Shows
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSeasonal picks for successional colour and boosting biodiversity with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 214Lighter, longer days signal the start of a joyous season for gardeners, and March is the perfect month to plan for the highlights of your spring and summer garden.Arthur Parkinson returns to ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ this week to share the plants that brought him the most joy last year, the trials he’ll be undertaking in his own compact garden at home, and his personal pick of long-flowering varieties for successional colour and pollinator appeal, no matter the size of your plot. In this episode, discover:How to care for Arthur’s favourite...2025-03-0622 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPerfect gift ideas from our Christmas range with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 201Christmas is only a few short weeks away, and while the garden may be winding down into winter mode, it’s the perfect time to spread joy to green-fingered friends with some well-considered gifts and elegant decorations.With Arthur joining Sarah this week for an exciting journey through the pages of our latest Christmas catalogue, Sarah explains why she’s more excited by this year’s festive range than ever before.In this episode, discover:Irresistible decorations for the tree, with a few specific nature-themed baubles catching Arthur’s eyeTried and tested favourites that deliver...2024-12-0530 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPerfect flowers for a biodiverse buzz in your garden with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 198Butterflies and bees can only thrive in a garden with a ‘living buffet’ to which they can flock, which is why biodiversity is the hot topic for Sarah and Arthur in this latest episode of grow, cook, eat, arrange.Reflecting on a year in which pollinators have struggled and needed particular support, they share the best plant varieties for bringing a much-needed buzz into your gardens, and discuss why nighttime pollinators ought not be forgotten.In this episode, discover:Sarah & Arthur’s absolute favourite flowers for creating a biodiverse havenThe importance of late-flowering plants, provid...2024-11-1422 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe joys of tending to stunning dahlias and rare hen breeds with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 189Arthur Parkinson may be a wonderful champion for the portable nature of the potted urban garden, but it’s an exciting prospect that he has the opportunity to grow on some new land in Gloucestershire.Between the rare breeds of hen and the lovely collection of dahlias that he’s built up, this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ should inspire anyone looking to keep either some delightful poultry or radiant flowers alike.In this episode, discover:Arthur’s experience in Gloucester, and how he came to find the land he’s onThe lovely, rare breeds...2024-09-1222 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsStunning highlights from our Autumn range with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 188With the changing of seasons brings an exciting new catalogue from which to draw inspiration for the year ahead.In this episode full of possibilities, Arthur joins Sarah to peruse the latest and greatest from the Sarah Raven Autumn catalogue, shining a spotlight on the great performers and showstoppers to sow now, ready to breathe life into the garden next spring.In this episode, discover:Bold and perennial tulips like the almost-fluorescent ‘Queensday’What makes narcissi the sustainable bulb of the future, and standout varieties like ‘My Story’Tips for growing ranunculus, with a spotligh...2024-09-0536 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPicking perfect pelargoniums for pots and borders with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 182For the lifestyles that many of us lead, low-maintenance and high performing plants are the perfect combination, for which pelargoniums are an absolute must-have.Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson delve into the very best pelargoniums, highlighting some irresistibly scented varieties too, and share the best tips for propagating them in either your pots or your borders.In this episode, discover:Sarah & Arthur’s standout pelargonium varieties, with picks for scent like ‘Attar of Roses’ to more eye-catching plants like ‘Kewensis’Tips from Chatsworth on how best to propagate pelargoniums, particularly en masseA stunning recipe for using pela...2024-07-2519 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHow to use climbers to create a private, secluded space with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 181Arthur Parkinson’s urban garden is, like many in more built up areas, somewhat overlooked by neighbours, and perhaps the most natural solution to this is with the help of some gorgeous climbers.In this podcast episode, Sarah & Arthur focus on the varieties of clematis, honeysuckle, and other climbers which look stunning combined with the likes of hazel, corten, or even rebar.In this episode, discover:How Arthur almost-accidentally discovered the way to use coppiced hazel to train clematis upwardsA number of favourite varieties as better alternatives to hornbeams for creating privacy and separationSarah & Art...2024-07-1821 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe best of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 173This year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show has been an extraordinary display of floral beauty, and it’s been a pleasure for our hut to have been a part of the show.Fresh from the show, Sarah & Arthur take this week’s special podcast episode to bring you Chelsea’s highlights, and the months-long and years-long stories behind them.In this episode, discover:The joys of the Sarah Raven stand, from balancing practicality and beauty to star-studded visitors like Joanna Lumley and Mel GiedroycSarah’s pick of the sights on the main avenue, with gorgeous d...2024-05-2339 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsA look ahead to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 172May is all about the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and we’ll be bringing the abundant beauty of Perch Hill’s cutting garden to our trade stand.That’s why in this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah and Arthur are taking an exciting look forward to our spot at the show, the hard work it’s taken to prepare, and highlights of what you can expect to see across the week-long spectacle.In this episode, discover:How Adam Nicolson’s magical design is being brought to life at our stand, inspired by our renowned pot...2024-05-1617 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPerfect Pairings of Companion Plants with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 167For any organic gardener, companion planting is one of the most essential, rewarding and productive ways to ward off bugs and fungal infections.As the seasons are beginning to turn, it’s a wonderful time to recap the importance and joy of companion planting - Sarah is joined once again by Arthur Parkinson, where we revisit classic combinations, and share some unconventional pairings that you might not have considered.In this episode, discover:The many reasons that companion planting is a fantastic alternative to chemical treatments in the gardenWhere and how to plant out ta...2024-04-1117 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsStandout Seedlings to Sow and Grow This Year with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 163One of gardening’s great joys is sowing from seed, planting out and seeing those seeds thrive, and this year brings a lovely variety of new favourites to sow.Arthur joins Sarah this week as we look at which new stunners and old favourites you’ll want to sow this year, and when to plant out each variety for them to deliver maximum glamour. In this episode, discover:A delicious selection of edibles, from a prolific climbing French Bean to the flavoursome Runner Bean Black Knight The lingering charm of early-sown Cobaea Scandens on Arthur...2024-03-1418 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHighlights from Our Spring and Summer Range - Episode 161The spring and summer ahead of us is a glorious opportunity to let our gardens sing with colours anew, and in this week’s podcast, Sarah & Arthur share how to select the very best for your space.The Spring & Summer Catalogue takes centre stage on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, as we hear about the best brand new collections, some of Arthur’s stalwart favourites, and which of this year’s floral highlights have brought Sarah the most joy.In this episode, discover:Standout flowers that Sarah’s loved last year, like the uniquely textured Dahlia Night...2024-02-2923 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsA Year Full of Pots: The Inspiration Behind Sarah’s New Book with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 159Over 380 pots call Perch Hill home, and bring such joy and seasonal splendour, which makes Sarah’s latest book a must-read for anyone hoping to do the same in their own space.Sarah’s joined by Arthur once again on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, this week to share the inspirations behind her love of pots, her simple approach to beautifully combining colour palettes, and the huge range of subjects covered in the book: A Year Full of Pots.In this episode, discover:Why Sarah chose to write on pots, and how she was inspired by Josie...2024-02-1518 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCharming Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 158Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and for those looking to bring a floral flair to their gift-giving this year, Sarah and Arthur’s shortlist is full of delightful ideas.As you’d expect there’s a varied selection of flowers beyond the traditional roses, and other ways to bring joy to your loved ones with mini-landscapes and pins to keep one’s favourite flowers and animals close.In this episode, discover:Why the charm of printing photos is so important to relive fond garden memoriesSarah’s ‘from acorns to oak trees’ mantra for gifting seeds li...2024-02-0817 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSarah & Arthur’s 2024 New Year Resolutions - Episode 152Join Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson as they reflect upon what they cherished most in their gardens this year, and what they’ll explore in 2024 - from sowing more stunning sweet peas, to taking a wonderfully wildlife-focused view on the garden.In this episode of grow, cook, eat, arrange you’ll discover:Sarah and Arthur’s New Year Resolution.The simple pleasure of gardening for health & wellbeingArthur’s joy of sweet peas. Sarah and Adam’s plans to increase biodiversity at Perch HillGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: ht...2023-12-2816 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHow to Bring a Natural Charm to Your Christmas Decorations with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 151Welcome back to “grow, cook, eat, arrange” and a very Merry Christmas to you all! In this festive episode, Sarah welcomes back Arthur Parkinson to dive into the enchanting world of Christmas decorating. They offer a plethora of creative ideas to bring warmth and joy to your home during the winter months. In this episode, discover:Arthur’s clever use of mirror to double the impact of your decorSarah’s creative use of Allium heads as Christmas tree ornamentsHow to create a unique scent using natural ingredients from the gardenTechniques for forcing hyacinths indoors to ensure a...2023-12-2122 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Most Charming Decorations for a Gorgeous Christmas Inside & Out with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 146The time to decorate your home for Christmas is cheerily hurtling towards us, making this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ the perfect chance to peruse new decorations.Arthur joins us once more on the podcast as he and Sarah share their joyful highlights from our range, helping you to bring that yuletide sparkle to life both in the garden and within your home.In this episode, discover:The delightful story behind Jonathan Buckley’s ‘Snow Queen’ photo of Sarah at a snow-capped Perch HillOur trusty, reliable favourites for the garden, from stunning lig...2023-11-1621 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPlanting a Paradise: Perfect Your Flower Yard with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 145Arthur Parkinson’s evocative, elaborate descriptions of plants might be second only to his ability to elicit a charming image of garden pollinators through his drawings.His latest book is a celebration of every single garden, and the plants perfect to create ‘a living dance of lavish colours’ - it’s a delight to have him return to the podcast to share how the new book, Planting a Paradise, was brought to life.In this episode, discover:Arthur’s comfort in delightful drawings as an artistic language to convey his visionThe importance of bees, butterflie...2023-11-0928 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsFill Your 2024 with Showstoppers from the Autumn Range with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 138Every change of season brings with it an opportunity to renew your garden’s beauty for the year ahead, particularly as we head into autumn.With our autumn catalogue to hand, Arthur Parkinson rejoins Sarah Raven in an episode bursting with imaginative ideas for the year ahead, from later flowering Lilies, to Fratileries that mark the start of spring in style.In this episode, discover:How Arthur’s adorning a new space for hens with an abundance of NarcissiThe story behind our uniquely striking Gingersnap Tulip MixArthur’s favourite big pots this year, filled with t...2023-09-2123 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsVeracious New Varieties & Mildew-Beating Mixtures: Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson’s Top Gardening Discoveries of 2023 - Episode 127While the lovely Arthur Parkinson has been away writing and illustrating, both he and Sarah Raven have had a number of green-fingered revelations that are just too good not to share.From a newfound love for the fern Metallicum (best seen at sunrise or sunset), to a new, pollinator-friendly concoction that keeps mildew at bay, this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ is an absolute grab bag of ideas and inspiration.In this episode, discover:New standout perennials, shrubs and roses, like the reliable Timeless Purple and velvet glamour of James MasonHow to learn less...2023-07-0626 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCreating a Bee-Friendly Garden All Year Round with Arthur Parkinson - Episode 120Few people are more passionate about the plight of our precious pollinators than the marvellous Arthur Parkinson, and National Bee Day poses a perfect time to consider how we can all care for them.In this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, we’re taking you through the entire year and which are the finest, nectar-rich flowers to bring a lively buzz to the garden throughout every season.In this episode, discover:The perennial beauty of Iris Reticulata, with its silky, suave bluesEarly summer Roses to lift the mood and attract the buzz of pollinat...2023-05-1826 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsChicken Boy: Arthur Parkinson’s Life with Hens - Episode 114The utterly wonderful, incomparable Arthur Parkinson has been away writing his new book, so it's a delight to have him return to the podcast to tell us all about it! The original ‘co-conspirator’ of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ joins Sarah once more to detail the heartfelt inspiration behind Chicken Boy, how he found the inspiration to form a bond with hens, the dangers to look out for if you’re starting out yourself, and so much more.In this episode, discover:How Arthur’s natural affinity for hens began and grewThe strong connection to Chatsworth, D...2023-04-0633 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsUsing the Spectacular Structure and Scale of Trees, Shrubs and Climbers - Episode 94While the smaller, delicate beds can often top off a lovely garden, it’s shrubs, trees and climbers which can often add the most architectural structure and a real sense of scale.Some are great for reaching staggering heights, others for their role as a prolific perfume factory - join Sarah and Arthur as they share their pick of shrubs, trees and the climbers that can often intersperse them for a rich dash of colour.In this episode, discover:Which Crab Apple trees are fantastic for attracting the intoxicating buzz of wildlife Lovely varieties of...2022-11-1719 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCHRISTMAS 2022 MINI-SERIES: Feasting on the Finest Food for Christmas DayFor 20% off any Christmas order, be sure to use the special offer code ‘XMAS22MINI’ before the 30th November at https://www.sarahraven.com/.The best part of Christmas might be the presents, but in close second is the mouth-watering prospect of an extravagant Christmas dinner.Rounding off the Christmas Mini Series of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ with a smorgasbord of festive recipes, Sarah’s joined for a hilarious food chat with two reputationally un-foodie people - husband Adam Nicolson and Arthur Parkinson.In this episode, discover:Arthur, Sarah and Adam’s elaborate an...2022-11-0411 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCHRISTMAS 2022 MINI-SERIES: The Perfect Christmas Table DecorationsFor 20% off any Christmas order, be sure to use the special offer code ‘XMAS22MINI’ before the 30th November at https://www.sarahraven.com/.At Christmas, every single surface presents an opportunity for creativity and decoration, and the Christmas table is no exception.From the subtle, sophisticated beauty of dried Honesty to more inventive combinations of flowers and fairy lights for more flair, Sarah & Arthur run through some of their most exciting table decorations.In this episode, discover:Arthur’s use of dried Honesty pods to create regal vase decorations Sarah’s idea to c...2022-11-0408 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCHRISTMAS 2022 MINI-SERIES: Creating a Sustainable Christmas WreathFor 20% off any Christmas order, be sure to use the special offer code ‘XMAS22MINI’ before the 30th November at https://www.sarahraven.com/.Welcome to the ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ Christmas Mini Series, a series of episodes to inspire your festive season with ideas to bring the outdoor garden glamour into your celebrations.Sarah & Arthur kick off with an episode around something which completes every home, a wreath for the door. It’s a chance for creativity and expression, even when thinking sustainably and foraging for many of your decorations.In this episode, d...2022-11-0411 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCreating Beautiful, Wildlife-Friendly Garden Ponds - Episode 92Since we’ve had such a hot, drought-ridden summer, the value of a pond is greater now than ever - perhaps even more valuable for plants and wildlife than a wildflower meadow.Between the lovely beaches from which insects and mammals can safely drink, the rich colour of moisture-loving plants, and the universal charm of Water Lilies, there are so many reasons to create a lovely water feature in your garden.In this episode, discover:How valuable a pond can be to insects and mammals alikeTips for nurturing happy water lilies and how to ke...2022-11-0314 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsWonderful Winter Highlights from Our Christmas Catalogue - Episode 91Christmas is nearly upon us, and within our winter catalogue lies a myriad of heart-warming gifts and superlative decorations, whether given to loved ones or a present to yourself.Sitting down with the Christmas Catalogue for 2022, Sarah & Arthur pick out their favourite decorations, the most exquisite lights, and a few stellar potted plants to fully embrace the Christmas spirit this year.In this episode, discover:Our illuminating offerings of light-laced garlandsDecorative ornaments inspired by Sarah’s love of Scandinavian stylePerfect potted plants to gift loved ones for Christmas growing in their homesExquisite ba...2022-10-2720 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Keys to Crafting a Perfect Bulb Lasagne - Episode 89While the concept of a bulb lasagne is straightforward enough - simply planting layers of bulbs in a single pot - a thoughtful composition of colours in such proximity can be truly rousing.Now is the ideal time to get planting, and if you’re looking for inspiration then this week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ Sarah & Arthur share the standout bulbs they’ll be planting in their recipes, what makes double peonies perfect for a lasagne, and tips to create your own gorgeous combinations.In this episode, discover:How to structure the layers of a bul...2022-10-1316 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsStandout Stalwarts from the Latest Trials at Perch Hill - Episode 84Every year at Perch Hill we trial some of the most promising flower families in search of the most spectacular, scented, showstopping varieties, and in this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ we’re bringing you a sneak peek.Hear from Sarah & Arthur about some of the best performers and most dazzling prospects, from the prolific Rudbeckias in the Enchanted series to the gorgeously aromatic Sweet Pea Amelia Fox.In this episode, discover:Which of the flowers being trialled now are captivating Sarah & Arthur mostThe new modular rubber seed tray which is ideal for handling...2022-09-0824 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsDazzling New Allium Varieties - Episode 81Alliums possess a bombastic silhouette that’s nothing short of iconic, and make a perfect addition to borders. While we’ve covered Alliums before on the podcast, there are a number of brand new varieties to rekindle your passion for them.In this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah & Arthur shine a spotlight on the recent newcomers to the family, from the shuttlecock-like ‘Magic’ to the towering, 7ft figure of ‘Summer Drummer’.In this episode, discover:The most exciting new Alliums, reminiscent of old favourites with uniquely dazzling qualitiesClassic varieties like Purple Sensation & Schubertii, which...2022-08-1819 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsFlowers for Entertaining in the Garden - Episode 77It’s the season for entertaining with dinner parties and garden gatherings, and there are so many ways that flowers can punctuate your occasion with immeasurable glamour.Whether you’re creating decorations for the centrepiece of a table, or using petals as a wonderful, frugal alternative to confetti, Sarah & Arthur have some essential tips for impressing your guests this summer, plus a delicious salad recipe.In this episode, discover:The grid system of branches that can replace oasis or floral foam in your table arrangementsWhich roses are ideal for providing long-lasting petals to use as a...2022-07-2122 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Power of Biennials with Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - Episode 74It’s the time of year to sow biennials, and while they flower in their second year, the artisanal avalanche of colour that they bring is well worth the wait. Many of the gorgeous biennials that earn a place as Sarah & Arthur’s favourites will self-sow too, so join us on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ to venture through these beautiful biennials, from the subtle, fragrant Pillowtalk to more eye catching Tulips like Amazing Parrot.In this episode, discover:Varieties of biennial flowers for floods of colour and fragranceAdvice on best using liquid seaweed feed, particula...2022-06-3024 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsProtecting Pollinators & Caring for our Bees with Ian & Clare Nichols, Epping Good Honey - Episode 73We’re all becoming well aware of the huge impact that bees and other lovely pollinators have on our planet, which is wonderful news for local beekeepers & artisan honey producers like Epping Good Honey.Ian & Clare Nichols’ passion for all bee species spills out into all they do, and they join Arthur to share how small changes like growing herbs or providing water for bees gives a great lease of life to our ecosystem.In this episode, discover:Why, and how, beehive numbers fluctuate with seasonsThe importance of buying from & supporting local producersHow we can...2022-06-2330 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsConditioning Cut Flowers for Extraordinary Vase Life - Episode 72The season of summer parties and sunset gatherings has arrived, and cut flowers make a marvellous centrepiece to any room, so it’s a lovely time to consider how to make them last in a vase.Conditioning your cut flowers needn’t be taxing, as Sarah & Arthur bring their best tips for making your table arrangements last, from searing stem ends to swaddling and creating a sugar syrup perfect for long-lasting flowers.In this episode, discover:How searing stem ends revitalises floppy flowersThe sugar syrup that, when added to water, becomes a plant superfoodSterilisation of l...2022-06-1630 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Regal Beauty of Waterlilies with Linda Smith - Episode 71In the British Isles we’ve lost 90% of our wetlands in the past 100 years, but designing your garden with pond space opens up the opportunity to bring the regal beauty of Waterlilies into your garden.Waterside Nursery exhibits their extraordinary displays at Chelsea Flower Show, and you’ll struggle to find a greater advocate for the Water Lily than Linda Smith. Arthur chats to Linda this week on the various sizes of Water Lily, how to design your pond to bring them to life, and ways to encourage wildlife to enjoy your garden.In th...2022-06-0938 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCosmos, Zinnias & Extravagant Half Hardy Annuals - Episode 67Even with the welcome summer months so close round the corner, it’s not too late to sow or plant seeds that’ll bring swathes of bees and provide you a delightfully productive cut flower.Of the half hardy annuals, Cosmos & Zinnias are among Sarah & Arthur’s favourites, so on this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ we lust over the richness of Cosmos Rubenza, the bold Zinnia ‘Queeny Lime’ series, and how to make the most of them right through till November.In this episode, discover:Varieties of Cosmos both compact and grand in scale, from t...2022-05-1217 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsDelicious Annual Vegetables & Edible Flowers - Episode 66Summer and Autumn are getting longer, which brings us more time to fill our gardens with wonderful edibles and their delightful accompanying scents.From the reliably sweet Sungold Tomato to a favourite of Arthur’s, Lemon Verbena, you’re bound to discover an edible variety in episode 66 of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ that’ll put the delicious finishing touches on one of Sarah’s many recipes this week.In this episode, discover:Delicious varieties of edibles, from mint and courgettes to the great multi-purpose NasturtiumTips on how to grow the most sweet scented tomatoes for maximum...2022-05-0526 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsAnnual Seedlings at our Lincolnshire Nursery - Episode 65This week we’re delighted to bring you a special episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ on location at our spectacular nursery in Lincolnshire! It’s Arthur’s first time here, and what a perfect time to chat about seedlings, the care they need to reach their growing potential, how we tend to mother stock, and the most exciting varieties that Sarah’s looking forward to bringing into a future catalogue.In this episode, discover:The love, care and work that the nursery puts into every seedlingSome of Sarah’s most inspiring finds at the nursery, fr...2022-04-2816 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsDesigning Creative Cut Flower Arrangements with Milli Proust - Episode 61Milli Proust's gorgeous cut flower arrangements are testament to her artistic eye and passion for sustainable growing, something you can see more of in her marvellous upcoming book, ‘From Seed To Bloom’. Bestowed with hands-on creativity and the inspirational stoicism of her grandmother, she now shares her delightful flowers with the world. It’s a pleasure for Arthur to chat to Milli on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ this week about how she manages so much with her limited space, her love for the magic of a homegrown rose, and how you can learn the gardening methods that work for yo...2022-03-3126 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSuperb Standouts from Our Summer & Late-Summer Catalogue - Episode 60As the clocks leap forward, so too does our focus for the year’s flowers. It’s a wonderful time now to think about your summer garden, whether you’re looking for scent from cut flowers or the most exhilarating colour in your flower bed.On ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ this week, Sarah & Arthur pick out their favourite flowers from our summer and late-summer catalogue, from the exciting, brand new Dahlia Abigail, to delicious African Blue Basil.In this episode, discover:Our highlights from an exciting seasonal range of flowersWhy strawflowers are becoming a fashionabl...2022-03-2433 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMINI-SERIES: Beginner’s Guide to PotsAs we bring this beginner gardening miniseries to a close, it’d be remiss of us not to cover containers, for the more urban gardeners looking to jazz up a windowsill or tabletop with a marvellous centrepiece.From piecing together a stage-like display with tiers to sizing up the largest pot your windowsill will take, Sarah & Arthur share the most vivacious plants for those of us looking to make a small space look and smell it’s very best.In this episode, discover:Which high-performing plants bring the sense of grandeur to smaller, container sett...2022-03-2319 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMINI-SERIES: Beginner’s Guide to ColourColour is an element of gardening that has captured both Sarah and Arthur’s eyes since their youngest years, and can be far more invigorating than structure or arrangement alone.In this episode of our miniseries, we take a look at the main colour palettes from which to paint your garden space with colour cohesion, whether you prefer sleek but muted collections, or bold, dazzling ensembles.In this episode, discover:Sarah’s ‘Bride, Bridesmaid & Gatecrasher’ method for creating beautiful and vivid bunches of flowers4 main colour palettes, and the strongest, most dazzling flowers within each of...2022-03-2321 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMINI-SERIES: Beginner’s Guide to Essential Tools and Plants When Starting OutIt can be daunting considering which flowers you might want adorning your space, but understanding your space and letting your imagination run wild will help turn the garden into the dreamlike haven it can become.On episode 3 of our Beginner’s Guide miniseries, Sarah & Arthur take a look at how you can become better acquainted with your space, what you might love to make of it, and most importantly the tasks & tools that’ll help turn your concept into a dazzling reality.In this episode, discover:The inspirations you might take when designing your gard...2022-03-2318 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMINI-SERIES: Beginner’s Guide to Gardening Terms & Plant TypesMuch of the terminology used in gardening can be somewhat intimidating, so before we dive into the flowers we thought it’d be essential to start with the common phrases you’ll need to know to understand the wonderful world of gardening.This episode of the ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ Beginner’s Guide to Gardening will have you comfortable telling your annuals and your perennials apart, and we run through what Sarah & Arthur do in each month of the year for the most productive, beautiful garden.In this episode, discover:Different types of flowers, and the ba...2022-03-2324 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMINI-SERIES: Introduction to The Beginner’s Guide to GardeningWelcome to your Beginner’s Guide to Gardening - a mini series created to help demystify the sometimes-complicated world of creating your own magnificent arrangements in gardens and pots.Join hosts Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson in this introductory episode to find out what you'll learn across the next 5 easy-listening episodes of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, from what to sow & how to do it, to pot planting & growing your own delicious vegetables.Order Sarah’s book: https://bit.ly/2TWHJczOrder Arthur’s book: https://bit.ly/3xOov7HView all products mentioned and find f...2022-03-2306 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPicking Drought Tolerant Plants - Episode 59Whether it’s concern for climate or the convenience of lower maintenance, drought tolerant plants are a way to create a thriving, colourful garden in heat without the constant need for watering.This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ Sarah & Arthur share the perfect drought tolerant plants for containers, how best to tend to them, and offer a recipe for a refreshing rhubarb cordial. In this episode, discover:Which herbs and cut flowers are ideal for withstanding intense heat and longer spells without wateringHow to water drought resistant plants to get the most water into th...2022-03-1718 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Beauty and Glamour of Lilies - Episode 57It’s for very good reason that Lilies sell out so quickly at garden centres - they’re such versatile, reliable and exotic perennials for bombastic shape, colour and scent.From the towering Tiger Lily’s warm brilliance to Muscadet’s staggeringly broad saucers and powerful scent, we hear from Sarah & Arthur how to pick out the most vivacious varieties, protect them from lily beetle, and use them as gorgeous cut flowers.In this episode, discover:How to protect your lilies from lily beetle without the use of nasty insecticidesThe most spectacular varieties of lily, fr...2022-03-0321 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Artisanal Beauty of Seasonal Foliage with Tattie Rose - Episode 54Tattie Rose and her team are botanical set designers with an eye for splendour, crafting uniquely magical compositions for events with a penchant for arbourial excellence.Joining Arthur on the podcast this week to share the inspirations behind her design ethos, Tattie walks through how she chooses & reuses vintage adornments, and why she loves to lean into woodland foliage for her showstopping creations.In this episode, discover:The sources of inspiration for Tattie’s imaginative, naturalistic floral designsHow she builds relationships with people from whom they buy their foliageFabulous ways to bring the best se...2022-02-1023 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Best Picks from Our Spring Catalogue with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 53The year is well underway, and with it comes the delightful prospect of spring’s imminent arrival. Longer, warmer, brighter days bring a perfect opportunity to populate your space with some of our favourite, outstanding floral highlights from the Spring Range.Sarah & Arthur sit down together with their brand new catalogue and let their imagination run wild with their top picks. Learn how you can combine collections of decadent Dahlias to bathe your garden in colour, bring vibrance to your cooking with delicious tomato varieties, and hear Sarah’s warming, flavoursome recipe for Squid, Chorizo & Potato Stew. In...2022-02-0318 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSharing the Joy of Hen Keeping with Feather & Egg’s Sabina Richardson - Episode 52When most people think of hens, the image of a typical brown egg-layer springs immediately to mind without any consideration for the bold blues, lavenders, partridge colours and intricate lacing found in rarer breeds.Feather & Egg’s Sabina Richardson is a fellow poultry fancier with a commitment to sharing the joy and wonder of pure and rare hen breeds. Sabina joins Arthur this week as we explore the friendliest, rarest and most gorgeous hens to keep, as well as some invaluable advice on keeping them clean and safe from vermin.In this episode, discover:Ho...2022-01-2731 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Complete Guide to Sowing Systems with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 51As we settle into 2022 and begin to plan for the year’s most delightful flowers, it’s the perfect time to share how to grow from seeds, a process that’s incredibly rewarding and yields beautiful pots full of healthy plants.To create a complete cutting garden you’ll need to sow some seeds yourself. This episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ is the A-Z of all we know about sowing systems; you’ll learn which varieties thrive on root disturbance, when to use root trainers, growing in gutters, using heated propagators, and the 5 T’s of direct sowing.2022-01-2025 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSpectacular Sweet Peas with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 49We often discuss desert island flowers on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, and the focus of this week’s episode should hold a spot in everyone’s list - Sweet Peas. The anthemic ensemble of colours within this family of flowers is huge, from rich, saturated blues and purples, to pastel shades and luscious bi-colours.Sweet Peas are the epitome of cut-and-come-again, which means you’ll be graced with their delightful sights and scents for as long as you care for these hungry plants. Join Sarah & Arthur this week as we learn the most eye-catching varieties, and the best sowin...2022-01-0625 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsProtecting our insect population with Author & Professor, Dave Goulson - Episode 48We’re seldom shown or taught the wonders of wildlife that’s smaller than a fingernail, yet there’s a vast and vibrant insect ecosystem that’s in need of our protection from the effects of environmental issues.There are few authors who share the same degree of passion for the insect world as Dave Goulson. A Professor of Biology at Sussex University & author of the Sunday Times Bestselling book ‘Silent Earth’, Dave joins Sarah & Arthur this week to share his most fascinating discoveries, and how the beautiful flowers we grow can serve a purpose far greater than that of...2021-12-3037 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPicking & Conditioning Cut Flowers with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 47The cosiness of Christmas can be gloriously accentuated by a beautiful cut flower arrangement, and with this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ releasing on Christmas Eve it’s the perfect time to share how to make these flowers last as long as possible.Right from the picking, through to conditioning and arranging your flowers, Sarah & Arthur’s tips will help you to make the most of your cutting garden throughout the whole year. From searing to sterilising, in some cases these tips will help you to see double the vase life from your colourful collections of cuttings...2021-12-2324 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSustainable Floristry for Christmas with Floral Designer, Shane Connolly - Episode 46Shane Connolly’s vision for timeless arrangements and his dedicated, tight-knit team are a combination that bring an artisanal class to any event they’re involved in - most publicised of which being the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's magnificent wedding celebration in 2011.He’s also a firm advocate for sustainable floristry; for those of us looking to shift away from floral foam, this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ is unmissable. Shane joins Arthur to share the ethos that helps him collaborate on his clients’ marvellous displays, and how you can spark a similarly bold degree of...2021-12-1633 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsForaging for Winter Wreaths with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 44We’re just weeks away from what promises to be a magical Christmas period, and what better way to welcome the seasonal spirit into your home than creating a gorgeous wreath to adorn your door.Whether you’re planning for a more natural look, or picking more exuberant decorations, Sarah & Arthur walk through the festive foliage to keep an eye out for when foraging this winter, from the warm, fireside hues of bracken, to dependable classics like holly and mistletoe.In this episode, discover:Collections of evergreens transformed by the setting of a wreathPicking gorg...2021-12-0220 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsGrowing Spectacular Salvias with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 43Few flowers are quite as essential as the Salvia, a plant of the moment which is as low maintenance as it is high performing. It takes just a little care to keep these ocean deep blues, rich purples and eye-catching reds flourishing well into the autumn months.Not only are colourful varieties like Jezebel and Amistad also edible, but they’re an indomitable blackspot deterrent and great for cutting. Sarah & Arthur take a look at this must-have family of long-blooming flowers in this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, and serve up a spectacular recipe for butternut squash.2021-11-2521 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHighlights from our Christmas Range with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 42The allure of a warm, glowing, gorgeously adorned home to spend Christmas is particularly appealing in lieu of a challenging few years, and there’s no better way to bring your home to life than with our Christmas range!In this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, learn how you can transform your home with some of Sarah & Arthur’s highlights from this year’s winter offering from our range - from stylish ornaments to glistening, Allium-inspired lighting, plus some delightful gift ideas for your loved ones.In this episode, discover:Our luminescent...2021-11-1819 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsTender Perennial Climbers with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 41The pleasure of designing a garden stretches far beyond colour - with the prolific growth of tender perennial climbers, your flowers become architectural art, giving arches and teepees spectacular structure.Join Sarah & Arthur this week as they take a journey through their pick of the climbers, from the pleasant purple and apricot combination of Rhodochiton & ‘African Sunset’ to the captivating and cathartically named ‘Love in a Puff’. In this episode, discover:Sarah & Arthur’s passion for the exotic and rampant Cobaea ScandensThe bombastic balloon-like seed pods that lend Cardiospermum its common name: Love in a PuffHow a...2021-11-1121 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPrue Leith in conversation with Sarah Raven - Episode 40After Sarah’s recent appearance on Prue Leith’s More4 show, Prue’s Great Gardening Plot, it’s an absolute delight to host Prue on this week’s fascinating episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’.We’re given an insight into Prue’s gardening and the work that’s happened behind the scenes to create the dazzling spaces we see on her TV programme, how she’s made the most of challenging Cotswold clay with glamourous tulips & gorgeous roses, and Prue’s marvellous, ongoing support for better catering in hospitals.The latter part of this episode does contain a d...2021-11-0429 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsForcing Bulbs for Indoor Arrangements with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 39With 2021 waning and the winter months taking hold, the opportunity to force bulbs presents the delightful prospect of creating indoor arrangements for a much-needed splash of colour and pleasant aroma within the home.This week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ offers an eclectic selection of Narcissi, Amaryllis and Hyacinths to consider when assembling your chromatic chorus of bulbs, and essential advice on when, where and how to force your bulbs for maximum impact.In this episode, discover:What ‘forcing’ means, and how that helps you bring a delightful range of bulbs throughout the monoch...2021-10-2830 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPutting the Garden to Bed for Winter with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 38Cold nights and frosty mornings are soon upon us, which signals the perfect time to start putting our gardens to bed in preparation for the harsh winter months. A little bit of care and attention now will help your garden to thrive when the excitement of spring rolls around!Whether in a small garden limited on space, or one in which you have the luxury of corners you can leave to wild, Sarah & Arthur share their advice on protecting your most delicate bulbs, clearing leaves in a wildlife-friendly way, and using them to create a lovely, crumbly...2021-10-2120 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSweet Scented Pelargoniums with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 37As we enter Autumn and the spectacular summer’s days wane in favour of darker, colder weather, Pelargoniums take centre stage and truly come into their own.For a family of flowers that boasts such visual flair and incredible scents, they’re remarkably high performers for very little attention. On this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ we’re talking all things Pelargonium, from those with attention-grabbing aromas to those whose vibrant visual appeal is right at home in the home or the garden.In this episode, discover:Sarah’s adoration for Attar of Roses, and how...2021-10-1423 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHighlights of the Autumn Season with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 35When you’re faced with a selection of plants as vast as our wonderful Autumn range, it’s very easy to get bogged down with such a range of choices, so this week we’ve decided to cast a spotlight on a few of our absolute favourites.Whether it be a productive collection to provide a cohesive, colourful ensemble, or perhaps a single flower with such a striking appearance that it becomes your new favourite, there’s something for everyone on this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’.In this episode, discover:Collections in...2021-09-3032 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsDelightful Dahlias with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 34No late summer garden is complete until its colour palette is drizzled with delightful Dahlias, a flower that’s had its fair share of love on past podcast episodes - and quite rightly so! Their productive tubers and vibrant varieties make them a true must-have, and worthy of a full episode to themselves.Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - perhaps the most enthusiastic Dahlia advocates - share their top picks from the rousing family of flowers, which ones are most alluring for birds and bees, tips on saving pot-grown Dahlias from frost, and how they make a de...2021-09-2323 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsStories from Perch Hill and Nurturing Sea Life with Adam Nicolson - Episode 32We’re breaking convention on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ this week as Sarah steps aside from hosting duties - Arthur is joined by a fellow Perch Hill resident, Sarah’s other half, and thoroughly accomplished writer, Adam Nicolson. In a conversation ranging from profound environmental issues to more absurd incidents like the ‘big sheep crisis’, this episode is equal parts hilarious and inspiring to those of us looking to build a world of wondrous sea life. Adam describes life on Perch Hill, fascinating facts about the inhabitants of rock pools, and how we can help bring biodiver...2021-09-0929 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsAutumn Sowing with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 31There are massive gains to be had if you’re willing to take a crack at autumn sowing, which presents a fantastic opportunity to grow some truly giant hardy annuals.Whether you’re looking to get ahead on ornamental additions to the garden or encourage stronger roots to protect your edible plants, Sarah & Arthur explain how autumn sowing now could be the start of an envious, vibrant ensemble in the next year’s spring and summer months.In this episode, discover:The best varieties of ornamental flowers and productive edible veg to sow earlyWhich hardy...2021-09-0220 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe Beauty of Biodynamic Growing with Fern Verrow’s Jane Scotter - Episode 30From selling her own beautiful produce at markets in London, to exciting collaborations with Skye Gyngell at Spring Restaurant and Jam Jar Flowers’ Melissa Richardson (a previous guest on the podcast!), Jane Scotter has had a wonderful journey to running her 16-acre, biodynamic farm - Fern Verrow.Joining Sarah & Arthur from her gorgeous spot at the foothills of the Black Mountains in Herefordshire, Jane discusses her delightful experiences growing for Skye, how biodynamics helps cultivate her truly seasonal produce, and the love and care she shows to those learning under her tutorship.In this episode, di...2021-08-2630 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHens In The Garden with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 29For regular listeners or those familiar with Arthur’s fabulous family of feathered friends, you’ll know that hens are his area of expertise. From those ideal for egg laying to the breeds that make pleasant poultry pets, this week’s episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ is all about how to choose and care for hens of your own.Sarah & Arthur divulge their experiences with picking a suitable chicken coop, keeping them safe from foxes and other foes, and given that you’ll have an abundance of eggs we hear Arthur’s take on a classic cake recipe...2021-08-1934 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCreating an Organic Ornamental Garden with Sarah Mead, Head Gardener at Yeo Valley Organic Garden - Episode 28Organic lifestyles may have become particularly popular in the last few years, but the shrewd gardeners at Yeo Valley Organic Garden have been at it for over 25 years in the depths of Somerset. What’s even more exciting is their debut appearance at this year’s belated Chelsea Flower Show - a ‘dream come true’ for Sarah Mead.From dealing with pesky pests to picking out vibrant native flowers for their Chelsea display, Sarah has a host of fantastic tips for those of us wanting to use fewer chemicals in our gardens in this episode of “grow, cook, eat...2021-08-1236 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPerfect Props to Accompany Your Garden with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 27With the care and attention that we put into our gardens and green spaces, what use would it all be without a comfortable corner in which to sit back and enjoy it? We turn our focus this week to the captivating decorations and colour combinations to perfectly complement your floral handiwork.In episode 27, of “grow, cook, eat, arrange” Sarah & Arthur talk all things garden props - the most inviting lighting for a relaxing evening, where to source lovely and high quality vintage furniture, and an aesthetically pleasing way to keep wind away from your newly sown plants and...2021-08-0526 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPot Maintenance with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 25When taking care of the beautiful congregations of colour at Perch Hill, it must be said that a wonderful team of keen, green-fingered folk are a helpful luxury that most at home won’t have when taking care of potted arrangements, so creating a maintenance schedule of sorts can be quite an art.In this practical instalment of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah & Arthur have a whole host of products, processes and priceless advice to perfect your preening, dead heading, watering and feeding. We also look at the best times to use a saucer under a pot (or whe...2021-07-2221 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsOur Favourite Summer Perennials with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 24As the latter summer months wane into autumn, pleasing perennials sweep into season - from the hard-working and rich Phlox ‘Blue Paradise’ to the hardy mainstay of the garden that is the beloved Salvia family.Sparking inspiration for your own containers, borders, cut flower arrangements and everywhere in between, Sarah & Arthur this week run through the plethora of perennials they consider the pick of the bunch, and share a delightful smoked haddock fish cake recipe with peppery, crushed nasturtiums.In this episode, discover:A gorgeous selection of Phlox, adding soft clouds of colour to a bo...2021-07-1525 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsBold & Beautiful Colour with Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - Episode 23From the beauty of a bold, stained glass window to the emphatic and highly saturated patterns found in wildlife and nature, colour is an element of gardening that’s captured both Sarah and Arthur’s eye since their youngest years.Marrying together flower families is a fine art, but between Sarah’s ‘Bride, Bridesmaid & Gatecrasher’ approach to picking beautiful bunches, and the colour palettes inspired by exotic animals that can be found in Arthur’s Mill Yard dolly tubs, this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ is sure to spark your own imaginative colourful combinations.Capping off a po...2021-07-0826 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsMagnificent Gladioli with Tom Brown, Head Gardener & Tutor at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation - Episode 22As the summer months are upon us and the prospect of lovely evening gatherings in the garden grows ever more appealing, there’s a marvellous opportunity to spruce up your garden with a selection of gorgeous Gladioli.It’s not too late in the year to plant your own, so now is a perfect time for us to consider some of the best Gladioli to bring a natural and harmonious ensemble of colour to your space - this week with the help of the wonderful Tom Brown, Head Gardener & Tutor at West Dean College of Arts and Cons...2021-07-0129 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsRomantic Lupins, Irises & Peonies with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 21While the boldness of Lupins might be unfairly mistaken for a lack of subtlety, and many gardeners overlook Irises and Peonies, Sarah and Arthur feel it’s high time for a renaissance of these romantic, vigorous flowers.From the rousing rouge tones of Terracotta to the rich, cool tones of Dusky Challenger, there’s a strong case for adding these gorgeous varieties to your garden - they should be praised just as much for their aesthetic merit as for their low maintenance. Perhaps you’ll discover your new favourite flower, or a variety to become the perfect colour...2021-06-2419 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsOur Favourite Places to Visit This Summer with Arthur Parkinson & Sarah Raven - Episode 20As we finally begin to emerge from a year of restrictions, the world is our oyster and it’s time to start planning some gorgeous getaways and rousing retreats. For many, the likes of familiar old favourites Sissinghurst and Chatsworth will undoubtedly be on the cards, with romantic rose gardens and marvellous displays of cramming every cranny with colour.For this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah and Arthur take us on their ideal road trip around the country, offering up suggestions for an exciting tour of your own to discover natural beauty, flora and fauna, and ev...2021-06-1731 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsBiennials & Carrots with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 19Rich in fragrance and saturated colour, the biennial is a wonderful group of plants that promise to really enhance the sights and smells of your garden, whether they be the magnificent early Wallflowers, or the aromatic Icelandic Poppies.Among the numerous varieties of biennial worth sowing right now, on this week’s ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ we also hear about how you can add carrots to your veg garden, the best ways to keep them safe from carrot flies, and Sarah’s brilliant recipe that puts them to great use in a salad.In this episode...2021-06-1025 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsThe beauty of Roses with Green and Gorgeous’, Rachel Siegfried - Episode 18The beauty of roses makes them one of the most desired flowers for occasions, but they are an increasingly fashionable addition to a garden setting too. Growing over 5 acres of them in Oxfordshire at Green and Gorgeous, Rachel Siegfried is well versed in which varieties suit particular scenarios, and how to grow a healthy rose.Rachel joins Sarah & Arthur this week to share how you can make the most of your roses, including her pick of rose feed, how to condition them once picked, and keeping red spider mite and black spot away from your flowers.2021-06-0329 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPeonies & Pressed Flowers with JamJar Flowers, Melissa Richardson - Episode 17The joy of a pressed flower is an absolute treat to decorate any setting, and nobody does it quite like Melissa Richardson of JamJar Flowers. Seeing them preserve the life of a picked peony far beyond its normal lifespan is a truly special treat.Melissa joins Sarah & Arthur this week to discuss her gorgeous arrangements, how she sources her beautiful flowers, and how you can use environmentally friendly alternatives to oasis.In this episode, discover:Melissa’s almost-accidental discovery of the wonders of flowersEnvironmentally friendly alternatives to oasis, or floral foamThe incredible experience that on...2021-05-2727 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsHardy Annuals & Edible Flowers with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 16Give hardy annuals some new, open ground, and the flamboyant flowers fill out any garden. Tending to them in just the right way helps to bring your space to life, and in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ we find out Sarah and Arthur’s top 5 hardy annuals.On top of this, we’ve got a whole year’s worth of edible flowers which promise to bring a burst of flavour to your cooking; we cover everything from wild garlic and elderflower, to chives and hibiscus, plus everything else in between.In this episode, discover:2021-05-2032 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsAlliums & Chives with Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - Episode 14There’s nothing quite like bringing the garden together with alliums as they take over from the last of the late tulips. If you tend to them carefully and remove the leaves that are prone to looking tatty, then you can welcome a standard of colour and life comparable to the Chelsea Flower Show into your garden.Alliums are an equally exciting addition you can take to the kitchen, with Society Garlic bringing the flavour without the halitosis. We also cover chives in this episode, which is a stunning perennial herb with uses in a delicious salad or...2021-05-0623 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsFruit Blossom, Pumpkins & Squash with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 12At a time of year where the last of the frost is behind us, it’s a fantastic opportunity to grow your own wonderful pumpkins and squash, and the best thing is that they’re brilliant for gardens of all sizes. Even better, pairing these with a fruit blossom can bring you both edible veg and delightful songbirds.In this next episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah and Arthur share the best ways to grow a healthy pumpkin, assemble a delicious squash tip frittata, and create a canopy of fruit blossom.In this episode, discover...2021-04-2221 min
grow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsEarly Tulips & Forcing Potatoes with Swallows & Damsons', Anna Potter - Episode 11With the spring season fast approaching, this week seemed a fitting time to consider our pick of the early tulips to bring some spring colour to your garden. Helping us to choose our favourites on this episode is a wonderful guest with a background in fine art and floristry, Anna Potter.As the artistic eye behind Swallows & Damsons, Anna shares her journey to building her own floristry company utilising her photography skills to create a ‘visual diary’, and we hear how to chit potatoes and use them in a variety of delicious dishes.In this epis...2021-04-1530 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCompanion Planting & Edible Flowers with Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - Episode 10Companion planting is a win-win situation - you bring even more beautiful flowers into your garden, and they help each other to bloom. From pests to mildew to black spot, there’s a number of dangers that careful companion planting can solve naturally.In this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah and Arthur offer tips on how to pick plants to protect one another, and Sarah gives us a Fish Cake recipe that offers a natural alternative to black pepper - the delicious Nasturtium.In this episode, discover:The 4 main types of companion plant...2021-04-0825 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsNarcissi and Purple Sprouting Broccoli with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 8If you’re looking to naturalise your garden with a sea of bulbs that even have a great vase life, then narcissi are a wonderful addition to your greenery. While some varieties fit the description of ‘rubber duck yellow’, those with rich colour and a rousing scent earn the respect of Sarah and Arthur.For this week’s edible veg, we hear about purple sprouting broccoli which, even during a time of year where it is notably harder to grow-your-own vegetables, is incredibly generous. Hear how Sarah includes purple sprouting in a lovely pasta dish, and Arthur’s advice o...2021-03-2517 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSowing Annuals for Birds and Courgettes with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 7Our gardens have so much potential to become an oasis for birds and bees, and you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetic beauty to make this happen. Arthur considers a butterfly or a bee on a flower similar to Gucci jewellery for your garden, so combining glamour and wildlife can be particularly rewarding; and now is the perfect time to sow for a bustling summer garden. Also discussed this week are courgettes - a particularly easy vegetable to sow with a wonderful range of recipes to use them in. As always, Sarah shares some of the courgette’s cul...2021-03-1828 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsRhubarb and Dahlias with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 6One of the key players in a colour-packed garden, and a true love of Sarah and Arthur’s, is the beautiful dahlia. With the low maintenance of a perennial and the growth of cut and come again flowers, it’s no wonder there’s barely a patch at Perch Hill that isn’t decorated with a ‘stained glass carpet’ of dahlias.Gracing your kitchen table this week, ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ covers rhubarb, a vegetable Arthur would consider right at home in a Beatrix Potter novel. Sarah shares her tasty Syllabub recipe, with some advice on growing rhubarb in a for...2021-03-1120 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsPicking a bunch for Mother’s Day with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson #BONUSThere may be no more grateful recipient of a lavish flower arrangement than a loving mother on Mother’s Day, and with that day right around the corner it seems high time to share Sarah and Arthur’s ideal bouquets! From picking and conditioning, right through to designing an incredible aesthetic ensemble, this edition of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ promises to bestow you with the picking knowledge that’s bound to put a beaming smile on any mother’s face.In this episode, discover…Sarah and Arthur’s ideal selection of freshly picked Mother’s Day flowersCondit...2021-03-1109 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsTomatoes and Sweet Peas with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 5Adding tomatoes to a gorgeous soup recipe is one thing - however the delightful burst of flavour that can be gained by growing your own indigo rose tomatoes is unparalleled, not to mention their incredible health benefits! Bringing you the best methods for growing your own thriving tomato garden in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’, Sarah and Arthur run through every step; from building the silver birch teepee to perfect picking.You’ll also find out how to propagate Arthur’s pick of the sweet peas, the vibrant, ‘acid pink’ Barry Dare, and what makes them the big...2021-03-0433 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSowing techniques with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - BONUSAnyone can start growing plants and veg from scratch, whether you have acres in abundance or just a promising windowsill! Using the right sowing system, you can adorn your windows with seed trays or square pots to create a sprawling oasis. Join Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson for this bonus episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange’ that will bring you up to speed on all things sowing. Sarah shares why she treats seeds like gold dust and how to keep them pristine for seasons to come, and Arthur divulges the secret to turning a windowsill into a bustl...2021-03-0426 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCrocus, Chard and Antirrhinums with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 4For the sheer delicacy of its outer petals, the crocus flower is a lovely choice to adorn your kitchen table, and a chance to put a little egg cup to wonderful use. Not only that, but they also play a crucial role in the survival of our pollinators!In this episode of grow, cook, eat, arrange Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson also share their love of chard, the envy of many a gardener come the winter months. While Arthur explains his reluctance to pick chard, Sarah has several satiating recipes for you to try with it, and...2021-02-2516 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsNew book releases by Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - BONUSWith both of the “grow, cook, eat arrange” podcast hosts launching brand new books this Spring this special bonus episode delves into what you can expect to read from them both. Tracing the year from January to December, Sarah’s new book (the first in 10 years!) “Sarah Raven’s A Year Full of Flowers: Gardening for all seasons” provides inspiration, planting ideas and expert advice for a beautiful garden all-year round. Arthur Parkinson’s “The Flower Yard” follows Arthur, as he gardens through the seasons in pots. It is a beautifully visual yet personal and highly informative r...2021-02-2515 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsCobaea and Kale with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 3Kale really is tough as old boots - you can grow it anywhere yet still create the most delicious dishes from it. In another vibrant episode of the “grow, cook, eat arrange” podcast Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson discuss the best ways to pick, sow and cook this incredible plant plus the great health benefits and unique qualities of the flower sprout. Also within this episode they discuss how to create a beautiful display by introducing trails of Cobaea to your outside space.In this episode you’ll discover…Using Cobaea to make an impact in small...2021-02-1821 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsSnowdrops and Winter herbs with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 2The classic late-winter ornamental crops such as snowdrops and rosemary are beautiful additions to any garden, and also provide a vital source of nectar for bumblebees coming out of hibernation in February. In this second episode of the grow, cook, eat, arrange podcast, Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson discuss their favourite types of snowdrops, the best time to propagate a new rosemary bush and Sarah even reveals her unique technique for arranging snowdrops for maximum impact on display.Discover: How to transplant snowdrops happilyTechniques for picking snowdropsThe ideal location for rosemary to flourishWhen to cu...2021-02-1123 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsWinter salad and Hellebores with Sarah Raven & Arthur Parkinson - Episode 1Every single bite of a home grown, freshly picked, winter salad should taste completely different from the last and that’s what makes it so exciting. In this episode of grow, cook, eat, arrange Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson delve into the world of rocket, basil, mizuna and parsley.Sarah provides her top tips to ensure your salad leaves last for at least 20 picks, which varieties do best in frosty weather, and why you can actually sow them any time of the year. In this jam-packed episode they also discuss their favourite types of hellebores, the best on...2021-02-1125 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsGardening glossary - BONUSIt can often feel like gardening has an entirely new language that you have to learn! So for those budding new gardeners in our midst for this special bonus episode Sarah & Arthur have been kind enough to pull together a beginner’s guide to terminology. They’ll prepare you to enjoy the rest of the podcast by explaining some common phrases used and a few basic gardening techniques for you to care for your garden organically. In this episode you will learn:Different types of flowers and from annuals to perennials.Basic techniques for propag...2021-02-1112 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsAn Introduction to Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson - BONUSGardeners Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson have a unique and fruitful friendship created through their joint passions for growing beautiful floral arrangements and sowing food for cooking on the veg slope at Perch Hill.So how did this all start? On this special bonus episode of grow, cook, eat, arrange we delve into their upbringings and backgrounds that inspired their love of colour, their original career paths (including Sarah’s brief time as a Medic in London!) and the story behind how they first met and formed an instant friendship.Discover: Why Perch Hill is...2021-02-1114 mingrow, cook, eat, arrange with Sarah Raven & friendsWelcome to "Grow, cook, eat, arrange" - TrailerWelcome "Grow, cook, eat, arrange" the brand new podcast by gardeners Sarah Raven and Arthur Parkinson, who've worked together for nearly ten years at the beautiful Perch Hill Farm in the South of England.Sarah loves gardening in general but growing produce both food and flowers is the part she loves the most. She also loves to cook straight forward garden-picked food every day with the minimal amount of ingredients and palava but the greatest amount of taste!Arthur is Sarah's florist who picks beautiful arrangements for photoshoots and open days at the farm, from...2021-01-2602 min