. No-Dig Gardening Approach: Use layers of compost to retain moisture and improve soil structure, especially in hard clay soil. Observing Soil Life: Look for insects and worms as indicators of soil health. An increase in worms suggests improved soil conditions. Beneficial Microorganisms: Introduce beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi to the soil. Companies like Empathy provide products to enhance soil health. By focusing on soil health, you can create a thriving garden ecosystem that supports plant growth.

In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard takes listeners on a detailed tour of his allotment, divided into two sections, 1-28A and 1-28B. He discusses the current state of his crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbages, and the challenges posed by pests like slugs and pigeons. Richard also shares his experiences with weed management, crop rotation, and his West Kent five pod hydroponic growing system. He emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and offers practical gardening tips, aiming to inspire listeners to grow their own food despite the inevitable challenges. Bullet points Overview of the allotment layout (sections 1-28A and 1-28B) Current state of various crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbages Challenges faced with pests, particularly slugs, snails, and birds Weed management and maintenance issues in the allotment Experiences with specific plants, such as gooseberries, parsnips, and leeks Updates on greenhouse gardening, including tomatoes, sweet peppers, and aubergines Discussion of the West Kent five pod hydroponic growing system Importance of crop rotation and planting strategies Personal anecdotes and reflections on gardening challenges and successes Time stamps Introduction to the Allotment Tour (00:00:07) Richard introduces the episode and plans to take listeners on a tour of his allotment. Overview of Allotment Layout (00:01:19) Richard describes the layout of his allotment, divided into two halves, 1-28A and 1-28B. Challenges with Neighbors (00:02:20) Richard discusses issues with overgrown weeds from neighboring plots affecting his fruit bushes. Police Incident on Allotment (00:03:23) Richard recounts a troubling incident involving hidden kitchen knives found among his plants. Weeds and Maintenance Issues (00:04:22) Richard shares concerns about the lack of maintenance from neighbors and its impact on his plot. Raised Beds and Crop Failures (00:05:24) Richard talks about his raised beds and the struggles with slugs and snails destroying his crops. Hugelkultur Bed Update (00:06:29) Richard explains his hugelkultur bed and the failure of peas and butternut squash due to pests. Garlic and Squash Bed (00:07:27) Richard updates on garlic removal and the survival of new squash plants despite pest issues. Onions and Cucumber Growth (00:08:25) Richard discusses the growth of his onions and successful cucumber plants in the allotment. Sweet Corn and Tomato Progress (00:09:25) Richard shares the slow growth of sweet corn and the status of his tomato plants. Shed and Compost Area (00:10:21) Richard mentions his metal shed and composting efforts, including plans for a new bed. Autumn Raspberry Bed Challenges (00:11:19) Richard describes the weed issues in his autumn raspberry bed and plans for winter care. Transition to Bottom Half of Allotment (00:12:24) Richard prepares to move on to discuss the bottom half of his allotment, 1-28B. Apple Tree and Asparagus Update (00:14:22) Richard talks about the apple tree's growth and the recovery of his asparagus plants. Rhubarb and Globe Artichokes (00:15:46) Richard shares updates on his thriving rhubarb plants and the status of globe artichokes. Plans for Elder Tree and New Planting (00:16:45) Richard discusses plans to remove an elder tree and potential new plantings along the boundary. Potato Beds Overview (00:17:40) Richard describes his potato beds, including challenges with blight and different potato varieties. Harvesting Potatoes and Brassicas (00:19:51) Richard updates on the harvesting of potatoes and the introduction of brussels sprout plants. Broccoli Harvest (00:20:54) Richard discusses his successful broccoli harvest and the overall performance of brassicas this season. Turnip Seeds (00:21:59) He mentions sowing turnip seeds to ensure a winter harvest, despite not being a fan of turnips. Celeriac Issues (00:22:40) Richard talks about his celeriac plants bolting and the decision to remove them.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard delves into the intricacies of tomatoes ripening, shares an innovative upcycling project, and discusses the benefits of a new compost tumbler on his allotment. Additionally, Scott brings a delightful culinary twist with a recipe for lemon and elderflower posset with red gooseberry compote. Understanding and Solving Tomato Ripening Issues The Science Behind Tomato Ripening Richard begins by addressing a common issue many gardeners face: tomatoes not ripening as expected. He explains that the ripening process is influenced by the plant hormone ethylene, which is crucial for the development of the fruit's colour and flavour. Environmental factors such as temperature and sunlight play a significant role in ethylene production. Factors Affecting Ripening Temperature:** Tomatoes require a consistent temperature range of 21-24°C for optimal ripening. Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) or below 50°F (10°C) can hinder the process.Sunlight:** Adequate sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, which in turn supports the ripening process. Ensure your tomato plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Practical Solutions Richard offers several practical solutions to encourage tomato ripening: Remove Lower Leaves:** By removing the lower leaves of the tomato plant, you can improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease, which can indirectly support ripening.Use Ethylene-Emitting Fruits:** Placing bananas near your tomato plants can help. Bananas emit ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening process.Prune and Pinch:** Regularly prune and pinch off suckers (the small shoots that grow between the stem and branches) to direct the plant's energy towards fruit development. Upcycling Project: Turning Tomato Sauce Tins into Plant Pots The Benefits of Upcycling Richard introduces an upcycling project where he repurposes large tins of tomato sauce as plant pots. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also provides a cost-effective solution for gardening. Step-by-Step Guide Prepare the Tins: Clean the tins thoroughly and remove any labels.Drill Drainage Holes: Use a drill to create several drainage holes at the bottom of each tin to prevent waterlogging.Add Perlite and Compost: Fill the tins with a mixture of perlite and compost to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability.Planting: Richard chose to plant ginger in his upcycled pots, but you can experiment with various plants based on your preference. Encouraging Creativity Richard emphasizes the importance of creativity in gardening. Upcycling projects like this not only benefit the environment but also add a unique touch to your garden. Consider using other discarded items such as old buckets, tires, or even broken furniture to create functional and aesthetically pleasing garden features. Efficient Composting with a New Tumbler Advantages of a Compost Tumbler Richard shares his excitement about a new compost tumbler he received for his allotment. Compost tumblers offer several advantages over traditional compost bins: Faster Composting:** The tumbling action aerates the compost, speeding up the decomposition process.Ease of Use:** Tumblers are easier to turn and manage, making them ideal for gardeners with limited physical strength.Pest Control:** Enclosed tumblers reduce the risk of pests such as rodents and insects. Tips for Effective Composting Balance Green and Brown Materials:** Ensure a good mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Green materials include kitchen scraps and grass clippings, while brown materials include leaves and cardboard.Maintain Moisture Levels:** The compost should be as moist as a wrung-out sponge. Add water if it’s too dry or dry materials if it’s too wet.Regular Turning:** Turn the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process.

In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard and Chef Scott delve into the intricacies of summer gardening and the joys of using fresh produce in culinary creations. Richard shares his wealth of knowledge on managing summer crops, finding and caring for bargain plants, and ensuring the well-being of plants and livestock during holidays. Chef Scott complements this with a delectable recipe for Vietnamese salad rolls, showcasing the versatility of garden-fresh ingredients. Tending to Summer Crops: Essential Gardening Tips for a Bountiful Harvest Maintaining Moisture LevelsOne of the primary challenges Richard discusses is keeping the ground moist during the hot summer months. This is crucial for preventing bolting in brassicas like cabbages and cauliflowers. Bolting occurs when plants prematurely flower and go to seed, often due to stress from inadequate moisture. Actionable Tips:Mulching:** Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.Consistent Watering:** Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for efficient water delivery.Rainwater Harvesting:** Collect rainwater in barrels to use during dry spells, reducing reliance on tap water. Monitoring for Potato BlightPotato blight is a common issue that can devastate crops if not managed properly. Richard emphasizes the importance of vigilance and timely intervention. Actionable Tips:Regular Inspections:** Check your potato plants regularly for signs of blight, such as dark spots on leaves and stems.Proper Spacing:** Ensure adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation and reduce humidity, which can exacerbate blight.Preventative Sprays:** Use organic fungicides or copper-based sprays as a preventative measure, especially during wet weather. Thinning and Pruning Fruit TreesThinning apple trees and pruning cherry trees are essential tasks for promoting better fruit production and preventing disease. Actionable Tips:Thinning Apples:** Remove excess fruit to ensure the remaining apples grow larger and healthier. Aim for one fruit per cluster.Summer Pruning:** Prune cherry trees in the summer to reduce the risk of disease. Focus on removing dead or diseased branches and improving the tree's shape. Bargain Plants: Finding and Caring for Discounted Treasures Richard shares his experience of finding bargain plants at garden centre's and offers tips on how to care for them to ensure successful growth. Actionable Tips:Inspect Before Buying:** Check for signs of disease, pests, and overall plant health. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves or stunted growth.Acclimatization:** Gradually acclimate bargain plants to their new environment by placing them in a shaded area before moving them to their final location.Soil Preparation:** Ensure the planting area is well-prepared with nutrient-rich soil and proper drainage. Managing Your Garden and Livestock While on Holiday Richard provides valuable insights into how he manages his garden and livestock during holidays, emphasizing the importance of planning and cooperation. Pre-Holiday PreparationsActionable Tips:Weeding:** Thoroughly weed your garden before leaving to reduce competition for water and nutrients.Watering Systems:** Set up automatic watering systems, such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses, to ensure consistent moisture levels.Rainwater Utilization:** Use rainwater harvesting systems to supplement your watering needs. Enlisting HelpActionable Tips:House-Sitting:** Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to house-sit and care for your livestock, ensuring they have adequate food and water.Neighbour Cooperation:** Collaborate with allotment neighbours to look after each other's plants, creating a supportive community network. Innovative SolutionsRichard discusses his experience with the auto pot system and sola...

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Veg Grower Podcast! In this episode, Richard, our dedicated host, dives deep into the seeds to sow in July, shares the seed of the month, and introduces a mouth-watering recipe from Chef Scott. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable tips and actionable advice to help you make the most of your garden this month. Let's break down the key points discussed in the episode and explore each tip in detail. Seed of the Month: Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce Why Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce? Richard kicks off the episode by highlighting the seed of the month: gourmet loose leaf lettuce. This variety is celebrated for its ease of growth and versatility in the kitchen. Loose leaf lettuce is perfect for gardeners of all levels, offering a continuous harvest throughout the growing season. Tips for Growing Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Loose leaf lettuce thrives in fertile soil with good moisture retention. Sowing Seeds: Sow the seeds directly into the ground or in containers. Space the seeds about 1 inch apart and cover them lightly with soil. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Lettuce has shallow roots, so regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to allow about 6 inches of space between plants. This ensures adequate air circulation and reduces the risk of disease. Harvesting: Harvest the outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This method, known as "cut-and-come-again," provides a continuous supply of fresh lettuce. Special Offer Richard also mentions a discount code VEGPOD10 for purchasing seeds from Premier Seeds Direct, making it easier for listeners to get started with their gourmet loose leaf lettuce. What Seeds to Sow in July July is a busy month in the garden, and Richard provides a comprehensive list of seeds to sow in July. Here’s a detailed look at each category: Salad Greens Varieties: Lettuce, rocket, spinach, and mustard greens. Tips: Sow in succession every two weeks to ensure a continuous harvest. Use shade cloth to protect from intense summer heat. Radishes Varieties: French Breakfast, Cherry Belle, and White Icicle. Tips: Radishes grow quickly and can be harvested in as little as 4 weeks. Sow in well-drained soil and keep consistently moist. Spring Onions Varieties: White Lisbon and Ishikura. Tips: Sow directly into the ground or in containers. Thin seedlings to about 1 inch apart for optimal growth. Beetroots Varieties: Boltardy and Detroit Dark Red. Tips: Sow in rows about 12 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4 inches apart to allow room for the roots to develop. Herbs Varieties: Basil, parsley, dill, and coriander. Tips: Sow in well-drained soil and provide plenty of sunlight. Regularly pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Winter Vegetables Varieties: Cauliflowers, cabbages, and swedes. Tips: Start these seeds indoors or in a sheltered area. Transplant seedlings to their final positions once they are strong enough. The Importance of Herbs in a Vegetable Garden Richard emphasizes the role of herbs in a vegetable garden. Not only do they enhance the flavor of your dishes, but they also attract beneficial insects and can act as natural pest repellents. Sowing and Caring for Herbs Basil: Prefers warm conditions and plenty of sunlight. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Parsley: Can be grown in partial shade. Keep the soil moist and harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Dill: Sow directly into the ground. Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Coriander: Best sown in cooler conditions. Provide partial shade and keep the soil moist.