Is a polytunnel good for keeping weeds out? What type of wall would be more suitable for a lean-to greenhouse? What are the panel's gardening regrets?Kathy Clugston and a team of experts return to the windswept region of Midlothian, to solve the gardening questions of a green-fingered audience. Kathy is joined by ethnobotanist James Wong, garden designer Neil Porteous and Head of Gardens at Balmoral Kirsty Wilson.Later in the programme, James Wong learns about Royal Edinburgh Botanical Gardens 'Plants with Purpose' campaign, which uses horticulture to mitigate the effects of climate change on urban locations. Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What’s the secret to growing Snowdrops? Which single plant or gardening activity instils a feeling of wellbeing in people? What are the do's and don’ts of planting Acers? Kathy Clugston and a team of experts are in Bristol to answer gardening questions from a green fingered audience. Joining Kathy are garden designers Chris Beardshaw and Matthew Wilson, and house plants expert Anne Swithinbank.Later in the programme, if you're unsure of what do with your garden during the winter months, Matthew Pottage has an extensive list of jobs and tasks to help you get ahead in the new year.Producer: Daniel Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Peter Gibbs digs, rakes and mulches through the GQT archive to uncover some much needed gardening advice, providing you with knowledge to aid you in the new year.It’s the most wonderful time of the year and the perfect period to get ahead with maintaining you garden during the harsh winter months to come.GQT’s various horticultural experts from over the years share their tips and knowledge on what to do with wonky veg, what to do with an Amaryllis bulb after it’s finished flowering, and which plants are deer proof.Later, we listen back to when Chris Beardshaw visited Tenby Wells to learn all about mistletoe, its origins and the significance it has on the festive period.Producer: Dom Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Where have all the worms gone in my garden? How do I use a glasshouse? Can plants survive without being watered for a month?Kathy Clugston and a team of gardening experts explore the 70 acres of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, all while digging the GQT postbag to answer your gardening grievances.Joining Kathy on this extensive tour are ethnobotanist James Wong, garden designer Neil Porteous, and Head of Gardens at Balmoral Kirsty Wilson. They're led around the garden by Head of Collections, David Knott.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Lawns - to mow or not to mow? What could I use to make my pond visually pleasing and wildlife friendly? Will my two year-old fig tree produce more fruits if I feed it? Kathy Clugston and a team of experts board Brunel's SS Great Britain in Bristol to answer gardening questions from an audience of novice gardeners. Joining Kathy are garden designers Chris Beardshaw, Matthew Wilson and house plants expert Anne Swithinbank.Later in the programme, Matthew Wilson meets with head of research James Boyd, and head of interpretation and programming Iona Keen, to learn about the importance of Wardian cases to the horticultural industry.Producer: Daniel Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What would the panel plant in a garden for reflection? Are there any alternatives to perlite and vermiculite? Is the weather to blame for my shamefully small brassicas and tiny potatoes? Kathy Clugston and a team of experts are in Rosewell, Midlothian, to solve the gardening questions of the audience. Joining Kathy are ethnobotanist James Wong, garden designer Neil Porteous and Head of Gardens at Balmoral Kirsty Wilson.Later in the programme, James Wong meets researchers Dr Hannah Atkins and Sadie Barber to discuss the extensive process of naming plants. Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How can I stop my dog from digging holes in my garden? What conditions do walnut trees grow best in? If you could lose one pest from your garden, what would it be? Peter Gibbs and a team of experts are in Staffordshire, to solve the gardening conundrums of the audience. Returning to the National Memorial Arboretum with Peter are grow-your-own legend Bob Flowerdew, pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood and garden designer Bunny Guinness.Later in the programme, is your garden on an gradient? Garden designer Matthew Wilson provides tricks and tips on the best way to effectively garden on an incline.Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
When should we prune roses? What plants grow well in rubble and grass? What's infecting my Prunus avium?Peter Gibbs and a team of horticultural experts are led on a guided tour of Regent's Park in London, while dipping into the GQT postbag to answer your gardening conundrums.Leading the tour is head gardener and fellow GQT panellist Matthew Pottage, who's also joined by pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood and head gardener Ashley Edwards. Later in the programme, head gardeners Anna Rafal and Anne Tuomisto offer advice on pruning roses and designing a Mediterranean garden, as well as winter tidying with hibernating animals in mind.Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Do plants have feelings? When should I plant green manure? Why do leaves drop more in autumn than any other time of the year?Kathy Clugston and a team of gardening experts visit Birmingham Botanical Gardens to solve the gardening issues of the audience. On the panel this week are ethnobotanist James Wong, proud plantsman Matthew Biggs and garden designer Juliet Sargeant.Later, James Wong and Birmingham Botanical Gardens' Senior Nursery Horticulturist Bethan Collerton discuss some useful tips and tricks on how to protect your tender or less hardy plants during the winter months. Senior Producer: Daniel Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Do the panel have any idea of who or what has stolen our apples? When is the best time to plant my Prunus Incisa? How do I successfully grow fennel?Peter Gibbs and his team of gardening experts visit The National Memorial Arboretum, to solve the gardening queries of the audience. On the panel this week are grow-your-own legend Bob Flowerdew, pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood and garden designer Bunny Guinness.Later in the programme, Bunny discusses planting for remembrance with the National Memorial Arboretum's head of estates Andy Ansell, as they explore 150 acres of reflective spaces.Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What plant have you killed the most? How do I encourage my pineapple lily to flower? What plant would you take with you to your island paradise?Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural champions are in Hillingdon, to solve the gardening grievances of the audience. On the panel this week are proud plantsman Matthew Biggs, house plants expert Anne Swithinbank, and ethnobotanist James Wong.Later in the programme, Dr Chris Thorogood is on hand to sew the seeds of knowledge as he educates us on all things seedlings, tackling topics such as what they are, how they grow and how to encourage them to grow healthily.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Assistant Producer: Daniel Pearce Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What plants would you recommend to entertain five to six year-olds? How do I successfully grow Japanese banana plants? Are rose fertilisers and tomato fertilisers the same thing? Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural champions visit Birmingham Botanical Gardens to solve the gardening gripes of the audience. On the panel this week are proud plantsman Matthew Biggs, ethnobotanist James Wong and garden designer Juliet Sargeant.Later, Matt Biggs educates us on the life and legacy of renowned plant collector Ernest Wilson whose expeditions across Asia led to the introduction of over 2,000 plant species. Senior Producer: Daniel Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do I stop badgers from eating my tulips? Any tips on changing a ripped pond liner? How do I effectively take cuttings from a plant? Kathy Clugston and her panel of horticultural heroes take a wander around Mires Beck Nursery in Hull, while dipping into the GQT postbag to answer your gardening grievances.Joining forces with Kathy are head gardener Matthew Pottage, garden designer Bunny Guinness and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones. The panellists are joined by various workers and volunteers from the nursery who share own tips and tricks on gardening challenges, such as planting trees from seed and planting native varieties.Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileClick here for the Plant List: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0023yg4A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
When is a seed ready to harvest? Which evergreen shrubs could I plant on the coast? Why are my greenhouse grapes going mouldy? Kathy Clugston and her panel of horticultural experts are answering questions from an audience of keen gardeners in Kingston upon Hull. Joining Kathy to plant some useful seeds of advice are proud gardener Matthew Biggs, garden designer Bunny Guinness and head gardener Matthew Pottage. They discuss the best time to use soil improver, how to see a eucalyptus tree through winter and their most creative ideas for attracting punters to open gardens. Later in the programme, Matt Biggs pays a visit to Stratford Fire Station to hear how they’ve transformed and rejuvenated their garden space.A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What do you do with lily stems once the flowers have fallen off? Any tips on growing chanterelle mushrooms? When's the best time to prune fig trees in the northeast? Peter Gibbs and his panel of horticultural experts take a visit to Henry Moore's Studio and Gardens, while dipping into the GQT postbag to answer your gardening conundrums. Joining forces with Peter are proud gardeners Matthew Biggs and Christine Walkden, and garden designer Bunny Guinness. The panellists are escorted around the seventy acres of outdoor studio space by Sebastiano Barassi, head of the Henry Moore Collections and Programme.Later in the programme, the panel discusses foreign seeds and the potential issues that planting them would have on our environment. Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Any tips on setting up and maintaining a floating garden that produces tasty produce? Do the panel suffer from garden envy? How do I get rid of the mealybug infesting my cacti? Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural champions are in Uxbridge, to solve the gardening grievances of the audience. On the panel this week are house plants expert Anne Swithinbank, proud plantsman Matthew Biggs, and ethnobotanist James Wong.Later, Matthew Biggs re-visits Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, where he meets Ginny Abu Bakr and Billy Styles to discuss how they’ve introduced gardening to patients receiving chemotherapy. Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Any tips on how to keep a Venus fly trap alive? How do I successfully grow a cucumber? What unusual fruit or vegetable do the panel think is underrated? Kathy Clugston and a panel of horticultural experts are in the hot seat, as they answer the gardening queries from an audience in Hull. On the panel are head gardener Matthew Pottage, garden designer Bunny Guinness and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones.Later, Hull-born panellist Matthew Pottage meets with Cllr Henry from Hull City Council, to learn more about their ‘Right to Grow’ initiative which allows people to grow on public land for the first time.Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston digs through the Gardeners' Question Time archive to root out some information on Soil, Compost, Mulch and more.Our various GQT panellists over the last 77 years have been no stranger to soil and compost related questions, from queries on how to create a workable soil in the garden to questions on the difference between compost and soil conditioner. For the first autumnal archive programme of 2024 we’ve raked through the extensive GQT archive and pulled out some of the best advice on these topics. We also hear from garden designer and lecturer Humaira Ikram, who explains the importance of understanding the PH level of your soil.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin’ Else production for BBC Radio 4
How can I control alexander plants? How can I encourage my gage trees to flower? What tips do the panellists have for increasing biodiversity?Kathy Clugston and her team of green-fingered experts are by the Suffolk Coast to share their advice with an audience of garden enthusiasts.On the panel are head gardeners Ashley Edwards and Matthew Pottage, and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood.Meanwhile, Matthew Pottage explores the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney. He dons his hard hat to get up close with a particularly dangerous local pine and admires the wollemi pine, a living fossil thought to be extinct for two million years until a small population was discovered in the Blue Mountains of Australia in 1994.Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Senior Producer: Dominic Tyerman Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What can I use to stop mites from destroying my nine foot Schefflera? Why haven't we seen many bees this year? How do I remove fungus growing on my hawthorn tree?Peter Gibbs and his team of gardening gurus travel to Blenheim Palace in Woodstock for a postbag edition of GQT.While Head Gardener Andy Mills leads Peter and the panel around the historic grounds, they also rake through the GQT inbox to answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are garden designer Chris Beardshaw, house plants expert Anne Swithinbank and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood.Later in the programme, the panellists receive a surprise question from English fashion and textile designer Dame Zandra Rhodes, who asks what she should do about her dying hydrangeas. Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Do grass snakes have any benefit to my garden? How do I stop my autumn raspberries from getting maggots? What I can plant between now and next June that will flower in time for my daughter’s wedding? Kathy Clugston and a panel of experts are in the hot seat as they answer the gardening queries from an audience in Southwold. On the panel are head gardeners Ashley Edwards and Matthew Pottage, and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood.Later, Matthew Pottage sneaks away to Wootens of Wenhaston Plantsman Nursery in Darsham, where he meets co-owner Jill Stafford to discuss Pelargoniums and how there's a variety for everyone.Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do I get red cedar root balls to spread? What gardening task do the panel find daunting? What are the panel’s thoughts about composting organic materials?Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural experts travel to the University of Exeter for a postbag edition of GQT. While Curator of Horticulture Anthony Cockell leads Kathy and the panel around the grounds, they also dig through the GQT inbox to answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are garden designer Chris Beardshaw, grow your own guru Bob Flowerdew, and proud plantswoman Christine Walkden.Later in the programme, the panellists discuss the University of Exeter's national collection of Azaras, share tips on how they can add structure to the garden and provide a sensory experience.Senior Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston presents another special potting shed edition of the programme, with GQT's panel of experts taking questions from visitors at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.The panel answer questions ranging from how to get rid of woolly aphids and how to get rid of bamboo, to what's the best way to unclog a pond. Later in the programme, Dulcie Whadcock speaks to Jodie Bryan from Cayley Brothers to discuss how their campaign 'project mushroom' aims to ease anxiety around growing mushrooms at home.Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
When does manure become well rotted? Where should I start when designing a flowerbed in my garden? What can I do to encourage my dahlias to sprout flowers? Kathy Clugston and the GQT team of horticultural heroes are on hand to tackle the gardening queries of an audience in Exeter City. Kathy is joined by garden designer Chris Beardshaw, grow your own guru Bob Flowerdew and proud plantswoman Christine Walkden.Later in the programme, Assistant Producer Rahnee Prescod meets with community projects manager of YMCA Exeter Sam Thomas, to discuss how gardening therapy provides an escape for young adults experiencing homelessness. Producer: Bethany HockenAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How wide should a garden path be? How do I get rid of bindweed? Should I be concerned by my garden soil's high lead content? Peter Gibbs and his team of horticultural heroes are on hand to tackle the gardening queries of a hopeful audience in Hexham. The panellists are garden designers Matthew Wilson and Bunny Guinness, and house plants expert Anne Swithinbank. Later in the programme, Matthew Wilson shares some of his garden designing expertise by providing a plant structuring masterclass to aid your next garden design project.Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston sows the seeds of knowledge on the topics of lawn care and grasses, with help from the extensive GQT Archive.Now that we’re well into the summer season, grass maintenance and lawn care have become top priority for most gardeners.GQT’s various horticultural experts from over the years share their tips and knowledge on how to restore patchy lawns, what variety of bamboo would thrive in small gardens, and how to get rid of moss without damaging the healthy plants around it.Later, we listen back to when Anne Swithinbank met with ornamental grass guru Neil Lucas, to discuss if there’s truly a variety for everyone. Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Is it worth using arborist mulch in the garden? Please could you advise on how to maintain large camellias? My wisteria has barely flowered this year, what’s gone wrong?Peter Gibbs and his team of horticultural experts have packed up their windbreakers and travelled to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens in County Durham for a postbag edition of GQT. While head gardener Tim Marshall leads Peter and the panel around the gardens, they also dig through the GQT inbox to answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are passionate garden designers Matthew Wilson and Bunny Guinness, and house plant expert Anne Swithinbank.Later in the programme, the panellists discuss the benefits of encouraging birds into the garden to tackle box blight and other garden pests. They also share useful tips on how to prevent box tree caterpillars from spreading.Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What’s causing the leaves of my Fatsia Japonica to turn yellow and die? How can I make my five year old goji berry shrub look pretty? How do I encourage my fig tree to grow sweet tasting and nice sized figs?Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural heroes are in Exeter for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining her to prune the audience's horticultural dilemmas are passionate plantswoman Christine Walkden, garden designer Chris Beardshaw, and "grow your own" guru Bob Flowerdew.Later in the programme, we go back to basics with Dr Chris Thorogood as he educates us on plant roots and how we can best protect them.Producer: Bethany HockenAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston presents a special potting shed edition of the programme, with GQT's panel of experts taking questions from visitors at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.The panel answer questions on everything from how to maintain a bonsai tree to the best way to encourage a tomato plant to flower.Later in the programme James Wong re-visits The Glasshouse Project’s show garden where he speaks to commercial director Katie Whittingham and volunteer Reba about using horticultural therapy to help rehabilitate former prisoners.Producer: Dominic TyermanAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Can you suggest some plants that could withstand being in strong winds? What can I do to encourage more wildlife into my garden without it looking too wild? What gardening activity would you like to do on your 100th birthday? Peter Gibbs and his team of gardening experts answer the questions from the audience in Hexham Abbey.Joining Peter to unearth the horticultural dilemmas are passionate garden designers Matthew Wilson and Bunny Guinness, and house plant expert Anne Swithinbank.Later in the programme, Matthew Wilson is joined by local horticulturists Rachel Ryver and Kay Owen as they visit what remains of the Sycamore Gap and discuss what's being done to regrow the iconic tree.Senior Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Any top tips on growing good sized brassicas? Can I have some recommendations for a good compost mix for pots, which will sustain them all summer? What plants would you suggest I grow to encourage my two children to get stuck into gardening? Peter Gibbs and his team of gardening experts are in Central Oxford for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining Peter to resolve the audience's horticultural conundrums are passionate plantswoman Christine Walkden, garden designer Chris Beardshaw, and Head of Oxford Botanical Gardens Dr Chris Thorogood.Later in the programme, Dr Chris Thorogood clears up some of the common misconceptions we have about ants, and provides some insight on how beneficial they are to protecting the plants in our garden.Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston lifts the lid on the GQT archive, in search for some advice on gardening in containers, pots and hanging baskets.Gardening in pots and containers has become more of a hot topic in recent years and the GQT panellists have dished out their fair share of advice on it.The programme's horticultural experts share their knowledge on the potted plants that can be grown on the roof of a narrow boat, the type of pot that can prevent frost damage to a plant, and whether liquid sheep manure is a sufficient feed for tomatoes and pot plants?Later we hear a fiery debate between Bill Sowerbutts and Dr Tom Rochford on the differences between houseplants and potted plants.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
My Fatsia plants had their stems nibbled by deer – will they recover, or should I buy new ones? Any tips on how I can get my eucalyptus plants to produce juvenile flowers? If you were building a scarecrow in your garden, what would you suggest dressing it in? Kathy Clugston and a panel of experts are in Cheshire West to answer queries from an audience of keen gardeners. On the panel are garden designer Bunny Guinness, houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank, and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones.Later, James Wong and head gardener of the Castlefield Viaduct Nancy Scheerhout discuss how the 'garden in the sky' was created, as well as how it's maintained.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Do I need to worry that I don't have slugs in the garden? How do I stop my buddleia from growing out of control? Is there a ground cover that can prevent weeds from growing in my yard?Kathy Clugston is joined by experts Matthew Wilson, Anne Swithinbank and Pippa Greenwood as they navigate this year's Chelsea Flower Show. While enjoying the various exhibitions through out the Chelsea grounds, the panel also dip into the GQT inbox to answer some of your horticultural queries. Throughout the programme we hear from roving reporter Peter Gibbs, as he speaks with the founders of She Grows Veg, Lucy Hutchings and Kate Cotterill, about the rise in popularity of heirloom vegetables. And later he gets tips on how to create a child-friendly garden by speaking to garden designer Harry Holding. Producer: Dom Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Any tips on how I can successfully grow heavy potatoes in a bucket? Is there any way to get rid of slugs without killing them? Do you recommend the use of Coir in compost and how would you use it? Peter Gibbs and his team of horticultural experts are at Trinity College in Oxford for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining Peter to resolve the audience's horticultural dilemmas are passionate plantswoman Christine Walkden, garden designer Chris Beardshaw, and Head of Oxford Botanical Gardens Dr Chris Thorogood. Later in the programme, Chris Beardshaw speaks with head gardener of Trinity College Kate Burtonwood to discuss the potential trials and errors of redesigning their north lawn border. Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What suggestions do the panel have to attract new gardeners to our community allotment? Should I replace my drought damaged slow growing conifers? What evergreen hardy plants for some winter interest can I have in my tropical themed garden? Peter Gibbs and his team of scholastic horticultural experts are at the University of Reading for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining Peter answer the audience's gardening conundrums are passionate plantsman Matthew Biggs, garden designer Juliet Sargeant, and self proclaimed botany geek James Wong.Peter Gibbs speaks with Professor Sarah Dance about Reading University’s study into meteorology and their on-going research into predicting weather forecasts weeks in advance. Producer: Dominic TyermanAssistant Producer: Dulcie WhadcockExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What's the difference between anvil secateurs and bypass secateurs? What should I do with well-used compost? If you could design a gardening utopia, what would you include? Peter Gibbs and his team of horticultural experts have packed up the wellies and travelled to Manchester for the RHS Urban Gardening Show. While exploring the exhibitions, they dig through the GQT inbox to answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are self-proclaimed botanical geek James Wong, house plants expert Anne Swithinbank, and Curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton Jones.The GQT team are also joined by 'unusual houseplant' specialist Jacob James, 'Cloud Gardener' Jason Williams and landscape designer Conal McGuire, who provide some insightful knowledge on how we can create greener and more eco-friendly spaces in urban environments.Senior Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do I get rid of Honey Fungus? If you were sent to a desert island, what plant would you take and why? What “idiot proof” fruit could anyone grow on their allotment? Kathy Clugston and her premier league panel of gardening experts are back in Fulham, West London to prune the answers to the audience's gardening conundrums. On the panel are organic gardener Bob Flowerdew, pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood, and curator of RHS Wisley Matthew Pottage.Later, Fulham resident Matthew Pottage explores the grand gardens of Fulham Palace - where head gardener Lucy Hart shares some insight on the rich history of the grounds. Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What are the pros and cons of using ramial wood chips in my soil? What Moroccan style shrubs could I grow that would survive the British weather? How do I prune my blueberry bushes so they can bear more fruit? Kathy Clugston and a panel of experts are in Upton-By-Chester to answer queries from an audience of keen gardeners. On the panel this week are garden designer Bunny Guinness, houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank, and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones.Later, James Wong speaks to 'The Cloud Gardener' Jason Williams about ginnel gardening and how you can get creative with limited amount of space.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What type of plants could I grow to use as flavouring in my gin? What's eaten the heads of my daffodils? What hardy exotic plants could I grow in my garden? Peter Gibbs and his league of horticultural experts are in Reading for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining Peter to unearth answers to the audience's gardening conundrums are passionate plantsman Matthew Biggs, garden designer Juliet Sargeant and self proclaimed botany geek James Wong.Later in the show, we hear from Chris Beardshaw who shares advice on the best type of pots to put your plants in during the spring.Producer: Dominic TyermanAssistant Producer: Dulcie Whadcock Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Is it possible to grow edible watermelons in the UK? How do revive my red Duke of York potatoes after over-chitting them? How can I continue growing leeks while protecting them from leaf miners? Kathy Clugston and a panel of keen gardening experts are in Fulham, West London to unearth the answers to the audience's gardening conundrums. On the panel this week are organic gardener Bob Flowerdew, pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood, and curator of RHS Wisley Matthew Pottage.Later, we immerse ourselves in the Sound of Blossom festival at Kew Gardens, where head kitchen gardener Helena Dove educates us on the life cycle of blossoms, and the benefits it has for insects and wildlife.Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
My cherry tree blossoms in January. Is it confused? Should I lift my tulip bulbs? When is the best time to mulch?Peter Gibbs presents an archive show featuring the best snippets of springtime gardening advice from Gardeners’ Question Time in years gone by. While the panel discuss their top tips for planting house plants and the best way to spruce up a hanging basket in spring, Matt Biggs talks us through the history and popularity of daffodils. Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Will my blind daffodils ever flower again, or should I just discard them? Can I use old yule logs to line my plant beds or will the harvested fruit and veg become poisonous? How can I repel spiders from my garden without using chemicals? Peter Gibbs is joined by his enthusiastic team of horticultural experts as they dig through the GQT inbox and answer your gardening conundrums. On the panel this week are landscape architect Bunny Guinness, self proclaimed botanical geek James Wong and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood. They visit the Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill, where head of horticulture Errol Reuben Fernandes gives the team a tour of their historical and extensive gardens.Later, Peter and the panel discuss whether there are house plants that can produce enough oxygen to purify air or if this is just a myth.Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Is ivy poisonous to most type of trees? Does the strain of F1 hybrid seeds deteriorate over time? What plants could I grow on my allotment that are low maintenance? Kathy Clugston and a panel of gardening experts are in Solihull to answer gardening queries from an audience of keen gardeners. On the panel this week are garden designer Bunny Guinness, self proclaimed botanical geek James Wong, and plantswoman Christine Walkden.Also, Matthew Wilson delivers a step by step guide on how to maintain a greenhouse during the spring.Senior Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Can a mixture of coca-cola and milk help revive a neglected plant? When should I start feeding my germinated seedling compost? How do you protect salvias during the winter?Peter Gibbs and a panel of horticultural experts provide some much-needed advice to an audience in the Vale of Pewsey. On the panel are pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood, house plant specialist Anne Swithinbank, and award-winning garden designer Chris Beardshaw.Later in the programme, regular panellist Dr Chis Thorogood takes us on an adventure deep into the jungle searching for a wild jade plant.Producer: Dominic TyermanAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do I safely dispose of bamboo leaves? How can I stop the roots of my mulberry tree from invading my vegetable patch? If the panel were gifted a £50 garden centre voucher, what would they buy and why? Kathy Clugston and her arsenal of horticultural experts dig through the GQT inbox to answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are garden designer Matthew Wilson and houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank.They visit Harlow Carr in Harrogate where head gardener Paul Cook gives a tour of their tranquil treasure trove and offers his own gardening tips and tricks. Woodlice - friends or foe? Kathy and panel set the record straight and debunk common misconceptions around these misunderstood animals.Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
When should I split and sew my snowdrops? What are the benefits of leaving loose leaves on our borders? What tips could the panel suggest for growing a giant award winning pumpkin? Kathy Clugston and a panel of keen gardening experts are in Balsall, West Midlands to investigate the audience's gardening conundrums. On the panel this week are garden designer Bunny Guinness, self proclaimed botanical geek James Wong, and plantswoman Christine Walkden.Later, James Wong takes a trip to Manchester's Chinatown to explore the wide variety of plants and shurbs they have on display, as well as the cultural significance of a Salix discolor in Chinese New celebrations.Senior Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do you grow celeriac? Is white vinegar and water good for cleaning greenhouses? How hardy is my Edgeworthia chrysantha 'Grandiflora' and where’s the best place to plant it? Kathy Clugston and an eager panel of gardening experts are in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire to put an end to the audience's gardening grievances. On the panel this week are garden designer Matthew Wilson, houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank, and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones.Later, Matt Biggs travels to Dungeness to meet with head gardener Johnny Bruce, who gives him a tour of late director Derek Jarmon's magnificent garden. Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Which plants should I avoid that are prone to spreading across chalky grassland? Any tips on growing tropical canna plants in the warmest corner of my garden? What’s the panel’s oldest and favourite gardening garment?Peter Gibbs and a panel of horticultural experts provide some much needed advice to an audience in Pewsey. On the panel this week are pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood, house plant specialist Anne Swithinbank and award winning garden designer Chris Beardshaw. Later in the programme, regular panellist Kirsty Wilson explores the history of the thistle plant as well as its significance to Scotland's national rugby union team, as this year's Six Nations Championship continues. Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston navigates the murky waters of the GQT archives in search of some Pond and Bog related advice throughout the years.Water is the giver of plant life and nourisher of wildlife, but how do we ensure that we’re using it correctly? The GQT team have sorted through the archives in search for some questions and answers from the past.The programme's horticultural experts share their knowledge on what to do if your pond liner breaks, how to remove bird poo from the surface of your pond, and what sort of plants you could plant in bogs and ponds to increase biodiversity? We also listen back to when pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood visited the Exbury Gardens dragonfly pond to learn more about these little creatures. Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Is it possible to use too much manure? What can I do to protect my larger plants from being damaged by builders? What’s the panel’s favourite plant with a rude name?Kathy Clugston is in Masham, North Yorkshire for this week's programme along with a panel of horticultural experts, including garden designer Matthew Wilson, houseplant expert Anne Swithinbank, and curator of RHS Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones.Later, Matthew Wilson pays a visit to Rudding Park's kitchen garden where he speaks to kitchen gardener Emma Pew and head chef Callum Bowmer about what benefits of growing fresh produce directly on the hotel grounds has on their guests and visitors. Senior Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Could the panel share some gardening tips for wheelchair users? How do I start growing mulukhiyah in my garden? Which hedges could I grow that are resistant to ermine moths and offer privacy? Peter Gibbs is joined by his eager team of horticultural experts as they dig through the GQT inbox and answer your gardening queries. On the panel this week are landscape architect Bunny Guinness, head gardener of Horatio’s Garden Ashley Edwards and curator of RHS Wisley Matthew Pottage. This week they visit Ham House and Garden in Richmond where head gardener John Myers gives them a tour of their unique horticultural treasure trove. Later, Peter and the panel discuss the fundamentals of a kitchen garden and give tips on non-typical fruit and vegetables you could grow in your garden.Senior Producer: Dominic Tyerman Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Carly MaileA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Is it better to propagate house plants in water or straight into soil? Is crop rotation necessary? What could I grow under my row of standard Bay Trees? Kathy Clugston is in Chess Valley, Hertfordshire for this week's programme, along with her panel of horticultural experts = proud plantsman Matt Biggs, grow your own guru Bob Flowerdew, and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood.Later, Juliet Sargeant transports us all the way to Zanzibar, East Africa, as she gives us a masterclass on the wide variety of spices the island has to offer and how you could potentially grow them in your own garden.Senior Producer: Dan CockerAssistant Producer: Dulcie WhadcockExecutive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do you propagate and grow Bog Myrtle? What South African or exotic plants could we grow in our garden? What can I plant in the windiest part of my garden that can survive harsh conditions?Peter Gibbs and his team of gardening experts start the new year by exploring the serene and charming Sheffield Botanical Gardens, answering your horticultural queries from the GQT inbox. Peter’s joined by garden designer Juliet Sargeant, botanical expert James Wong and Curator of RHS Garden Bridgewater Marcus Chilton-Jones. Leading Peter and the panel around the gardens is Programme Manager Ian Turner. Producer: Bethany HockenAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
When should I prune raspberry canes? How do I prep the lawn for winter?Why have my leeks turned pink inside?Kathy Clugston and her panel of gardening experts are in Sarratt, Hertfordshire for this week’s episode. Joining Kathy on the panel are plantsman Matt Biggs, grow your own guru Bob Flowerdew, and pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood. And GQT regular Anne Swithinbank chats to Charles Dowding to find out his best tips and tricks for composting.Assistant Producer: Dulcie Whadcock Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Executive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Kathy Clugston is visited by the ghosts of GQT Christmases Past, Present and Future for an archive edition of the show. The panellists of past and present, share their knowledge on how to encourage the growth of moss in our gardens and answer gardening conundrums for the likes of Mary Berry and Anita Anand, who ask about indestructible plants that can survive harsh treatment and how you can maintain poinsettias during the festive period.And later, we hear from three of GQT's wise men - James Wong, Marcus Chilton-Jones and Peter Gibbs - who'll be hoping to inspire you with the jobs they'll be getting on with this Christmas. Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
How do you successfully prolong the life of an orchid? What can I do to keep my indoor tropical plants in good condition during the winter? What plant do you consider to be overlooked and underrated?Peter Gibbs is in Wildmoor Heath, Berkshire for this week's programme, with his panel of horticultural experts including garden designer Matthew Wilson, proud plantswoman Christine Walkden, and passionate plantsman Matthew Biggs.Fitting with the recent cold weather, James Wong is joined by Head of Arboretum and Temperate Collections Tony Hall and Arboretum Supervisor Rebecca Lane, as they give him a tour of Kew Gardens' brand new Winter GardensProducer: Bethany HockenAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Could you suggest some bat friendly plants that will keep them happy? Is it too late to re-pot my five-year-old daffodils? How can I improve the quality of my clay soil and what can I grow on it?Peter Gibbs and his team of horticultural experts are in the market town of Wokingham for this week's episode of Gardeners' Question Time.Joining Peter to dig into the audience's queries are garden designer Matthew Wilson, proud plantswoman Christine Walkden and passionate plantsman Matthew Biggs. Later in the show, Kirsty Wilson gets into the community spirit as she visits Greyfriars Biophilic Garden in Glasgow for a quick tour of their 56 show-stopping plots. Producer: Bethany HockenAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
I’m having no luck growing chillies from seed. What am I doing wrong? Which plants would the panel recommend to bring fragrance and colour? Which way should a fig tree face to produce the most fruit?Ready to answer all these questions and more, Kathy Clugston and her team of experts have been invited to the House of Lords for this week’s programme. Joining Kathy to offer their best horticultural tips and tricks are Head of Oxford Botanical Gardens Dr Chris Thorogood, garden designer Matthew Wilson, and plantswoman Christine Walkden. Among the questions, Kathy chats to Baroness Fookes about the importance of gardening today. Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Senior Producer: Dan Cocker Executive Producer: Hannah Newton A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What’s the best way to protect my terracotta plant pots from frost? What should I do if I spot an Asian hornet in my garden? What tall plants can I grow that are resistant to snails?Kathy Clugston and her team of horticultural experts visit the peaceful, Mottistone Gardens on the Isle of Wight for a postbag edition of the programme, where they answering your questions from the inbox.Kathy's joined by organic gardener Bob Flowerdew, pest and disease expert Pippa Greenwood, and curator of RHS Wisley Matthew Pottage. And taking our panel on a tour around the magical gardens while offering his own advice is Senior Gardener, Ed Hinch.Producer: Dom TyermanAssistant Producer: Rahnee PrescodExecutive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What’s the best way to grow swedes? Why doesn’t my hydrangea come to flower? Are artificial plants acceptable or downright outrageous?This week, the GQT panellists are in Earlsdon to answer these questions and more in front of a live audience. Ready to share their insightful advice on all your plant predicaments are plant pathologist Pippa Greenwood, grow-your-own guru Bob Flowerdew, and conversant horticulturist Anne Swithinbank.Alongside the questions, regular panellist Matthew Wilson visits GQT Producer, Dan Cocker to dig up all there is to know about weeds.A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
What should I plant on the roof of my houseboat? Should I grow lilies in containers or flowerbeds? What is the worst gardening idea you’ve ever had?The GQT panellists are back in North Shropshire to answer these questions and more in front of a live audience. Ready to share their insightful advice on all your plant predicaments are landscape architect Bunny Guinness, horticulturist Christine Walkden, and garden designer Matthew Wilson.Alongside the questions, GQT Assistant Producer Rahnee Prescod chats to London Terrariums founder Emma Sibley about the history and creation of these pocket-sized jar-dens.Producer: Bethany Hocken Assistant Producer: Rahnee Prescod Executive Producer: Hannah NewtonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Peter Gibbs takes a look through the GQT archives for top tips on sustainable gardening.Over the years the GQT panellists have shared plenty of knowledge on how to be a green gardener. They look at everything from how to make your driveway more environmentally friendly, to efficiently collecting rainwater at home.We also hear Hafsah Haferji's "how-to" on companion planting, and head back to RHS Wisley with Matthew Pottage and Environmental Researcher Tijana Blanusa to learn how trees help us with carbon capture.Producer - Hannah Newton Assistant Producer - Bethany HockenA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
Peter Gibbs and the team are at Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex. Juliet Sargeant, Matt Biggs and Matthew Pottage are this weeks' panellists, ready to answer your gardening questions.Led by Herstmonceux's head gardener Guy Lucas, the team explores the castle grounds and learns about the sustainable gardening practices adopted in recent years.The panellists also tackle questions from listeners, including suggestions for what to plant around a thatched cottage, and when to prune plants that are still in flower in the winter.Producer - Jemima Rathbone Assistant Producer - Aniya DasA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4