Each week we talk to RHS experts, along with garden designers, scientists, growers, and the movers and shakers of the horticultural world
Our award-winning Gardening with the RHS podcast offers seasonal advice, inspiration and practical solutions to gardening questions.Trusted gardening professionals give you the latest horticultural advice, scientific research and tried-and-tested techniques to bring out the best in your garden.Listen to the lastest episodes or subscribe for all episodes.
School’s out and summer’s in full swing, which means it’s the perfect time for the next generation of green thumbs to dig in and discover the joys of gardening. In this episode, Lee Connelly, better known as the Skinny Jean Gardener, shares some fantastic garden projects to keep little hands busy. We also hear from keen gardener and parenting podcast host Giovanna Fletcher, who shares how gardening brings her family closer and why her kids love it so much. And for those of you not entertaining children this week – we’ve got something for you too. We head to RHS Rosemoor, where horticulturist Sam Southgate is challenging traditional ideas about formal gardening. He’s passionate about boosting biodiversity, and shows us how to make room for wildlife in even the most polished garden spaces.
Useful links: Summer holidays at RHS Gardens | Family activites | Wildlife gardening | RHS Sustainability Strategy
In this episode, we look at the updated Plants for Pollinators list, with over 10,000 plants scientifically shown to support pollinating insects throughout the year. Dr Andy Salisbury, head of RHS Plant Health, take us behind the science — revealing how smart planting choices can help reverse pollinator decline. Gill Perkins, CEO of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, brings us into the world of the charismatic bumblebee, shedding light on the growing pressures they face, from shrinking habitats to shifting seasons. And finally, horticulturist Rosie Yeomans spotlights a pollinator favourite: salvias. After leading a three-year hardy salvia trial at RHS Wisley, she’s here to reveal which varieties truly stole the show.
Useful links: RHS Plants for Pollinators | Plants for Pollinators update | Plants for bees | Hardy Salvia RHS Plant Trial
In this episode, Sam Southgate from RHS Rosemoor teaches us how to rethink garden waste by transforming it into amazing structures for both you and your garden wildlife to enjoy. Mary Coates who’s doing her summer studentship with the plant health team at the RHS tells us about her research into the dreaded honey fungus, and how you can help her out. And finally we share some love for the mint family, as we dive into this expansive genus with some of the designers of the Lamiaceae borders at RHS Hampton Court this summer.
Useful links: The Nest at RHS Wisley |Summer Studentships | Honey fungus | For the Love of Lamiaceae
In this episode, we’re at the first RHS Flower Show at the magnificent Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire. We chat with the rising stars of garden design – young talents competing for the coveted RHS Young Designer of the Year award. We also shine a light on some of the North’s finest growers, showcasing their extraordinary plants inside the vibrant floral marquee. And of course, we explore the fresh ideas and inspiring themes blooming across the show’s breathtaking gardens.
Useful links: RHS Wentworth Woodhouse |All the gardens | Medals and awards | Star plants | Inside the Floral Marquee
Nothing captures the spirit of a British summer quite like Wimbledon and the iconic pairing of strawberries and cream. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history of strawberry cultivation with the RHS Head of Libraries and Exhibitions Fiona Davison, who uncovered a hidden story of pioneering strawberry-focused citizen science. RHS Wisley’s Liz Mooney returns to run us through exactly how to keep on top of the vegetable patch during one of the busiest times in the growing season. And finally, we journey to Somerset to meet Georgie Newbury of Common Farm Flowers. Her cut flower farm is a haven for bees, butterflies, and all things that flutter and buzz.
Useful links: The story of strawberries and the RHS | Wimbledon and the strawberry | Grow Your Own | Wildlife gardening
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The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.
