Share

The Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast
157 - Boosting Biodiversity & Brilliant Broccoli
•
In celebration of Organic September, this episode dives into how even the smallest garden can become a biodiversity haven. Alice Whitehead from Garden Organic shares simple, beautiful ways to support wildlife—from window boxes and balcony habitats to mini ponds and edible flowers. Then, Rob Smith returns with a broccoli bonanza—reviewing everything from sprouting and stem broccoli to brand-new varieties like Tyrian F1 and the super-nutritious Ben A40 F1. Whether you're working with a windowsill or a full veg patch, this episode is packed with ideas to grow greener and tastier!
More episodes
View all episodes

162 - December's Must-Do Garden Tasks
23:40|In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we roll up our sleeves and dive into essential December gardening jobs to keep your veg patch productive and protected through the colder months. From harvesting frost-sweetened parsnips and leeks to building simple DIY mini tunnels and tackling sneaky winter aphids, we’ve got your garden covered—literally. Ben Vanheems shares timely tips on composting, netting, pruning, and prepping your greenhouse for spring. Plus, Dr. Anton Rosenfeld from Garden Organic offers expert advice on how to grow organic veg all year round and avoid the dreaded "hungry gap." Whether you're sowing microgreens on your windowsill or dreaming of giant onions, this episode will help you make the most of the winter season.
161 - The Power of Compost & Homegrown Pantry Staples
23:24|In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we dive deep into the rich, fertile world of compost with no-dig gardening expert Charles Dowding. Discover why compost is the cornerstone of a productive vegetable plot, the different types available, and how to avoid common pitfalls when buying or making your own.Plus, gardening guru Rob Smith shares his top tips for growing and preserving store cupboard staples—beans, seeds, nuts, and more—that will keep your pantry stocked through the winter months. From drying amaranth to harvesting homegrown Sichuan pepper, it's time to make your garden work all year round.Whether you're starting new beds or planning a winter larder, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you grow more, dig less, and eat better.
160 - November Know-How: Garlic, Greenhouses & Garden Gold
20:29|It’s time to dig into the essential jobs for November! In this episode, we explore how to prepare your plot for winter and beyond. Learn how to sow broad beans, harvest and store root veg, protect delicate crops, and make your own gardener’s gold with leaf mold. We also take a deep dive into garlic—planting tips, overwintering advice, and the best varieties for UK growers. Whether you’re composting, mulching, or bubble-wrapping your greenhouse, this episode is packed with practical tips to keep your kitchen garden thriving through the colder months.
159 - Homegrown Halloween
30:34|In this seasonal celebration of all things autumnal, we embark on a creative journey through a DIY Halloween. From vibrant glass gem corn to giant pumpkins and sustainable decorations. Then, Danielle Hayes explores the inspiring New World Food Garden at RHS Wisley, where edible diversity, no-dig principles, and community collaboration redefine what it means to grow globally and sustainably. Finally, we share our practical tips for protecting your soil over winter using green manures, mulch, and even... weeds?Whether you're carving pumpkins or planning next year's crops, this episode is packed with earthy advice and autumn inspiration.
158 - Autumn Abundance: Sowing, Storing & the Kale Comeback
34:10|As golden leaves fall and the October sun dances between crisp mornings and balmy afternoons, Stephanie Hafferty shares her seasonal wisdom on making the most of autumn in the kitchen garden. In this packed episode, you'll learn what to sow now for winter and spring harvests, from garlic and broad beans to sweet carrots and microgreens. Discover clever ways to store your seasonal gluts, how to extend your growing season with DIY cloches, and why intercropping is a game-changer—even in the smallest spaces. Plus, Rob Smith dives deep into the fascinating history of kale, sharing expert growing tips and some exciting new varieties to try. Whether you’re planning, planting, or preserving, this episode is your October grow-along guide.
156 - September in the Kitchen Garden: Pears, Preserves & Peak Harvest
32:40|September is a month of abundance and transition in the kitchen garden, and in this episode, we’re embracing it all. Stephanie Hafferty walks us through essential tasks for the month — from composting and sowing to harvesting and preserving a bounty of crops. Fruit expert David Patch joins us to share his top pear varieties for home growers, including the storied history of the classic 'Conference' and the stunning 'Durondeau.' Plus, Martin Fish takes us on a delightful visit to a historic walled garden in Lincolnshire, home to a 156-year-old grapevine and centuries of gardening tradition. Whether you're bottling chutneys or planning your overwintering crops, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration for the changing season.
155 - Grow Your Own Snacks
23:59|In this deliciously practical episode, Rob Smith dives into the world of homegrown snacking—from crunchy celery and colorful French beans to creamy pea dips and vibrant kohlrabi. Discover how to grow tasty, nutritious party bites even in the smallest of spaces. Then, Benedict Vanheems returns with essential advice for helping your plants thrive through scorching summer heat. Learn top watering strategies, mulching methods, and clever cooling tricks to beat the burn. Whether you’re prepping a garden platter or protecting your patch, this episode has your back. 🌱☀️
154 - Harvesting, Sowing & Beating the Heat in August
17:58|In this bumper August episode, the Kitchen Garden team digs into all the key jobs for the month—whether you're lifting onions, sowing winter salads, or managing a greenhouse in a heatwave. Learn how to check sweetcorn for ripeness, deter pests like vine weevils and spider mites, and keep your tomatoes and peppers thriving. Rob Smith also shares his expert advice on watering strategies, fruit tree care, and preparing for Christmas potatoes. From green manures to homemade saffron from calendula petals, there's something for every gardener in this season of plenty. Tune in and grow on!