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Explore every episode of the podcast Talking Heads - a Gardening Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Talking Heads - a Gardening Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Ep. 234 - It's Lucy's birthday! Very self-indulgently, she celebrates her milestone with a solo episode that describes 50 jobs that you can complete in your garden right NOW. Resting on your laurels in the summer sun? Not on our watch...24 Aug 202400:50:32

The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardeners are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul will bring you tales (and waffle) from their gardens, so join us every week for more horticultural high-jinx on Talking Heads.

Help Lucy commiserate/celebrate/mark her milestone birthday by, what else? By gardening, of course! With Saul taking a well deserved holiday in Scotland, Lucy describes how many gardeners are working hard - or are we? To show to the masses that, rather than hammocking with a Pimms gardeners love to keep busy at all times of year, she runs through her late August jobs list. From tying in camellias and deadheading dahlias in her own garden, to pruning hedges and collecting meadow seeds in others, is she in denial by implying she's barely got time for candles and cake? (Yes).

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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. 233 - It's time for the great East/West divide! While Saul is wrapped up in his Devonshire dungarees and long sleeves, Lucy is sweltering in Essex in anything but - as the UK conforms to its traditional weather patterns, for now...17 Aug 202400:31:37

The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardeners are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul will bring you tales (and waffle) from their gardens, so join us every week for more horticultural high-jinx on Talking Heads.

With Saul in Devon wrapped up in his autumn clothing, and Lucy barely wearing much due to the Essex heat, the Talking Heads duo are made well aware of the UK's differences in weather patterns. Teetering on the political, the duo talk, too, about the impact leaving Europe is having on UK seed supplies, and Lucy reports back on a pepper trial thus far. With Saul off to Rosemoor, then Scotland, then ultimately Audley End in the next two weeks, Lucy takes up the reins for next week's episode.

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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. 226 - What's better than looking after all your favourite plants, well buying new ones of course. And that's what Saul is up to as he takes you along on his visit to the Tregrehan Rare Plant Fair.08 Jun 202400:35:12

The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardener's are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul will bring you tales (and waffle) from their gardens, so join us every week for more horticultural high-jinx on Talking Heads.

Who doesn't love discovering a new plant or rediscovering and old long-lost friend at a plant fair. Saul certainly does, and it is the first weekend in June, when everything must give way to the Tregrehan Rare Plant Fair. A mecca for exotic and unusual plantspeople from all over the UK and beyond, to see what some of the most venerated nursery folk have bought to relieve us of our hard earned cash. So join Saul has he succumbs to a few purchases and has a look at what he has bought and how he will grow them in his home garden.

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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. 142 - July might be here, but Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul haven't really talked about how June has been in their gardens; Bindweed, Bio-fumigants and Meadows all feature in some gardening chit-chat. 09 Jul 202200:34:08

Long summer days, high temperatures and maximum sunlight are the hallmarks of a good summer (lets hope for a little rain though!). The Summer of 2022 is eagerly awaited by all the keen gardens up and down the UK as herbaceous borders, roses, veg gardens and meadows are awash with new plantings, flower and a general sense of abundance that only Summer can bring. Whereas Spring is a steady ramping of growth the Summer is a time for 'peak  plant' followed by the mellow and relaxed waning into Autumn - so slap on that sun scream, stick on your favourite summer hat and get out and enjoy all the hard work you've undertaken in your garden!

The Summer is in fall swing, as the summer solstice has been and gone and warm (even hot!), long days are ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy realise they haven't seen each other for quite some time, let alone chatted about tales from their respective gardens! So in this episode let the garden chit-chat begin as they Lucy brings stories of bindweed success, bio-fumigant experimentation and meadows that are both Poppy-less but none the less beautiful.

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

Ep. 141 - The garden is open! Well, Lucy's is, anyway. Listen as she takes you on a journey via village halls, church wardens and - finally - into her Essex garden. The big question is, will she be tempted to do it again...?02 Jul 202200:29:47

Long summer days, high temperatures and maximum sunlight are the hallmarks of a good summer (lets hope for a little rain though!). The Summer of 2022 is eagerly awaited by all the keen gardens up and down the UK as herbaceous borders, roses, veg gardens and meadows are awash with new plantings, flower and a general sense of abundance that only Summer can bring. Whereas Spring is a steady ramping of growth the Summer is a time for 'peak  plant' followed by the mellow and relaxed waning into Autumn - so slap on that sun scream, stick on your favourite summer hat and get out and enjoy all the hard work you've undertaken in your garden!

Have you ever thought of opening your garden for a charity fundraiser? That's exactly what's been on Lucy's mind for the past few months. But what does it take to get your own personal garden ready for the masses, and are you prepared for what folk might say about it? Thankfully, Lucy lives in a lovely village containing generous folk with a healthy appetite for tea, cake and Granny Ann's scones. If anyone dares to criticise those, they'd better be able to run fast...

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

Ep. 140 - THE EXOTIC EPISODE: Saul takes you on a small tour of his own back garden looking at some of his plant passions and giving you a little glimpse into a the tender end of the UK plant world.26 Jun 202200:33:10

Long summer days, high temperatures and maximum sunlight are the hall marks of a good summer (lets hope for a little rain though!). The Summer of 2022 is eagerly awaited by all the keen gardens up and down the UK as herbaceous borders, roses, veg gardens and meadows are awash with new plantings, flower and a general sense of abundance that only Summer can bring. Whereas Spring is a steady ramping of growth the Summer is a time for 'peak  plant' followed by the mellow and relaxed waning into Autumn - so slap on that sun scream, stick on your favourite summer hat and get out and enjoy all the hard work you've undertaken in your garden!

With Lucy's family visiting from Down Under, Saul takes a solo look at his Exotic back garden, focussing on some of his plant passions and those plants he believes need a wider recognition in our Botanical lexicon as gardeners. Brugmansia, Gingers, Bannanas and his recent interest in Proteaceae all feature, as he tries to keep his thoughts on a small section of his plant collection to half an hour. So enjoy an episode of big leaves, fancy flowers and dreams of more tropical climes.

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

BBC GWLive 2022 Bonus Episode: Saul and Lucy are released from being Head Gardeners for the week and have camped at The NEC in Birmingham for BBC Gardeners World Live - so join them as they take a look around the show.19 Jun 202200:38:58

Saul and Lucy are at BBC Gardener's World Live 2022 as the Plant Experts. The show spans the 16th-19th June and is back to its usual sprawling best after the pandemic years - a smorgasbord of plants, gardens and the latest horticultural products (as well as the BBC Good Food Show) bringing some beautiful gardens and wonderful plants to see and buy.
 
Saul and Lucy take a good wander around the show both inside the Floral Marquee and out in the Show Gardens and Beautiful Borders taking a look at a couple of the exhibits and catching up with some friends - both old and new - that have come to see the show as well.

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

Ep. 139 - With the start of June, Kitchen Gardens set themselves to turbo as Fruit and Veg really start to grow and most of our precious plants can be planted outside, so Saul and Lucy take a look at how they cope with so much going on!12 Jun 202200:35:54

Long summer days, high temperatures and maximum sunlight are the hall marks of a good summer (lets hope for a little rain though!). The Summer of 2022 is eagerly awaited by all the keen gardens up and down the UK as herbaceous borders, roses, veg gardens and meadows are awash with new plantings, flower and a general sense of abundance that only Summer can bring. Whereas Spring is a steady ramping of growth the Summer is a time for 'peak  plant' followed by the mellow and relaxed waning into Autumn - so slap on that sun scream, stick on your favourite summer hat and get out and enjoy all the hard work you've undertaken in your garden!

Lucy realised that its been quite some time since we talked Fruit and Veg, which Saul thought was impossible with the Queen and Fruit and Veg - so its time to set the record straight as we bring you up-to-date with what is going on in our respective Kitchen Gardens. Expect tales of the acceptance of mice, blooming large artichokes and catch cropping to the maximum. June is always that time when the Kitchen Garden seems to be running at full steam and soon enough tasty Veg and Fruit will be the norm from our productive plots.

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. 138 - It's the perfect excuse to buy plants! Saul tells Lucy how he's been splashing the cash at a recent plant fair, and the duo shed light on what it's like to be a nursery owner on the 2022 garden shows circuit04 Jun 202200:32:54

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Lucy and Saul are thoroughly enjoying the 2022 growing season, especially as society gets used to opening its doors again. With Chelsea under their belts, the duo are excited to visit their favourites gardens and plant fairs this summer, but what does it take to be a nursery owner on this relentless shows circuit? Long working hours and excessive time on the road can make it tough, so we think we owe these unsung heroes of the plant hunting world a well deserved pat on the back.

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

Ep. 137 - Lucy and Saul were both privileged to attend press day at the most famous flower show of them all, RHS Chelsea, so here's a few highlights and thoughts from the first May show in 3 years!28 May 202200:42:19

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

So after a 3 year hiatus, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is back in its usual May slot with all the pomp and ceremony you can expect from what is the world's most prestigious gathering of flowers, gardens and horticulturists. Both Lucy and Saul were very privileged to be able to see the show on its traditional Monday Press Day, and although the spent a very busy day in conversation with many garden friends they hadn't seen for quite a while, the pair discuss their highlights and memories from a day outside their own gardens.

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

Ep. 136 - Learning on the job is so rewarding, and that's exactly what Lucy's done this week as she tells Saul how she's had help to solved three mysteries in the Hall's gardens21 May 202200:30:47

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Unusual yew hedge dieback, bluebell conundrums and box moth developments - it's all in a week's work for the modern Head Gardener! Saul listens on as Lucy tells him how, with a little help from her friends, she's solved three mysteries at the Hall this week. As experienced as we might be,  it still gives us a buzz to research and discover the latest findings in the horticultural world. Talking of worlds, Saul and Lucy are also incredibly excited to be visiting the world famous Chelsea Flower Show early next week - it's time to scrub down and spruce up!

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

Ep. 135 - Join Saul for five days at Stonelands, as he leads you through a typical week of gardening at Stonelands House, expect highs and lows as he manages flowers, vegetables, garden tours and a rather annoying tyre!14 May 202200:35:21

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Join Saul for a week in the life of a Head Gardener. Lucy is having a rest this week after our latest hectic schedule of shows and some overdue holiday, so Saul takes you on a five day look at how his week at Stonelands goes, including the highs of a beautifully flowering Spring to the lows of tyre punctures! For the week Saul gives you a little insight into what working as a Head Gardener is all about, and why its a career both Lucy and him love so very much.

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

Ep. 134 - Saul and Lucy have been let loose in Beaulieu, Hampshire at BBC Gardeners World Spring Fair - leading tours of the Victorian Flower Gardens and the Vegetable Gardens.30 Apr 202200:30:57

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have left the relative comfort of their own gardens to travel to Hampshire to spend three days at Beaulieu, not only the venue for the National Motor Museum but also venue of BBC Gardeners World Spring Fair and the permanent setting for both the Victorian Flower Gardens and a beautiful Walled Vegetable Garden. The pair have been leading tours of the gardens all week with Kelvin and Dan from the gardening staff, and have enjoyed chatting away to the visiting public and giving them all sorts of gardening advice.

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

Ep. 225 - It's the Grow Your Own episode! Lucy takes you on a tour of her home plot, where she's been applying all she's learnt about growing delicious fruits, vegetables and herbs01 Jun 202400:36:00

Spring is the time of the gardening year where all gardeners sigh with relief, it's really time to get out and about and enjoy the wonderful world of horticulture.  A garden waking up and showing its early colour and form is a wonderful space to live and work in, an it's no exception that Lucy and Saul revel in this time of year, as their gardening lives start to get busier with sowing, planting, propagation, mowing, mulching and all other gardening tasks. Sprinkle in some early flower shows and the odd plant fair and our gardening life is complete, so thank god for Spring!

For those who know Lucy, you'll understand how much joy growing your own food brings her. In the decade of her looking after the walled kitchen garden at East Donyland Hall, along with memories gained via her smallholding upbringing, growing fruits, vegetables and herbs is within her blood. She's applied all she's learnt to a 40 x 40ft space, nestling in rural Essex. And in this episode, she takes you on a detailed tour of this space, discussing edibles you'll certainly know, but also introducing you to some you may not.

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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. 133 - The Highs vs. The Lows of Gardening - Saul and Lucy talk the wonderful Easter Break and Adoring Garden Owners vs. Box Moth and falling Hanging Baskets - there's always an emotional rollercoaster in the garden!23 Apr 202200:31:52

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

We've all had triumphs and tragedy in our personal gardening adventures, and professional Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are no different. Over Easter there have been some wonderful moments for the pair including saving the Easter Bunny and the generosity of Gardening peers when deliveries of Plants and Horti-books. But as with all the natural world disasters to occur that can send even the most hardened Head Gardener into a world of despair. So buckle up as we explore the highs and lows of our gardening lives!

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

Ep. 132 - Get yourselves outside! With this Easter weekend's glorious weather, Lucy and Saul discuss the technicalities of sowing directly into the earth. Plus, there's exciting flame gun news!16 Apr 202200:38:07

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Sowing directly into the soil is a forgotten skill, so Saul and Lucy jog the memories of their podcast audience to remind them of the different way to get this technique right. Plus, discover why Saul is relying on the stimulatory effects of wild garlic, after a tour around Hampshire. Lucy reveals how the first firing up of her Sheen x300 flame gun went, and the duo also launch the second of their exciting prize draws.

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

Ep. 131 - Saul's back has healed, which, along with Lucy, makes them appreciate how important their bodies are to their careers. The pair also take a look at the recent frosty weather and bring some of the delights from their meadows.09 Apr 202200:31:40

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

With Saul 'back' upright and in the garden, Lucy and him have a small chat on how important looking after your body is when it comes to having a long and healthy horticultural career. The pair also talk about the sudden, and in most cases damaging, frost that the whole country experienced - trying to control temperatures in the Greenhouse is an especially challenging task. We also see how our meadows are progressing with some timely intervention by Lucy to remove a thuggish problem. So tune in for more gardening waffle!

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

Ep. 130 - With Saul out of action due to a bad back, Lucy gives you a guided tour of her home kitchen garden. Expect ambient gravel sounds, discussions about the cold snap, a sneak inside her beloved greenhouse - and a grand rhubarb reveal.02 Apr 202200:30:00

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Ouch! Mr Walker is out for the horticultural count with a bad back, so Lucy goes solo this week by giving you a guide of her kitchen garden. At 40x40ft she's packed a plethora of crops into this area (blueberries, raspberries, pears, apples, cherries, peaches, gages, rhubarb, asparagus - the list goes on and on) so in this episode she gives you an insight into what any respectful grow-your-owner would be doing on their spring plot. With the weather yoyo-ing, her thoughts are dominated by how her fruit flowers will deal with this chilly spell - only time will tell how her precious crops fare.

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

Ep. 129 - Saul and Lucy are in Essex visiting Audley End Gardens - so when the pair are together the Horticultural waffle is off the scale - expect trained fruit, biofumigants and we announce the winner of our Supporter's competition.27 Mar 202200:32:39

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Saul and Lucy are on the road in Essex again - this time visiting Audley End Garden on a secret mission to do some filming. So seeing each other again promotes some more entertaining Horticultural waffle, as they bask in the glorious Spring sunshine and warmth that has characterised the last week or so over most of the UK. The pair chat about trained fruit, their meadows waking up and Lucy's new experiment with Bio-fumigants. We also announce the winner of our first ever Supporters competition for a pair of Niwaki Secateurs and cleaning kit.

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

Ep. 128 - Machinery, hand tools and compost are in every gardener's essential kit, so Lucy and Saul reveal some must-haves for their respective potting sheds. Plus, we have Niwaki to thank for our first ever exciting prize draw. 17 Mar 202200:34:31

Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

With Lucy being poorly, and Saul tied up with the post-storms clear up, both Head Gardeners admit to being a fortnight or so behind their usual timetable. Mulching needs attention, and so the duo crack on with various spring jobs. Lucy also visited the Garden Press Event, looking for new peat-free composts and securing a beautiful pair of Niwaki secateurs as a thank-you to the podcast's Buymeacoffee supporters. Saul also talks shredders, observing how these substantial machines have improved in design and quality over the decades.

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. 127 - Seed packets are being torn open up and down the country, as we germinate both Veg and Flower plants for the year ahead. Prompted by one of our listeners Saul and Lucy talk about storage and some sowing tips.13 Mar 202200:33:29

Spring 2022 has just arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the beginning tufts of seedlings a herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - its a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

If there is one guarantee in March is that the nations gardeners are splurging their money on seed packets for both the Vegetable Garden and for annuals and perennials in their flower borders. One of our listeners, Nikki Parsons, is one such gardener who got in contact with us to ask about how we store our seed and what we do when we don't have a seed packet's crucial sowing instructions in front of us? We also give a few tips on watering, talks Blood Oranges and Rhubarb and give a huge amount of thanks to our Buymeacoffee supporters!

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. 126 - Time for some horticultural spring chatter - Lucy and Saul are buoyant that Magnolia is flowering, Garden musings are filling the airwaves and many of those Spring plant fairs and shows are about to occur.05 Mar 202200:31:30

Spring 2022 has just arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the beginning tufts of seedlings a herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - its a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most joyous of seasons unfolds!

Meteorological spring has passed and we can officially look forward to longer days and temperatures slowly creeping upwards (no frosts please!). For Lucy and Saul this means more than ever we can engage with those jobs that all gardeners love and shake off the waterproofs and thermals that characterise are winter wardrobe. Magnolia is flowering,  the last of the over-wintering vegetables are being consumed, Spring fairs and flower shows are on the horizon and were even looking at our budgets to see what planty delights (and occasional bit of kit) we can afford. So join us for some more Talking Heads Horti-waffle!

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. 125 - Weathering the storm - in the aftermath of Dudley, Eunice, Franklin and Gladys how did Saul and Lucy's respective estates fare? And what on earth are weather bombs and sting jets? Listen in to find out.25 Feb 202200:34:34

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

When warm air and cold air do a merry dance about the North Atlantic waters, it concludes with turbulent times over the UK. Storms Dudley, Eunice, Franklin and Gladys wreaked their havoc last week, and now gardens up and down the country are clearing up the resulting damage. Lucy and Saul discuss the effects of these "once in a generation" wind speeds on the Donyland and Stonelands estates, plus they get to grips with a few impressive meteorological terms. Remedial pruning is also on the menu, and the duo achieve an optimistic attitude towards the opportunities this brings.


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 #15 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation by David Turner, Marketing Services Manager at Mr Fothergills Seeds, where we talk about retailing flower and vegetable seeds and how they coped during the pandemic.20 Feb 202200:44:16

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 #15 we are joined by David Turner, Marketing Services Manager at Mr Fothergills Seeds. David has spent many years around the retailing and marketing of many horticultural amenity products and has spent the last decade with Mr Fothergills as their PR Contact and liaising with both the industry and the public on its various seed products. We have a good chat to him about his job, the seed industry in general and also an in-depth look at how they coped with the pandemic when Seed orders increased 500% almost overnight!!

Twitter links:
Mr Fothergills Seeds @MrFothergill
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. 224 - The RHS Chelsea Flower show happens with a floral big bang every year, and Lucy and Saul bring you some of their highlights as they get a privileged Monday preview.26 May 202400:39:52

Spring is the time of the gardening year where all gardeners sigh with relief, it's really time to get out and about and enjoy the wonderful world of horticulture.  A garden waking up and showing its early colour and form is a wonderful space to live and work in, an it's no exception that Lucy and Saul revel in this time of year, as their gardening lives start to get busier with sowing, planting, propagation, mowing, mulching and all other gardening tasks. Sprinkle in some early flower shows and the odd plant fair and our gardening life is complete, so thank god for Spring!

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is again upon us, as gardening gets its 'Wimbledon' moment where everyone becomes a gardener for one week. Manicured gardens, fantastic flowers and plants, amazing skill and a lot of perspiration is on display as the horticultural world strives to put on the most mesmerising display of Gardening this year. Lucy and Saul are privileged to be allowed to attend the Monday press day for a preview of the show, and as ever the pair are wowed by the efforts that nurseryman, garden designer, landscaper and trade stands put on. So listen in for a few highlights, the odd quibble and lots of seeing our friends (and the odd celebrity )along the way.

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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. 124 - Prepare yourself for discussions on spring colour, new trailers and garden visits. Also brace your brain for a full-blown explanation on potato chitting, as Saul and Lucy get their teeth into another episode of the Talking Heads Podcast.10 Feb 202200:31:00

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

Saul reveals that the tell tale signs of spring are emerging in Devon, whereas Lucy still waits patiently for Essex to catch up on its floral displays. Forced bulbs, new purchases and a cunning plan to thwart mice damage all get the attention of Lucy and Saul this week, as Saul admits his sticker addiction to the masses and Lucy claims that Essex mice have definitely watched Mission Impossible. The duo also discuss the excitement that visiting new gardens can bring. Saul has already begun his 2022 road trip, whereas Lucy is still sitting on the starting grid. Spring, it seems, is definitely around the corner.


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. 123 - The excitement builds at Stonelands and East Donyland, as Saul and Lucy are beginning to see the signs of the garden stirring for the new season ahead - but there is still the potential for some cold, so stay wrapped up warm. 05 Feb 202200:31:58

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul are starting to get excited - the new garden season is almost upon us, days are getting longer and early spring flowers, bulbs and blossom is starting to appear. They have lots to chat about as the work begins to focus towards the coming year from the benefits of storing your precious harvests to the very unseasonable need to mow your lawns in mid-winter. They also emphasise that although it may get cold out there gardeners are still working hard and what you wear and how you work is essential to prevent one's toes and nose from feeling the frost!


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. 122 - It's snowdrop time! Saul and Lucy discuss their favourites, and we also chat about box moth controls, hedge laying and using plant-based biofumigants in the garden.29 Jan 202200:38:26

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

One of Saul's many tasks this winter was to organise a snowdrop festival - so after its success Lucy wanted to pick his brains about this diminutive bulb's allure, it's cultivation and Saul's must-grow varieties. In return, Lucy reveals to Saul that her flame gun is on order (exciting!) and she also discusses her plans to use plant-based biofumigants in the walled kitchen garden at East Donyland Hall. Listener, Ian, also has his question about box moth answered.


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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Special Tribute Episode: Peter Seabrook - a titan and ever present champion of the horticulture industry sadly passed away a week ago - here we pay tribute and replay our precious interview with him from January 202122 Jan 202201:00:38

Last week, Friday 14th January we lost one of the Horticultural world's icons in Peter Seabrook - for six decades he relentlessly championed the sector, gardens and those gardeners he worked with. His sudden death has saddened many people including Saul and Lucy who had the honour to get to know him in their gardening lives. On this special tribute episode we pay tribute to him and replay our interview with him from the beginning of last year. RIP Peter.

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Ep. 121 - The seed sowing season is almost here - have you made your seed orders yet? In this episode, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul discuss what prestigious varieties are lucky enough to make it onto their respective order lists.15 Jan 202200:35:50

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

The thought of cracking open the first seed packets of the year whets any gardeners appetite, but what varieties make their way onto Saul and Lucy's order list? In this episode the duo explain what parameters persuade them to order specific seeds. Large estates have the luxury of space allowing us to run our own trials, plus estate owners have their own benchmark 'must-grow' crops. But influences such as RHS AGM varieties, improvements in disease resistance - and even the lure of a catchy name - all help Lucy and Saul whittle down and fine-tune their orders.


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. 120 - It's the start of a new year, so the two Head Gardener hosts, Lucy and Saul, catch up after the festive break and discuss what's been happening in their horticultural lives08 Jan 202200:31:50

We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits), and what plans they have for their own private gardens.

It's the New Year, so Saul and Lucy are feeling well rested after their Christmas break. Both received gifts that any green-fingered person would enjoy, and both admit to putting on a little festive weight. So, with intentions to crack on with their gardening teams, Saul tells Lucy what he's been up to at Stonelands this week, and Lucy reveals what's been keeping her busy at her keyboard these past few months. This Head Gardening duo are certainly not resting on their laurels - it's still a busy and exciting world that they live 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. 119 - As the end of 2021 beckons, Saul and Lucy become reflective and begin to think about the gardening resolutions they wish to make for the coming year.19 Dec 202100:34:35

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

The year is almost out as Christmas and the New Year celebrations begin! A perfect time for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul to have a ponder about the last year (or the last two years really!) and define how the wish to approach their gardening practice for the coming season and those resolutions that will stoke some energy and joy into the horticultural spaces where the love to linger. This is the last episode of this year, so to all our listeners we both wish you a very Happy Christmas and look forward to talking (waffling!) to you all again in 2022.

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. 118 - With no particular subject for this episode Lucy and Saul chat, debate and discuss their way through all sorts of gardening topics with storms, decimated carrots, nuisance bamboo and spineless holly all on the menu. 11 Dec 202100:31:49

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul realised they had no topic for this podcast and instead of taking a few minutes to figure one out, they just pressed recorded and start what came naturally to both of them - horticultural waffle! So the pair discuss what is going on in their gardens and their lives - Bamboo, Holly, Carrots, Trees and Laurel all find their way onto the podcast.

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. 117 - Dust off your finest (virtual) togs - it's the 2021 Garden Media Guild Awards! Saul and Lucy sing the praises of some of the finest horticultural communicators our industry has to offer.02 Dec 202100:31:40

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

The gardening sector is jam packed with writers, bloggers, radio broadcasters, TV personalities, authors, photographers, influencers - and, we add humbly - podcasters such as yours truly. So, we were on the edge of our seats when the winners of the 2021 Garden Media Guild Awards were announced recently. Did Lucy and Saul bag a gong? Were we both dancing on our respective potting benches? This year, as finalists, we were the bridesmaids - but who were the brides?! Listen in to find out.

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. 116 - Hedges are important! When it comes to choosing, planting and pruning Lucy and Saul know that planning and preparation is key. In this episode, they discuss their respective hedging masterplans.27 Nov 202100:34:49

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

Whether you love formal or informal, evergreen or deciduous, large or small - hedges play an intrinsic role in our gardens. There is a hedging plant to suit all gardens, tastes and budgets but it's crucial to put some thought into exactly what and how you want to plant, to ensure the hedge meets your specific needs. Saul and Lucy muse on what would be their hedging masterclass.

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. 223 - Our gardens are ramping up! Whether it's edibles on their plots or ornamentals at Stonelands and Beth Chattos, Saul and Lucy can see that the rate of growth has hit warp speed - and talking of things speeding along, it's almost Chelsea o'clock17 May 202400:35:19

Spring is the time of the gardening year where all gardeners sigh with relief, it's really time to get out and about and enjoy the wonderful world of horticulture.  A garden waking up and showing its early colour and form is a wonderful space to live and work in, an it's no exception that Lucy and Saul revel in this time of year, as their gardening lives start to get busier with sowing, planting, propagation, mowing, mulching and all other gardening tasks. Sprinkle in some early flower shows and the odd plant fair and our gardening life is complete, so thank god for Spring!

Without a doubt, spring is in full throttle, both in Devon and in Essex. Lucy and Saul are enjoying produce from their plots, and displays in their borders - Lucy even managed to squeeze in a visit to her local Beth Chatto gardens, courtesy of the Garden Media Guild. Seeing how famous gardeners plant up their gardens is such an enjoyable process, and this will also be echoed later this month when the duo step out onto the Chelsea Flower Show showground.

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc

Twitter links:
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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Bonus Episode #14 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation by Brendan Arundel - the new Head Gardener at Helmingham Hall in Suffolk - and he reveals his thoughts on taking up his first head gardening role.21 Nov 202100:43:25

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 #14 we are joined by the brand new Head Gardener at Helmingham Hall, Brendan Arundel. Having made the jump from Cambridge Botanic Garden and Wisley Apprentice, via RHS Hyde Hall to Helmingham in no short time, Brendan gives us his thoughts on becoming a first time Head Gardener, the confidence it takes to make that step up into managing an historic space and his advice to those who have started in our industry about how to reach this worthwhile career milestone.

Apologies for some of the audio quality on this interview.

Twitter links:
Brendan @BrendanArundel
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. 115 - Summer and Autumn in the Vegetable Garden may have passed, but how much should we focus on Winter as well - Lucy lets Saul know there's lots more going on than we think!14 Nov 202100:31:06

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

Throughout  Spring, Summer and Autumn we think of the Vegetable plots as a hive of growing energy and then a larder of beautiful fruit and veg for our kitchens - but are we guilty of switching of during the winter believing that there not much going on. Well lucy lets Saul know that actually the winter time can be just as busy when it comes to growing, harvesting and planning in the vegetable garden!

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. 114 - Autumn leaves are showing their colours, but what exactly is happening for the tones of yellow, orange, red and purple to be at their glorious best? In this episode, Saul and Lucy delve in to the science of autumn colour.06 Nov 202100:35:24

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

Autumn leaf colours are one of the marvels of our temperate climate, but what exactly is happening within the leaf, and why do some trees and shrubs exhibit more glorious tones than others? Lucy and Saul muse on this topic, delving into the world of chlorophyll, anthocyanins and carotenoids. Leafmould, too, is at our fingertips at this time of year - is there science behind this? You bet!

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. 113 - At this time in Autumn there is an abundance of produce coming out of our Kitchen Gardens - but does anything beat the taste of a home-grown Apple or a swig of freshly pressed Apple juice - Saul and Lucy don't think so!30 Oct 202100:36:05

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

One of Saul and Lucy's great joys at this time of year is to have a wander into the orchards they look after, pluck an apple straight from the tree and sink their teeth into one of nature's greatest fruits! And both implore you to take a look at the 100's and 100's of varieties that can be grown in this country to find your favourite and give it a go in your garden - from Cox's Orange Pippin to Pitmaston's Pineapple, the wonderfully complex world of Apples is a feast of flavour, colour and texture.

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. 112 - There's been a disaster! (Well, actually, there have been a few in the garden this year). But these give us opportunities to learn, so Lucy and Saul reveal what 2021 has taught them.24 Oct 202100:39:20

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!

Well, in actual fact - don't mention Saul's pumpkins or Lucy's parsnips, because both have gone awry this year. But, when things go wrong in the garden it's an opportunity to learn, and both Head Gardeners are happy to confess that new pests, persistent weeds and ingrained behaviours have taught them a lot this year. Ultimately, that the very best approach when disasters strike - take it on the chin, learn from your observations, and step forward into 2022 with newfound knowledge. So, onwards and upwards!

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 #13 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation by Steven Edney - Head Gardener and Plantsman with an unrivalled passion for plant life, as he talks about his career and his latest ventures on 'The Land'11 Oct 202100:52:13

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 #13 we are joined by the wonderfully energetic Plantsman and Head Gardener  Steven Edney - who in his gardening career has built a lasting legacy of clever and spectacular planting as Head Gardener at The Salutation and briefly at Canterbury Cathedral, before jumping full throttle with his partner Lou Dowle into the very exciting cultivation of their own 3 acre plot - 'The Land' - with its 100m long border, 1-acre Jungle Garden and new 'No-name' nursery space.

Twitter links:
Steven @stevenedney4
Lou @LouDowle
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. 111 - For an instant splash of colour in Spring planting bulbs now throughout the Autumn is the single most effective way of welcoming in the new gardening season, so Lucy and Saul take a look at their recent bulb orders. 02 Oct 202100:31:36

The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!
 
Although Autumn may bring signs that this year's gardening season is coming to end - it is also the perfect time to plan and prepare for next years display - and this is very nicely encapsulated by planting bulbs. Bulbs are always a trust exercise in the hope of a brilliant display to start the Spring in the coming year, so Lucy and Saul have a chat about what bulbs they are purchasing and how they use them in the gardens they look after.

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. 110 - At the start of a week off from Stonelands, Saul visited the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for the first time in 7 years and gives you his take on the first ever Autumnal Chelsea!26 Sep 202100:29:52

Summer is upon us at last! The warmer weather seems much overdue this year, so Lucy and Saul are relieved to at last see the abundance of growth that this season can bring. This explosion requires selective intervention and management, so get ready for lively conversations about how these two experienced Head Gardeners keep calm - and cool - during the garden's peak period.
 
At the start of Saul's week break from his usual working life at Stonelands he travelled up to his old stomping ground in London to visit the RHS Chelsea Flower show - an event he managed some 7 years ago and he hadn't visited since. With the added bonus of being the first ever Chelsea held in September he was very much looking forward to seeing if the show had evolved and gives his opinion on the show.

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. 109 - The flowers in Lucy and Saul's meadows are now over and shedding their precious seed for next years display - this is a very important time in the year for cutting, sowing seed and winter maintenance in preparation for next year.18 Sep 202100:34:17

Summer is upon us at last! The warmer weather seems much overdue this year, so Lucy and Saul are relieved to at last see the abundance of growth that this season can bring. This explosion requires selective intervention and management, so get ready for lively conversations about how these two experienced Head Gardeners keep calm - and cool - during the garden's peak period.
 
If there is a subject that gets regularly looked at on the Talking Heads Podcast its Saul and Lucy's meadows which they are both very rightly proud of! And the late summer into autumn period is an essential period in any meadows meadows maintenance, as it is usually (but not always!) time to cut any meadow and start thinking about sowing or planting any new additions for next years display. So join Saul and Lucy as they chat about the hard work they are doing now, required to keep your meadow vigorous and beautiful in the coming 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. 108 - Get ready! For an event, that is. Lucy gives you a quick tour of her kitchen garden, then explains what's happening behind the scenes in the build up to summer parties and other major events on any large estate.12 Sep 202100:24:50

Summer is upon us at last! The warmer weather seems much overdue this year, so Lucy and Saul are relieved to at last see the abundance of growth that this season can bring. This explosion requires selective intervention and management, so get ready for lively conversations about how these two experienced Head Gardeners keep calm - and cool - during the garden's peak period.
 
This week, Lucy is on her lonesome but she keeps herself busy by giving us a tour of the autumnal highlights (and lowlights) of her home kitchen garden. She's also been run off her feet organising the Hall's garden for a major event, so she gives us an insight into what's happening in the brain of any Head Gardener in the build up to such significant dates. There have been plenty of lists....!

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. 222 - It's been a whole year, but Talking Heads is back at Beaulieu for their annual outing at BBC Gardeners World Spring Fair - leading tours and running workshops - its one of the most enjoyable parts of the year!06 May 202400:31:56

Spring is the time of the gardening year where all gardeners sigh with relief, it's really time to get out and about and enjoy the wonderful world of horticulture.  A garden waking up and showing its early colour and form is a wonderful space to live and work in, an it's no exception that Lucy and Saul revel in this time of year, as their gardening lives start to get busier with sowing, planting, propagation, mowing, mulching and all other gardening tasks. Sprinkle in some early flower shows and the odd plant fair and our gardening life is complete, so thank god for Spring!

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 in the New Forest. This year the Talking Heads duo have had the pleasure of giving their usual Plant Expert tours with Head Gardener, Kelvin Yapp, and former gardener, Dan Blaney - but also giving workshops on Seed Sowing, Houseplants and Grow our Own! As ever the Beaulieu garden gang have been consummate hosts - and for the first time this year we've even had the back-up and incredible plant knowledge of Tamsin Westhorpe - the newest member of the plant expert cadre!

Instagram Links:
Lucy headgardenerlc
Tamsin tamsinwesthrope

Twitter links:
Saul @GardeningSaul
Tamsin @TamsinWesthrope

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. 107 - Lucy and Saul have just completed an epic 4-day stint on the Plant Experts Desk at BBC Gardeners' World Live! Hear what the public had to ask - and how we answered them - in this latest episode.04 Sep 202100:34:12

Saul and Lucy are at BBC Gardener's World Live - Special Edition as the Plant Experts. The show spans the 26-29th August and consists of a Special Edition from the outside areas of the usual show ground and the Floral Marquee - bringing some beautiful gardens and wonderful plants to see and buy.
 
Our main role at BBC GWLive is to man the Plant Experts Desk. Over the 4-day show period Lucy and Saul answered nigh on 1,000 plant-based queries, from how to control a nuisance pest to where to buy that must-have plant. Being at the coalface puts us in a unique position, so let these two Head Gardeners reveal what the most popular questions were at this year's Special Edition show.

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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BBC GWLive Bonus Episode #4: As the show draws to a close Lucy and Saul take a look at the wonderful show gardens, exemplifying what can be done with your personal space at home. 30 Aug 202100:24:13

Saul and Lucy are at BBC Gardener's World Live - Special Edition as the Plant Experts. The show spans the 26-29th August and consists of a Special Edition from the outside areas of the usual show ground and the Floral Marquee - bringing some beautiful gardens and wonderful plants to see and buy.
 
As the show draws to a close Saul and Lucy focus on the show gardens - a blend of contemporary cottage chic, fiery urban jungles, 21st century living and an amazing garden from the Association of Professional Landscapers that highlights the stellar and somewhat underappreciated work that goes into building much of the hard landscaping in our precious green spaces.

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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BBC GWLive Bonus Episode #3: Lucy and Saul sat down with the face of Friday Night Gardening, Monty Don, to talk about how he manages Longmeadow, deals with it being one of the most filmed gardens in the UK and his plans for its future.29 Aug 202100:29:32

Saul and Lucy are at BBC Gardener's World Live - Special Edition as the Plant Experts. The show spans the 26-29th August and consists of a Special Edition from the outside areas of the usual show ground and the Floral Marquee - bringing some beautiful gardens and wonderful plants to see and buy.
 
On Day 3 of the show, Saul and Lucy had the great privilege of sitting down with Monty Don, the face of Friday Night Gardening, to talk about his great love for Longmeadow (his garden in Herefordshire), how he manages its creation and maintenance and his plans for its future while juggling the demands of being one of the most filmed gardens in the world.

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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