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    What if you could transform your gardening experience extend the growing season and grow warm loving plants and crops. Discover the secrets to selecting the perfect greenhouse for your garden, inspired by a listener's inquiry about choosing the best option. Whether you're battling the unpredictable weather of Ireland or simply seeking to extend your growing season, this episode promises to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your greenhouse investment.

    Explore the myriad considerations that come into play when planning to install a greenhouse. From budget constraints and location to aesthetics and intended use, each factor plays a critical role in integrating your new structure into your outdoor space. Learn why opting for a slightly larger greenhouse than initially planned can prove beneficial, and consider the pros and cons of materials like cedar wood, aluminum, and polycarbonate. With insights into heating decisions and ensuring your greenhouse complements your garden, you'll be ready to create a space that meets your unique needs.

    Compare and contrast the different types of greenhouse structures, such as polytunnels, glasshouses, and polycarbonate tunnels, as we highlight their advantages and limitations. Delve into advancements in polycarbonate designs and discover why they are increasingly popular for withstanding harsh conditions. From budget-friendly pop-up greenhouses to the often overlooked but durable cold frames, we guide you through available options, ensuring you select a solution that perfectly suits your gardening journey.

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Get ready to uncover the secrets behind crafting garden structures that are both beautiful and resilient with none other than Rosie Campbell from Rosabell Plant Supports. Rosie, a true innovator in the field, shares her journey from needing durable plant supports for her own garden to creating a thriving business that provides high-quality, mild steel garden structures designed to withstand the harsh Irish climate. You'll learn how investing in robust, aesthetically pleasing arches, trellises, and obelisks can offer a long-term solution for your garden's needs.

    Let your imagination wander through a picturesque garden nestled between the mountains and the sea in County Down. Transforming this space into a lush, cottage-style haven over 20 years involved overcoming challenges like strong winds and evolving the garden with sturdy plant supports. We'll discuss the trials and joys of gardening, and how a simple change, like swapping tarmac for gravel, improved rainwater management and transformed the garden's aesthetic appeal.

    Explore the creative blend of art and utility with Rosie's unique garden accessories, from whimsical metal flowers to bespoke birdbaths. Discover how her creative process, from crafting clay models to replicating them in resin, results in unique garden pieces that add charm and practicality. We also touch on exciting new projects, including modern cloches inspired by Victorian designs, illustrating a constant evolution of ideas aimed at enhancing outdoor spaces. This episode is an essential listen for any gardening enthusiast looking to marry function with beauty.

    You can see all of the Rosabell range here:
    https://www.rosabellplantsupports.co.uk

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Join us as we explore the art of bare root planting alongside experts Caitriona and Robert from Cullen Nurseries in Carlow. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of this cost-effective gardening method, perfect for large-scale projects. Katrina and Robert share their journey through the ever-evolving trends of the nursery industry—from the Leylandii craze of the 1980s to today’s focus on native and sustainable species. Gain insights into the patience and expertise required to grow plants destined for sale years down the line.

    Get ready to transform your landscape with a splash of evergreen elegance. We delve into the growing popularity of hedge options like beech, laurel, and Red Robin, examining the art of trimming techniques that keep your hedges lush nearly all year round. Listen as we ponder the aesthetics of mixed hedging and the balance between uniformity and diversity in planting. The conversation delves into the demand for Portuguese laurel and the vibrant Photinia Carre Rouge, appreciated for their beauty and low maintenance.

    As we round off, we shift focus to sustainable practices in gardening and nursery management—an area gaining momentum as farmers and gardeners alike embrace biodiversity. We discuss how strategic planting not only enhances biodiversity but also nurtures the ecosystem, helping reduce pesticide reliance. This episode is your guide to hedges and hedges and how these will help you making impactful changes in your gardening habits while contributing to environmental conservation.

    You can find Cullen nurseries here:
    https://cullennurseries.ie

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Join us on an enchanting journey through the world of snowdrops with our esteemed guest, Robert Miller from Altamont Plants. As we discuss the incredible acquisition of rare snowdrop varieties, learn first hand about the challenges and triumphs of managing one of Europe's largest public displays of these delicate winter flowers.

    You'll gain insights into the art of snowdrop cultivation, particularly the practice of selling them "in the green" for the best results. Listen as we explore the exciting addition of over 12,500 snowdrop bulbs at Altamont, featuring more than 600 unique varieties, including some that have never been seen in Ireland before. Robert also shares how Brexit has shaped the availability of certain varieties and how Altamont is navigating these changes, offering a fresh perspective on the growing enthusiasm for snowdrop collecting.

    Finally, feel the anticipation building for the upcoming annual Snowdrop Gala, a premier event for gardening enthusiasts. With an impressive lineup of speakers, including Chris Ireland-Jones, the gala promises to be a celebration of all things snowdrop. We discuss the importance of face-to-face interactions in the gardening community and ensuring the health of plants before purchase. This episode is filled with passion and excitement as we unite snowdrop lovers from around the world, and you won’t want to miss it!

    Follow Altamont Plants For updates:
    https://www.instagram.com/altamontplants/


    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Can autumn truly be the busiest time in your garden? Join us as we navigate through the essential tasks that can transform your October gardening routine into a harmonious preparation for spring. Personal commitments and shorter days might have left some areas neglected in my garden, but together we'll tackle these challenges. From the delightful surprise of an extended tomato season in the polytunnel, thanks to a yellow variety from a generous listener, to strategies for managing soil health with green manures and biochar, this episode is packed with practical advice and heartwarming stories. Hear how these small steps can pave the way for a flourishing garden come spring.

    We'll also shed light on late autumn maintenance tasks that keep your garden healthy and vibrant year-round. Discover the benefits of strategic mulching and feeding, and how simple actions like timing hedge cutting can make a big impact on local wildlife. Whether you're battling weeds or managing compost, our insights will guide you through the most critical autumn chores. Plus, get a sneak peek into upcoming guest interviews that promise to inspire your gardening journey as we approach the bare root season. Embrace the season's challenges and joys with us, and take your gardening experience to the next level. Happy gardening!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Ready to transform your autumn and winter gardening into a captivating oasis? Discover how to maintain a vibrant, joyful garden year-round, as we explore the rich tapestry of colors and textures that autumn and winter can offer. From lush trees and shrubs like red oaks and mahonias to the delicate beauty of blooming camellias and winter pansies, we'll show you how these colder months can be just as rewarding as spring and summer. Plus, learn how to attract early pollinators to your garden with scented shrubs and vibrant blooms that promise a continuous display of nature's splendor.

    Join me as I share a curated list of up to 20 plants perfect for the chilly seasons, including hidden gems like erica carnea and daphnes. Delight in practical tips for integrating bulbs such as daffodils and snowdrops, and hear about the enchanting effect of ornamental grasses and larger trees. As we touch on the joy of watching wild birds flock to feeders. I will also speak of my personal joys and nurturing our blossoming podcast community. Embrace the beauty of your garden, even in the darkest months, and let's keep the gardening spirit thriving together.

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    How To Build My Stock Of Plants Through Propagation? Listener Question Answered

    Ready to cultivate a thriving garden in your new home? This week, we tackle Caroline's dilemma on how to build up her plant stock before moving. From the intricacies of taking hardwood and softwood cuttings to mastering the art of layering and division, we cover a range of propagation techniques. You'll learn the best timing and plants for each method, ensuring that Caroline—and you—can successfully propagate your own plants. Gain practical insights to expand your garden without breaking the bank.

    Grow your perennial collection effortlessly and economically with our handy tips. Discover how dividing plants like hostas, astilbes, and irises can rejuvenate them while doubling your stock. We also delve into sowing perennial seeds, perfect for those with limited space, and the benefits of naturalizing bulbs like tete-a-tete. Plus, find out how to use the layering technique with lilac trees to propagate new plants without detaching them from the mother plant. Tune in for all this and more, ensuring your gardening journey is as rewarding as it is fruitful.

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    What’s the secret behind the breathtaking beauty of David Austin Roses?
    Join us as we uncover the captivating history, meticulous breeding process, and enduring legacy of these iconic blooms with none other than Joseph Sturrock Spencer, an esteemed rose consultant from David Austin Roses.
    From the visionary passion of David Austin to the global acclaim his roses have garnered at the Chelsea Flower Show, Joseph takes us on an enchanting journey through the world of English roses. Discover the balance of aesthetic charm, disease resistance, and repeat flowering that defines each new variety.

    Ever wondered how a rose can take over a decade to perfect? Joseph, alongside insights from experts like Carl Bennett and David Austin Jr., reveals the journey from pollination to market introduction. We dive into the rigorous trials and selections that ensure every David Austin rose meets the highest standards of beauty and resilience. Learn practical tips for optimal rose care, from choosing the right pot size to mastering deep watering techniques, ensuring your garden blooms with health and splendor.

    Meet standout varieties like Desdemona, Olivia Rose Austin, and Tottering By Gently, each celebrated for their unique beauty and fragrance. Joseph’s deep-rooted passion for horticulture shines through as he shares his personal journey and the privilege of advising on some of the UK’s most magnificent gardens. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the dedication and innovation that keep David Austin Roses at the forefront of gardeners' hearts worldwide. Tune in and be inspired to create your own rose-filled paradise!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Can you keep your vegetable garden thriving even as the weather cools? Absolutely! Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful seed sowing in September. From winter salads to hardy vegetables like loose leaf lettuces, we'll guide you on what you can still plant this month. Learn how to protect your soil with mulch or green manures and discover the benefits of polytunnel sowing to extend your growing season. With unpredictable weather on the horizon, we also share crucial tips for safeguarding your young seedlings with bio netting and fleece.

    Thinking about adding a greenhouse to your garden? Don’t miss our expert advice on choosing the perfect one for your needs. We emphasize the importance of opting for a larger size, exploring different types like polytunnels, glasshouses, and polycarbonate houses. Discover why head height and straight-sided designs matter, and the significance of good ventilation and dual doors for ease of access and optimal airflow. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of your garden year-round.

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Can you imagine a garden that grows more breathtaking each year with minimal effort? This week on Master My Garden, discover how autumn planting of spring-flowering bulbs like snowdrops, Fritillaria, Muscari, and Camassias can transform your garden into a vibrant spring haven. We revisit key insights from previous episodes, including our insightful chat with Dave and Jules from Esker Farm Daffodils, who share their expertise on unique and rare bulb varieties.

    We answer a listener question from a listener in Canada on the art of forcing bulbs following their less than successful attempt at forced tulips last year. Learn why tulips might not be the ideal choice and how proper drainage, potting grit, and natural cold periods are crucial for success. Our discussion is rooted in Irish gardening experiences but provides universal tips that can help gardeners worldwide achieve stunning early blooms with patience and the right techniques.

    Lastly, we focus on sustainable gardening practices for spring flowering bulbs. Discover why long-lasting, naturalizing species like alliums, anemones, narcissi, and crocuses are more beneficial than mass-planted tulips. Get practical advice on layering techniques such as lasagna planting and staging for continuous blooms from December to early May. These strategies ensure a vibrant and sustainable spring garden with minimal effort. Plus, stay tuned for hints about exciting upcoming episodes featuring intriguing guest interviews!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    How to grow your own wildflower meadow course:
    https://checkout.teachable.com/secure/1574174/checkout/order_qfcnsy41

    Ever wondered how to transform your garden into a thriving sanctuary for both plants and wildlife? In this episode, we unlock the secrets to creating a stunning wildflower meadow that not only brightens your landscape but also supports local ecosystems. I'll share my personal journey, from the vibrant colors of the first year's blooms to the more natural, wildlife-friendly aesthetics that follow. Learn why September is the perfect time to start your meadow and understand the crucial differences between a floral meadow and a native wildflower meadow, each offering unique benefits and challenges.

    We'll also explore various techniques to establish your meadow, featuring the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan's "no mow, let it grow" strategy. Discover the role of yellow rattle in fostering plant diversity and the best methods for preparing a weed-free seed bed. Unveil the dynamic beauty of a year-round meadow, with a succession of flowers from spring to late summer, and the importance of annual cutting and strategic planting. Tune in for expert tips and insights to cultivate a meadow that enhances both your garden's beauty and its ecological health.

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    What if you could transform your garden into a breathtaking oasis from early spring to late autumn while saving money? This episode of Master My Garden promises to unravel the secrets of autumn perennial sowing, revealing how you can achieve stronger plant growth, longer flowering periods, and significant cost savings. We’ll break down the differences between annuals, biennials, and perennials, and explain why autumn is the perfect time for sowing those hardy perennials. You'll hear Stephen Daly’s inspiring success story with lupins, rudbeckia, and blue sea holly, illustrating the pride and financial benefits of growing your own garden beauties.

    We’ll also guide you through a rich selection of perennial plants and grasses that are ideal for autumn sowing. From the vibrant Achillea 'Cerise Queen' and 'Cloth Of Gold' to the charming Hollyhocks and the striking Agastache 'Astello Indigo,' we highlight plants that are not only easy to cultivate but also visually stunning. Learn why late-flowering Rudbeckia is adored by goldfinches and how Verbena bonariensis can add tall, purple elegance to your borders. Each plant we discuss has been chosen for its ease of propagation and ability to enhance your garden aesthetics.

    Experience the joy and satisfaction of growing plants from seeds as we offer practical tips on sowing techniques, timing, and care. From Verbascum Snowy Spire, which attracts a multitude of bees, to the humble Foxglove, we emphasise the rewarding journey from seed to full bloom. This episode is packed with encouragement and guidance for gardeners of all levels, ensuring that the process is approachable and deeply fulfilling. Join us and feel inspired to take the DIY approach to gardening, creating a vibrant, cost-effective haven right in your backyard. Happy gardening!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    What if you could create a thriving home garden filled with robust, organic plants that require minimal maintenance? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Gert from Caherhurley Nurseries. Gert who relocated from the Netherlands to County Clare, Ireland, to cultivate a lush, organic plant paradise. Gert shares how the warm community and breathtaking landscapes of Clare inspired his family's move and how their nursery stands out by offering hardy plants that thrive in any garden.

    Gert recounts the significant shift of moving from selling at plant fairs to a permanent nursery, highlighting the labor-intensive nature of fairs and the rewarding, sustainable business model of a permanent nursery. Gert highlights the nursery's mission, as he emphasises their commitment to organic practices helping biodiversity, and providing plants that thrive in Irish gardens. Learn about the team's dedication, including Elizabeth and Kate, who contribute to the nursery's joyful atmosphere and sustainable success.

    From plant propagation secrets to the challenges of coastal gardening, Gert provides invaluable insights into selecting and cultivating hardy plants. We delve into practical advice for managing common garden pests like rabbits and deer, and the benefits of choosing resilient plants for long-term growth. This episode is brimming with expert tips, heartfelt stories, and resources to help you transform your garden with robust, organic plants. Join us and be inspired by Gert's journey and the thriving community at Caherhurley Nurseries.

    You can contact Gert and the Caherhurley team through their website here:
    https://www.caherhurleynursery.com

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Ever wondered how to blend historical charm with modern sustainability in garden design? Join us as we chat with John Smith, the newly appointed head gardener at the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens. John shares his horticultural journey from learning the ropes with his father to leading renowned gardens like Belvedere House. You'll hear about his plans for these iconic gardens, highlighting the crucial balance between maintaining heritage and embracing contemporary horticultural practices.

    Discover the secrets behind creating visually stunning, garden spaces that also offer deep emotional resonance for visitors. John dives into the history of the Japanese gardens and discusses how their intricate design continues to captivate visitors. Learn about the meticulous care involved in recent plantings and efforts to enhance the visitor experience, revealing how past and present horticultural practices are harmoniously intertwined.

    In the final segment, we explore the future of sustainable gardening with an ambitious five-year plan that transitions to all-electric machinery and eliminates petrol use. John reveals how they are tackling challenges like soil pH adjustments and the undervaluation of conifers, all while planning engaging community initiatives. From garden tours to workshops on fruit and vegetable cultivation, find out how you can connect with these remarkable gardens and contribute to a botanically rich and visually stunning future.

    You can find out more and book tickets here:
    https://irishnationalstud.ie

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    John looks at what seeds we can sow in the month of August on this weeks episode. The list is much smaller but there are still lots we can sow in August.

    Can you still sow seeds in August and keep your vegetable garden thriving as we head into autumn? Tune in to episode 237 of Master My Garden Podcast, where we uncover the secrets to making the most of this crucial month in the edible garden calendar. Learn which seeds you should be planting now, from spring onions to radishes, and discover our tips for larger sowings as we approach September. Celebrate your victories with crops like potatoes, onions, garlic, and brassicas, while we share honest struggles with tomatoes and raspberries due to unpredictable weather.

    As the seasons shift, we’ll guide you through essential tasks to maintain a productive garden. From trimming plants such as mizuna and tatsai to sowing herbs like coriander and vegetables like pak choi, we’ve got you covered for autumn and winter harvests. We emphasize the importance of protecting spring harvest crops like cabbage and cauliflower from pests, and we offer practical advice on managing common garden issues like blight, aphids, and caterpillars. Join us and ensure your garden continues to flourish, reaping the rewards of your hard work throughout the upcoming colder months!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Ever wondered how to maintain garden privacy with an evergreen hedge that is easy to manage?
    We're tackling this exact dilemma faced by our listener Siobhan who is struggling to manage an old overgrown Griselinia hedge on one side of her long, narrow, and steep property. While looking for privacy on the opposite side by adding a hedge that is easy to mange and complimenting what is already there.

    Siobhan messaged me with a heartfelt thanks for the podcast. She shares her challenges on her site, including finding an evergreen hedge solution that ensures year-round privacy. We discuss creative and practical solutions tailored to her unique site conditions, offering a wealth of advice for anyone dealing with similar gardening conundrums.

    Explore the world of hedge planting with us as we dive into the pros and cons of plants like Taxus, Lonicera, Privet, Holly, Pittosporum, Photinia Red Robin and many more. We also tackle Siobhan's steep bank which is being over-run by gorse for which she is looking for a solution. This episode is packed with advice from Portuguese laurels to bamboo varieties like phyllostachys, and even cost-effective erosion control methods like gabion cages, we'll help you create a beautiful, functional garden landscape that perfectly balances aesthetics, privacy, and budget. Join us for an episode packed with actionable tips and expert insights to transform your garden challenges into triumphs!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Are you wondering why your tomatoes and raspberries aren't thriving this summer? This week on "Master My Garden Podcast," I share my firsthand experiences and the effects of lower light levels and cooler temperatures on garden growth this year. Despite being away on holiday, I noticed the garden's response to these conditions, revealing slower growth and less sweetness in our beloved fruits. Tune in for essential gardening tips like the necessity of regular feeding, removing side shoots, and maintaining garden cleanliness, all while empathizing with the shared challenges many gardeners are facing due to unpredictable weather.

    Our polytunnel and outdoor garden setups have their own stories to tell! Discover the triumphs of harvesting garlic, onions, courgettes, herbs, and more, all thriving despite the odds. The unmistakable flavour of freshly dug British Queens potatoes. Even our strawberries, though smaller, continue to bring joy. Learn about our strategic moves to prevent blight by separating tomatoes and potatoes. This segment is packed with practical advice and heartening successes, proving that even in challenging conditions, some crops can truly shine.

    Lastly, let's take a tour of the home garden, where rhubarb, broccoli, cabbage, and potatoes are exceeding expectations with minimal pest problems. However, it hasn't all been smooth sailing. Carrots and parsnips have struggled with germination due to erratic temperatures and heavy rains, compounded by blackbird disturbances. Hear about the transformation of our meadow garden into an ecological haven and the ongoing efforts to control weeds and create new flower beds. Listener interaction remains at the core of our podcast, reinforcing our mission to support and inspire fellow gardeners through shared experiences and practical advice. Join the conversation and let’s grow together!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Ever wondered how a small local event can grow into an internationally recognized festival featuring top UK and Irish gardening experts? Join us as we explore the incredible journey of the Carlow Garden Festival with insights from Eileen O'Rourke, CEO of Carlow Tourism. Since 2014, when UK gardening celebrities were first introduced, this festival has blossomed into a must-attend event for gardening enthusiasts. We promise you'll gain invaluable insights into historic gardens, ornamental borders, and food growing, making this event a true celebration of all things gardening over its 10 duration.

    With Eileen we look at each event, chat about the fantastic speakers and topics which will be covered over the festival. The list of speakers is superb including Ann-Marie Powell, Niall McCauley, Arthur Parkinson, Kitty Scully, Colm O Driscoll, Paul Smyth, Matthew Pottage, Tom Stuart Smith, Klaus Laitenberger and many more.

    Featuring an array of expert talks that cater to every gardener's interests whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out.

    You can read more and buy tickets here:

    https://carlowgardentrail.com

    If you are having trouble getting the tickets you want please phone 059/9130411

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

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    Can you imagine extending your vegetable sowing season despite cool summer days? This episode of the Master Garden Podcast promises to turn your July gardening into an experimental adventure. We'll guide you through the unexpected joys of sowing savoy cabbage, purple sprouting broccoli, and calabrese well into the month. For those looking to keep their garden dynamic with successional crops, we’ve got tips on how to keep your spring onion supply going and why now might be the perfect time to experiment with early sowings of beetroot, chard, and carrots. Plus, we’ll share crucial advice on harvesting early crops like potatoes, onions, and garlic, and offer strategies on how to manage your flourishing garden even when you're away on holiday.

    Healthy plants and bountiful harvests are within reach with our July gardening tips. We delve into the importance of hoeing on dry days to prevent weed regrowth, the secrets to feeding and pruning tomatoes for optimum health, and the reasons why proper wound care is essential for disease prevention. Learn why deep watering once a week can transform your plant roots and get our best strategies for protecting ripening fruits from hungry birds. Lastly, discover how to maintain soil health and productivity by keeping your garden beds full, whether with new crops or green manure. Tune in for all these insights and more to ensure your garden thrives throughout July!

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John

  • Send Me A Message!!

    In this weeks episode John chats with David Pagan Butler all about how to create a natural swimming pool in your garden.

    Picture a pool/pond of crystal clear water with beautiful marginal plants, flowers and water lily. A pool that is an ecosystem to itself, fits seamlessly into your garden, one that you and your family can dive into on a hot day while also being home to many beneficial creatures for your garden. Well that's what David teaches how you can create this for yourself and it is something that more and more people are looking towards in their garden.

    David explains all you need to create this from the construction of your pool to the plants and the ongoing care. Its a fascinating and fun chat and one that is sure to inspire many of you to create a pool in your own gardens.

    You can find David and his courses here:

    Website: http://www.organicpools.co.uk/index.htm

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/davidpaganbutler

    Support the show

    If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
    Email: [email protected]

    Master My Garden Courses:
    https://mastermygarden.com/courses/


    Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
    Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

    Until next week
    Happy gardening
    John