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This week’s episode of The Veg Grower Podcast captures the ups and downs of gardening during a heatwave. With the sun blazing down, it’s been a challenge to stay on top of watering and weeds – but also a rewarding time for harvesting and experimenting with irrigation. Here’s what you’ll hear in this week’s episode:
Allotment Update
I began the week with a big tidy-up on the allotment. Weeds had started to get out of hand, so I put time into clearing paths, tidying beds, and giving everything a proper water. The combination of heat and rainfall has helped the soft fruits come along nicely – with blackcurrants, cherries and even some overwintered onions ready to harvest.
After lifting the onions, I sowed a full bed of maincrop carrots. I talk about the importance of not leaving beds empty and making good use of the space we have.
I also talk about the difference mulch has made this week – particularly straw mulch, which I’ve used on some beds to keep moisture in. While compost is my preferred mulch, the straw’s done a good job, and I reflect on how useful it’s been with such high temperatures.
Kitchen Garden Update
Back at home, I’ve been experimenting with some new irrigation ideas. I trialled an AquaBox Straight system to deliver water directly to the roots, and picked up a Ryobi Stick Pump at Gardeners’ World Live which helps move water from the waterbutt into the greenhouse more efficiently.
Garlic was harvested this week too – including a few bulbs I grew from supermarket garlic. They’ve done surprisingly well and I’ll be looking at how spacing and placement can improve yields for next year.
On the downside, I’ve had a battle with raspberry runners and mares tail popping up in awkward places – including the driveway. I share how I’m managing them without turning to chemicals.
Listener Letters
This week I read out two emails:
Courtney, a new gardener, got in touch for help with knotweed. I share some ideas on managing it and when to call in the council.
Tanya is growing veg in containers and trying to save her own seed – we talk about how to get started with seed saving and how she can keep improving her soil.
Recipe of the Week
Chef Scott’s back with a summer favourite: Broad Beans on Toast with Burrata, Parma Ham, Mint & Chilli. A lovely fresh lunch that makes the most of the season’s harvest.
Final Thoughts
It’s been a hot, busy, productive week in the garden. From mulching and sowing to harvesting and experimenting, there’s always something new to learn. Tune in for all the updates, listener questions, and a few thoughts on how we manage our plots in heat like this. -
This week’s episode of the Veg Grower Podcast takes you on a field trip to one of my favourite events of the year – Gardeners’ World Live in Birmingham.
Each year this show brings together gardeners of every type — from balcony growers to estate keepers — and celebrates the joy of growing. It’s full of inspiration, brilliant displays, expert talks, and of course, the latest gardening trends. I’ve attended many times, and every time I come away buzzing with ideas.
What’s in this week’s episode?
I caught up with Ade Sellars, a long-time friend and head of the “In Conversation” stage, to talk about kitchen gardening, lifestyle changes, and why he still proudly calls it a “kitchen garden”.
I sat in on some cost-saving gardening tips from Adam, who reminded us all that you don’t have to spend a fortune to garden well — especially with his tips on taking cuttings, bargain plants, and chop-and-drop mulching.
I chatted with Kate, designer of the stunning Nectury Garden, a pollinator-friendly show garden packed with bee-friendly planting, recycled and artisan materials, and even a handcrafted greenhouse painted with honey-toned detail.
You’ll also hear snippets from Saul Walker (of Talking Heads Podcast) as we talked about emerging pests, new plant problems like Buddleia aphid, and how gardeners are adapting to climate changes.
And we touched on the important link between gardening and mental health with Leigh, who blends his background in theatre and horticulture to create emotionally engaging gardening content — and even hosts fundraising events for mental health charities. Check out his upcoming event.
Recipe of the Week
As always, Chef Scott joins us to share a seasonal treat — this week it’s a Courgette & Feta Dip with Mint and Chilli, a cooling summer snack perfect for sunny days.
Gardeners world live Takeaways
If you’ve never been, I can’t recommend it enough!
Gardeners’ World Live continues to be one of the most inclusive and inspiring events in the gardening calendar.
There’s something for everyone — whether you’re after show garden ideas, expert advice, a bit of retail therapy, or simply to feel part of a growing community. -
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Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Veg Grower Podcast! I'm Richard, and my passion is to encourage and inspire you to grow more of your own food, sharing insights from over 30 years of experience in my own allotment and vegetable garden. This week, we've had a significant garlic harvest, a full update from the kitchen garden, and a fantastic email question from a listener. Let's dive in!Allotment Adventures: Harvests, Battles, and LearningsMy time at the allotment this week has been incredibly productive, despite not being able to visit as much in the evenings. The recent rain was incredibly welcome and certainly saved me some watering time! The big job for the weekend was harvesting our garlic. I planted it back in September, and usually, I'd harvest around early July. However, based on new information suggesting it's better to harvest about two weeks earlier when the leaves start to turn brown, I decided to pull it up. This year, we've had less rust on our garlic, which is a bonus, but some plants did seem to die off without a clear reason. During the harvest, I noticed a white fungi on some of the bulbs. This could be beneficial mycorrhizal fungi, or, less fortunately, onion white rot. Some bulbs with the fungi also had stem rot, which points more towards white rot. If it is white rot, it can persist in the soil for years, but luckily, I won't be using that bed for onions or garlic for that long, so it's not a major concern for future planting in that specific spot. I'm happy with the amount we harvested – well over 40 bulbs! After a good wash, they're now drying in the shed. The largest bulb of each variety will be saved for replanting in September. For the rest, instead of just storing them as bulbs, we're making "easy garlic" – blending the cloves with oil, heating it to prevent botulism, and storing it in the fridge or freezer. This method should help our large garlic harvest last considerably longer. Next, I tackled the top of my allotment, which borders a plot that's become a rambling mess after the previous tenants were kicked off. This area, where I have fruit bushes and rhubarb, is difficult to keep tidy, even with cardboard and mulch helping. The high weeds and brambles from next door are coming over, making it difficult to harvest my fruits, like the red currants, and care for my plants. I got my strimmer out and cut about a foot into the neighbour's plot, but of course, I ran out of string again! I then resorted to a bill hook, which did a surprisingly good job of hacking through brambles and nettles. Unfortunately, I couldn't clear the entire area due to dumped plastic bags and weeds. It's annoying, but I'll keep at it, coming down during the week to strim it back further. Despite the challenges, harvests are looking great! I've picked broad beans and peas, and the first early potatoes, grown under straw mulch, are looking fantastic – good size, healthy, clean, and easy to get out of the ground. I'm really starting to appreciate straw as a mulch, finding it more effective against weeds than grass clippings, especially if the ground is clear before application. We've also harvested some rhubarb and a couple of cherries. With the garlic bed now empty, I've filled it with mini bell tomato plants, ensuring no empty spaces and maximizing productivity. It means more tomatoes and easier maintenance. Overall, I'm happy with the allotment's progress; what felt overwhelming before is now coming together. Kitchen Garden Highlights: Autopots, Shed Plans & Hot CompostBack at the kitchen garden, we're consistently on top of weeding and watering to give the plants the best care. The greenhouse area is looking much tidier, and my autopots are truly performing! We've harvested our first cucumbers, and the autopots are producing some of the best cucumbers, tomatoes, chilies, peppers, and aubergines I've ever grown at this early stage....
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Join Richard in this weeks podcast as we tackle the brassicas with our seed of the month kale. Down on the allotment Richard is also protecting his brasicas from pesky pigeons and we finish with a book of review of "Chas and his roock and roll garden"
Seed of the month kale
The first episode of every month we include our seed of the month and this month its kale.
Kale is hardy and delicous brassica worthy to grow on any plot. Providing us with delicous leaves right through winter if sown at the right time. And now is the right time.
Some of our favourite kale seeds include
Nero Di Toscona
Dwarf green curled
Scarlet kale
Allotment update: protecting from pigeons
Down on the allotment Richard has been discovering the brassicas already planted out have been nibbled on by pigeons. To combat this Richard has got out his net covers and placed over his brassicas to protect them a little.
He also shares some other effective methods of protecting brassicas from hungry pigeons.
Chef Scotts recipe of the week
This week chef Scott is sharing an interesting way to use rhubarb by incorperating into a indian dahll recipe.
And finally
In the final segment this week Richard share his book review of Chas and his rock and roll allotment. -
Episode 605 – The Veg Grower Podcast
After a whirlwind week travelling the country with Lee Connolly (aka the Skinny Jean Gardener) and his brother Dale, I’m finally back in the potting shed—albeit with a few snapped cabbages and a whole lot more inspiration. This week’s podcast is a mix of travel tales, allotment updates, and a fantastic interview with Andy from Hotbin. We’re also talking chickens, cucumbers, and how kids are the future of gardening.
Touring with 10,000 Budding Gardeners
Last week I joined Lee and Dale on a mission to get 10,000 children gardening. We visited schools all over the UK, delivering high-energy seed sowing sessions filled with laughter, dancing, and even a few water pistols. The highlight? Seeing children leave with big smiles and wildflower seeds in their pockets.
But it wasn’t all sunshine and spuds. A visit to the Royal School for the Deaf opened my eyes to just how inaccessible our audio-based content can be. It’s made me think seriously about making the podcast more inclusive. Suggestions welcome.
And then there was the visit to the iconic Blue Peter Garden… I won’t spoil the video (coming soon on Lee’s YouTube channel), but let’s just say the vege patch didn’t quite live up to childhood memories.
Back on the Plot: Mulch, Mayhem & A Greenhouse Surprise
Returning to the allotment after a week away is always a mixed bag. Thanks to good pre-trip watering and some faithful mulching, most of the crops survived—broad beans, potatoes, onions, and garlic all doing well.
The big jobs this week? Planting out the squashes, courgettes, pumpkins, tomatoes, and peppers. I’d delayed them due to frost warnings and dryness—and it looks like that was the right call. Chef Scott lost half his squashes to a rogue frost!
My greenhouse, however, was the biggest surprise. The cucumbers and tomatoes in the autopots had tripled in size while I was away! It just goes to show how reliable that watering system is, even in warm weather.
Chickens, Slugs & Sustainability
We had a great message from listener Laura in West Yorkshire this week, who asked about chickens and whether I’d ever keep bees or other animals. So this episode includes a little segment on what it’s like keeping chickens in the garden. Spoiler alert: I wouldn’t be without them.
From eggs to pest control to rich compostable manure, chickens offer so many benefits. But they do require care, especially when you go away, and can be destructive if left to free-range during planting season!
Bees and ducks are on my “maybe someday” list—but for now, chickens remain my top pick for productive pets.
This Week’s Recipe: Gluten-Free Rhubarb Crumble
Chef Scott returns with a seasonal treat—rhubarb crumble with a twist. This version is gluten-free but packed with flavour. Head to the blog to find the full recipe and give it a try with your latest rhubarb haul.
Question of the Week:Do you garden with your children—or grandchildren? What are your tips for getting kids interested in growing food? I’d love to hear your stories. Leave a comment below or drop me a message.
Until next time,Richard -
Welcome back to The Veg Grower Podcast! This week’s episode is packed with useful updates from my garden and allotment, a very special interview with the folks from Hotbin, and of course – Chef Scott returns with a cracking recipe using your homegrown veg.
In the Kitchen Garden
We’re now well into May, and the garden is shifting into high gear. This week, I’ve been planting out tomatoes, brassicas, peppers, chillies – basically anything I can to fill the gaps. The overwintered chard has started to bolt, so that’s out, and new plantings are in.
As I’m heading off for a week on the road with Lee Connolly and our school gardening mission, I’ve had to prepare the garden for Amanda to take over the watering duties. I’m not a fan of using the hosepipe, but I’ve set one up to make life easier while I’m away. I’ve also prepped the greenhouse with the autopot system and the Vegepod with a water timer. With little rain recently – and none in the forecast – these measures should help everything establish nicely.
Hotbin Composting – Interview
The highlight of this episode is my chat with the team at Hotbin, a composting system designed to heat up your compost and speed up the process. I’ve been trialling the Hotbin against a traditional ‘Dalek’ bin and share a few observations of my own before the interview.
If you’ve ever struggled to keep composting going all year round – especially in colder weather – the Hotbin could be a game-changer. We talk about how it works, what materials it handles best, and tips for getting the most out of your compost pile.
If you are interested in buying a hotbin then hotbin have kindly giving us a discount code. Use code VGP10HB for 10% off.
Recipe of the Week: Vegetable Crisps with Herbs & Garlic
With me travelling this week, Chef Scott’s whipped up the perfect travel snack – homemade vegetable crisps seasoned with crispy garlic, sage, rosemary, and sea salt.
He uses whatever root veg are available: carrots, parsnips, beetroot, celeriac, sweet potato and even Jerusalem artichokes. They’re thinly peeled into ribbons and fried with herbs and garlic until perfectly crisp. No quantities needed – just a method and a bit of experimentation!
Read the full recipe here
Allotment Update
Every evening this week I’ve made it to the allotment to get some solid watering in. The garlic, onions and potatoes are all doing well. Even though I mulched the potatoes last week, they’ve already shot up and need another layer of straw.
I’ve held off planting anything new since Amanda won’t be able to water while I’m away – but the weeds are making up for it with their rapid growth. A quick tidy-up and I’m calling it done until I return.
Join the Supporters Club
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This week’s pack includes runner beans and winter cabbage – both great choices for succession sowing. Sign up at Here.
Community Corner
We wrap up with a lovely comment from listener Lynn on Spotify. She’s had six allotments over the years – from vandalised plots to marestail nightmares – but now has one she’s happy with. Thank you for sharing your story, Lynn.
Stay in Touch
Got a question or story to share?
Email me, leave a voicemail on the website, or message me on social media.
And don’t forget – you can support the show by shopping through our affiliate links:
Autopot (use discount code auto10rvg for 10%off)
Premier Seeds Direct
Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next week! -
Join Richard in this week’s episode as he shares the latest from his allotment—detailing innovative mulching techniques and smart watering solutions to keep his garden thriving—plus Chef Scott is back in the kitchen with a mouth-watering recipe: Olive Oil Braised Runner Beans.
Allotment Update: Mulching
Richard takes us through the evolving challenges at his allotment. What was once a peaceful field has transformed with increased road noise from a new bypass. Even so, his passion for growing food and adapting his techniques remains strong.
Here’s what he’s been up to:
Embracing Change: Once a quiet haven with open fields (and even horses), the allotment now experiences constant traffic noise. Despite this, Richard remains committed to his gardening methods, adjusting on the fly as the environment changes.
Mulching Magic: Mulching is key to a healthy garden. Richard explains how he’s refined his approach:
Moisture Retention: A solid layer of mulch locks in water, which is especially important during long spells without rain.
Weed Suppression: Proper mulching helps prevent weeds from sprouting, making garden maintenance much easier.
Soil Enrichment: Whether it’s nutrient‑rich compost, grass clippings, or cost‑effective straw (ideal for his potato beds), these materials break down to nourish the soil over time.
Kitchen Garden Update: Irrigation
With no rain since February, Richard is making every drop count:
Rainwater Harvesting: He’s set up 16 water butts around the allotment, prioritizing those attached to downpipes that refill quickly during showers.
Automated Irrigation Systems: In the greenhouse, his AutoPot system ensures that aubergines, strawberries, cucumbers, and other crops receive consistent hydration.
AutoPot Systems
Vegepod & Quick Hose Connectors: For his raised beds, Richard has introduced an automated sprinkler system. With secure “wing” quick hose connectors and a timed 15‑minute morning mist, he’s streamlined the watering process and minimized hassle.
Vegepod Raised Beds
Quick Hose Connectors
By combining these smart mulching and watering strategies, Richard is successfully adapting to a busier landscape—and ensuring that his garden stays lush and bountiful regardless of the weather.
Chef Scott's Recipe of the Week
Chef Scott delivers a recipe that transforms humble produce into a gourmet delight. This week’s dish is Olive Oil Braised Runner Beans, a recipe inspired by fresh harvests and designed to brighten up any meal.
What to expect from the recipe:
The Dish: Chef Scott’s method turns runner beans into a standout plate by slow-cooking them with complementary ingredients, creating a blend of flavors that is both hearty and refined.
Key Ingredients & Process:
Ingredients: Runner beans (trimmed and ready), cherry tomatoes, cooked butter beans, sliced white onion, garlic, green olives, olive oil, water, lemon juice, and crumbled feta cheese.
Method Snapshot:
Gently cook chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
Add runner beans, olives, and tomatoes along with water, then gently simmer.
Introduce the butter beans and continue the slow cook until the beans soften yet retain their shape.
Finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice, seasoning, and a generous crumble of feta that ties it all together.
Don't forget to follow Chef Scott on Instagram.
Final Thoughts & How to Support the Podcast
Gardening is all about adapting, experimenting, and finding what works best for you—even when change is constant. Whether you’re rethinking mulch and watering methods in your allotment or whipping up a new dish in your kitchen garden, there’s always something fresh to learn.
If you enjoy the show, please consider:
Leaving a Review: Your ratings help more gardeners discover the podcast.
Joining the Supporters Club: Gain access to behind‑the‑scenes content, seasonal updates, -
Join Richard in this weeks episode in which we have Mays seed of the month and Richard visits gardeners world spring fair at Beulieu in the new forest. Also Richard shares the latest from the allotment and Chef Scott is back with a delicious asparagus recipe.
Kitchen garden update: Seed of the month Runner Bean.
We find ourselves in May and its time for our seed of the month. This month its the runner bean which isn't one of Richards favourite vegetables but it certainly brings back lots of memories.
Runner beans are often considered a staple for many and they are a very reliable crop. As a legume they also feed the soil with nitrogen so many benefits to growing beans.
Some of Richards favourite verities are listed below with affiliate links:
Runner Bean Lady Di a good reliable runner bean.
Bellotto bean a beautiful looking bean
Polestar stringless a string less variety
Dwarf runner bean bean Hestia A dwarfing plant but still produces well
Many more choices out there as well.
The show season has started with gardeners world spring fair
Richard headed down to The national motor museum at Beulieu this week for the Gardeners world spring fair, which happens to be one of Richards favourite gardening shows.
As always its another fantastic show with plenty of show gardens to see and talks to listen too.
Also Richard came back with plenty of purchases from independent stall holders too.
Chef Scott's Recipe of the week: Asparagus wrapped in Parma with buretta and salsa verde
Chef Scott is back with another seasonal recipe and this week its perfect as Richard has just harvested his first asparagus.
This recipe uses asparagus wrapped in ham and served with a cheese stuffing and salsa verde is just mouth watering -
In this weeks veg grower podcast Richard shares the latest from his allotment including more straw bail gardening and mulching. Richard also visits Stephens allotment and hear the latest from Richards kitchen Garden.
Allotment update: Using more straw
Down on Richards allotment Richard has been investing a lot into straw. Using straw bail gardening in a metal raised planter that would cost a fortune to fill wiht compost, might be an easy solution. But Richard has also used straw to mulch his potatoes.
One of the most important things Richard believes anyone can do with there allotment is to mulch. Mulching feeds the soil, suppresses weeds and reduces watering. All of which saves the gardener time and resources.
Stephens allotment
Its been a few years since we last visited Stephens allotment but this week Richard has visited Stephen on his small allotment to find out how his allotment is getting on and how productive it has been.
Stephens blog can be found at http://sunflower.moleville.co.uk/
Chef Scott's recipe of the week Rhubarb and ginger cordial
Chef Scott is back with a refreshing rhubarb and ginger cordial, perfect way to rehydrate after a hard days work in the garden. -
Join Richard in this weeks podcast in which Richard has spent this Easter Weekend gardening. Chef Scott is also back with another tasty recipe.
Kitchen Garden Update: Easter Weekend Gardening
Over this weekend Richard has spent a lot of time in his kitchen garden. It started with a good tidy up ensuring all weeds where removed and the grass cut. Followed up with cementing in a washing line, another use for the garden and Richard finally removed an elder tree.
Richard was reluctant to remove this elder tree but being to close to the neighbours fence he felt it needed to go. Added to that Richard will also get wood chip from the removal of this tree.
On the bank holiday Monday Richard also spent the day potting up lots of his plants, getting them into bigger pots.
Allotment update:
Down the allotment Richard is still finding it a little too early to plant out any plants but that doesn't mean he cant prepare. He went through every bed removing every single weed and followed that up with a good cut of the grass paths. This has made the allotment look amazing and prepared for the growing season.
The grass clippings of course where not wasted and used as a mulch around many of Richards plants, Locking in moisture and suppressing weeds.
Added to that so many fruit trees and bushes are in flower and it looks like its going to be a good year for currents.
Chef Scott's recipe of the week
Chef Scott is back with another delicious recipe using a large amount of coriander. This Chermoula is a vibrant and tasty dip. -
Join Richard in this weeks episode of the veg grower podcast. This week Richard is having another go at straw bale gardening in the kitchen garden. Down the allotment Richard has been sowing lots of seeds directly into the ground, and finally Richard is joined by Lee Connolly The Skinny Jean Gardener to discuss national kids gardening week.
Of course chef Scott is also back with another delicious recipe.
Kitchen garden update: Straw Bale Gardening.
A couple of years ago Richard tried Straw Bale Gardening. A method of growing plants in straw bales. However, when Richard tried he didn't feel it was as successful as it could be, so this year he decided to give it another go.
Richard has got 2 straw bales and set them in position and started the conditioning phase of this system. The conditioning phase is where Richard believed he went wrong last time as he used the incorrect fertiliser to start it off. This time he is using urea to add a high amount of nitrogen to the straw bales. This should hopefully get the bales started correctly but there is a routine to this conditioning phase as below.
Day 11/2 cup urea per baleWater until saturatedDay 2Water until saturatedDay 31/2 cup urea per baleWater until saturatedDay 45litre water per baleDay 51/2 cup urea per bale5litre per baleDay 65litre per baleDay 71/4 cup urea per bale5litre per baleDay 81/4 cup urea per bale5litre per baleDay 91/4 cup urea per bale5litre per baleDay 101 cup balanced fertiliser5litre per baleDay 111 cup balanced fertiliser5litre per baleDay 121 cup balanced fertiliser5litre per bale
After this the straw bales are ready for planting. Check out the Digwell YouTube Channel for more.
Allotment update: Sowing Seeds Directly.
Down on the allotment Richard has been busy clearing and preparing the allotment for the growing season. But that also includes sowing a few seeds directly, which is something Richard rarely does.
However some seeds do need direct sowing and they include:
Carrots
Parsnips
Peas
Links are included to Premier seeds direct.
Chef Scott's recipe of the week.
Chef Scott is back with his recipe of the week and this weeks its another simple dish using radishes. Roasted Radishes with feta is sure to delight anyone who eats this dish.
National Kids Gardening Week.
In the last segment this week Richard is joined by his friend and fellow gardening podcaster, Lee Connelly The Skinny Jean Gardener.
Lee's here this week to promote and upcoming event, National Children's gardening week. THe plan is to get as many children and families out into the garden this week, with prizes up for grabs.
Support this podcast -
Join Richard in the 600th episode of the veg grower podcast. This week Richard has an update from the allotment followed by a new trail, Hotbin vs Dalek.
At the end of this podcast you can also be in with a chance to win a pair of tickets to gardeners world spring fair on Sunday the 4th May 2025 -
Join richard in this weeks podcast in which Richard shares the seed of the month Pumpkins. Richard also shares the latest from the kitchen garden and his thoughts on this months book of the month.
Kitchen garden update Whitefly and more space.
Over the last week, while Richard inspected his young plants he noticed some white aphids on his chillies. While only a small infestation it was time to take quick action. Richard used an organic pesticide which worked within a day but wasn't Richards preferred choice.
Richard also needed his kitchen table back with family over for mothering Sunday. This table was full of plants so Richard went out and bought a vegtrug nursery to house his plants outside, but still undercover. So far so good.
Seed of the month Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a delicious and easy to grow edible, but often over looked as used for Halloween carvings. Well Richard prefers to grow food and this month Richard delves into growing pumpkins.
Links to suggested varieties
Crown Prince
Vif d'etempas
Atlantic giant
Big Max
JAck Be little
White baby boo
Chef Scott recipe of the week
This week Chef Scott has a delicious pea guacamole using pea instead of avocado
And finally
Richard finishes off with a review of the book of the month for March Allotted time by Robin Shelton. A great example of how gardening can help us deal with tough times.
Richard also answers a question about his root trainers -
Join Richard in this weeks podcast in which Richard is springing into action. With Spring officially here its time to really get to work and this week Richard has been busy on the allotment cutting the grass and tending to his garlic. In the kitchen garden Richard has also been busy potting on lots of plants and planting up his greenhouse in order to grow food. Chef Scott is also back with another tasty recipe.
Allotment update: Springing into action
Down on Richards allotment, Richard has been cutting the grass over the last couple of weeks. Not the most exciting of tasks but this week Richard has made this task a little easier by investing in some new strimmer line for his ryobi grass strimmer and adding a bigger battery to his collection of ryobi batteries. This has made the grass cutting task much easier.
Added to that Richard has also tended to his over wintered garlic and onions. They are starting to show signs that they are springing into action. But they needed a good feed and with the dry spell we have had lately a good watering.
Kitchen Garden Update: Greenhouse is go.
Back at home Richard has been busy sowing more seeds, pricking out more seedlings and potting up young plants. All of which is taking up precious space!!
However there is light at the end of the tunnel as the weather has improved and temperatures inside the grow house and tunnel now means that young plants can live in this 2 places. With that Richard has moved plants into these areas freeing up space indoors.
Not only that with the greenhouse now war, enough Richard has planted some young veg plants into the autopot system in the greenhouse. Richard trailed the autopot system last year and was so impressed with the result he decided to expand upon it this year. If you are interested in the autopot don't forget Richards discount code AUTO10RVG when buying from Autopot
Chef Scott's Recipe Of The Week
This week Chef Scott is back with another delicious recipe. A delicious spring vegetable and mozzarella filo parcels cooked in an air fryer!!
A great snack or to take on a lovely picnic and cooked in an air fryer. What's not to love.
And Finally.
Towards the end of this podcast Richard turns his attention to propagation, in particular a method called layering. This method of propagation happens in nature and is a very reliable way to propagate new plants from existing plants.
Premier seeds direct for all your seed needs
Autopot uk a revolutionary watering system for growing the best veg easily. User discount code auto10rvg for 10%off -
Join Richard in this weeks Veg Grower Podcast where this week, with Spring in the air Richard has set up his coldframes including building one out of scrap. Down on the allotment Richard has also been planting out his potatoes and back in the podding shed Richard has had a bit of correspondence from listeners.
Kitchen Garden Update: Coldframes
With spring just around the corner Richard has got his coldframes out and ready to use. Coldframes are a great way to protect young plants and free up some space from all the plants in Richards kitchen.
Richard has a collection of coldframes but Richard also made a temporary coldframe out of some scrap materials this week in order to provide more protection.
Allotment update: Potato Planting
This week also sees the ST Patrick's day holiday which for Richard is the best time to plant his potatoes ready for a crop later this year.
Potatoes are a staple in many households and growing our own potatoes usually means we get better potatoes. For Richard this is also a good sign Spring is nearly here and the allotment is about to get very busy.
Chef Scott's Recipe Of The Week: Spring Vegetable Risotto
Chef Scott is back this week with a delicious spring vegetable Risotto. A great way to make a delicious heart warming meal using spring vegetable
From The Podding Shed
Richard finishes off in the podding shed with some correspondence from listeners. One question in particular is about Richard use of AI to come up with a seed sowing plan for the year and this plan can be found here. -
In the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the primary speaker, shares a wealth of updates and insights from his gardening activities, both at his allotment and at home. This episode is particularly poignant as it is set against the backdrop of Richard's recent job change, which has significantly impacted his schedule for visiting the allotment. Despite these changes, Richard emphasizes the value of dedicating a little time each day to gardening tasks, such as weeding and watering. He highlights how even small, consistent efforts can lead to significant progress in maintaining a healthy garden.
The "Little and Often" Gardening Method
One of the key themes Richard discusses is the effectiveness of the "little and often" gardening method. This approach involves spending short bursts of time on gardening tasks each day, which can be incredibly effective in maintaining control over an allotment without becoming overwhelmed.
Benefits of the "Little and Often" Method:
Consistency: Regular attention prevents tasks from piling up.
Manageability: Short, daily sessions are less daunting than long, infrequent ones.
Efficiency: Focused, daily efforts can lead to a more organized and productive garden.
Actionable Tips:
Set a Timer: Dedicate 10-20 minutes each day to specific tasks like weeding or watering.
Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks that need immediate attention.
Stay Flexible: Adjust your tasks based on weather conditions and plant needs.
Maintaining Grass Paths for Composting
Richard also discusses the importance of keeping grass paths clear, particularly for composting purposes. Well-maintained paths not only enhance the overall appearance of the garden but also facilitate easier access to different areas, making it simpler to manage various gardening tasks.
Benefits of Grass Paths:
Aesthetic Appeal: Neat paths make the garden look organized.
Compost Material: Grass clippings can be added to compost bins or used as mulch.
Accessibility: Clear paths make it easier to navigate the garden.
Actionable Tips:
Regular Mowing: Gradually lower the mower's height each week to keep the grass manageable.
Use Clippings Wisely: Add clippings to compost bins or use them as mulch to retain soil moisture.
Battery-Powered Mowers: Consider using a battery-powered mower for efficiency and environmental benefits.
The Social Aspect of Gardening
Gardening is not just about growing plants; it's also about fostering a sense of community. Richard shares anecdotes about his interactions with neighbors at the allotment, illustrating how gardening can bring people together.
Benefits of Social Gardening:
Knowledge Sharing: Exchange tips, advice, and experiences with fellow gardeners.
Community Building: Develop relationships and a sense of belonging.
Resource Sharing: Share produce, seeds, and tools with neighbors.
Actionable Tips:
Engage with Neighbors: Take time to chat and share experiences with fellow gardeners.
Join Gardening Groups: Participate in local gardening clubs or online communities.
Host Garden Tours: Invite neighbors to tour your garden and share your successes and challenges.
Managing Trees and Creating Woodchip for Composting
Richard addresses the challenges he faces with managing trees on his property. He talks about the process of processing branches from these trees to create woodchip for composting, which not only helps in recycling materials but also contributes to the sustainability of his gardening practices.
Benefits of Woodchip:
Soil Improvement: Woodchip adds organic matter to the soil.
Moisture Retention: Helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Weed Suppression: Acts as a natural mulch to suppress weeds.
Actionable Tips:
Use a Garden Shredder: Invest in a garden shredder to process branches into woodchip. -
Spring is creeping in, and with it, the start of another exciting growing season. March is a month of new beginnings—seed trays filling up, beds being prepared, and the first real sense that warmer days are on the way.
In this week’s podcast, Richard covers:
The Seed of the Month – Tomatoes
What can be done on the allotment in March
Chef Scott’s recipe: Roast Pork Chops with Rhubarb
A review of A Jam Maker’s Garden
Let’s get stuck in.
Seed of the Month: Tomatoes
Few crops are as rewarding as homegrown tomatoes. This month, Richard is sowing a mix of different varieties to suit a range of growing conditions.
One of the first tomatoes sown this year was ‘Minibel’ , a dwarf variety ideal for pots and small spaces. One plant has even been growing in Richard’s hydroponic system and is thriving.
For those looking for reliability outdoors, ‘Crimson Crush’ is a top choice. This variety is blight-resistant, making it a great option for UK growers who often battle unpredictable summers.
Other Great Tomato Varieties to Consider
‘Sungold’ – A cherry tomato with an incredibly sweet flavour.
‘Gardener’s Delight’ – A classic and reliable variety, perfect for greenhouse or outdoor growing.
‘Marmande’ – A large beefsteak variety with a rich flavour, great for slicing.
‘San Marzano’ – The famous Italian plum tomato, perfect for sauces.
‘Alicante’ – A traditional British tomato, known for its excellent taste.
‘Tigerella’ – A striking striped variety with a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
How to Sow and Grow Tomatoes
When to Sow: January to April (indoors), April-May (outdoors, under protection).
Where to Grow: Greenhouse, windowsill, or outdoor containers once the risk of frost has passed.
Top Tip: Water consistently—irregular watering can lead to split fruit or blossom end rot.
For a full breakdown of tomato growing, including support methods, common problems, and harvesting tips, listen to this week’s episode.
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And if you’d like to become a member of the supporters’ club, you’ll get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and even some seed giveaways.
March on the Allotment
March is one of the busiest months on the allotment—the soil is waking up, and so should we. This week, Richard recorded from the plot, getting his hands dirty while discussing the key jobs for the month.
March Allotment Tasks
Prepare the soil – A light forking over, a good compost top-up, and a check for overwintering weeds.
Sow early crops – Broad beans, peas, spinach, beetroot, radish, and early carrots.
Plant out onions, shallots, and garlic – A great low-maintenance crop for beginners.
Potatoes – Time to get first earlies in the ground.
Spring is also a key time for pruning fruit trees and bushes. If you’ve got raspberries, make sure last year’s canes are cut back (if they’re autumn-fruiting) or tied in (for summer-fruiting varieties).
It’s a big month, but there’s nothing better than getting stuck in after winter’s quiet months.
Recipe of the Week: Roast Pork Chops with Rhubarb
This week, Chef Scott brings a seasonal favourite—roast pork chops with rhubarb. If you’ve never paired rhubarb with savoury dishes, this is a great way to try it. Its sharpness cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a beautifully balanced dish.
For those growing rhubarb, now is the time for the first harvest. Any flower stalks should be removed to keep the plant productive.
Book Review: A Jam Maker’s Garden
For those who love preserving the harvest, Holly Farrell’s A Jam Maker’s Garden is an essential read. It’s not just a book of recipes—it guides growers through cultivating and harvesting the best fruit for jam-making, ensuring top flavours and yields. -
Join Richard and Scott in this weeks podcast where this week Richard has noticed that there are signs that the allotment is springing into life. Back at home Richard is building on his grow light system in order to be able to grow more seedlings and he also shares a few insights from the garden press event. Scott is also back with his recipe of the week.
Springing Into Life On The Allotment
Down on the allotment Richard has seen some signs that spring is just around the corner. Nettles and comfrey are just starting to show, Rhubarb has begun breaking through and even the over wintered garlic and onions are showing signs of life.
This is all good signs that spring is just round the corner but bringing with it is of course weed growth too. Time to start weeding more.
Grow Lights The Secret To Good Seedlings
This week at home Richard has been potting on lots of young seedlings and what he has noticed is that the seedlings under grow lights show better growth both in foliage and in roots. The downside is that he only has so many grow lights and only so much space.
Grow lights can be cheap and so Richard has fitted grow lights to the inside of an old bottle fridge in his garage on the hope that will provide more space and better growth on his plants.
Will it work only time will tell.
Chef Scott's Recipe Of The Week
This week Chef Scott is back with another delicious broccoli recipe. This recipe is a very quick and easy dish to make in next to no time.
The Garden Press Event
This week Richard attended the garden press event which is an annual event for brands to get there latest products in front of the media.
Some of Richard most notable items are
The App Fryd
A soil monitor oko
A delicious tasting pear tree
Jayes fluid
Check out the podcast to find out more -
Join Richard in this weeks veg grower podcast and this week Richard is sharing his tips for seed starting success, from the allotment we have a question from a listener about saving potato seed and finally we have a new project of making our own compost in order to be more self sufficent.
Kitchen garden update: Seed Starting Success.
With March and Spring being just around the corner, it brings with the real seed sowing time. Seed sowing is a skill in its own right but this week Richard suggests ways in which to make seed sowing more successful for you.
This tips include:
Use the freshest seed possible and buy from a reputable source such as Premier seeds direct or Simply Seed.
Use a good quality seed compost and add a bit of perlite
Heated propagators help warm the soil, but a soil thermometer also helps you work out when the soil is warm enough
When you seedlings germinate they need light and grow lights can really help with strong growth.
Allotment update: Saving our own Seed Potatoes
Down on the allotment this week Richard is answering a question from a listener by the name of Steve. Steve is asking if its possible to save our own seed potatoes.
Saving our own seed potatoes can help save money and also could mean we could have our own supply of varieties that may not be available in the garden centres.
Richard reflects on a time when he did save his own seed potatoes and how that worked out and shares how he managed to save his own seed potatoes. Something he feels we should all do more of as we try and be more self sufficient.
Chef Scott's Recipe Of The Week.
Chef Scott is back with another delicious recipe and a interesting twist on the good old broccoli stem. Tempura broccoli is one to delight many when it arrives on the kitchen table adding a oriental zing to a delicious vegetable.
And Finally making our own compost mixes.
Towards the end of this weeks podcast Richard shares a new project he is attempting. Making his own ingredients to mix his own compost mixes.
Over the years Richard has noted that compost is one of the most expensive costs in growing his own food. After doing lots of research Richard has identified ways of making it possible to make his own compost. But this starts with making his own ingredients. -
Join Richard on his allotment and kitchen garden as he continues his mission to grow as much of his own food as possible. This week, he’s been busy organising his shed, finding ways to save money on the allotment, and building a pallet wood seed tray—a fantastic upcycling project. Plus, Chef Scott is back with another delicious recipe, perfect for using this month’s seed of the month: leeks!
Organising the Shed: Kitchen Garden Update
With a little extra time on his hands, Richard has been giving his shed a much-needed makeover, turning it into a more efficient and organised workspace.
Here’s how he’s improved his shed setup:
Storage Solutions – Using IKEA recycling bins to store bulk materials like compost, keeping everything neat and accessible.
Repurposing Containers – Old juice bottles are now handy storage for liquid plant feeds, while a craft box keeps seeds neatly organised.
Clear Labelling – Using a Nimbot label maker to ensure everything is easy to find when needed.
A well-organised shed saves time, effort, and frustration, making growing food even more enjoyable! For an extra tip these craft boxes are great for organising and storing seeds!!1
Saving Money: Allotment Update
Running an allotment can get expensive if you're not careful! This week, Richard has been focusing on budget-friendly gardening, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a productive plot.
Here are some of his top money-saving strategies:
Making as much compost as possible – A great way to create free, nutrient-rich soil while reducing waste.
Using cardboard to suppress weeds – An eco-friendly, cost-free alternative to expensive weed barriers.
Reusing and recycling materials – From repurposing old containers to making DIY garden projects, every little helps!
By thinking creatively and making the most of what’s available, Richard is cutting costs while keeping his allotment thriving.
Chef Scott’s Recipe of the Week
Chef Scott is back in the kitchen with another hearty, winter-warming dish: Chicken & Leek Savoury Crumble.
This delicious recipe makes the most of this month’s featured seed: leeks—a true winter staple. With tender chicken, smoky bacon, creamy sauce, and a cheesy crumble topping, this dish is pure comfort food at its best!
Missed last week’s podcast? Be sure to check it out for more tips on growing leeks and how to make the most of your harvest.
You can find the full recipe here or over on Scott’s Instagram: Seed to Table Plot 13.
DIY Project: Making a Pallet Wood Seed Tray
Finally, Richard has been putting his DIY skills to good use by making a sturdy, upcycled seed tray from old pallet wood.
This simple yet practical project is perfect for:✅ Starting seedlings indoors or in a greenhouse✅ Reducing plastic waste by replacing flimsy store-bought trays✅ Giving new life to scrap wood
If you’re looking for a fun and easy upcycling project, this one is definitely worth trying! - Visa fler
