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TitreDateDurée
Ep. 287 - Half a million downloads!!!! Thank you to all who listen to the professional horticultural duo that make up the Talking Heads podcast. Lucy and Saul celebrate this milestone with - you've guessed it - some top-quality hortiwaffle! 08 Nov 202500:33:40

Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.

Wow - who on earth would have thought that from that first episode six years ago we'd now be celebrating our 500,000th download - but here we are! An almighty "thank you!" from Saul and Lucy - we are blown away and have an extra spring in our gardening steps this week. We celebrate in the only way we know how - by talking in depth about leaf mould, of course! Lignin, cellulose, fungi and the passage of time all get placed under the TH spotlight. And are you pruning your clematis earlier and earlier? Lucy and Saul have both observed this phenomenon - a sign of the shifting times.

LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker

Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 286 - While the wind whistles outside Saul and Lucy take a look at the RHS State of Gardening Report, an eye-opening look at the Horticultural world including the new RHS Hort Hub on their website01 Nov 202500:38:13

Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.

The Autumn peak has been and gone, and leaves are dominating the ground especially with the squally winds and rain - it's still quite mild though! The big news in the industry at the moment though is the RHS State of Gardening Report, a deep dive into everything gardening especially what our indistry contributes to the economy, health, the environment and to society in general, an interesting and often eye opening look at why Horticulture is great! Also launched recently is the RHS Horticultural Hub, for those gardeners who know their onions and want to get into a more in depth look of their favourite hobby or job.

Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens

LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 277 - Time to get out and about as Lucy has been visiting the Fothergills Trials Grounds and Saul is keeping Stonelands ticking over through another pronounced dry spell - more Horticulture waffle at it's finest!16 Aug 202500:34:59

Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces they are in charge of, as well as enjoying their gardens at home.

How has the years warm and dry weather effected the productivity of our plots - well Lucy went to find out when she visited the Fothergills Trial Ground open day where they grow 1500 varieties of flowers, veg and fruit to show case their seed varieties. The picture is obviously mixed with some crops enjoying the temperatures while others struggling to get going, a similar picture back home at our gardens. We also look into some more 'Horticultural News' both sad and positive - including the new Adam Greathead Award for aspiring gardeners to gain valuable experience at John Massey Gardens, Ashwood Nursery and Great Dixter.


Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens

LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 189 - Fruit, Flowers, Vegetables and meeting up with Gardening friends - being a Head Gardener is not always work, work, work but also full of joyful moments which Lucy and Saul revel in.12 Aug 202300:35:15

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

Gardening is a wonderful occupation and hobby (sometimes both) for the mind, soul and body. Saul and Lucy discuss their representative loves through a Summer where the weather has proved to be anything but loved. But the gardens don't care, in fact they are revelling in it! So the head Gardening pair compare tomatoes, talk gingers, discuss whether stress good for flowering and how a little time away from there garden makes all the difference. 

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 188 - PAIN AND RAIN. It's a little damp out there, and though the garden is a lush oasis for once in August, it's not helping Lucy as the pain of her shoulder continues to hamper her gardening.05 Aug 202300:36:04

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

Cats and Dogs - and the whole farm yard too - its pretty wet out there even in the deserts of Essex. Though a complete opposite to last years dry weather, the rain has meant lush gardens, an explosion of weeds, but also soggy gardeners! However, Lucy has had more on her mind (and body) than the constant precipitation, as her shoulder pain continues to prevent her doing what she loves most in the garden, so the Head Gardening pair take a look at how to manage your body during this most physical of jobs and why its important to think about your health as an important factor for a long and fruitful career.

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 187 - Lucy and Saul may feel battered and bruised from Garden, but the delights of Summer are still coming, so the pair look at how feeding (or maybe not) can keep your displays at the top of their game.29 Jul 202300:38:27

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

Ommmpphhh. Lucy and Saul are showing the wear and tear for the garden season, it is important to look after your body to keep you gardening all year long, so sometimes taking it a little easier is a good thing. But do plants have that luxury or is it GO GO GO during their brief season to get the maximum out of their gardening time. Feeding is an important part of keeping your precious plants healthy and hearty but do we really know what were doing when we 'slosh' on our chosen food, and is feeding really needed at all, or is it all about looking after that precious topsoil!

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 186 - Saul and Lucy have their 'problem solving' heads on, as this week, the duo provide answers regarding weather, labour force, reading lists and cordylines. Plus, Lucy ensures she gets a huge Grow Your Own fix.20 Jul 202300:36:42

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

Is your grass looking lush compared to this time last year, are the weeds growing at a rate of knots, is your cordyline looking like "A hedgehog after drinking three cans of Red Bull", do you fancy getting your nose into a good horticultural text book?  You can rely on Lucy and Saul to answer all these questions and more, in this week's Talking Heads podcast episode. And while Lucy may feel somber that the Hall's kitchen garden is taking a year out, she's by no means resting on her laurels when it comes to growing her own food. 

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Bonus Episode #19 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation by Horticulturist, Journalist and Garden guru David Hurrion - we talk about his journalism, taking American tourists across the Zambezi and the pitfalls of modern Gardening media.15 Jul 202300:50:24

From time to time Lucy and Saul decided they wanted to record conversations with other Head Gardeners, Curators, Garden Owners and fellow horticulturists across the UK, these will be published as Bonus Episodes alongside their usual format of chatting about their gardening lives. We hope you enjoy.

For the Bonus Episode #19 we are joined by Horticultural Polymath David Hurrion - a very familiar figure in the Horticulture press, at Flower Shows and those who are lucky enough to join him on his adventures across the world of gardening and plants. David has 50 years experience in gardening from his start as Head Gardener of his home plot at the tender age of 8 years old, through training at Writtle College, through Garden Journalism, Teaching,  Nursery Work and regularly hosting stage's at some of the countries biggest flower shows.

Website:
www.davidhurrion.com

YouTube:
David Hurrion

Twitter links:
David @DavidHurrion
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Instagram links:
David davidhurrion
Lucy headgardenerlc

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Support the show

Ep. 185 - 'Cutting your coat to your cloth' - Gardening both large and small is all about compromises, especially with your time, resources and space, So Lucy and Saul chat about how they try to work as economically as possible.08 Jul 202300:34:43

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

We've all been there with are gardens - not enough time in the day to do all those tasks you want to, not enough resources to get the garden looking 100% and not enough space for all those idealist plans. Well gardening, especially professionally in very large spaces, is as much about compromise as it is about getting everything looking perfect. Saul and Lucy chat about how they 'cut their coats to their clothe' and make sure they are working as smart as they can to achieve as much as possible in their gardens.

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 184 - It's busy, busy! The edible crops are cranking up, the show garden plans are in top gear, the roses have been spectacular - what's not to love?! Tune in, as Saul and Lucy report back on their respective horticultural weeks30 Jun 202300:35:28

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

It's go, go, go! The Head Gardening duo are holding on tight as their weeks have brought them new potatoes, basil, garlic, raspberries, strawberries - and a whole lot more! Saul mops his brow after a busy but thoroughly enjoyable stint of NGS tours, while Lucy has been busy transporting, potting up and preening the show garden plants for Audley End's September fair. But, of course, we also ensure we take time to enjoy the garden! Observations on weather (it's a given), roses and apples also get air time, and we thank our wonderful Buymeacoffee supporters - you are all marvellous folk!

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 183 - Opening your garden is a great joy and as Saul gave four tours this week for the National Garden Scheme he delves a bit into the scheme and looks at what opening your own garden entails.24 Jun 202300:24:11

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

The National Garden Scheme has been supporting garden owners since 1927 to open the gardens for charity, with the proceeds from the entries, plan sales and refreshment benefitting many worthy charities that the NGS supports. If you want to show your garden to the public whether a large garden like Stonelands or a small personal garden, allotment, community garden or horticultural project the the National Garden Scheme  (as well as various other schemes and charities) then listen in as Saul describes the whys, how's, when's and what's of the process, and you can also go to the NGS website to learn more to. 

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

BBC GWLive 2023 Bonus Episode: Saul and Lucy are out and about at this year's BBC Gardeners World Live show - meeting loyal listeners, answering burning gardening questions and having a good mooch around all the wonderful plants and gardens.19 Jun 202300:35:10

Saul and Lucy are at BBC Gardener's World Live 2023 as the Plant Experts. The show spans the 15th-18th June and is a sprawling show of the finest gardens and plants to grace mid-June (as well as the BBC Good Food Show). As well as early morning tours for the very keenest of gardens, the pair have been on their usual Advice Desk answering the broadest of questions that the public bring with them.
 
Saul and Lucy take a good wander around the show both inside the Floral Marquee and out in the Show Gardens, as well as answer a couple of loyal listeners questions. Enjoy a small snippet of the show, and maybe we'll see you next year!

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 182 - Summer is here - gardening is full throttle in all its forms - and Saul and Lucy's task lists are fuller than ever, so we give you an insight at what both Head Gardeners are trying to squeeze into their long, hazy days.10 Jun 202300:33:16

Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the best gardening has to offer.

Wow - trying to keep up with any garden as we slip from the spring into summer is always a tall order. Lucy and Saul are full throttle at the moment trying to max out the best of their gardens - chopping, pruning, dead-heading, staking, sowing, harvesting, mowing, strimming, and hopefully fitting in some resting, are all part of our daily make-up of work. To keep up Lucy and Saul have been writing lists of tasks, not all get done, but at least we know what needs doing - the same for this podcast episode, where the list of topics feels just as full, so join us again down the garden path for more Horti-waffle!

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 276 - There are jobs to juggle! Lucy and Saul discuss the tasks for summer, and how professional gardeners tread the fine line between tasks that achieve instant aesthetics, and those that give results in the future09 Aug 202500:35:30

Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces they are in charge of, as well as enjoying their gardens at home.

Take a day out to spray weeds, and nobody will see any results instantly - but woe betide you if you neglect this essential job and customers consequently see a sea of fat hen (or, even worse, oxalis or creeping buttercup...) a week or so down the line. Juggling jobs is all part of the professional gardener's daily challenges, and understanding your clients' needs, along with good two-way communication, allows you to make sound decisions for all concerned. Plus, Saul has been spending more time in Stoneland's kitchen garden whereas Lucy has flexed her  tropical muscles once again. Great minds obviously do think alike - especially with revelations about wild swims and marine biology aspirations...


Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens

LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Support the show

Ep. 181 - Talking Heads, the big build! Lucy and her family have been busy erecting a sizeable summerhouse in their garden this week, so she and Saul discuss the benefits that are sheds, greenhouses, fruit stores, bothies and other key structures.03 Jun 202300:33:41

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Our gardens are increasingly becoming a space where we can extend our social activities, and a well placed garden building can bring a sense of occasion to the proceedings. But what are the considerations for these (often) costly installations? Where exactly should they be sited, do aesthetics have to be compromised by practicalities, and how on earth do you encourage a 4-meter length of timber to bend exactly where you want it to? Saul and Lucy discuss all this and more, as we also ponder the weather (of course) and salivate at the promise of more biscuits.

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 180 - RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW SPECIAL - Lucy and Saul head to the capital to experience the pinnacle of Flower shows - expect weeds, burgers, a hobbit hole and lots of gorgeous gardens and plants!27 May 202300:44:55

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

It's the highlight of the horticultural calendar, as the Talkings Heads pair head to the big smoke of London for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The show is always a talking point for any garden year, sometimes controversial, but always a mecca of what the UK and the world can achieve in the horticultural sphere. Gardens embraced a more naturalistic, sustainable theme with the hot topic of 'weeds' bringing much deliberation. The Great Pavilion felt more alive than ever, with a buzz that has been missing for a couple of years - some of the displays, including the exhibit Lucy was involved in building, were magnificent. We also tucked into some good food, admired a fantastic greenhouse and, as with every year, gossiped and chewed the cud with all our garden friends that we might only see in this hub-bub of the horticultural world.

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 179 - Don't panic!! This time of year can leave gardeners feeling frazzled and torn between jobs, so how do Saul and Lucy survive this "May madness"? Plus, the Chelsea Flower Show is on the horizon - Lucy and Saul both have plans to be there.18 May 202300:32:35

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Hold onto those horticultural reins and steer her steady - May madness has hit! Both Saul and Lucy are feeling the pressure of spring, what with shows, seedlings, sunshine, rainfall (and subsequently, LOTS of weeds!). So, how do the Head Gardener duo navigate the bombardment of jobs? By taking a few deep breaths! And also remembering to take time out to enjoy why we are all here in the first place, to garden. We also have exciting Chelsea Flower Show plans, as Lucy helps build a show garden for the first time, and Saul then joins her for the marvel that is Monday Press Day.

Twitter link:
Saul @GardeningSaul

Instagram link:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Ep. 178 - When things go wrong in your garden, reach for the silver-linings! Lucy and Saul may suffer some set backs in their horti-work but as its May just being in the garden makes it all worth it!13 May 202300:34:20

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Lucy and Saul are back to their day-jobs after Beaulieu, Holidays and House sales - which means things are bound to go wrong. This week Saul has had the dreaded curse of 'threes', as three catastrophes have befallen his usual fun at Stonelands, but like water off a ducks back you must reach out for the positives, embrace the setbacks as learning opportunities and enjoy the Garden as May brings one of the most beautiful periods in the growing year!

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 177 - Lucy goes back to her roots. In this episode, Saul takes a break so Lucy chats to her parents - retired smallholders - to explain her chosen career path, and introduce you to a little-known horticultural Government scheme06 May 202300:36:00

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

With Saul taking a well deserved rest, Lucy delves into her past to explain why she is such a keen horticulturist. Now retired, her smallholder parents had a massive influence on her career choice. Their horticultural heritage also sheds light on a fascinating collective of market gardeners who, between them at their peak, produced 50 per cent of the UK's glasshouse salads. Termed the 'Land Settlement Agency', it brought many happy times for Lucy and her parents, as hopefully the interviews confirm (apologies to those two asparagus customers!!).

If you'd like to watch the video I mention in this episode, follow this link, or search for 'Growth with the LSA':

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmvyX3RWv4Q

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

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Ep. 176 - We've been let out! Saul and Lucy have donned their showtime hats for the BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair at Beaulieu. Here, they've been helping on stage, and giving tours of the beautiful gardens with Head Gardener Kelvin Yapp and his team02 May 202300:26:38

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

A favourite annual fixture in their diaries, Lucy and Saul report back from the recent BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair, held at the beautiful gardens of Beaulieu Motor Museum, in the New Forest. As well as helping out on stage with interviews and talks, the duo have had the pleasure of giving tours with Head Gardener, Kelvin Yapp, and his team. Our reputation must proceed us because the estate gang have kept us incredibly well fed and watered - plus, regular podcast listeners have not let us down via their supplies of biscuits - thank you, one and all!

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 175 - Lucy is back from her holiday! But how do you look after your garden, large or small, when you're away on a break? She and Saul have some tried and tested ideas to share...22 Apr 202300:34:00

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Well rested and well fed, Lucy returns from a break in Norfolk this week - but how on earth do gardeners squeeze a holiday in when spring has sprung? Is there ever a good time to leave your garden unattended? Saul also has time away from his Stonelands Estate, so the duo explain how the Donyland and Stonelands trains stay firmly on the tracks whilst their Head Gardener is absent. Automated systems, nifty plant trickery - and the help of green-fingered gardening friends, neighbours and colleagues - all help to ensure that Head Gardeners can rest, while their estates can tick over, unaffected.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 174 - THE EXOTIC EPISODE (Part 3) - Saul takes us on a look at his home garden, to see how his collection of tender(ish) plants have fared during the winter.15 Apr 202300:34:57

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Lucy is away on here Easter holidays, so Saul takes the opportunity to enjoy a sunny Saturday morning to bring you listeners along at a look at how is back garden, full of exotic and tender plants have fared. The winter has been very cold, very dry and very wet in equal thirds so his collection of unusual plants has been tested to its limit! Having said that many of the plants that are starting back into growth have surprised Saul and have given him good heart to plant out in the mild, maritime climate that he enjoys in his Devon garden.

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 173 - THE SHOW GARDEN SPECIAL: Lucy, along with Gemma and Kelly are masterminding a Grow Your Own Show Garden at BBC Gardeners World Autumn Fair at Audley End, Essex, so Saul gets to the bottom of how the early preparations and designs are going.08 Apr 202300:43:07

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

For this very special episode we're catching up with Lucy, who along with Audley End Gardeners Gemma Sturges and Kelly Fowler, are designing and building a Grow Your Own Show Garden at BBC Gardeners World Autumn Fair at Audley End. The trio are very experienced gardeners, especially with Fruit and Veg, but have stepped outside their comfort Zone with this Show Garden Project. So we catch up with them to see how the initial design was decided, how they are choosing which Veg and Fruit to display, those nurseries and companies that are helping them and a very special cameo appearance from Terry Porter, Show garden Veg supremo who passed on some sage advice and also super secret tips (Not disclosed in this podcast!). So join us for the start of Lucy, Gemma and Kelly's Show Garden adventure.

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul
Gemma @gemma_sturges

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc
Gemma madamtuberist
Kelly fedbyplants


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 172 - We have the answers! Looking after strawberries, lemongrass, magnolias, fritillaries, cut flowers, and much more - Lucy and Saul reply to our listeners' questions this week, as the duo don their Gardeners' Question Time hats for a Q&A special01 Apr 202300:41:39

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

After our recent shout out for gardening conundrums, the Talking Heads podcast audience has done us proud! Between Lucy and Saul, the Head Gardener team answer all manner of horticultural questions, from how to keep strawberries healthy, to why magnolias are being denuded - and all manner of things in between. Why do red onions bolt? How do you grow lemongrass? How do I establish fritillaries in my meadow? What do you think of grafted vegetables? What can I grow in dry, windy shade? And our favourite question to answer: what will you do when you retire? Any guesses....?!

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 275 - It's the start of the Summer holidays, and with Lucy away, Saul takes you on a little Saturday Trip to the Beach, his Garden and The Story of Emily.....03 Aug 202500:26:11

Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces they are in charge of, as well as enjoying their gardens at home.

The school Summer holidays have started in the UK which means Lucy and her family have gone for a well deserved break to Beaulieu, a place familiar to all listeners. But that means Saul is on his own and bringing you along on his Saturday shenanigans down at the Beach and at the Story of Emily, a brand new garden and museum in West Cornwall, all while trying to fit some horticulture waffle in - a bracing dip, some jungle garden action and raucous folk music abound!

LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker

Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 171 - The big story recently is the loss of many trees in Saul's home city of Plymouth, so along with Lucy, the pair chat about the state of our urban green infrastructure and why its so important.25 Mar 202300:36:12

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

You can't of failed to be aware of the impact we have on our natural environment and this week one of the big stories has been the feeling of most of the trees in Plymouth city centre - where Head Gardener Saul calls home. So along with lucy the Talking heads pair discuss whether we are taking the green environment in our cities and towns seriously and whether we should invest more to bring the best of the built and natural environment in partnership - after all isn't that what gardening is all about!

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 170 - To evolve or to conserve - what kind of garden designer are you? Lucy and Saul flex their creative green muscles this week, as they discuss what role we should play17 Mar 202300:35:30

What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

This week, Lucy has been given the exciting task of observing an ancient Donyland border plan, and interpreting what direction it should take next. Given the climate's present desire to turn on a sixpence, should she attempt to preserve the original designer's plans, or is she at will to evolve them? All gardeners face similar questions in their borders, large and small, so she and Saul muse over what the modern day design process should be. Oh, and we also get exciting peach and tomato news!

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 169 - 'To-do Lists' - isn't that at the beating heart of all gardeners daily work? Well for Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy it certainly is, so they go through some of what is being ticked off on theirs.11 Mar 202300:39:00

What is that on the horizon - well it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.

Lucy is partial to a list - in fact if you've ever seen her notepad its endlessly filled with tasks to do, little squares and many ticks. Most Head Gardeners have a extensive 'To-do list' its part of the  fabric of our practice and they are all so important, so join the Talking Heads duo as they look through a few tasks on theirs and how they hope to accomplish them and stick that next tick down.

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 168 - Head Gardening duo Saul and Lucy discuss mowing in unexpected places, what garden centre shelves will be stocking in 2023, and their respective jobs lists for spring03 Mar 202300:34:39

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

Spring is beckoning, so Saul fires his mower up (but not where you'd think...!) while Lucy is busy deciding where and when to mulch. She also reports back on her visit to the Garden Press Event, and reveals her exciting project for 2023: a show garden! We then return to the topic at hand, gardening, to see what the two have planned for their respective estates during spring. The jobs list is certainly changing with the seasons.

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 167 - With Lucy away, Saul takes you on a journey down to the river at Stonelands, where he talks about his love for the wildlife in the garden, and his thoughts on how his gardening can encourage and compliment it.25 Feb 202300:34:46

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

Lucy has been at the cutting edge of journalism this week at the Garden Press Event, so Saul takes you on a solo journey down the Dawlish Water at Stonelands to look at what wildlife greets him on a beautiful February morning. Gardening for Wildlife is a big topic for discussion in the garden media at the moment, with many gardeners specifically creating elements of the garden with wildlife in mind - so Saul discusses his view on encouraging wildlife and why its necessary to think about our animal cousins as an essential part of the garden makeup.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 166 - It's time to start growing your own food! Lucy takes you on a tour of her kitchen garden this week, while Saul rests his voice after a spate of gardening talks.17 Feb 202300:27:44

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

This week, Saul rests his mighty voice, while Lucy takes us on a tour of her home kitchen garden, just outside Colchester. Here, she talks you through her 2023 grow your own plans, as she daydreams of early broad beans, baby carrots and lush spinach. Fruit pruning also needs to be completed, and while some trees should be cut back in summer, there are plenty of edible berry and orchard crops that warrant attention now. The episode is also audio-bombed by Isaac (the cat). Never let it be said that we don't go the extra mile to lay on a suitably furry Saul stand-in...!

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 165 - Do trends in gardening help or hinder our enjoyment of the huge world that is plants and their cultivation, Lucy and Saul take a look at those plants and sections of the hobby that are booming.11 Feb 202300:36:30

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

Gardening, like all hobbies and professions, are not immune to the fashions of the moment - whether you're a Galanthophile, Daffodilaholic or need to be the biggest pumpkin on social media. But are these trends the horticultural world's friend or foe, the answer is complicated, whereas trends help highlight the garden to newcomers they can also form a barrier of gardening perfection and cost for some. Lucy and Saul take a look at what trends they follow and those that are maybe a little bemusing.

(Apologies for Saul's sound quality - his microphone decided to die, but the sledgehammer has been dutifully applied and it should be working again for next week!)

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 164 - Visit amazing gardens, eat cake - and raise money for worthy causes. What's not to love?! Saul and Lucy discuss the merits of opening your garden for the National Garden Scheme03 Feb 202300:37:25

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

We've all enjoyed those visits to gardens where we've left with bellies full of cake and an imagination full of ideas, so why not become a significant part of that hugely rewarding process? Opening your garden for charity can feel like a daunting process, but inspired by the National Garden Scheme's recent 2023 media launch, Lucy and Saul discuss the many benefits it can bring. Talking to an NGS county organiser, and overcoming any hesitancies you might have, will help raise funds for brilliant causes and give your garden a motivational focus.

Twitter links:
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC
Saul @GardeningSaul

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 163 - The garden maybe either too wet or frozen to get outside, but it gives most gardeners the chance to plan, and that is exactly what Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul are doing, so listen in to see how they are preparing from the year ahead.28 Jan 202300:35:38

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

The constant rain or frost maybe slightly depressing at this time of year - especially if you are itching to get outside and start working the soil! But it does give us an excuse to sit in our potting shed or workshop and start writing up those plans for the year. Saul and Lucy are making plans now for the year as a great way of giving our work structure as we get busier and busier come the spring and summer. Ordering plants and seeds, maintaining or purchasing machinery, surveying trees and getting creative with new border designs are an ideal way to spend your time now to get on leg-up on the season ahead. So listen in to see what the Head Gardening pair are putting together!

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 162 - Where do you gain your garden inspiration? That was the question put to Saul and Lucy by a green-fingered listener, so the duo discuss what gets their horticultural juice flowing21 Jan 202300:34:50

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

With snowfall and spring indicators at the forefront of Saul and Lucy's minds, it's clear the start of the season is still at the mercy of the weather. But this downtime is an excellent opportunity to initiate revamping or restructuring areas of your plot, so get your design head on! Regardless of whether your garden is estate- or courtyard-sized there are plenty of resources out there to whet our appetites and twitch our purse strings. So, with that in mind, the duo describe those that are their favourites.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 274 - Let's talk about tropicals and edibles! (but not in a way you would expect). The talking heads duo have a surprise for you this week.....26 Jul 202500:37:30

Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces they are in charge of, as well as enjoying their gardens at home.

Well, who would have thought that Lucy Chamberlain would get hooked on tropical plants, or that Saul Walker would be munching his way through lettuces and sweet peppers in the quest for edible perfection? But, that's what you can find happening in the life of two curious professional gardeners. The duo have also been fighting the never-ending battle of weeds, Lucy flexes her Niwake shears, and Saul peers into his wheelbarrow for a detailed weather report. Tomasz Schafernaker, we salute you!


LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker


Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens


Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 161 - Saul and Lucy are failures! But things going wrong in the garden is one of the most important parts of the horticultural process. So we both take a look at how we should all be more open about when we fail to make us better gardeners.14 Jan 202300:32:55

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

This week both Saul and Lucy are failures!! But does that matter - of course not. Failure - things going wrong, plants dying, weather ruining our garden are all part of the process, and in fact should be celebrated rather than hidden away. This episode we talk about failure as one of the most important parts in the life of gardener and how it informs a future practice and makes us look at the garden in a different light.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 160 - We're back! And with the New Year Lucy and Saul go back to their roots, discussing what a Head Gardener should consider when first appointed to the role07 Jan 202300:37:30

We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.

In this episode, we hear from newly appointed Head Gardener, Danny, asking what advice we would have liked to have been given when we first stepped into our roles. Assessing resources, not rushing in, trusting your instincts and being happy with your decisions are all top of the list, as Lucy and Saul consider the varied tasks and responsibilities this role brings. Hopefully these will resonate with Head Gardener listeners, and guide up-and-coming horticulturists, too.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 159 - Soil is important! Last week we celebrated World Soil Day, so Lucy and Saul discuss the crucial role a healthy soil plays in nurturing your precious plants10 Dec 202200:33:56

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

On 5th December each year we celebrate World Soil Day, where the importance of this unassuming brown mass is 'unearthed'. Saul and Lucy are both strong believers that a healthy soil is crucial for the consequent vitality of our plants - without soil, we simply wouldn't exist! So, the pair expand our knowledge of what exactly soil is, the role of soil pH, how macro- and microorganisms are fundamental for cycling plant nutrients - and so much more. Hopefully, by the end of this detailed episode, your appreciation of soil will be reinforced.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Bonus Episode #18 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation by Head Gardener Åsa Gregers-Warg of the Beth Chatto Gardens - we talk about Beth, Åsa's life in Sweden before coming to the UK and her favourite parts of one of the UK's most loved gardens.03 Dec 202200:47:42

From time to time Lucy and Saul decided they wanted to record conversations with other Head Gardeners, Curators, Garden Owners and fellow horticulturists across the UK, these will be published as Bonus Episodes alongside their usual format of chatting about their gardening lives. We hope you enjoy.

For the Bonus Episode #18 we are joined by Head Gardener Åsa Gregers-Warg of the Beth Chatto Gardens - one of the UK's finest gardens in Essex. Åsa came over from her homeland of Sweden in 2001 to start as a student gardener under Beth's tutelage, and in the past 20 years has evolved into the Head Gardener, driving the gardens development forward since Beth's death in 2018. Lucy and Saul chat to her about her love for gardening, Beth as a mentor and 20th Century Gardening Icon and also how Åsa sees the development of such a prestigious garden in the future.

Twitter links:
Beth Chatto Gardens @BethChattoGdns
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Instagram links:
Beth Chatto Gardens bethchattogardens
Lucy headgardenerlc

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
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Ep. 158 - The Autumn #GardenersQuestionTime special. The podcast listeners have sent Lucy and Saul a number of questions from Step-Over Apples to favourite waterproofs, and the Talking Heads pair give you their answers!25 Nov 202200:43:57

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

Lucy and Saul scoured the internet (i.e. put a tweet out) asking for our podcast listeners to pose some of the most ruthless horticultural questions that could be asked - well now the pair of Head Gardeners try to answer them. What to do with Step-over apples, Favourite Waterproofs and Ladders and a curious case of 19th Century French Hotbed gardening are all on the agenda in the Talking Heads first ever 'Gardeners Question Time' episode.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 157 - With winter approaching is there enough to keep these two enthusiastic Head Gardeners busy in the garden? You Bet! This week, Saul and Lucy discuss the array of winter jobs you can complete on your plot.18 Nov 202200:43:04

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

Far from closing the door on their respective estates for winter, Lucy and Saul are energetically ticking off a multitude of jobs from their 'to do' list, and they're encouraging their listeners to do the same. Be it clear out the potting shed, grow edibles in your greenhouse, harvest peasticks for plant supports, take hardwood cuttings, set up cold frames, plant garlic or lay mulches, there are endless jobs for this deceptively dormant time of year. With any progress to get ahead in the garden directly related to your enjoyment of it come spring, let the duo inspire you into action in the weeks ahead.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 156 - Is temperature the most important factor when overwintering exotics either outdoors or undercover - or are moisture levels just as critical - Lucy and Saul discuss this and other topics.12 Nov 202200:32:50

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

When winter does arrive - a big if seeing the latest and average temperatures - its crucial we have those plants that need a little  extra TLC ready to overwinter - but to we focus too much on keeping the temperatures just right in our greenhouses and conservatories? Are moisture levels in the compost and soil around our plants precious roots as important (if not more) to how our precious collections fare over the winter period. Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul discuss along with a few more topics in the latest podcast episode.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 155 - You can't beat a good ramble. And this week, we wander through the pages of the RHS Garden magazine for our topics of conversation. Lucy strikes gold as it's a Grow Your Own special issue!05 Nov 202200:34:45

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

With Saul and Lucy being big fans of top quality horticultural waffle, what better place to look for inspiration than the pages of the RHS journal, The Garden? Expect discussions on garlic planting, curry ingredient growing, lowering your carbon footprint via vegetables and much more, as the duo inadvertently stumble across abundant grow your own features. Let's hope that next month's issue of the magazine is an exotics extravaganza!

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 154 - The end of October is peak Autumn in the garden - it's also half-term, this means Lucy is enjoying some time off with her family, but gives Saul a chance to bring you all to Stonelands to enjoy the sights of this wonderous season.29 Oct 202200:35:20

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

Mild weather continues this October - and although this may not bring on a classic display of Autumn colour for our trees, the end of October and start of November is peak season for reds, yellows and oranges. It's also school half-term, Lucy is enjoying some time with her little one, so Saul is left to guide you around Stonelands looking at some of the best trees and flowers that are giving us our final send off the gardening year.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 153 - Autumn is a wonderful time, especially when its mild and moist, as gardeners like Lucy and Saul are using the conditions to their fullest, getting a few tasks done before next year's gardening season.22 Oct 202200:36:19

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

With mild weather predicted on the horizon, and beautiful days for gardening while the leaves turn their wonderful shades of crimson and yellow, its time to get out and get those gardening tasks done before the winter sets in. Lucy and Saul have a look at some of the Autumn tasks they are getting on with over the next few weeks, from bulb planting, sowing broad beans and pruning their roses. Its an ideal time to get ahead of next seasons plans and use this Indian summer to its fullest.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 273 - Prepare for abundant weather (and machinery) discussions. Lucy is feeling rattled with the wind, while Saul isn't a fan of humidity. But of course, there are still plenty of gardening tasks for the professional gardening duo19 Jul 202500:33:20

Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces they are in charge of, as well as enjoying their gardens at home.

In this episode, Lucy throws a curveball at Saul by introducing him to her love of machinery. Long-pole hedge cutters, brushcutters, leaf blowers and strimmers are all essential daily kit for professional gardeners. The hot, dry weather still causes the duo to wilt (hooray for Saturday the 19th... :-) and Lucy finds that some wildlife has struggled to cope in her customer's garden. The Ecowitt app gets a shoutout for gardeners who like to stalk their peers' climate (very interesting, Saul...) and the windy weather has ruffled Lucy's feathers, while Saul remains as cool as a cucumber. 


Instagram link:
Lucy lucychamberlaingardens


LinkedIn link:
Saul Walker



Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Ep. 152 - It's time to think thrifty. With purse strings tightened, Lucy and Saul discuss the many ways in which you can save money in horticulture. Collectively, the tips in this episode could save you thousands!15 Oct 202200:37:36

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

Accessing trade accounts, swapping skills with tradesfolk, propagation, upcycling and much more - Saul and Lucy have got plenty of tips for their podcast listeners on how to save money and stretch our funds. Lucy also discusses how she's juggling her busy work schedule, and Saul soldiers on with talks and networking events whilst fighting off a nasty bug. It might not be rock 'n' roll, but it's always authentic! 

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Support the show

Support the show

Ep. 151 - Autumn is a time for reflecting on the months that have passed, and observing what these periods have taught us. So, let Lucy and Saul share their thoughts on new plants, rediscovered joys and much more.08 Oct 202200:34:57

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

A key trait of any successful gardener is the humility to confess that there is still so much to learn. With decades of horticultural experience under their belts, Saul and Lucy still get a real buzz from sharing their observations about what this gardening year has taught them. Lucy tells Saul what this spring's storms revealed to her, and Saul shares his insight into the Devonshire plants that, surprisingly, toughed out the summer drought.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Ep. 150 - They're back. After a small break to recharge their batteries Lucy and Saul return with more horticultural waffle and high-jinks including todays subject - Hardiness - which plants need protection and which are tough as old boots!01 Oct 202200:34:31

Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work.

After a good break the Talking Heads duo are back - Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul have recharged their batteries after a long, dry and somewhat busy busy and are looking forward to Autumn and Winter in their respective gardens. FOr many that means protecting precious plants of all levels of hardiness. But what is Hardiness and how does it differ across the country? And how should that effect the level of protection you give your plants - are you a risk taker or experimentalists? Do you want to make sure your on the safe side for everything or is tailoring your plant choice to your microclimate more important? Lucy and Saul take a look at this complicated world on todays episode.

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Lucy @HeadGardenerLC

Intro and Outro music from https://filmmusic.io
"Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Support the show

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