Send us a text

In this episode, Andy and Kate chat with Becky Searle @sow_much_more about the importance of soil health and the role that it plays in boosting productivity.  Join us for a journey into soil health, no-dig gardening and the joy of rescue tortoises. 

Hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it.  Leave us a review if you get chance, it would mean a lot to us.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode Andy and Kate deep dive into varieties that you can sow and plant during the month of August. Taking advantage of the beautiful growing conditions, the warm soil temperatures and daylight to grow gorgeous flavours while also preparing for the colder months ahead.

If you would like to hear a more general chat about gardening jobs for August, please listen to the previous episode. 

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we are joined by Lance, Tomato Growing expert who runs Tomato Revolution.  Get ready for a very geeky, in-depth deep dive into growing your own Tomatoes.

If you like growing your own, gardening and chilled-out podcast chat, the Growing Up Podcast is the place for you!  

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We have a big list of gardening jobs that need to be done during the month of June, but Andy and Kate decided to sit down, have a cup of tea and discuss them on this weeks' podcast episode before doing any of the hard work!  It gave us a great chance to shelter from the rain and warm up too!

Join us for this fun, light-hearted chat as we chat about the jobs to be done during the month of June.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we chat with Carole of Tuckshop Flowers - a small-scale florist and flower grower - who 10 years ago actually grew and designed the flowers for our wedding.

This is a really interesting chat with someone who has genuinely built a long-lasting and flourishing business within the floristry sector with an infectious love of flowers.

Enjoy the chat, everyone.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we talk about everything related to polytunnel growing.  Andy is a self-confessed 'polytunnel geek' and was so excited to record this episode.

We talk about choosing a type of polytunnel, where to put it and share our top polytunnel growing tips!

Do you have any questions? Please feel free to message us on Instagram!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

So....we've been keeping a secret - a pretty big secret!  On Saturday 25th May we will be appearing on James Martin's Saturday Morning on ITV, telling the story of our business as James Martin uses our herbs to cook some delicious dishes.

We are super excited to finally be able to share this news! 

So who is going to be tuning in?

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this quite emotional episode, Andy and Kate talk about their adventures teaching school kids how to grow food within inner city Birmingham.  We explain why this is incredibly important and share the ups and downs of a first, very exciting year.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We have a big list of gardening jobs that need to be done during the month of May, but Andy and Kate decided to sit down, have a cup of tea and discuss them on this weeks' podcast episode before doing any of the hard work!

Join us for this fun, light-hearted chat as we chat about the jobs to be done during the month of May.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, Andy and Kate escape the recording studio and record undercover at a local garden centre.  You can sow loads of exciting seeds in May and even if you are just starting out your gardening adventures this spring -  you can absolutely join the growing party!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Are you feeling a bit 'behind' in this very strange spring season that we are having here in the UK?   You aren't alone, but it's important to remember that we are all in the same boat, which is just as well given the amount of rain we've had.

In this week's episode, Andy's Mum and Dad join us in the studio as we plan a new garden for them, and reflect on the joys of clay soil, wild flowers and thyme lawns.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this week's episode, we chat with Kendall Marie Platt about the importance of taking time for yourself and prioritising self-care through gardening.  We chat with Kendall about why this is so important and the work that she is doing to raise awareness about this increasingly important subject.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we talk about jobs that you can complete in the garden during the month of August. This is such an exciting month in which growing conditions are still perfect and productive.  However, its also a month that provides unique challenges to gardeners.  

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We've had a few April showers so far this month and we are feeling a little bit soggy!  In this episode we talk about the realities of gardening during the month of April and share some tips about getting the most from your April garden.

It's important to share a positive message that as gardeners, we all love to moan about the weather, but it really does keep our lives interesting doesn't it?

This episode of the Growing Up Podcast is sponsored by the fabulous outdoor clothing brand Revolution Race.  This is a brand that we really do believe in, we wear their clothing almost every day and are really excited to be able to share them with you as listeners of our podcast.  

Please check out Revolution Race and use the discount code ANDY15 which is valid from the 15th April until 22nd April 2024.  

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we discuss how you can bring wildlife into your growing space, boost your local environment and eco system and also boost productivity.

We discuss the perils of working with frogs and every gardeners favourite topic: slugs.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we are joined by Ed from Roots Allotments to chat through essential gardening jobs for the month of April.  Some of you will just be getting started in the garden whereas others will have windowsills absolutely filled with seedlings.  Either way, we have you covered in this week's episode!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Almost exactly a year ago, Kate formally came to work full-time at Urban Herbs, growing, selling and promoting herb plants as a full-time job.  She left behind a full-time job in event management and so this shift represented a dramatic change.

One year later Kate answers the questions that you have sent in to ask her about her dramatic career change. 

This turned into a really honest chat about the rollercoaster year that we have had and we hope that it represents a hopeful message to many of you out there who are considering similar changes.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we travel back in time, to a world that didn't have easy access to medicine or reliable food supplies.  We discuss a world in which gardens were vitally important and provide a really interesting insight into the medieval world.  

Andy was once a history student and this episode of the Growing Up Podcast might just be his favourite yet.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Gardening here in the UK the pace of growth changes radically throughout the year.  It's something that we are gardeners totally accept but we rarely hear it talked about. So in this episode, we chat about the 'acceleration of growth' and how you can prepare for it.

The season is really getting started now and we hope you enjoy this chat.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we deep dive into the many beautiful varieties of herbs that are perfect for planting now in the early spring period.  We share growing tips for how you can get the most from your herb garden during the spring period.  But most importantly we chat and share our genuine joy of growing these amazing varieties.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we are joined by Ed from Roots Allotments as we share our love of allotment growing, the magic of community growing spirit, and the truly exciting work that is happening at Roots Allotments.

The energy that Ed brings to this episode is truly infectious as we share the simple joy of growing and the manifold benefits that this act brings.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode of the Growing Up Podcast, we tell the story of the Spring of 2020, a season that turned into a spring like no other.  For so many of us our gardens became refuges during the long months of lockdowns as more experienced gardeners shared their knowledge on social media and others rediscovered the simple joy of growing things.

In this episode, we read some of your stories from the lockdown spring and reflect just how important gardening was to so many of us during this time.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode we talk about our love of Farmers Markets, what they are, why they matter, and how important they have been to our story.  

Join us for this nostalgic journey into a world of artisan bread, cheese, plants, and food ethics.  

Is there a farmers market near you? Let us know what you think of them.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode Andy, Kate and Sarah of @thenorthernhome_ chat about the challenges of moving into a new growing space.   Sarah posted recently on Instagram about the challenges of starting again in a new space, being relatively new to gardening so we thought it would be fun to do a recorded "consultation" which turned into a fun chat about starting afresh in an established garden.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode we talk all things February, it's such a strange month in the garden and so we chat to Shannon, a friend of the show and Diary of a Lady Gardener on Instagram about essential gardening jobs for February.

This can often be the coldest month of the year,  but also a month that brings blue skies, sunshine and SO much hope.

Really hope that you enjoy the chat.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, Andy and Kate chat about the reaction to Andy's video showing the results of his front garden growing project and explore the importance of slow living in an increasingly 24/7 culture.

We talk about generational change and rapidly changing perspectives on food growing.

We really hope that you enjoy joining us for this raw and largely unedited chat.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we talk about the idea of starting a horticultural business.   So many people have reached out to us over the years and said how much they have thought of career-changing - starting a career in the horticultural sector. 

This week we dig a little deeper, talking honestly about our story over the last decade but also sharing our excitement about the future. There are so many opportunities in horticulture. And it's the best job in the world.

Let us know what you think!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, Andy and Kate chat about varieties that we are excited about planting in 2024.  Get ready for a really informal, chat between the two of us as we chat about our 'couple gardening goals' for the growing season.

We started recording without a plan and simply opened Kate's 'to sow' seed box.

We really hope that you enjoy this slightly different and very unplanned episode.

Spring is coming - who else is excited?

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we chat with a friend of the show James Wong about whether or not it's possible to genuinely grow food to save money.  

It's proven to be a surprisingly controversial subject, to talk honestly about the idea of growing food to save money and so we were fascinated to hear what James Wong had to say on this subject.

Really hope that you enjoy this chat as much as we did.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we dig deep into gardening jobs for January.  Andy is joined by Dan, Head Gardener of Winterbourne House and Gardens as we chat on a rainy day about practical jobs that you can do NOW in January to get your garden off to the best possible start to the year.

Each month in 2024 we aim to release a podcast offering practical advice, tips that you can implement at that point in the year.  All too often gardening advice tells you what you should have done 6 weeks earlier - and we hope that this monthly 'advice podcast' really adds value to your gardening year.

Happy New Year to all of our amazing listeners.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Kate is BACK for this Pre-Christmas episode of the Growing Up Podcast.

We talk about our gardening highlights of 2023, amazing highs and a few light hearted lows.  It was so lovely to sit together and consider the growing season that is ending shortly.

We find that December is a month for gardeners to sit, reflect and plan ahead and this is exactly what we do in this episode.  We talk about our growing hopes and dreams for 2024 and invite you to join us in sharing your growing resolutions for the year ahead.

Happy Christmas to every single one of you - from both of us.

We will see you next year.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this week's episode, we talk to Katy and David who run the fabulous Root 13 house plant shop here in Birmingham.  

Like ourselves they took a less-than-traditional route into horticulture, embracing a love of growing houseplants during the pandemic and now sharing the joy of growing these amazing plants with their customer and on social media.

You will hear the emotion and passion as we chat with them about these amazing plants and their story.

Are you a houseplant-growing geek already?  If not - after this podcast, you will be!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Growing food to save money? 

Is it possible?  

Can you truly be self-sufficient, growing food in a front garden?  

This week we take a deep breath and dive deeply into the subject of growing food to save money.  We didn't think that this would be particularly controversial but it turns out that our messaging around this subject on social media has caused a very, very strong reaction.

We talk a little bit about why this might be the case and how much we have loved growing food this year.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We all sometimes feel that we are the head gardener of our corner of planet earth but today we talk to Daniel Cartwright, who is genuinely the Head Gardener at Winterbourne House and Gardens in Birmingham.  We chat honestly about the challenges and opportunities in designing, curating and maintaining a heritage site. 

We talk honestly about the importance of bringing a new generation into the horticultural industry and describe the amazing space that is Winterbourne House and Gardens. 

You will love listening to the passion and energy of "One Take Dan".

Find our more about Winterbourne House and Gardens here.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Have you ever thought about embracing the good life and starting your own smallholding? This week we chat to Jess Gough of @happy_smallholding on Instagram about how she did exactly this.

We talk all things growing with Jess Gough who you might know through the Instagram account happy_smallholding.  We talk all things growing, the reality of starting a homestead, bee keeping alongside some really practical growing tips.

Hope you enjoy.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Something a little bit different, this week Kate was unable to join us on the Growing Up Podcast so I was joined by Thersa (Mum!).  What we actually recorded was 45 minutes of giggles, and chat about the nature of seasons and why gardening for well-being is really serious and vitally important.⁠

This week we talk very honestly about the link between the gardening seasons and the ebb and flow of life.  How it's so important to embrace a little "autumnal mentality" sometimes both in the garden and in daily life.
⁠
Because we work together, spending so many hours potting and packing orders, we really hope that you enjoy the natural, largely unedited chat between us.  Who else thinks that Mum is a natural that needs to come back onto the podcast?⁠
⁠
Kate is very much recovering and wanted to send her best wishes to all of the wider podcast friends and family.⁠
⁠

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Why has it taken us so long to record an episode about the beautiful herb plants that have defined the last decade of our lives?  Grab yourselves a drink, sit back, and join us as we chat about our favourite herb plants.

Herbs are beautiful plants that you can plant in your allotment, garden or grow indoors, but the truth is that these plants have the power to really transform your food and your mood, and are the perfect 'gateway plants'.  They make you fall in love with growing things, they excite you and we genuinely love them.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We are joined on the Growing Up Podcast by James Wong, Ethnobotanist, presenter, and author of the amazing series 'Grow Your Own Drugs'. He is also a current panelist on the BBC Radio 4 programme, Gardeners' Question Time.  

We chat to James about his story but fundamentally why plants matter, the provable benefits that they bring, and whether growing potatoes if stranded on the surface of the planet Mars is a good idea.

We know that you are going to enjoy this chat!

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this week's podcast, we travel back in time to 1940s Britain and explore the Dig for Victory Campaign.  We talk about the realities of growing food during wartime and explore the impact that this had both economically, practically but also emotionally.

This week we introduce special guests Potaoe Pete and Doctor Carrot.  Listen to the podcast to become acquainted with these wartime characters.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this week's episode, we talk to Lance from Tomato Revolution.  You will love hearing Lance's incredible passion for growing tomatoes, it's truly incredible.  Join us as we go down a very geeky horticultural rabbit hole and learn about unusual heirloom varieties of tomato, the process of developing new varieties of tomato, and the link between tomatoes and Star Wars.  

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

This week Andy and Kate talk in depth about the autumn gardening season.  We discuss why the autumn garden is so special but also vitally important as we look ahead to the seasons that follow.

We talk about seeds to sow, gardening jobs to complete, the dangers of autumnal DIY and why having snacks are vital as you record an autumn gardening podcast.


Did you enjoy our podcast?  We don't have a sponsor at the moment but love recording these pods and sharing the joy of growing with you.  We sometimes have to travel, hire a studio or buy cups of tea and biscuits for our amazing guests.  If you are enjoying the podcast and are able to do so we've inserted a link below this text where you can buy us and our guests a coffee.  NEVER any pressure to do so.  Thank you.

Buy ourselves and our guests a coffee

More in-depth growing advice


Thank you.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Andy started the company that became Urban Herbs back in 2009 purely as an experiment - a short term project to pay off his tuition fees. Little did he know that he was going down a horticultural rabbit hole that would shape the next decade of his life.

He feel in love with the unusual foodie sensory and culinary herb plants that he promotes and sells today and published the Herb Gardening Handbook in 2023.  

Now he is on a mission to share the joy of growing with everyone and is the co-host of the Growing Up Podcast with his wife Kate.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/growinguppodcast

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this week's episode, we introduce one of our hosts.  This is Kate's story.

Kate doesn't come from a traditional horticultural background.  She brings with her a decade of major events experience having worked at various community arts projects and as an event manager at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Kate's married to Andy and they run Urban Herbs together.  In 2023 Kate became a full-time employee at Urban Herbs.  Her route into horticulture is certainly not a traditional one and in this episode, we explore Kate's journey toward falling love with the world of growing, being a woman working in horticulture and the realization that having a relationship with growing is KEY to personal wellbeing.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

The start of the journey as we grow together.  Meet your hosts of the Growing Up Podcast.

For those who love to grow, who are happiest in the garden, allotment or greenhouse.  Hosted by Andy and Kate, a green-fingered couple who love growing,  and are on a mission to share the joy of all things plant-related.  

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Gardening for wellbeing is a commonly used term, isn't it?  Sometimes, perhaps it can sound like a marketing 'buzz phrase' but to us, this is a very real concept and one that has really changed our lives at various points over the last couple of years.

We talk honestly about why gardening can boost wellbeing and how we think it can really help you too.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we chat about seeds that you can sow, now in the month of July.  We talk about the importance of looking forward and mention a really special food-growing revolution happening in Inner City Birmingham.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

We chat to Melanie Purcell of  @bishybarnabeescottagegarden about the realities of starting a flower farm during a spring in which the weather doesn't play ball.  We talk about the magic of sowing biennials during summer and the hope that they bring.

You really don't want to miss this chat - we felt so inspired after talking to Melanie and Kate has a huge shopping list to get from Melanie's website:

https://www.bishybarnabeescottagegarden.com/

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

Summer is such an exciting time in the herb garden.  It's a time in which the pace of nature accelerates and there is so much to do among a firework display of colour, flavour and fragrance in the herb garden.  

However, this week on the Growing Up Podcast it's all about looking forwards too... to the season that is yet to come.  We are gardening in four dimensions and we absolutely love it.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

This week we take you behind the scenes to talk about our experiences behind the scenes working at BBC Gardeners World and Good Food Show last week.  We discuss some of the amazing people who made the event so special and talk to Steph who created a simply magical show garden.

We saw such positive things last week that we simply had to tell you about them in this episode.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356

Send us a text

In this episode, we talk about gardening jobs that you can do during the month of September. We are joined by Jess Gough @happy_smallholding who chats with us about the jobs that she will be doing this month.

Take a moment out of your busy day and join us for some lighthearted gardening chat.

The Growing Up Podcast is proudly sponsored by the amazing First Tunnels. We are big believers in the benefits of growing in a polytunnel and genuinely believe in the quality of the products that First Tunnels supply. Check out the link below to order your own tunnel. If you would like honest advice before making your purchase please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Check them out here➡️ https://rb.gy/55t356