Shows
Talking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 292 - It's the final episode! (of 2025, that is :-) This week, Saul prepares himself for life after Stonelands whilst Lucy performs some serious surgery on a mower. And what do the professional duo make of the RHS predictions for 2026? Tune in...Winter is arriving in the UK, so while Saul and Lucy hunker down, don layers and fire up the kettle more frequently than usual, what do their minds turn to in the garden? This is the perfect season for clearance of 2025 growth, for establishing new designs and for de-cluttering stores and greenhouses. Any hours that you can put into the garden now, will reward you hugely come spring and summer, when the jobs mount up. Quick - more tea and biscuits!Will it snow this Christmas? Will Saul ever manage to finally retrieve all his plants from...
2025-12-2040 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 291 - This week we're joined by northern gardener and star of the Pots and Trowels podcast - Martin Fish - as we talk about the gardening year gone by, the one coming up and his garden at home.Winter is arriving in the UK, so while Saul and Lucy hunker down, don layers and fire up the kettle more frequently than usual, what do their minds turn to in the garden? This is the perfect season for clearance of 2025 growth, for establishing new designs and for de-cluttering stores and greenhouses. Any hours that you can put into the garden now, will reward you hugely come spring and summer, when the jobs mount up. Quick - more tea and biscuits!Many of our listeners will know Martin Fish from his wonderful podcast Pots and Trowels...
2025-12-1342 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 290 - It's the custard cream episode! Lucy sandwiches some genuinely exciting gardening conversation in between two beautifully decorated vanilla biscuits this week - while Saul does his best to clear Stonelands of the Walker legacy...Winter is arriving in the UK, so while Saul and Lucy hunker down, don layers and fire up the kettle more frequently than usual, what do their minds turn to in the garden? This is the perfect season for clearance of 2025 growth, for establishing new designs and for de-cluttering stores and greenhouses. Any hours that you can put into the garden now, will reward you hugely come spring and summer, when the jobs mount up. Quick - more tea and biscuits!Podcast listeners have turned Lucy's head from the garden this week, as talk of her favourite...
2025-12-0633 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 289 - Not much gardening going on - but that doesn't mean the #TalkingHeads pair don't have some big news about their lives in Horticulture...has Lucy finally tracked down those custard creams....Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.Leaves, frost and rain...that's been this Autumn summed up...so not much gardening...
2025-11-2932 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 288 - The teabreak episode! What does the working week of a modern professional gardener involve? As we delve inside Lucy's schedule, we discover what forms the backbone upon which winter physical work rests - a lot of tea and biscuits...Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.Balancing clients, weather, school runs and shifting workloads is all part and parcel of...
2025-11-2237 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 287 - Half a million downloads!!!! Thank you to all who listen to the professional horticultural duo that make up the Talking Heads podcast. Lucy and Saul celebrate this milestone with - you've guessed it - some top-quality hortiwaffle!Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.Wow - who on earth would have thought that from that first episode six...
2025-11-0833 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 286 - While the wind whistles outside Saul and Lucy take a look at the RHS State of Gardening Report, an eye-opening look at the Horticultural world including the new RHS Hort Hub on their websiteAutumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.The Autumn peak has been and gone, and leaves are dominating the ground especially...
2025-11-0138 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 285 - Storm Benjamin has brought wind and rain this week, so how do Lucy and Saul deal with the natural deluge of leaves? Apples are also bountiful, and Saul explains how his orchard harvest goes to a very good causeAutumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.It's squally out there! With the podcast being recorded on the eve of Storm...
2025-10-2533 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 284 - Is Autumn colour starting in your garden - the Talking Heads pair are revelling in the buttery yellows and fiery reds as the transition from Summer really starts to kick in....Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.The pinnacle of the Autumn season is almost upon us as the trees up...
2025-10-1133 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 283 - This week, Lucy and Saul turn their attention towards key autumn tasks, like lawn care and hedge pruning. Plus, both gardeners have had machinery break down on them, which is a good excuse for a tinker - or a flex of the staff credit card!Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.It's the hedges and edges episode! Saul and Lucy have both been flexing their...
2025-10-0435 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 282 - A listener's question special - Pelargoniums need overwintering, but how and where - and when overwintering in a greenhouse what's best for frost protection - the #TalkingHeads Pair discuss.Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.This week Lucy has had two of of fantastic listeners write to her with...
2025-09-2728 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 281 - It's the management episode! A Head Gardener's role involves many tasks, and managing staff, time, budgets, client expectations and other responsibilities within this job can be a juggle. Listen as Saul and Lucy discuss their experiencesAutumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.Last week, Lucy and Saul were posed an excellent listener question: Jo asks...
2025-09-2034 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 280 - The #Horti-waffle pair reunite after Saul has enjoyed some well deserved holiday, and Lucy, being a dutiful child, has some father-daughter time rigging up a brassica cage.Autumn is here on the Talking Heads podcast - as the last vestiges of Summer in the garden dodge the wet and windy weather while trying to give the last hurrah before that inevitable but pleasantly seasonable slide into the hibernation of winter. But gardeners never sleep so Lucy and Saul are still out and about in their plots plying the horticultural trade they both love. So join them both for more horti-waffle and insights into the life of the modern, professional gardener.Saul returns from his holidays (technically he is actually still on them!) and Lucy...
2025-09-1335 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 279 - It's the tropicals episode! But, what's this? The podcasting duo have swapped brains, it appears, as Lucy talks you through her newly developed 'tropical' borderSummer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-09-0637 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 278 - It's Head Gardener time again! But, what exactly is the job description of a modern Head Gardener, and what kind of tasks should you expect (and not expect) to do? As ever, Saul and Lucy share their thoughtsSummer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-08-2334 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 277 - Time to get out and about as Lucy has been visiting the Fothergills Trials Grounds and Saul is keeping Stonelands ticking over through another pronounced dry spell - more Horticulture waffle at it's finest!Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-08-1634 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 276 - There are jobs to juggle! Lucy and Saul discuss the tasks for summer, and how professional gardeners tread the fine line between tasks that achieve instant aesthetics, and those that give results in the futureSummer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-08-0935 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 275 - It's the start of the Summer holidays, and with Lucy away, Saul takes you on a little Saturday Trip to the Beach, his Garden and The Story of Emily.....Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-08-0326 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 274 - Let's talk about tropicals and edibles! (but not in a way you would expect). The talking heads duo have a surprise for you this week.....Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-07-2637 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 273 - Prepare for abundant weather (and machinery) discussions. Lucy is feeling rattled with the wind, while Saul isn't a fan of humidity. But of course, there are still plenty of gardening tasks for the professional gardening duoSummer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-07-1933 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 272 - Mid-July is the mid point of the summer season where the garden is in full summer garb, long-hot days and lots of pruning, watering and dead heading occurs, but forget all that and get the BBQ out!Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-07-1233 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 271 - Humidity has been rocketing this week, so the gardening duo have been finding ways to keep cool (handily for Saul, Stonelands has a river). But even in the heat, hedges have been cut and grass - what there is of it - has been mown.Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-07-0533 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 270 - It's hot, hot, HOT! SO, how do two professional gardeners manage when daytime temperatures soar? And what key jobs are there to complete when everything in the garden is at summer's peak? Listen to Saul and Lucy as they explain allSummer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-06-2835 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 269 - Well haven't the Talking Heads pair been in the health wars recently, it goes to show that not everything goes smoothly - but they are back and have a long chat about BBC Gardeners World Live and some of the garden questions Saul was posed.Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-06-2234 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 268 - Saul takes you along on a 'Weekend in the Life' of a gardener - where it's a double header of Garden Society meet-ups - nattering, drinking tea and buying plants are what it's all about.Summer in 2025 is here - and after one of the sunniest and driest Springs on record, we enter the long days and sultry nights with the garden looking glorious but always looking to the horizon for a little bit of rain to keep things looking green and lush. Herbaceous borders are set to maximum colour, vegetable beds seem to multiply in growth weekly and the gardeners tan is ever present. So enjoy the long summer days, take some time to appreciate time in your garden and join the Talking Heads pair as they continue to look after the spaces...
2025-06-0828 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 267 - It's finally here! The latest episode of the Talking Heads podcast is, at last LIVE. We talk about our successes and fails in the garden - and beyond (for Saul, it was leaving his beloved Devon for a few days...)Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-06-0136 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 266 - It's the time in the middle of May where everyone talks about one thing in horticulture - The RHS Chelsea Flower Show - and so Lucy and Saul give you the highlights of their visit to this gardening extravaganza.Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-05-2437 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 265 - Whilst Lucy (and the rest of the UK) performs a rain dance, Saul is experiencing his usual Devon weather - blow some our way, Saul! But his mind is rightly so on his 10-year anniversary as Stonelands Head Gardener - congratulations, Mr W!Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-05-1736 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 264 - Post Gardener's World Spring Fair, the Talking Heads pair are in recovery mode, so gardening-lite is in order - but seed sowing, potting on exotic plants and working on the herbaceous borders are all in a weeks work.Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-05-1132 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 263 - For the fifth year running Lucy and Saul are at BBC Gardeners World Spring Fair at the beautiful Beulieu in the New Forest - the pair are giving their usual Plant Expert Tours, selling books and catching up with all things Alice in Wonderland!Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-05-0632 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 262 - Anyone for tennis? Saul has finally resolved his conundrum of how to clean up Stoneland's tennis court, while Lucy has been taking in the sights and sounds of a glorious Essex springSpring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-04-2637 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 261 - Saul is joined on this episode by Head of Horticultural Relations at the RHS, Emma Allen, to talk about her teams role in the horticultural charity, funding through bursaries and the new role of the Expert Groups.Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-04-1337 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 260 - Magnolias are 'Go' in Essex! Of course, they've been Go in Devon for weeks, but Lucy's East Anglian location isn't as mild as Saul's in the South West. The duo also talk about peat policies, filming highlights and upcoming speaker bookingsSpring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-04-0533 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 259 - The signs of Spring are everywhere now - so Lucy and Saul indulge in a bit of Phenology - whether plants, insects, birds or piece of machinery appears - what's your herald that Spring has truly arrived?Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-03-2935 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 258 - Spring is still springing! With yet more signs of this exciting season coming to life, Saul and Lucy explain how this week, they've both been taming flower borders in their respective clients' gardensSpring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-03-2233 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 257 - The buoyant feeling of the garden continues on Talking Heads - Lucy and Saul are still drunk on the glory of Spring as this episode features nursery visits, planting new hedges and the debut of 'Horticultural News'!Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-03-1536 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 256 - Spring is well and truly in the air - and Lucy and Saul are utterly smitten. The horticultural juices are once again in full flow, as the lengthening sunny days brings more time outside and the start to another wonderful garden year!Spring is the season when gardeners throw off the hibernation and slumber of months of wet feet, many layers and waterproofs and are reborn anew! The stirring of life in the garden is one of the years great experiences, and makes a gardening life such a worthwhile pursuit, not only is it good for the planet to see the earth greening up, it is also good for the gardeners soul. But there is still lots of hard work to get on with - seeds have to be sown, mulch laid, supports erected and lawns mown. So join Lucy and...
2025-03-0834 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 255 - It's more hortiwaffle! This week, Saul and Lucy discuss the first signs of spring - are they appearing, or are you a 'fool' to think so? We think a definite YES! With talk of crocus, iris and aconite our spring gardens are (gently) waking upWell winter is on our doorsteps, and for the general population any thoughts of gardening stops, as the common thought is the 'garden has gone to sleep'...Well nothing could be farther from the truth, as the season of shorter days and chilly weather could be one of the most important and busy in the yearly life of your garden. Join Saul and Lucy every week as they show you exactly how busy they are, whether getting everything festive for Xmas, clearing up after the latest storm, enjoying the emergent shoots of early flowering plants or getting ready for...
2025-03-0131 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 252 - Cutting lawns, testing waterproofs, showcasing ladders, favourite gardening shows for 2025 - this week, Saul and Lucy are covering plenty of ground. Oh, and yoga whilst gardening - do you do it?Well winter is on our doorsteps, and for the general population any thoughts of gardening stops, as the common thought is the 'garden has gone to sleep'...Well nothing could be farther from the truth, as the season of shorter days and chilly weather could be one of the most important and busy in the yearly life of your garden. Join Lucy and Saul every week as they show you exactly how busy they are, whether getting everything festive for Xmas, clearing up after the latest storm, enjoying the emergent shoots of early flowering plants or getting ready for...
2025-02-0835 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 249 - This week, Saul and Lucy have donned their RHS hats to participate in an information sharing session regarding plans for 2025. With water conservation, plants for a purpose and website developments on the agenda, we're in for an exciting yearWell winter is on our doorsteps, and for the general population any thoughts of gardening stops, as the common thought is the 'garden has gone to sleep'...Well nothing could be farther from the truth, as the season of shorter days and chilly weather could be one of the most important and busy in the yearly life of your garden. Join Lucy and Saul every week as they show you exactly how busy they are, whether getting everything festive for Xmas, clearing up after the latest storm, enjoying the emergent shoots of early flowering plants or getting ready for...
2025-01-1836 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 246 - In the wake of storm Darragh Saul and Lucy discuss tree loss, removal and renewal. A moment of sadness brings with it the silver lining of opportunityWell winter is on our doorsteps, and for the general population any thoughts of gardening stops, as the common thought is the 'garden has gone to sleep'...Well nothing could be farther from the truth, as the season of shorter days and chilly weather could be one of the most important and busy in the yearly life of your garden. Join Lucy and Saul every week as they show you exactly how busy they are, whether getting everything festive for Xmas, clearing up after the latest storm, enjoying the emergent shoots of early flowering plants or getting ready for...
2024-12-1433 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 240 - Autumn is in full swing, but can you enjoy it while it continually rains - well Saul maybe moving East to where Lucy has remained dry - chased by the Wasps...it's always fun in the garden...With Summer behind us and the touch of Autumn on the horizon, it's time to say a fond and lengthy farewell to the 2024 garden season. But that's not to say there is still a tremendous amount of gardening to be done. Lucy will be revelling in her Fruit and Veg as Autumn is the crescendo of harvest time, and Saul will be willing an Indian Summer so his last few exotics can flower before tucking them away for some well deserved winter rest. Otherwise there are still lawns to cut, leaves to be racked and a lot of planning...
2024-10-2732 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 233 - It's time for the great East/West divide! While Saul is wrapped up in his Devonshire dungarees and long sleeves, Lucy is sweltering in Essex in anything but - as the UK conforms to its traditional weather patterns, for now...The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardeners are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul...
2024-08-1731 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 232 - Is August the least favourite month for gardening, controversial but Lucy and Saul have a chat about it, plus trimming your dangling beans and how to break into some Garden writing.The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardeners are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul...
2024-08-1035 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 230 - The weather may dampen a few spirits, but gardening continues as Lucy visits RHS Wisley to trial some Tomatoes, Saul's first Ginger has flowered and listeners share some of their self-employed gardening experiences.The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardener's are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul...
2024-07-2734 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 228 - Join Saul in his back garden where the tasks are never ending - so he spends a day looking after his collection of Jungle plants, focusing on how he feeds and setting up the start of his potential micro-nursery.The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardener's are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul...
2024-07-0731 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 226 - What's better than looking after all your favourite plants, well buying new ones of course. And that's what Saul is up to as he takes you along on his visit to the Tregrehan Rare Plant Fair.The Summer season has come full circle again, that time of year where everyone enjoys being outside, especially in their gardens on a long, sunny day. Gardener's are still in full flow - planting out new beds, mowing their lawns and cajoling their vegetable gardens into burgeoning yields. It's a great time to be alive in horticulture as the show season reaches a crescendo, plant fairs almost every weekend threaten to empty your savings and open gardens throughout the UK inspire that next bit of work you will be doing in your own plot. As ever Lucy and Saul...
2024-06-0835 min
Talking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 207 - THE AUSSIE SPECIAL (Part 2): Lucy is still Down Under enjoying the summer life, while Saul dons the extra winter layers as the cold finally descends in the UK - time for a little bit of the Hunter Valley, some Kookaburras and pruning apple treesWinter in the UK is either mild and damp, or cold and windy - and who would want to be outside as a gardener at this time of year - well Saul and Lucy for one, as this time of year is some of the busiest in all the 12 months. While the garden may be slumbering, Head Gardeners and their teams are beavering away on major jobs, garden renovations, cleaning and tidying the years clutter and making plans for 2024. So join us every week to see what we're up to in the cold months in our work and home...
2024-01-1336 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 201 - After last week's milestone episode, Saul and Lucy are back to normal topics such as the weather, listener questions and extracurricular activities (in this case, RHS committee work). No cryptic questions in sight!Autumn signals the slow descent into slumber for another year - but not before the fireworks of the late flowering perennials, exotics and bulbs, the harvest of the last of the beautiful summer veg and finally the firework bank of the tree's as they turn there annual colours of orange, reds and yellows. Its time to switch up the usual gardening to get on with some bigger jobs and also dust off the longer trousers, thermals and the rain coat as moisture levels increase and the temperatures go down. Autumn is always a time for both reflection and planning...
2023-11-1632 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 199 - As Storm Ciaran hits the southwest shores, Saul braces himself for a garden clean up. Plus, a listener's question about hedge cutters gets the full Lucy and Saul analysis.Autumn signals the slow descent into slumber for another year - but not before the fireworks of the late flowering perennials, exotics and bulbs, the harvest of the last of the beautiful summer veg and finally the firework bank of the tree's as they turn there annual colours of orange, reds and yellows. Its time to switch up the usual gardening to get on with some bigger jobs and also dust off the longer trousers, thermals and the rain coat as moisture levels increase and the temperatures go down. Autumn is always a time for both reflection and planning...
2023-11-0438 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 194 - THE EXOTIC EPISODE (Part 4) - Late Summer and Early Autumn is the zenith of the Exotic Garden, flower and foliage giving it's maximum display, so Saul takes a solo walk through his mini Devon rainforest.Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the...
2023-09-1632 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 192 - It's the start of September, which means Saul and Lucy are again at Audley End Gardens for BBCGWLive Autumn Fair, and finally Lucy's Show Garden is ready, so join us for the results and some salad munching!Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the...
2023-09-0324 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 182 - Summer is here - gardening is full throttle in all its forms - and Saul and Lucy's task lists are fuller than ever, so we give you an insight at what both Head Gardeners are trying to squeeze into their long, hazy days.Summer days are here again - sipping G&T on the terrace, lounging in our pools and holidays in the Algarve!? You must be kidding, for Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul it's full-on gardening, as our plots and patches reach the zenith of there horticultural output. This is the season when we really see the results of all those labours over the previous 6 months - colour, texture, scent and flavour all reach their crescendo as the garden provides us with the visual and edible treats that we work so hard for. Enjoy theses long days and wallow in the...
2023-06-1033 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 179 - Don't panic!! This time of year can leave gardeners feeling frazzled and torn between jobs, so how do Saul and Lucy survive this "May madness"? Plus, the Chelsea Flower Show is on the horizon - Lucy and Saul both have plans to be there.What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.Hold onto...
2023-05-1832 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 178 - When things go wrong in your garden, reach for the silver-linings! Lucy and Saul may suffer some set backs in their horti-work but as its May just being in the garden makes it all worth it!What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.Lucy and...
2023-05-1334 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 174 - THE EXOTIC EPISODE (Part 3) - Saul takes us on a look at his home garden, to see how his collection of tender(ish) plants have fared during the winter.What is that on the horizon - well, it's Spring of course. The klaxon for warmer, longer days is finally sounding and Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy are looking forward to it immensely. Spring is a wonderful time of year but also incredibly busy for all professional gardeners up and down the country as the gardens come alive with colour, texture and the occasional weed! Join them both as they navigate this beautiful time of year, bringing you the sights and sounds of Stonelands and East Donyland, as well as their home gardens and beyond.Lucy is...
2023-04-1534 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 167 - With Lucy away, Saul takes you on a journey down to the river at Stonelands, where he talks about his love for the wildlife in the garden, and his thoughts on how his gardening can encourage and compliment it.We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.Lucy...
2023-02-2534 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 166 - It's time to start growing your own food! Lucy takes you on a tour of her kitchen garden this week, while Saul rests his voice after a spate of gardening talks.We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.This...
2023-02-1727 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 165 - Do trends in gardening help or hinder our enjoyment of the huge world that is plants and their cultivation, Lucy and Saul take a look at those plants and sections of the hobby that are booming.We are in the depths of winter, and whatever the weather may - or may not - have in store for us in this traditionally chilly month, Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Often mistaken for a quieter season, there are plenty of winter tasks to complete and projects to initiate. Winter pruning, leaf clearing, renovations and new plantings will all be discussed (we can't promise that conversations about biscuits and lists won't also appear...). Whatever the topic, the duo hope to prime us all for the unfolding gardening seasons.Gardening...
2023-02-1136 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 151 - Autumn is a time for reflecting on the months that have passed, and observing what these periods have taught us. So, let Lucy and Saul share their thoughts on new plants, rediscovered joys and much more.Autumn has arrived on the shores of the UK - a slight freshness to the mornings and a waning of the light signal that subtle change to the season. In the garden the peak colour and growth is starting to give way to the texture and autumnal colours that signal the slow, but beautiful descent, into a period of more dormant reflection. Autumn can be one of the most beautiful times of year and also a celebration of what has gone before, the present harvest of abundance but also the future excitement of gardening plans and work....
2022-10-0834 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 136 - Learning on the job is so rewarding, and that's exactly what Lucy's done this week as she tells Saul how she's had help to solved three mysteries in the Hall's gardensSpring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most...
2022-05-2130 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 135 - Join Saul for five days at Stonelands, as he leads you through a typical week of gardening at Stonelands House, expect highs and lows as he manages flowers, vegetables, garden tours and a rather annoying tyre!Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most...
2022-05-1435 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 132 - Get yourselves outside! With this Easter weekend's glorious weather, Lucy and Saul discuss the technicalities of sowing directly into the earth. Plus, there's exciting flame gun news!Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most...
2022-04-1638 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 130 - With Saul out of action due to a bad back, Lucy gives you a guided tour of her home kitchen garden. Expect ambient gravel sounds, discussions about the cold snap, a sneak inside her beloved greenhouse - and a grand rhubarb reveal.Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most...
2022-04-0230 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 128 - Machinery, hand tools and compost are in every gardener's essential kit, so Lucy and Saul reveal some must-haves for their respective potting sheds. Plus, we have Niwaki to thank for our first ever exciting prize draw.Spring 2022 has arrived and a new chapter in our gardening lives has started as bulbs, early blossom and the early tufts of seedlings and herbaceous perennials speak of the year ahead. As days in spring seem to tumble one after another in an ever-accelerating list of garden jobs, plantings and hum of mowers - it's a great time to shake off the winter slumber and start to engage with the natural world around us, enjoying the spectacles of spring that lie within. As ever, Saul and Lucy will bring you their waffled musings and exciting revelations as this most...
2022-03-1734 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 125 - Weathering the storm - in the aftermath of Dudley, Eunice, Franklin and Gladys how did Saul and Lucy's respective estates fare? And what on earth are weather bombs and sting jets? Listen in to find out.We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-02-2534 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 124 - Prepare yourself for discussions on spring colour, new trailers and garden visits. Also brace your brain for a full-blown explanation on potato chitting, as Saul and Lucy get their teeth into another episode of the Talking Heads Podcast.We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-02-1031 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 123 - The excitement builds at Stonelands and East Donyland, as Saul and Lucy are beginning to see the signs of the garden stirring for the new season ahead - but there is still the potential for some cold, so stay wrapped up warm.We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-02-0531 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 122 - It's snowdrop time! Saul and Lucy discuss their favourites, and we also chat about box moth controls, hedge laying and using plant-based biofumigants in the garden.We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-01-2938 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 121 - The seed sowing season is almost here - have you made your seed orders yet? In this episode, Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul discuss what prestigious varieties are lucky enough to make it onto their respective order lists.We are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-01-1535 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 120 - It's the start of a new year, so the two Head Gardener hosts, Lucy and Saul, catch up after the festive break and discuss what's been happening in their horticultural livesWe are now firmly in winter, and you might be thinking that Head Gardeners Saul Walker and Lucy Chamberlain are taking things easy on their respective estates. But as these latest episodes will show, the two are fervently working away as busily as ever. With jobs such as planting, pruning, clearing and renovating on the cards, Lucy and Saul are at no risk of getting cold during this chillier season. The gardening friends are also busy thinking of the year ahead, so expect plenty of discussions about the weather, biscuits, buying new equipment, mowing, spreadsheets vs. lists, (more biscuits...
2022-01-0831 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 119 - As the end of 2021 beckons, Saul and Lucy become reflective and begin to think about the gardening resolutions they wish to make for the coming year.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!The year is almost out as Christmas and the New Year...
2021-12-1934 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 118 - With no particular subject for this episode Lucy and Saul chat, debate and discuss their way through all sorts of gardening topics with storms, decimated carrots, nuisance bamboo and spineless holly all on the menu.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!Head Gardeners Lucy and Saul realised they had no topic for...
2021-12-1131 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 117 - Dust off your finest (virtual) togs - it's the 2021 Garden Media Guild Awards! Saul and Lucy sing the praises of some of the finest horticultural communicators our industry has to offer.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!The gardening sector is jam packed with writers, bloggers, radio broadcasters...
2021-12-0231 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 116 - Hedges are important! When it comes to choosing, planting and pruning Lucy and Saul know that planning and preparation is key. In this episode, they discuss their respective hedging masterplans.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!Whether you love formal or informal, evergreen or deciduous, large or...
2021-11-2734 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 115 - Summer and Autumn in the Vegetable Garden may have passed, but how much should we focus on Winter as well - Lucy lets Saul know there's lots more going on than we think!The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!Throughout Spring, Summer and Autumn we think of the Vegetable plots a...
2021-11-1431 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 114 - Autumn leaves are showing their colours, but what exactly is happening for the tones of yellow, orange, red and purple to be at their glorious best? In this episode, Saul and Lucy delve in to the science of autumn colour.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!Autumn leaf colours are one of the marvels of our temperate...
2021-11-0635 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 113 - At this time in Autumn there is an abundance of produce coming out of our Kitchen Gardens - but does anything beat the taste of a home-grown Apple or a swig of freshly pressed Apple juice - Saul and Lucy don't think so!The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!One of Saul and Lucy's great joys at this time of...
2021-10-3036 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 112 - There's been a disaster! (Well, actually, there have been a few in the garden this year). But these give us opportunities to learn, so Lucy and Saul reveal what 2021 has taught them.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins!Well, in actual fact - don't mention Saul's pumpkins or Lucy's...
2021-10-2439 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 111 - For an instant splash of colour in Spring planting bulbs now throughout the Autumn is the single most effective way of welcoming in the new gardening season, so Lucy and Saul take a look at their recent bulb orders.The mellow fruitfulness of Autumn has been heralded by the subtle change in temperature and darker mornings and evenings in the garden. For Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker this starts one of their favourite times of year as Lucy's vegetable patch is at maximum yield producing food for East Donyland Hall and Saul revels in the changing colours in the canopies of his precious treescape at Stonelands. So join us throughout the season as we bring tales of crispy leaves, hibernating plants and plenty of pumpkins! Although Autumn may bring signs that this year's gardening season is c...
2021-10-0231 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 109 - The flowers in Lucy and Saul's meadows are now over and shedding their precious seed for next years display - this is a very important time in the year for cutting, sowing seed and winter maintenance in preparation for next year.Summer is upon us at last! The warmer weather seems much overdue this year, so Lucy and Saul are relieved to at last see the abundance of growth that this season can bring. This explosion requires selective intervention and management, so get ready for lively conversations about how these two experienced Head Gardeners keep calm - and cool - during the garden's peak period. If there is a subject that gets regularly looked at on the Talking Heads Podcast its Saul and Lucy's meadows which they are both very rightly proud of! And the late summer into a...
2021-09-1834 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastBonus Episode #11 - Lucy and Saul are joined in conversation with Lou Nicholls, Head Gardener at Ulting Wick - we hear about her life in horticluture, her time at Ulting Wick with owner Phillipa Burrough, and her Adventures in Horticulture initiative.From time to time Lucy and Saul decided they wanted to record conversations with other Head Gardeners, Curators, Garden Owners and fellow horticulturists across the UK, these will be published as Bonus Episodes alongside their usual format of chatting about their gardening lives. We hope you enjoy.For the Bonus Episode #11 Lucy and Saul and joined by Lou Nicholls, Head Gardener at Ulting Wick, a plantsman paradise in Essex owned by Phillipa Burrough (See Episode 56 and 57 for Lucy and Saul's visit there). Lou chats to us about her time in horticulture, both ups and downs, what its...
2021-02-2741 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 69 - In this, part two, of their composting discussions, Lucy and Saul chat about large-scale composting on their estates. Saul's system has Lucy green with envy!2020 has been an unusual and difficult year for many, and we understand that the full repercussions of what we have all been through are still to be felt - but with summer now distant and the glory of autumn in full flow, we continue with a healthy amount of discussion on some of our favourite horticultural topics, bringing a little dose of the garden to your daily lives.As Head Gardeners on large estates, Saul and Lucy are lucky enough to have a sizeable amount of plant waste at their disposal. This allows them to complete composting...
2020-12-0923 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 47 - Saul takes a little time out at the end of the day to enjoy his garden and give you a tour of its big leaves and exotic flowers....As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Saul has...
2020-08-1927 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastBonus Episode #8: Lucy and Saul in conversation with Anne Swithinbank - Horticulturist, Writer and BBC Radio 4 GQT pannelist - we chat about her life in Gardening and her passion for re-wilding her Devon garden...From time to time Lucy and Saul decided they wanted to record conversations with other Head Gardeners, Curators, Garden Owners and fellow horticulturists across the UK, these will be published as Bonus Episodes alongside their usual format of chatting about their gardening lives. We hope you enjoy.For the Bonus Episode #8 we are excited to be joined by Anne Swithinbank - gardener, writer and and radio expert - who has had a varied and eventful life in horticulture. Lucy and Saul chat about her early life and how she got into the career initially - before changing...
2020-08-1645 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 45 - Whether amateur or professional gardener - practically everyone has had to deal with a lawn at some point - so Lucy and Saul discuss short, formal lawns and longer meadow swards...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.One of...
2020-08-0422 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.44 - Friday's heat was pretty intense, being the third hottest UK day on record, for Lucy and Saul its hard work - so we take a look at what we get up to in the hotter weather...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Hot weather...
2020-08-0225 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 43 - The lock-down has meant a lot of people have taken to a spot of gardening, venturing out into there back plots for the first time. Encoraging this new found interest will be of great importance, so Lucy and Saul chat about how to go about this...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Although the...
2020-07-3024 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 42 - As we reach the end of July, we've reached the height of Summer and are now looking forward to the long lazy days of August as we slide into Autumn, so Lucy and Saul take a look at what there getting up to in their gardens in late summer...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Summer is...
2020-07-2825 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.41 - Many aspects of life have changed since the start of the year, and Horticulture hasn't been any different, but as the lockdown lifts Saul and Lucy wanted to discuss some of the changes in the industry that are already occurring...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Its not...
2020-07-2624 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.40 - We're Back! After a small unscheduled break from the Podcast, while Saul's back recuperated - we dive into his passion - Exotic Plants - so Lucy and Saul discuss big leaves and nectar rich flowers...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Apologies for...
2020-07-2030 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 39 - Lots of people are thinking about a career in Horticulture, and why not, Lucy and Saul think it's the best job in the world, so they both have a chat about some things to consider before taking the next step....As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Anecdotally and...
2020-07-1025 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.33 - Instead of being in our gardens, this week Lucy and Saul should have been at BBC Gardeners' World, assessing the floral marquee awards and running the Plant Experts Advice Desk, instead we thought we'd dedicate an episode to it...As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past many months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Saul and...
2020-06-1823 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.31 - For large gardens or large plant collections, labelling and cataloguing the varieties and species you have can seem quite boring (and a little nerdy!), but it's far from it and can be absolutely essential as Lucy and Saul have a chat about....As the Coronovirus pandemic has changed many aspects of life over the past three months, the gardens and green spaces all across the UK have continued in full glory over the spring - but Summer has arrived and for many the outdoors is the sanctuary from the continued uncertainty of what lies ahead. Head Gardeners Saul and Lucy have still been full at work at Stonelands and Easy Donyland (as well as their own gardens) and continue to share their lives as professional Horticulturists, there tips and tricks and their observations of their gardening lives.Saul's personal...
2020-06-1023 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.27 - With the mercury rising and rain in short supply in both Devon and Essex, its Irrigation, Irrigation, Irrigation for Saul and Lucy, but that doesn't mean they can't take time to enjoy their meadows and harden off tender plants...Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.With echos of the past two years - the...
2020-05-2925 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.21 - The May bank holiday means more time in our home gardens - Saul has been joining online botanical classes from Florida and Lucy has been growing and selling plants from her Essex garden....Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.Bank holidays are always gardening weekends in Lucy and...
2020-05-0422 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.15 - The extended Easter break has meant four solid days for Lucy and Saul in their own gardens, so they share what they've been up to, discuss their love for greenhouses and Saul reveals his Pleione orchids...Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.In this episode Lucy and Saul reveal what they've...
2020-04-1321 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp.10 - Lucy and Saul take a look at which gardens have influenced their gardening careers the most...Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.In this episode Lucy and Saul have a chat...
2020-03-3118 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 8 - Spring is in the air - Lucy and Saul bring you the latest from their Gardens....Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.With a majority of the UK in lockdown, Lucy...
2020-03-2615 minTalking Heads - a Gardening PodcastEp. 7 - What do Head Gardeners get up to in their own gardens - Lucy and Saul tells all...Lucy and Saul are fully aware that the world has taken a monumental shift - the Coronavirus outbreak has left our little bit of the world in Horticulture reeling both personally and professionally. So we both decided that instead of our longer format episodes every 3 weeks or so - we going to record shorter podcasts, through the week, to bring you a slice of our lives at East Donyland Hall and Stonelands and beyond - trying to bring a little bit of spring and sunshine to your eardrums.In this episode Saul and Lucy look to their...
2020-03-2316 min