Back

Explore every episode of the podcast Your Garden Coach NZ

Dive into the complete episode list for Your Garden Coach NZ. 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.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 102

TitlePub. DateDuration
Spring Season 2 Episode 210 Sep 202400:36:52

🌼 Spring Season 2, Episode 2 is LIVE! 🎧

Catch us on Buzzsprout, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for this week's gardening goodness! 🌱

🌿 Episode Highlights:

🏡 Planting Your Glasshouse: Got a new glasshouse and not sure where to start? We've got tips to help you! 🍅🥒

👧 Gardening with Children (Part 2): Learn how gardening can build self-image and empower kids. 🌻

🥬 What's Harvesting in NZ? Find out what's in season right now!

🌾 Foraging Focus: It's time to hunt for Nettles, Chickweed, and Cleavers—nutrient-packed wild greens!

🌱 Windowsill & Container Gardening: Fresh ideas to get you started.

📅 Garden Planner: Sow and plant until the 15th, then it's time to cultivate. With our recent Spring rainfall, weeding just got easier!

🐞 Companion Planting Tips: Attract beneficial insects and control pests naturally.

🎉 Congrats to Brooke O’Connor: Winner of this week's Kings Seeds voucher!

🥗 Vegetable of the Week: Spring Leafy Greens!

📚 Book of the Week: The Compost Coach by Kate Flood.

🪱 Worm Wee: Myth or Truth? We uncover the answer!

💚 Tune in now and grow with us!  🌼

#GardeningPodcast #SpringGardening #OrganicGardening #YourGardenCoachNZ #ForagingFun #GrowYourOwnFood

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Season 2 Episode 103 Sep 202400:28:54

🌿 Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1! 🌿

Jen and I originally set out to create a year’s worth of gardening podcasts, packed with tips and tricks for beginner gardeners and the skills we’ve picked up along the way. But thanks to your incredible support, we’re thrilled to keep going! 🎉

This season, expect fresh advice, inspiring guest talks, and maybe even a few local workshops! 🧑‍🌾

In today’s episode: ✨ We revisit our reasons for gardening by the moon. ✨ Begin a 5-part series on Gardening with Children — a topic close to my heart as a former Early Childhood Educator. Today’s focus: "Sowing the Seeds of Well-Being." ✨ Spotlight on @thegrizzlyforager — we love their posts! ✨ Veg of the Week: Peas! Tips on sowing and caring for them. ✨ Book feature: Futureproof Your Garden by Angus Stewart and Emma Stewart. ✨ Giveaway Alert! Caroline Quentin’s Drawn To The Garden is up for grabs! Enter by emailing us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz — winner announced on September 17th!

🌱 And a huge congratulations to Sam from @Clairesmaraintamakimakaurau, winner of the Kings Seeds Voucher! Sam’s beautiful story touched our hearts — tending her late mother Claire’s garden, a place filled with love and memories. 💚

Happy gardening, Ali & Jen 🌼

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 3821 Jun 202400:28:28

Happy Winter Solstice, by the time you are listening to this episode (late again), you will be on the right side of the season, heading straight towards Spring. On the other hand, here in France, where Summer is yet to arrive, we've received incredible quantities of rain every day. 
We fitted actual floodgates at a friends house this afternoon, a fabulous design used in many low-lying areas of the UK and Europe. Floods are becoming more common-place as I reported about one of the Garden designs at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
I digress, suffice to say my feet are now webbed and my hair has given up on ever looking tidy again!

This week  I report on our trip to Mottistone Gardens on the Isle of Wight.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/isle-of-wight/mottistone-gardens-and-estate Take a look if you have a minute. It's gorgeous.

We update you on your current garden tasks, and announce this weeks $20 Voucher winner. Aimee @yeoldsoul Congratulations Aimee.

Google, and take a look at my foraged French vegetable this week, Prussian or Wild Asparagus Ornithogalum Pyrenaium! It's delicious. 

Thank you to everyone who writes in with their garden stories, it is wonderful to hear what is happening around our beautiful country - do keep your emails coming.

Thank you again to those who financially support us via Buzzsprout and Patreon, we really appreciate your support.

Happy gardening,
Ali and Jen



Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 3716 Jun 202400:22:01

Once again we apologise for the delay in releasing this episode. We will try harder.


This week we take a look at the moon calendar. It’s’ sowing and planting time and we have a few suggestions for your vegetable and flower gardens.


Ali visited Eltham Palace and grounds just after visiting RHS Chelsea, this garden is definitely one to visit if you find yourself in London. 

Boyhood home to King Henry VIII. The Palace was modernised in the 1930’s in Art Deco style.


Congratulations to our $20 Kings Seed Voucher winner. Emma Wood.


If you have a minute the link below will take you to the Eltham Palace website.


https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/eltham-palace-and-gardens/


A helpful tip if you are a gardener or into history, and traveling to the UK The Heritage New Zealand Card (about $50) gets you into every National Trust and English Heritage property and Gardens for Free! 

Normal entry fees range from £10 to £30. 



Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3605 Jun 202400:18:51

Apologies once again for the delay in uploading the podcast - I am definitely on French time.
Another RHS Chelsea report today. Hope you enjoy it.
Stay warm, but do get your hands in the dirt as often as you can, it will make you feel good. 
Ali

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3530 May 202400:38:57

A special report from RHS Chelsea Flower Show this week. 
Ali was incredibly fortunate to be invited into one of the Show Gardens to interview the designers. 
 What a surreal experience to be recording the very talented Dido Milne and Sophie Parmenter in the garden they designed for The National Autistic Society. An enveloping, safe and calm garden in the midst of a bustling show. Upon stepping into the garden, this girl from the countryside who prefers peace and quiet, was completely rejuvinated. This garden will be relocated to a National Autistic Society site at Catrine Bank in Scotland, where, I am certain, many clients will benefit greatly.

Web links below
 
Su Hoskin is back to talk about the Hāwea Food Forest - Community Food Forests are buzzing with activity and camaraderie, and participants get to enjoy the fruits of their labour, it’s a win - win.

Dandelion root tea is the flavour of the day - actually it’s more a coffee substitute, will Jen like this one??


Barren period until 2nd June then its Root crops 3rd & 4th… Keep planting bulbs for Spring colour.


The winter crops are being harvested now, the last of the pumpkins, Jerusalem Artichokes and NZ Yams. Plus your winter greens, Kale, spinach, winter lettuce.


Micro greens are very fashionable, and so easy to grow on your window sill.


Book of the Week - My Garden World, Monty Don - an audio version for me as I am travelling and as we only tale carry on luggage there is no room for books (actually I am hand delivering a copy of Secret Gardens of Aotearoa by Jane Mahoney and Sophie Bannan, to a friend in France - so I do have one book with me)


Congratulations to Sandie Jordan, Sandie won this weeks @kingsseedsnz voucher. 


And our very popular competition for the SustainaGrow Prize pack has been won by Rachel Chamberlain - Rachel said she loves the podcast - it starts her gardening day on Thursday’s nicely. 


https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show/Gardens/2024/national-autistic-society-garden


https://cskarchitects.co.uk/

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3422 May 202400:31:20

Hello listeners, 
I am currently in transit and technology is getting the better of me. I've finally managed to upload this week's podcast but... I cant get my notes to update you on what is in the podcast. So, you will have a lovely surprise.
Hoping to update this blurb when I get settled in France. 
In the meantime, happy listening and happy gardening, 
Ali

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3315 May 202401:04:20

This week, by popular request, we give some tips on what to record in your diaries to make the most of your observations and assist with forward planning.

We have two guests this week, Phoebe Atkinson from @nga_kaupeka, Phoebe is a founding member of the Secret Gardens of Aotearoa group and the strength behind the very successful Forrest Hill Community Garden.
Our second guest is Rita Hammond from SustainaGrow - Rita talks about her innovative wool mats, and she has a fabulous competition available to our NZ based listeners.

Our Kings Seeds weekly competition winner is Sue Jones-Nicholson from @laurelwood_feilding

Tea Blend this week is Cecily's Blend
Linden leaves and flowers, lavender, lemon balm, and rose (you can also add licorice root if you enjoy that)

We review 'Six Inches of Soil' a documentary showing at cinemas around the country. Jen and I highly recommend you watch this heartwarming documentary.

Garden Tasks this week - Sow and Plant until 20th May. Cultivate from 21st June.

How are Jen's micro-greens growing?

Book of the Week Veg In One Bed - Huw Richards


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3208 May 202400:48:44

Rosehip and Pine needle foraged tea


Erin Allison from Harvest Homegrown gives us a snapshot of her Hāwea Market Garden - she also teaches us how to grow micro-greens . @harvesthomegrown book your spot at Erin's Winter Workshop now.


We draw the winner of the 2nd NZ Bulbs Competition - huge thanks to Paul and Gemma for supporting our podcast.


Cultivate 8th & 9th May

Sow and plant from 10th - 20th May


Book - How to store your Home-grown produce - John and Val Harrison


The Money Saving Gardener @anya_the_garden_fairy How to take cuttings and multiply your plants for free.


Instagram account of the week and winner of the $20 @kingsseedsnz voucher - @beeleave.world Congratulations Lizzie, and thank you to Charlotte and the Kings Seeds Team


And for the-pet lovers, we interview Adam Ross and discover his fabulous new pet food @naturallypawsome.nz ask for a sample by emailing Adam via the website www.naturallypawsome.com   adam@naturallypawsome.com


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3130 Apr 202400:37:20

Tea - Kānuka A New Zealand Native


Three gardening periods this week

Barron - 1st-3rd May - avoid planting. “Spoil your soil with goodness”


Sow Root Crops 4th & 5th


In temperate climates sow radish, onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, and try ginger too. 


In frosty zones sow radish, swedes Jerusalem artichoke, and turnips.



Cultivate period 6th - 9th Just do a few odd jobs - store away hoses and protect water timers if you intend leaving them in situ over winter, they will explode if frost gets to them, so cover with a box or some sacks.


We update you on your winter compost methods.


Windowsill gardening - guide to growing micro-greens


Main topic - New Zealand growing Zones


Be sure to post your garden photos on Instagram and Facebook and tag both @yourgardencoach.nz & @kingsseedsnz for your chance to win a $20 voucher from Kings Seeds every week.


We draw the @nzbulbs competition this Friday 3rd May EARLY! so get your entry in before 7am Friday.

Happy gardening everyone 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 3023 Apr 202400:43:45

A busy week this week… Lots of Autumn tasks coming up.


We welcome back the very talented Leah Evans @mrs.evans.garden Leah gives us a Snapshot of her Autumn garden and she has some inspiring wisdom for us.


Tea - Lemon balm and Sage - a favourite of ours.


NZ Bulbs have partnered with us for the 2nd of 3 Bulb Giveaways - Enter this fabulous competition (open to NZ residents only, Drawn on 3rd May, winner announced in Episode 32) email your entry to coach@yourgardencoach.nz with the answer to the Elephant Garlic question.

Check out @clausdalby for bulb planting inspiration then order your bulbs from @nzbulbs Huge thanks to Paul and Gemma at NZ Bulbs for their generous gift pack


This week in the garden - 

Cultivate - 24th & 25th

Sow Root Crops 26th & 27th

Barren period 28th - 3rd May


Garlic - a little bit of knowledge shared. Get planting on 26th and 27th for a bumper crop 


Jerusalem Artichokes, ready after the first frost. We give you the heads up to reduce the farts… Such an easy vegetable garden perennial. 

see www.healthifyme.com/blog/jerusalem-artichoke


Glossary - Polyculture - A Symphony of Diversity in your garden.


Book Botany for Gardeners By Geoff Hodge Allen and Unwin publishers @allenandunwin


Instagram of the Week and winner of the $20 Kings Seeds voucher @theocallaghanclann what a fabulously colourful vegetable garden!


www.gardenmyths.com - pine needles


Happy gardening 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2916 Apr 202400:38:49

We enjoy a cup of Dried Yarrow and Mint tea today - it’s a winner, Jen loves it.

Dr Compost joins us for a chat about… composting! He’s a mine of information and has a few ideas to help Jen get started with composing.

Take a look at Ben’s Socials @dr_compost & Dr Compost on fb, Ben talks about Bokashi composting in his latest video.

We learn about two lesser-known Vitamins G & G. That’s right, Gratitude and Green, we take stock of just how beneficial being grateful and spending time outside is for our health.
Vegetable of the Week is Micro-greens.

Our new segment is ‘Snapshot’.  This is the spot where we connect with gardeners across the nation to uncover their latest endeavours and gardening adventures. 

This week kicks off with us talking to Dr Compost, Ben Elms.

We announce our winner of the weekly $20 Gift Voucher from Kings Seeds.

Shelley Franks @mumofarainbow 

And the Winner of the Gubba Moon Calendar Clock is….. Kate Grantley-Hogg, Congratulations to our winners, and huge thanks to our sponsors.


Sowing and Planting time - what should we be planting now?


Book of the Week - Your Well-being Garden and RHS publication.



Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4628 Aug 202400:26:00

Wow, we've completed our 1st year of Podcasting. 
Spring Episodes, Series 2 start next week and we are refreshing our content for you to enjoy.

This week Asparagus is in the limelight.

Root Crop Sowing on 28th & 29th August.

Happy gardening,

Ali and Jen

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2809 Apr 202400:49:50

Postgraduate Researcher Daniellé du Plooy shares with us her studies into The Future of Food Systems in Aotearoa New Zealand and the role of key stakeholders’ in shaping that future. Daniellé aims to highlight the diversity of values, opportunities, visions and concerns about the future of food in NZ, 

Danilellé has so much valuable knowledge to share, so we sat back and gave her free rein to open our eyes and minds to her relevant and important subject matter.


We take a look at Autumn tasks in your 4 bed crop rotation system.


Braised Beds - the benefits and downsides 


Tea - Goldenrod


What to Sow and Plant in this phase of the moon.


Espaliered fruit trees, what you need to know.


Instagram of the week and winner of the $20 @kingsseedsnz voucher is Sarah from @mynzgarden to take a look at her Instagram account and support her gardening adventures.


Jen gets the giggles about Egyptian Walking Onions


Happy Gardening Ali and Jen

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2703 Apr 202400:46:44

What a week for competitions woohoo!

The winner of our Kings Seeds Seasonal Gift Pack is Rebecca Teonea

The NZ Bulbs Pack goes to Linda- Marie Stokke

And the $20 Weekly Gift Voucher from Kings goes to Rachel Chamberlain 

Congratulations to you all, and huge thanks to Kings Seeds and NZ Bulbs


Yarrow Tea today - We dried the flowers when they were in peak bloom and have stored two jars for use over winter.


Jobs for the Week - so much information on this week's podcast - let’s get the garden looking great before winter.


Vegetable of the Week Broad Beans 


Xeriscaping plant of the Week Marlborough Rock Daisy - Pachystegia


Glossary Term - Dioecious


Garden Myths Website www.gardenmyths.com/coffee-grounds-garden-safe


Competition this week Gubba Moon Calendar Clock @gubbagardenstorenz You will need to listen to the podcast to find out the question, then email coach@yourgardencoach.nz to enter. Thank you to the team at Gubba for their kind gift.


Questions from YGC Listeners - Sandie asked about Lemon Verbena


Instagram account of the Week @teainapinkcup Rachel was the winner of our $20 Kings Seed voucher. Take a look at this “Real Gardener of New Zealand” Rachel has some fabulous images from her stunning garden.


Happy Gardening


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2626 Mar 202400:57:49

In this week's episode:


Beetroot - grow lots, it's so good for your blood. We focus on this vegetable today.


We talk to Paul Hoek from NZ Bulbs, what a delight, Paul tells us everything we need to know to grow gorgeous Spring bulbs. It’s ordering time for bulbs. Paul has a wonderful gift pack for us to give away in this week's competition.


Jane Wrigglesowrth’s Tummy-Taming Tea was supposed to be our tea of the week but time ran out! That’s life! So we talk about it as we drink my favourite Sage Tea.


NOTE: Yotam grows 365 ONIONS not CARROTS!! - my mind wandered as I was recording!


Books - The Everyday Herbalist by Jane Wrigglesworth her tea recipe is on page 164. If you haven’t got this book yet, What are you waiting for?


The Abundant Gardener by Yotam and Niva Kay. This book is always open on my desk, so much lovely information.


We update you on the task for this week in your garden if you follow the moons phases as a guide.


Kings Seeds Seasonal Prize Pack competition closes on 1st April. 


Enter our weekly Kings Seeds competetion to win a 40 Voucher - all you need to do is post a photo of something in your garden (good or sad) and sage @kingsseedsnz and @yourgardencoack_nz 


Happy Gardening

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2520 Mar 202400:44:12

I might take a moment to thank our listeners for joining us each week and for the lovely feedback you give us.

Each message is welcomed and helps us to write the stories you’d like us to tell. Please keep your emails coming. 

Building this gardening community is heartwarming and very fulfilling. You are appreciated.


In this weeks episode we talk to Charlotte from Kings Seeds. A family-owned small business, run with expertise and passion. We’ve discovered our values align well with Charlotte and her team. We both aim to bring encouragement and support to home gardeners.

Charlotte gives us a few suggestions as to what seeds we can start both in the vegetable and flower garden, some of her favourite flowers, and we have a competition for you. A Seasonal Gift basket that Kings Seeds have put together for us. Be sure to listen and enter.


Also, Kings Seeds are offering a $20 gift voucher every week.


Our vegetable of the week is the humble onion - fairly easy to grow and much appreciated in most home-cooked meals. Discover how you can feed your onions so they, in turn, can feed you.


It’s Autumn Equinox today 20th March, at precisely 4.06pm - What is the Autumn Equinox? and how can you celebrate this special event? 


Tea of the week Rose, Lavender, and Cardamom, a relaxing tea.


Sow and plant until 22nd then cultivate your soil, add lots of lovely nutrients to replenish those that have fed your summer vegetables.


Time to plant Brassicas, Brussels Sprouts, Kale, Broccoli.

Cauliflower, Celery, lettuce, silverbeet, snow peas on your windowsill, and the last sowing of Spring onions for the season.


Book of the week - The Allergy-Fighting Garden, how to create a garden for those who suffer with allergies


Victoria from Cromwell asked how we care for herbs over winter…


Glossary - Evapotranspiration, the process by which water is transferred from the land to the atmosphere.


Be sure to enjoy your garden tasks and reap the many rewards.


Happy gardening


Ali and Jen

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2413 Mar 202400:49:38

Podcast Episode 24

What a week! - The Wanaka A&P Show was a huge success, Jen and Ali won a few prizes in the Home Industries Sections Including 1st Place for our Scarecrows.


This week we talk about Wildlife in the Autumn Garden


We bust some Tomato Myths


And we have quite a long list of jobs this week.


The Moon is Waxing which is ideal sowing and planting time.


So make yourself a cup of Ginger and Lemongrass tea and let’s get learning.


Glossary term - Cold Frame - a place to grow winter food if you don’t have a glasshouse.


Book - Zero Waste by Ben Raskin - Wanaka Public Library book


Instagram Account of the Week - @kingsseeds You love the new look and it’s packed with information.


Winner of the Honey Bee Pests and Diseases book by the very lovely Robert Owen, is…Di from Lake Hawea. 


Happy Gardening 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Autumn Episode 2305 Mar 202400:27:10

It’s Autumn, and there's lots happening in the garden and kitchen.


Harvesting is in full swing, pickling, preserving, and so much fresh produce to share.


Autumn tasks include mulching, and choosing bulbs for Spring colour, always a favourite pastime. Keeping those roses going - deadheading and removing any diseased leaves from the area.


Your pumpkins will need plenty of water, and mound up those Yams to keep the sun off the tubers.


Collect good quality seeds and store them carefully - remember to label them. And drop some into your local seed library.


ROOT CROP sowing 6th & 7th March. Radishes, carrots, onions and spring onions.


And give your fruit trees an end-of-season prune.


From the 8th - 11th March It's 'cultivate' time - make lots of lovely compost, and add nutrient-rich organic matter to your beds in readiness for sowing and planting.


We talk a bit about Rose care.


We share the benefits of growing Marigolds as a cover crop.


Thank you to the lovely listeners who write in with their feedback - we appreciate you.


Glossary - Nematode


Book - ‘The Last Garden of England’ Julia Kelly recommended by Meriam


Instagram account of the Week @clausdarby for all your bulb inspiration.


Have a great week - Happy Gardening

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 2227 Feb 202400:44:48

Robert Owen is a delight to listen to, a gentleman beekeeper. With a PhD in Varroa, and having been a beekeeper for 25 years, Robert is a mine of common sense beekeeping advice.


Roberts publishers, Exile Publishing, have kindly donated a copy of ‘Honey Bee Pests and Diseases’ - A Complete Guide to Prevention and Management. Detailed chapters, illustrated with numerous photographs and diagrams, as well as other health-related problems a bee colony might face. An easy-to-comprehend, ‘must-have’ book for both the home and professional bee-keeper.


We catch up on the Moon Calendar tasks for this week. Root Crops sowing on 28th February, the last chance to sow before winter.


What to do with the dribble of milk left in your carton? A great source of calcium for your plants.


Veg of the Week is Pak Choi Green Ace F1 from @kingsseeds 


Book of the Week ‘Soil’, by Matthew Evans ‘A love letter to Mother Earth’


We answer Berit’s garden questions - what do we do with volunteer plants?


Instagram Account of the Week @saintclairflowers beautiful arrangements with prints available. Do take a look.


‘Oley’ tomatoes from Heritage Food Crops Research Centre feature once again - they are delicious.


Happy Gardening


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 2121 Feb 202400:48:46

This week we enjoyed talking with Keren Mackay, aka The Professional Country Woman.

Keren designed a wonderful Crop Rotation Poster that Ali has been referring to for about 10 years - it’s a gem


Keren has kindly gifted a poster to one of our listeners - Listen in to hear how you can win.


Jen and Ali enjoyed fresh apple tea - this delicious drink made with fresh apple juice, a splash of lemon juice, and topped up with boiling water was absolutely delicious. Ideal on a cooler morning.

How can Epsom Salts help in the garden?


Gardening by the Moon - this week we are busy sowing and planting above-ground vegetables.


 Xeriscaping plant to add to your dry garden - Perovskia - Russian Sage, this is a beautiful addition to your garden


Happy Gardening

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 2014 Feb 202400:33:51

Hamish from Seacliff Organics @seaclifforganics

joins us and talks all about the variety of products we can add to improve our soil.

We mentioned the book - 'The Intelligent Gardener' by Steve Soloman

Seed libraries - all you need to know 


Garden tasks this week - Sowing and Planting for winter crops.


Tea - Bee balm… not one of our favourites


Chelsea chop - Jen discovers this is not a dance move!


Vegetable of the week - Kohlrabi

Green - Early White Vienna, Grand Duke & Green Duke

Purple - Purple Vienna, Early Purple Vienna & Purple Azure


We highlight a Xeriscaping plant - Curry Plant / Helichrysum italicum


Pest plants in the Otago region and what to do if you discover any (contact biosecurtiy@orc.govt.nz  

orc.govt.nz/pesthub 


Auckland Seed Saving Society (see Facebook for more details)


Happy Gardening

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1907 Feb 202400:40:26

Are you still confused about gardening by the moon? Let’s talk a bit about why we promote this age-old practice.


Liz Buggs joins us to talk about the Wanaka A&P Show schedule - Do get involved with your local A&P Show, they are a wonderful annual event that reminds us of the benefits of getting together as a community in a very wholesome way.


'Edible Flowers' that brighten our plates and tastebuds, is our main topic this week.


Our Tea of choice today is Lemon balm with a dash of basil - a relaxing/calming brew

For each cup you will need the top growth of both lemon balm and basil - about 6-8 pairs of leaves. Add to a teapot with boiling water and this recipe calls for a long steep of about 15 minutes so employ your tea cosy.


Garden happenings, 6th & 7th Root crop direct sowing

8th-11th Cultivate period.

12th onwards Sowing and planting above-ground fruiting vegetables.


Army Worm Moth and what to do when you find them.


Book - Which Native Plant Can I Grow Here - Andrew Crowe


We introduce a new segment LISTENERS QUESTIONS - Shelley from the Far North wrote to us with a question about purple beans and how to freeze them.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4522 Aug 202400:44:21

It's good to be home, but wow what a wonderful trip. So good to be back in the studio with Jen.

Tomatoes are the talk of gardeners right now - when to get them started?? And other useful information.

Yarrow and Mint Tea, dried and stored last season.

Moon Calendar - Waxing Moon - Root Crop sowing NOW

Book 'Broccoli and Other Love Stories',  Paulette Whitney 

Ali reviews her visit to Chateau de Courterolles in Burgundy. What a wonderful park/garden.

$20 Voucher from Kings Seeds winner this week is Nadia, her Instagram account is @thebarefootkiwigardener. Based in Northland Nadia and her family enjoy freshly caught snapper, with homegrown vegetables. Had to beat that combination.

Happy gardening.
Ali and Jen






Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1831 Jan 202400:29:18

Today we discuss Soil Testing and soil amending. A fascinating subject, we barely scratch the surface of the topic but we will have a follow-up discussion with Hamish from Seacliff Organics later in the month.


Garden tasks this week - we are in the Barren Period until the 6th & 7th when it’s the ideal time to direct sowing root crops.


Todays Tea is a 'blend', suited to enjoying after a big meal, as a digestif

1 tsp dried mint leaves

1 tsp fennel seeds

1 tsp dried ginger root (I used fresh and it was lovely) Also very tasty served iced.

Add boiling water and steep for 8-10 mins

Our Vegetable of the week is the Tokyo Turnip

Glossary Term - Cultivar - A cultivar is a kind of cultivated plant that growers have selected for desired genetic traits and which retains those traits when propagated. the reason for this is to develop certain characteristics for example productivity, growth rate, beauty (flowers), and resistance to certain diseases. The term Variety is also used interchangeably with cultivar.

Book - RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) Your Wellbeing Garden - How to make your garden good for you. 


Happy Gardening 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1730 Jan 202400:34:20

Podcast Episode 17 now available

A little late uploading this time so the dates are slightly off (apologies - Life got in the way) 


Today we talk about water retention in your Summer garden - water restrictions are now in place here in Central Otago, we find out how to make the most of every available drop (and Ali gets a bit grumpy at the excessive irrigation mismanagement around here!)


We enjoy a raspberry leaf tea using leaves from Jen's abundant raspberry patch.


Cultivate phase of the moon Calendar - what are our garden tasks?


Root Crop Sowing on 29th and 30th January


Vegetable of the week is Silverbeet/Swiss chard - what’s the difference?


Instagram account of the Week - @blue_borage

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1617 Jan 202400:23:02

A soothing Chamomile Tea to enjoy whilst listening to Jen and Ali ramble on about -

Bitter lettuce issues
Seed germination tests
Vegetable of the week - Cucumber
What is happening in the garden this week
Windfall apples - don't waste them

Book of the Week - Herbs - Herb Gardening from the Ground Up - Sal Gilbertie & Larry Sheehan

Instagram of the Week - @almaverde.permacultura (based in Chile)


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1512 Jan 202400:47:52

In today's episode 

We interview  Erin Allison, Grower, and owner/operator of Harvest Homegrown in Hawea. Erin generously shares a wealth of vegetable-growing knowledge gained over the last eight years growing food for her weekly subscribers.

Erin talks about her regular hands-on workshops where attendees learn season-relevant, vegetable garden tasks and tricks

Our tea of the day is delicious, refreshing, Sage - so easy to pick a few leaves of this year-round perennial.

We’re in the Cultivate period of the moon calendar until the 13th, then from the 14th of January, it's all go with seed sowing and seedling transplanting.

Windowsill gardening - remember to succession sow your micro sprouts 

Our Vegetable of the week is Garlic - how could we manage without this wonderful staple

Book of the Week - Erin recommends her favourite Winter Vegetable gardening book - The Winter Harvest Handbook by Eliot Coleman A very informative guide but do remember it's aimed at Northern Hemisphere gardening so you will have to adjust the months.

Instagram of the week @harvesthomegrown

Glossary - angustifolium - The numerous long narrow leaves scattered along stems (Latin for narrow-leaved). Example Lavender 

We catch up with Raych from Auckland as she updates us with the most recent ‘find’ in her garden - we love garden bloopers and ‘funnies’ so keep them coming.

Thank you for your lovely feedback, which is very much appreciated.

Happy Gardening   
Jen and Ali

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1403 Jan 202400:42:41

Happy New Year to our lovely listeners. Gosh, it’s hot, gardening is happening early in the morning and after dinner these days, definitely not during the day.

Our big concern here in Central Otago is WATERING!!! We’re parched and any rain we have been receiving has barely wet the surface. This is why we MULCH liberally, it really does help retain moisture around the roots.


In today's episode - 


We enjoy a simple cup of Lemon Tea, lemons always uplift my mood, even just to look at them.


We talk about this week's garden tasks - What was that about fish scraps?…


Plan for sowing root crops on 8th & 9th January.


Propagation by layering is a technique to grow new plants from existing plants in your garden.


Are you renting and are a wanna-be gardener - we can help… Container gardening is not as tricky as you might think.


One of my favourite books - this week we talk about The Dry Garden by Beth Chatto When water becomes precious you’ll find wonderful ideas for Xeriscaping (dry gardening) in this book.

Take a look at the @bethchattogardens account on Instagram for more information.


Congratulations to Claire for winning the beautiful Garden Journal by @madison_coulter_artist This 10-year journal will bring clarity and purpose to your gardening.


Happy gardening, 

Ali and Jen

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer episode 1321 Dec 202300:52:11

We wish our listeners a very Merry Christmas and a happy start to the New Year. Many listeners have told us they will be binge-listening to catch up on our podcasts. Do remember to listen to the most recent podcast first.


Stats show You Garden Coach is now in the top 25% of podcast ‘tune-ins’ in New Zealand - for this, we thank you all. Do keep sharing our Instagram and FB posts to “Grow” the listener base - thank you.


More Foraged Tea, this week the Mullein is looking beautiful growing in the wild and it’s peak picking time for tea and medicine.


Madison Coulter talks to us about relocating to NZ from Canada, her fine art, passion for growing her own food. She tells us all about her beautiful Journal


Madison has kindly gifted a Garden Journal to one of our listeners - email us to enter the competition.


It’s Sowing and Planting time - lots of plants going into the ground now just remember to keep everything well watered and fed.


Our main topic Perennial Herbs - ideal for the new gardener and cook.


Instagram account of the week -@madison_coulter_artist

Check out her unbelievable pet portraits.


Book - Madison Coulter - Garden Journal

https://madisoncoulterfineart.com/products/presale-a-gardeners-journal-10-year-record-book-journal

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1215 Dec 202300:42:50

Foraged Tea - today we try Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) which grows abundantly in our district. I think I've found a new favourite. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding, and if surgery is coming up.

We talk about this week's garden jobs - be sure to listen to the most current episode first. From the 15th of December, we are back into sowing and panting.


Our vegetable of the week is Kale


When to take cuttings  - we all love free plants


Our guest this week is the lovely Jane Wrigglesworth - her new book The Everyday Herbalist is an absolute must-have in your library and contains detailed information on 30 herbs - Jane would have liked to include 60 herbs (hopefully there's another book in the pipeline).

So much practical advice on how to make teas, tinctures, balms, ointments, poultices, and much more. 

You will be amazed at how easy it i to make natural cleaning products too.


The Glossary this week is all about the botanical names for colours.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Summer Episode 1105 Dec 202300:44:32

Feeding the soil that feeds your tomatoes - we learn how to make homemade tomato fertiliser.


Garden happenings for this week according to the moon calendar.


Aphids - what do we do about them?


Instagram account of the week - @she.grows.stuff 


Glossary - Cloche - a bell-shaped cover that protects your seedlings from birds and rabbits (and dogs).


The not-so-secret life of goats - little troublemakers! 


We draw the ‘Hands In The Dirt’ Book giveaway - congratulations Raych Foye 


And, we keep you up to date with the Noticeboard.


All this over a cup of Rose Petal and Vanilla tea.


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 1030 Nov 202300:55:38

Episode 10
In todays episode:
Elderflower Tea

Does birdsong stimulate plant growth?

And we talk with the wonderful Leah Evans about her first book 'Hands in the Dirt' - there's a competition to win a copy. 

Garden Happenings this week
-succession planting
-catmint mosquito repellant
-cabbage white butterflies
-tomato care

Vegetable of the week - Globe Artichoke

Glossary - Floiar Feeding

We draw the winners of the Secret Gardens of Aotearoa book 

and the winner of the potato giveaway from Mege Mitre 10 Wanaka

Recipe for Pickled Radishes

Thinly slice the radishes (or halve them, if you prefer), and divide between about 4 jars.

 The amount of radishes and brine used may vary based on the size and shape of your jars and how you slice your radishes.

Heat the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve, about 1 minute. Pour the brine over the radishes, then stir in the peppercorns and mustard seeds. Let cool and chill until ready to use. Pickled radish slices will be ready to eat in about 1 hour, radish halves are best when pickled overnight.
Store in the fridge

Artichoke Pizza from Nadia Lim - no link on the internet but you'll find the recipe in Nadia's book Fresh Start and it's delicious







Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 922 Nov 202300:55:52

Today we talk to Jane Mahoney, Jane, along with her daughter Sophie Bannan has written a beautiful book 'Secret Gardens of Aotearoa. Ali has a personal attachment to this book as her garden, Crosshill, features along with eleven other New Zealand gardens. Stunning photography, and plenty of tips from humble home gardeners. We know you'll love it as much as we do.

We have a copy to giveaway - listen to the podcast for the question you need to answer and enter by emailing coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Garden tasks this week - Planting and sowing then from 26th it's tidy-up time.

We take a look at the potato - everything you need to know to grow a great crop.

And we announce the winner of our first book giveaway.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4419 Aug 202400:23:42

Stinging nettle tea - it's so good for you.
Cultivate 17th to 20th August.
Sow Root Crops 21-22 then again28th & 29th

We talk about cabbages this week.

Book reference "Secrets of Longevity" Dr Maoshing Ni

Ali reports from L'Escargot Errant - The Wandering Snail

Winner of this week's $20 Voucher Bronwyn @bees.picton.garden

Huge thanks to our financial supporters. Your donations are helping us to bring this podcast to you each and every week.

Happy gardening
Ali and Jen








Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 814 Nov 202300:47:23

Today we talk about - 


Borage Tea

What are Cucurbits?

Square Meter Gardening


We have the privilege of talking to Yotam and Niva Kay from Pākaraka Permaculture


Book - One Magic Square - Lolo Houbein


Our very first Giveaway book - The Abundant Gardener published by Allen and Unwin

Listen to the podcast for competition details (open to NZ listeners only - sorry) send your answers to coach@yourgardencoach.nz


Glossary - Biointensive - A method of organic gardening that focuses on growing a lot of food in a small space. This method focuses on the quality of your homemade soils via amendments, and crops supporting each other


Instagram account of the week - @pakaraka_permaculture


Recipe - Zucchini and Corn Fritter

https://www.recipecommunity.com.au/side-dishes-recipes/corn-and-zucchini-fritters/rkxqt5yi-0ed31-841965-cfcd2-ie5php48


Huge thanks to everyone who attended the ‘Secret Gardens of Aotearoa’ book launch at Crosshill Garden, the weather was perfect, and it was wonderful to see 75 avid gardeners wandering around the garden. We will plan another Garden Party because this one was so much fun.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 708 Nov 202300:28:52

In this episode, we discuss Square Foot Gardening 


We share recipes for Weed Tea Fertiliser and Compost Tea fertiliser.


Todays tea is made from spring Hawthorn leaves and blossom


It’s Root Crop sowing time on 9th & 10th November 2023


Jen tells us just how many seeds the sunflower can produce on each head.


Book - Square Foot Gardening - Mel Bartholomew


Instagram account of the week @forageandfeast


There’s still time to get tickets for the Secret Gardens Book Launch at Ali’s garden this Sunday 12th November 2023

https://events.humanitix.com/secret-gardens-of-aotearoa-book-launch-garden-party-at-crosshill-garden

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 601 Nov 202300:31:40

In this episode, we place the spotlight on Leeks

 What on earth is Hugelkulture?

 And it’s Tomato Time…

 We take a look at 

Garden tasks this week

Gardening by the Moon Calendar

 

Glossary Term – Square Foot Gardening

 

How to buy your tickets for the ‘Secret Gardens of Aotearoa’ book launch at Crosshill Garden 

https://humanitix.com/nz/search?skipPrefillLocation=true&query=Secret+Gardens+&locationQuery=Wānaka&lat=-44.6942992&lng=169.1417356&plId=ChIJby3suR1G1akR4MF5hIbvAAU

 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 524 Oct 202300:29:19

In this episode we talk about - 

  • Garden tasks this week - planting time
  • Spinach - growing notes
  • Food Forests and the Layering System
  • Codling Moth treatment for fruit trees
  • Companion Planting


Garden Tea recipe - Lemon balm, rosemary, ginger and lemon. 


Book of the Week The Joy of Gardening Lynda Hallinan


Glossary - Hugelkulture - Mound or Hill Culture gardening. We’ll go into more detail next week.


Instagram account of the week - sustainable_garden_project


The Tui Garden Planting Calendar 

https://tuigarden.co.nz/planting-calendar


Visit Ali’s garden  - book a 1½ hour hosted garden tour via 

https://secretgardens.co.nz/garden/crosshill-garden/

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 417 Oct 202300:40:31

In this episode, we talk about-

  •  Companion planting
  • Sow and plant phase of the moon 
  • What does Perennial mean?
  • Where and how do I sow seeds?
  • And we talk once again to Jess and Anna - Two Sisters, One Garden about their Deep Scratch Composting technique and how they employ the hens to do all the hard work.

Book of the Week Rebel Gardening by Alessandro Vitale
Instagram of the week @_spicymoustache_

Tea - Mint, nice, and simple - just pick about 10 leaves per cup and add boiling water. try experimenting with other seeds, leaves, and flowers to create your very own special blend, but do let us know your favourites.

Local Events Pop along to Grow Wanaka on Outlet Road or Hawea Food Forest on Domain Road, Hawea Flat this Saturday. They both have working bees from 10am-12 Learn, grow, socialise, and take some time to ground yourself after your busy week. 



Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 311 Oct 202300:51:57

Podcast Notes for Buzzsprout Ep 3  11/10/23

In this episode, we talk to Jess and Anna, Two sisters, One garden in Hawea Flat

We’ll take a look at -


  • Garden tasks this week
  • Gardening by the Moon Calendar
  • Tips for growing great carrots
  • Chop and Drop


Book of the week - Hands in the Dirt: Grow your own Kai - Leah Evans. Publisher Allen & Unwin

Instagram account of the week @mrs.evan.garden

Glossary - 

Dibber - A dibber is a long, stick-like tool used to make holes for seeds and seedlings to make sure they are sufficiently buried in the soil without damage. The width of a dibber will vary and thinner dibbers are best suited to sowing seeds and cuttings, while planting small bulbs requires a thicker tool. They usually have a measure along the side.

Widger - 

A widger is a small, metal instrument shaped like a spatula, It’s used to lift out seedlings and rooted cuttings with minimal damage – it is inserted into the growing medium so it scoops under the delicate roots and pushes them up from below, rather than them being pulled from above. 

Today's ‘Garden Tea’ recipe - Dandelion Tea recipe on our Instagram page 

Carrot Pesto - wash carrot tops and dry off a little. Add to blender with olive oil, pine or walnuts, parmesan or vegan cheese and blend - no quantities here - just involve your tastebuds in the process.

Carrot skin snack - wash then peel carrots into a bowl, add a splash of olive oil a salt, mix well, place on a baking tray, pop into a warm oven, and crisp - don’t burn! They will store (so I’m told) in an airtight jar, but in my house, they are eaten immediately.


You can find us @yourgardencoach_nz

http://yourgardencoach.nz   Still under construction but we’re working on it.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 203 Oct 202300:49:53

In this episode, we talk about -

  • Garden tasks this week - Sowing Root Crops
  • Grouping your vegetables into ‘families’ in order to create a 4 Bed, Crop Rotation Plan. This method helps prevent the build-up of pests and diseases in the soil, keeps your soil healthy, and in turn each ‘family’ prepares the soil for the next rotation
  • Perennial Vegetable Beds - crops that stay in the same garden bed each year.
  • We look at the dreaded Spring Stinging Nettles - they are wonderfully nutritious in many recipes

Book of the week - New Zealand Gardener Annual Garden Diary - An annual ‘must have’.

Glossary - Crop rotation

Todays “garden Tea’ recipe - Calendula and Mint 
Combine and store in an airtight jar - and remember to label the ingredients
1 ½ cups dried mint
½ cup dried calendula petals
½ cup fennel seeds
¼ cup dried ginger root
Honey to sweeten (otional)

Add 1 teaspoon of your blend per person to a tea pot, with boiling water and steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain into a china cup (of course) and enjoy.

   Instagram accounts of the week - @yourgardencoach_nz  @crosshill_garden

Local garden events - 'Grow Wānaka’ Saturday working bee See details - Grow Wānaka on Facebook

http://yourgardencoach.nz  Still under construction but we’re working on it.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Episode 1 03 Oct 202300:35:07

Welcome to the very first episode of Your Garden Coach. 

In this ‘Introduction’ episode we will give an overview of what we aim to achieve in our series. 

A garden podcast dedicated to beginner and intermediate gardeners who are keen to learn how to grow healthy, nutritious vegetables for their family.


  • We will discover what the term ‘Kitchen Garden’ means. 
  • How we begin to understand our individual vegetable requirements. 
  • A sample of a wide variety of vegetable growing methods.
  • A selection of tools we will need.
  • And we will talk a little about collecting ingredients for your homemade compost.

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4302 Aug 202400:29:01

Thank you for joining us again for your weekly dose of gardening chat.


This week - Container gardening, a great way to start your early gardening - close to the house so you can keep an eye on things, and get back into the swing of checking on your veggies each day. 


We will take a closer look at the Spring Onion, an underrated and under appreciated tasty addition to your meals.


Ali reports from another French garden Chateau de Lantilly

Web details - https://www.bourgogne-tourisme.com/sit/parc-et-jardin-potager-du-chateau-de-lantilly-

 A beautiful and inspiring garden. Photos on our instagram and FB pages.


Tea - Lemon verbena


It’s Sowing and planting time.


Companion planting suggestions for healthy soil and plants.


Book - Abundant Garden by Niva and Yotam Kay Also look for their book Abundant Kitchen for seriously good recipes.


@saminthegarden won our Kings Seeds Voucher this week Congratulations Sam (from Southland)


Happy gardening


Ali and Jen 

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4229 Jul 202400:30:00

This week we continue our glass house topic, and we discuss the Walipini 


Tasks this week - prep your soil in readiness for sowing and planting 


Sow your Root Crops 30th & 31st July


Veg of the week - Peas


Tea is Lemon Verbena - consider adding these seeds to your list.

Happy Gardening
Jen and Ali

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4119 Jul 202400:30:26

Spring sowing is beginning around the country, We will take a look at some early options.


Ever thought about extending your season with a greenhouse, glasshouse, tunnel house or Walaipini? We have some suggestions to help you decide which would suit you best.


 Book of the Week - The Englishman’s Country - a collection of musings, my favourite is from Vita Sackville-West


You have one more week to enter the competition for the Tiny Zen Garden from Little Hill Lawrence @littlehilllawrence Thanks again to Alisa for offering her beautiful work to one of our lucky listeners.


We also thank Charlotte and the team at Kings Seeds @kingsseedsnz for their weekly $20 voucher. Remember to tag @yourgardencoach and @kingsseedsnz for your chance to win. 

Have you received your brand new Catalogue yet? I can’t wait to view the new seed varieties, Charlotte advises there are over 100, totalling over 1000 options for us keen gardeners. 


Have fun in your garden - it is definitely my very happy place.


Happy gardening,


Ali and Jen


Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 4011 Jul 202400:28:12

It's hard to believe were are releasing episode 40. This time last year the podcast was alive only in my mind. We have been delighted so many of you are enjoying our weekly garden updates.
A huge thank you to those of you who are contributing to the costs. If you are in a position to help visit Buzzsprout.com - Your Garden Coach, (or Patreon) there you can decide how much you'd like to gift each month. It really does make a huge difference to us. We don't have anything to sell to offset the costs so it's still brought to you out of our pocket money. Thank you for considering supporting us.

In this week's episode we have a new competition - you will love this one! Thanks to Alisa www.littlehilllawrence.nz for gifting one of her Tiny Zen gardens - so cute, and a lovely way to display beautiful nature indoors.

Ali reports from Blenheim Palace - an awe-inspiring Kitchen Garden.

We introduce Biochar as a soil conditioner, and a fun winter project.

And, of course, we keep you up to date on what you should be doing in your gardens during this phase of the moon.

Happy Gardening
Ali and Jen

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Winter Episode 3928 Jun 202400:26:50

It appears that over Winter our Episode releases each week are a little later than anticipated. Let's roll with that for the time being.

A full episode this week updating your current winter tasks, yes there is plenty to keep you motivated and enjoying the benefits of being in the garden even if winter days are shorter (and cooler). Go on, wrap up warm, head outside and get your Vitamin G (Green).

We talk about Planning your Spring Garden this week - what did you learn from last winter? What do you want to do the same/ What do you want to change? We have lots more questions to get you thinking.

Ali reports from Osbournw House this week, it's on the Isle of Wight.

Keep your winter gardening spirits high, the days are now getting longer.

Happy gardening,
Ali and Jen



Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Season 2 Episode 319 Sep 202400:43:32

🌱 Spring Season 2, Episode 3 is Live! 🎧

This week on Your Garden Coach NZ,  some essential tips for a thriving spring garden.
🌸 Catch us on Buzzsprout, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!

🌿 Episode Highlights:

🌾 Mastering Mulch: Learn how to mulch like a pro—your plants will love you, and those weeds won’t stand a chance! 🌱

🌘 Garden Tasks: Descending Moon in the waning phase means it's time to sow root crops like carrots, beets, and radishes. 🌕🥕

🥧 Vegetable of the Week: Rhubarb—a fabulous perennial that adds tang to your desserts. Wait, we call it a fruit, don’t we? But it’s actually a vegetable - confusing! 🍓

👧 Gardening with Children (Part 3): This week, we’re talking about fostering independence by letting the kids take the lead in the garden. 🌻

🌳 The Orchard: Tips for feeding your new fruit trees to help them thrive.

🎉 Congratulations to Johanna from Invercargill: Winner of this week's giveaway—Drawn to the Garden by Caroline Quentin! 🎨🌿

📚 Book of the Week: The Plant Society by Jason Chongue—a must-read for every plant enthusiast! 🌿📖

🌼 Happy Gardening! 🌼

#SpringGardening #MasteringMulch #RootCrops #RhubarbLove #GardeningWithKids #YourGardenCoachNZ #GrowYourOwnFood #theplantsocietyau

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

Spring Season 2 Episode 424 Sep 202400:35:54

🌸 Spring is Springing! 🌸

In this week's episode of Your Garden Coach NZ, we’re diving into the joys of sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings. 🌱 Catch us on Buzzsprout, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts!

🌷 Episode Highlights:

🌷 Special Guest: We chat with Luke Gardener from Longbush Cottage about his stunning Tulip Festival and the most gorgeous glasshouses available in New Zealand! 🏡💐

👧 Gardening with Children (Part 4): Continuing our series on empowering little gardeners, with tips to get them even more involved! 🌻

🥕 Vegetable of the Week: Parsnip! Plus, discover the best companion plants for growing healthy carrots. 🥕

🌳 The Orchard: It’s bursting with life—but beware, coddling moths are on their way! 🐛 Learn how to protect your fruit trees.

📚 Book of the Week: Grow Fruit by Alan Buckingham—a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand guide to growing fruit successfully. 🍏📖

🌼 Happy Gardening! 🌼

#SpringGardening #TulipFestival #Glasshouses #GardeningWithKids #ParsnipPower #OrchardCare #YourGardenCoachNZ #GrowYourOwnFood

Support the show

You can contact us at coach@yourgardencoach.nz

Seasonal listening tip: No matter where you are in the world, you can dip back into earlier episodes to match the season you’re in right now. Just look at the titles (e.g. Spring Ep3) and choose the ones that line up with your own garden season — that way, the advice will always be spot-on and timely for you.

© My Podcast Data