Cucumber Margarita
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Cucumber Margarita This recipe is from the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2022, as seen in the Big Kitchen. Grow your own cucumbers to add flavour to your Valentine’s cocktail, with tips from our friends at BBC Good Food Show Summer. Crisp and refreshing, we’ve got the perfect recipe to use your cucumber in for a romantic evening in.  Serves 6Ingredients210g cucumber, peeled, deseeded and cut into pieces, plus extra sticks to decorate 130ml tequila 60ml orange liqueur 150g granulated sugar 3 limes, peeled, white pith removed and deseeded, plus 1 extra lime wedge  Method Prepare each salt-rimmed cocktail glass by rubbing the glass rim with a lime wedge, turning the glass upside down and twisting it into a saucer of 1-2tbsp fine sea salt.  Put the cucumber, tequila, orange liqueur, sugar and limes into the mixing bowl and blend for 30 seconds/speed 8. Add 500g ice cubes and blend again for 1 in/speed 10. Serve in salt-rimmed cocktail glasses, decorated with cucumber sticks. /*! elementor - v3.19.0 - 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-column .elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(--spacer-size)}.e-con{--container-widget-width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer{width:var(--container-widget-width,var(--spacer-size));--align-self:var(--container-widget-align-self,initial);--flex-shrink:0}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container{height:100%;width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer{height:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(--container-widget-height,var(--spacer-size))}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty{position:relative;min-height:22px;min-width:22px}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;margin:auto;padding:0;width:22px;height:22px} Grow your own cucumbers In the warmer months, basil is the perfect addition to your windowsill or vegetable patch, and packs fantastic flavours for summer dishes. Read on below for tips on growing basil from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine and to find out more about a delicious one-pan lemon sole recipe, using your basil, from the BBC Good Food Show Summer in 2022. Sowing  To kickstart cucumber seed germination, ensure a minimum temperature of 20°C. Optimal spots include a greenhouse, heated propagator, or a sunny windowsill. Use 5cm pots filled with peat-free compost, sowing seeds vertically or on their sides, 1-2cm deep. Expect sprouting in 7-10 days, then thin out to one seedling per pot. Transfer them to 9cm pots once they sport their first set of large leaves.For outdoor planting, wait until late May or June when frost risk diminishes. Warm the soil by covering with a cloche or fleece post-planting. Caring for cucmbers In the greenhouse, ensure regular watering and mulch soil for moisture retention and weed control. Maintain humidity by damping down or misting plants. Consider partitioning sections for enhanced humidity.Feed flowering cucumbers weekly with high potash fertiliser. Remove male flowers to prevent bitterness in fruits. Pinch out growing tips for side shoot development and bigger yields. Outdoor varieties also require ample watering but retain both male and female flowers for natural pollination.For outdoor cucumbers, pinch out growing tips after seven leaves and train side shoots upwards or allow them to trail. Trim flowerless tips once they reach seven leaves. Harvest Harvest cucumbers around 12 weeks after planting, starting in midsummer. Pick regularly to encourage more growth. Outdoor types yield until September, while greenhouse varieties can last into October in warm conditions. Fruit length varies by type. Harvest as needed to avoid bitterness and tough skins. For best results, pick in the cool morning hours. Use secateurs or a sharp knife. Some longer varieties can be halved on the plant for later use. BOOK BBC GARDENERS' WORLD LIVE TICKETS /*! elementor - v3.19.0 - 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-divider{--divider-border-style:none;--divider-border-width:1px;--divider-color:#0c0d0e;--divider-icon-size:20px;--divider-element-spacing:10px;--divider-pattern-height:24px;--divider-pattern-size:20px;--divider-pattern-url:none;--divider-pattern-repeat:repeat-x}.elementor-widget-divider .elementor-divider{display:flex}.elementor-widget-divider .elementor-divider__text{font-size:15px;line-height:1;max-width:95%}.elementor-widget-divider .elementor-divider__element{margin:0 var(--divider-element-spacing);flex-shrink:0}.elementor-widget-divider .elementor-icon{font-size:var(--divider-icon-size)}.elementor-widget-divider .elementor-divider-separator{display:flex;margin:0;direction:ltr}.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon .elementor-divider-separator,.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_text .elementor-divider-separator{align-items:center}.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon .elementor-divider-separator:after,.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon .elementor-divider-separator:before,.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_text .elementor-divider-separator:after,.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_text .elementor-divider-separator:before{display:block;content:"";border-block-end:0;flex-grow:1;border-block-start:var(--divider-border-width) var(--divider-border-style) var(--divider-color)}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-left .elementor-divider .elementor-divider-separator>.elementor-divider__svg:first-of-type{flex-grow:0;flex-shrink:100}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-left .elementor-divider-separator:before{content:none}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-left .elementor-divider__element{margin-left:0}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-right .elementor-divider .elementor-divider-separator>.elementor-divider__svg:last-of-type{flex-grow:0;flex-shrink:100}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-right .elementor-divider-separator:after{content:none}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-right .elementor-divider__element{margin-right:0}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-start .elementor-divider .elementor-divider-separator>.elementor-divider__svg:first-of-type{flex-grow:0;flex-shrink:100}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-start .elementor-divider-separator:before{content:none}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-start .elementor-divider__element{margin-inline-start:0}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-end .elementor-divider .elementor-divider-separator>.elementor-divider__svg:last-of-type{flex-grow:0;flex-shrink:100}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-end .elementor-divider-separator:after{content:none}.elementor-widget-divider--element-align-end .elementor-divider__element{margin-inline-end:0}.elementor-widget-divider:not(.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_text):not(.elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon) .elementor-divider-separator{border-block-start:var(--divider-border-width) var(--divider-border-style) var(--divider-color)}.elementor-widget-divider--separator-type-pattern{--divider-border-style:none}.elementor-widget-divider--separator-type-pattern.elementor-widget-divider--view-line .elementor-divider-separator,.elementor-widget-divider--separator-type-pattern:not(.elementor-widget-divider--view-line) .elementor-divider-separator:after,.elementor-widget-divider--separator-type-pattern:not(.elementor-widget-divider--view-line) .elementor-divider-separator:before,.elementor-widget-divider--separator-type-pattern:not([class*=elementor-widget-divider--view]) .elementor-divider-separator{width:100%;min-height:var(--divider-pattern-height);-webkit-mask-size:var(--divider-pattern-size) 100%;mask-size:var(--divider-pattern-size) 100%;-webkit-mask-repeat:var(--divider-pattern-repeat);mask-repeat:var(--divider-pattern-repeat);background-color:var(--divider-color);-webkit-mask-image:var(--divider-pattern-url);mask-image:var(--divider-pattern-url)}.elementor-widget-divider--no-spacing{--divider-pattern-size:auto}.elementor-widget-divider--bg-round{--divider-pattern-repeat:round}.rtl .elementor-widget-divider .elementor-divider__text{direction:rtl}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-divider,.e-con>.elementor-widget-divider{width:var(--container-widget-width,100%);--flex-grow:var(--container-widget-flex-grow)} Find more grow your own recipes Find out more about the Fair
Top tips on making a seasonal bouquet
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Five tips for a beautiful bouquet from garden stems Creating a display of home-grown flowers from your garden is hugely rewarding, and a home made bouquet makes for a heart-felt gift. Floral expert Kim O’Brien, who leads hands-on spring garden flower bouquet workshops at the Spring Fair, has shared her top five tips for a stunning result. Find out more and book a place on the  Garden Bouquet workshops at the Spring Fair, here. Then, read on for the ultimate guide to making a successful home-grown bouquet. 1. Choose your foliage carefullySelecting the right foliage is crucial for creating a visually appealing and balanced floral arrangement. Incorporating at least two different types of foliage can add depth and interest to your design. Look for varieties that contrast in colour, form, and texture to create a dynamic composition. For example, you might combine feathery ferns with broad, glossy leaves to achieve a pleasing contrast. 2. Condition your flowers thoroughlyProper conditioning of flowers is essential for maximising their vase life.Before arranging your flowers, it’s important to remove any leaves that will be submerged in water, as these can harbour bacteria and lead to premature wilting. Additionally, trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle and placing them in clean water will help ensure optimal hydration and longevity. 3. Avoid toxic microplastics and floral foamEnvironmental considerations are increasingly important in floral design.Rather than relying on traditional floral foam, which is non-biodegradable and can release harmful microplastics. Consider eco-friendly alternatives such as floral frog pins, chicken wire, or willow lattice. These options provide support for arranging flowers while minimising environmental impact. 4. Be bold in your flower choicesWhen selecting flowers for your arrangement, don’t shy away from bold and impactful choices. Mixing large accent flowers with smaller filler blooms can create a dynamic contrast in size, shape, and colour. Experiment with complementary colours to create visual interest and make a statement with your arrangement. 5. Keep your blooms hydrated To ensure your flowers stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible, it’s important to keep them well-hydrated. Cutting the stems at a 45-degree angle helps facilitate water uptake, while changing the water every other day prevents bacterial growth and maintains water quality. By following these simple steps, you can extend the vase life of your blooms and enjoy their beauty for longer. Looking for even more tips?  Join floral expert Kim O’Brien at the BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair for a hands-on workshop, where you’ll learn how best to arrange seasonal garden blooms. You’ll get to take away your bouquet away with you on the day, to brighten up your home. Find out more about workshops here, and use the links below to book! BOOK TICKETS AND A WORKSHOP ADD A WORKSHOP TO YOUR BOOKING
Top 10 Plants for your loved one
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Top 10 house plants to give on Valentine's Day, with Mint Plants Looking to add a touch of green to your home that you’ll love for years to come? Look no further! The House Plant Market at BBC Gardeners’ World Live will be awash with a wide variety of indoor plants to browse and buy. We’ve teamed up with Mint Plants, a regular exhibitor in the House Plant Market, to create the ultimate guide of the best house plants to give a green fingered loved one.  From the aptly named heart-leaf fern (Hemionitis) to the delicate pink of the Polka Dot Plant (Hypoeste), these plants are sure to bring happiness and vibrancy into your home.  So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect botanical companion for this Valentine’s Day celebration! 1. Agalonema A very easy houseplant , which was particularly popular in offices in the 1970s and 1980s. Agalonema will tolerate lower light and long periods of drought – perfect for those wanting a splash of gorgeous colour without too much maintenance! Find out more 2. Dieffenbachia A beautiful large leaf tropical plant, loves super bright light. Happy to go dry inbetween waterings too, making it a lovely addition to those brighter spots in the home Find out more 3. Dracaena An absolute staple in the houseplant world, and very easy. Forms a chunky stem as it grows and happy to go long periods without repotting, making it a very easy plant Find out more 4. Ficus Ruby Another easy plant with stunning variegation for those looking for something a little different. The rubber plant loves to go completely dry between waterings, and prefers bright light, making it a good plant for those hotter but drier spots in the home. Find out more 5. Hemionitis (heart leaf fern) Hemionitis (heart leaf fern) is a ridiculously adorable little fern, producing textured heart shaped leaves on long fuzzy stems. It is hard not to fall for this one. Find out more 6. Homalomena Maggy An underrated plant with deep burgundy stems and stunning glossy heart shaped leaves. These are a little like a peace lily in that they will flop when they are thirsty., making them a very understandable plant! Find out more 7. Hoya Carnosa Another variegated plant we think is ridiculously beautiful, and much easier than your variegated philodendrons and alocasias.And the Hoya is so easy! Much like the ficus, it prefers bright light, but is happy to go completely dry between waterings Find out more 8. Hypoeste This little beauty is commonly known as the polkadot plant for its spotted foliage. It loves moisture, so is perfect for the overwaterers in your life! Find out more 9. Philodendron: Brasil Aka heart leaf pothos – comes in multiple beautiful varieties but our favourites are those with bright yellow variegation. The brasil is an absolute classic, with random, striped variegation across the whole leaf. And the micans lime is a newer variety with completely yellow leaves. They require moderately bright light to keep the yellow colouring strong, but are very easy to keep as they prefer to go completely dry in between waterings. Find out more 10. Philodendron: Lime The micans lime is a newer variety with completely yellow leaves. Each require moderately bright light to keep the yellow colouring strong, but are very easy to keep as they prefer to go completely dry in between waterings. Find out more Even more plants to buy… Find 1000s of plants to browse and buy at the BBC Gardeners’ World events. Book your day out, now, and get ready to tick off your whole shopping list!BBC Gardeners’ World Live, 13-16 June at Birmingham’s NECBBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, 3-5 May, Beaulieu HampshireBBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair, 30 Aug-1 Sept, Audley End House & Garden, Essex (on sale March) BBC Gardeners' World LIVE TICKETS spring fair tickets /*! elementor - v3.19.0 - 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper,.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-container{position:static}.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-container .swiper-slide figure,.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper .swiper-slide figure{line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-slide{text-align:center}.elementor-image-carousel-wrapper:not(.swiper-container-initialized):not(.swiper-initialized) .swiper-slide{max-width:calc(100% / var(--e-image-carousel-slides-to-show, 3))}
Let love bloom this Valentine’s Da...
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Treat the green-fingered loved one in your life Not sure where to find the perfect gift for your favourite gardener? We’ve done all the digging for you! Browse our specially curated list, featuring products from exhibitors attending BBC Gardeners’ World Events this year and sow the seeds of love with a wonderful gift. Please note that all gifts are subject to availability and delivery times of independent suppliers may vary. Share a great gardening day out this year Let their love of gardening flourish with an inspiring day out, with plenty of options throughout 2024, including:BBC Gardeners’ World Live, 13-16 June at Birmingham’s NECBBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, 3-5 May, Beaulieu HampshireBBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair, 30 Aug-1 Sept, Audley End House & Garden (on sale March) BOOK GW LIVE TICKETS BOOK spring fair tickets A little something sweet Glass Terrarium ‘Garden Globe’ KitSurreal Succulents | £13 The Glass Terrarium succulent kit makes for an amazing gift, whether it’s for yourself or someone special!Design and craft your unique mini garden with this kit, which includes all the accessories necessary for creating this little living world. Step-by-step instructions are included for an easy set up. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand F16) Hemerocallis ‘Olive Bailey Langdon’ New Forest Hostas | £9 each Surprise a loved-one with a bloom from Spring Fair’s 2023 Display Award winner, New Forest Hostas. With a stunning purple bloom, this hemerocallis is an award-winner in its own right, blooming early mid-season and semi-evergreen, you’ll be gifting them a reminder of you affection to flourish for years to come. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand F5) Rustic Love HeartBeechwood Trinkets | from £12 Spread the love to their beloved green space, with a beautiful weather resistant decoration. With 2mm thick steel, this rustic heart is perfect for hanging in the garden (or home!). Plus, find the version that suits any size of space, with the option of sizes 8, 10, or 1 inches.  BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G78) and at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand G80) Solar Red Flaming Balloon Enchanted Earth | £12.95 Help them bring a touch of whimsy to their outdoor space, with a beautiful glass solar-powered hot air balloon light. Complete with realistic flaming effect (whilst staying cool to the touch), add a burst of colour and light to their haven. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G102) and at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand E406) More than a trinket Hanging Leaf quoteA Blackbird Sang | £12.95 Remind them of your love every time they step in to the garden with a beautiful hanging leaf featuring the quote ‘If I Had a Flower For Every Time I Thought Of You’. Made with mild steel and able to hung with either nylon line or string, they can be hung wherever suits. Looking for a more naturalistic effect? Simply bend with hand or pliers to make it truly unique. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G78) and at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand G80) Living Frame with SucculentsPlantamamita | £38 Gift them the greenest art you can find, with a stunning living frame. Featuring several live succulents, these ready to hang features are perfect for those with minimal house-plant space. Complete with wooden easel and detailed care instructions, these beautiful handmade artworks are sure to flourish. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand HP6) Gold-Filled Hand Stamped Birth Month Flower NecklaceRebecca May Jewellery | £40 Bring their love of gardening to an elegant piece of jewellery filled with sentiment. Each necklace comes with the hallmark of bespoke hand-drawn birth flowers, with most months offering two options for the flower. With difference chain types and lengths available, you’ll be able to craft and share a piece that is truly unique to your loved one. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand AC32) Football Cartoon History PrintsFootball Cartoon Histories, Richard Argent | £25-45 Bring their favourite team to life in a beautiful hand-drawn print showcasing the history of their club. Whether you’re after a mounted print (£25) or a canvas (£45), you’ll have a choice of teams from Arsenal right down to York City.  BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand AC40) Mini Rose & Carnation KitToft | £30 If they’re a lover of all things crafty and gardening, why not combine the two? Give them a bouquet that will never wilt with a mini rose and carnation crochet project that’s quick to make, ready to bring a splash of colour and brighten their days all year round! BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand G182) Things to make the heart soar Luxe Six-Wick Candle, Moody GoldSpry Scents | £250 Don’t just gift a bouquet – fill their home with the scent of Rose & Musk with this limited edition, slow burning, six-wick scented candle. Hand-set in a luxurious Moody Gold that gives a shabby chic effect, and complete with a matching lid to snuff out, it’s a great way to life their spirits and create a cosy feeling for 250 hours of burn time. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand AC12) Ultimate Orange Wine CollectionThe Italian Wine Shop | £149.99 Treat a beloved amateur sommelier to a collection of delightful orange wine from 3 Italian regions renown for their tipples. Not only will they be able to adventure beyond the traditional red, white and rosé, they’ll be introduced to a group of diverse winemakers from across Sicily, Aosta and Sardinia. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand GF66) Reversible Suzani – no 52Twizzell | £150 Let florals bloom on their bed spread, with a stunning hand-embroidered suzani. Limited edition, lined in velvet and reversible, it makes a colourful statement and truly cosy option. And, if pink isn’t their colour, explore the full range of suzanis, each with their own unique design and colour palette. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G10) Gifts to bowl them over Lupin Study (original)A Great Escape Art | £460 Spoil them with a stunning artwork featuring beautiful watercolour lupins – a wonderful way to bring a touch of colour and their green-fingered focus to their walls. Coming complete with frame and mount, it’s ready to find a home on their walls and in their heart. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G96) Maryville Bubbling Hearts Contemporary Solar Water FeatureOutdoor Living UK | £278.23 (discounted from £375.61) Let love bubble over and flow with a show stopping water feature, with its soothing sound ready to make their garden a tranquil retreat. Attractive to wild birds looking for refreshment and powered by solar energy, it’s sure to add character to any garden space. BUY NOW Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (stand G84) and at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand E214) Discover all these exhibitors and more across our shows in 2024 – book your tickets now and get ready to tick off your whole shopping list! BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY
No-dig gardening with Stephanie Hafferty
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Affordable no-dig gardening In this episode of Sense-Making, award-winning garden and food author Stephanie Hafferty shares her journey into regenerative organic gardening, emphasising affordability and accessibility. With 30 years of practical experience, Stephanie distils her expertise into straightforward advice for cultivating a diverse and healthy food supply. The BBC Gardener's World Fair Autumn 2023 - Show Interviews Actively involved in Permaculture Wales and the UK, Stephanie serves as Vice Chair of the Garden Media Guild and has been featured on BBC Gardeners World. Beyond her books, Stephanie engages with audiences through workshops, talks, and consulting on edible gardening projects, embodying a holistic and sustainable approach to living in harmony with nature. listen now Book tickets to gardener's world live> Meet the experts Find out more about the Show
Adam Frost chats gardening
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Adam Frost's tips for designing a small garden What a treat we have for you at BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2024 – Adam Frost will create the headline Show Garden where top chefs, including James Martin and Michel Roux, will drop in for talks and demos hosted by Adam.You can also book seats to see Adam in the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre. You won’t want to miss this!  book tickets > Can’t wait ’til June? Catch up on his interview with Kevin Smith, editor of Gardeners’ World Magazine, filmed at last year’s Show, here:  /*! elementor - v3.19.0 - 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-widget-video .elementor-widget-container{overflow:hidden;transform:translateZ(0)}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper{aspect-ratio:var(--video-aspect-ratio)}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper iframe,.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper video{height:100%;width:100%;display:flex;border:none;background-color:#000}@supports not (aspect-ratio:1/1){.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper{position:relative;overflow:hidden;height:0;padding-bottom:calc(100% / var(--video-aspect-ratio))}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper iframe,.elementor-widget-video .elementor-wrapper video{position:absolute;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0}}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-open-inline .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay{position:absolute;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;background-size:cover;background-position:50%}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay{cursor:pointer;text-align:center}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay:hover .elementor-custom-embed-play i{opacity:1}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay img{display:block;width:100%;aspect-ratio:var(--video-aspect-ratio);-o-object-fit:cover;object-fit:cover;-o-object-position:center center;object-position:center center}@supports not (aspect-ratio:1/1){.elementor-widget-video .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay{position:relative;overflow:hidden;height:0;padding-bottom:calc(100% / var(--video-aspect-ratio))}.elementor-widget-video .elementor-custom-embed-image-overlay img{position:absolute;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0}}.elementor-widget-video .e-hosted-video .elementor-video{-o-object-fit:cover;object-fit:cover}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-video,.e-con>.elementor-widget-video{width:var(--container-widget-width);--flex-grow:var(--container-widget-flex-grow)} And learn more about Adam Frost‘s Show Garden. Adam's 'Chefs Table' headline Show Garden find out more NEW! Adam's talks in the BBC Gardeners' World Live Theatre Find out more book tickets >
Red mullet with homegrown basil
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Courgette cream with red mullet Grow your own  basil to add flavour to your summer cooking, with tips from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. Packed with flavour, we’ve got the perfect one-pan recipe to use your basil in, from the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023.  In the warmer months, basil is the perfect addition to your windowsill or vegetable patch, and packs fantastic flavours for summer dishes. Read on below for tips on growing basil from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine and to find out more about a delicious one-pan lemon sole recipe, using your basil, from the BBC Good Food Show Summer in 2022. Sowing  Sow basil seed from spring to summer so you have a continuous crop. Sow in containers for a lasting cropGrow in well-drained, fertile soil in a warm, sheltered positionStart seedlings off in pots on a warm, but not sunny windowsill. Pot on into individual pots when plants are big enough to handle.Help your basil acclimatise to conditions outdoors by standing them outside in a sheltered spot and bring them back in at night. Caring for basil Outdoors, basil needs protection from wind and frost. Always water with care, ideally before midday, and avoid splashing the leaves. Water sparingly – basil hates to sit in wet compost!Expect to pot up your basil a few times in the growing season as plants grow fast in containers.Basil is a half-hardy annual, so new plants will be needed each year.  Harvest Pick the leaves and tops of basil regularly throughout the summer to use fresh. You can be quite ruthless, so long as you leave at least three pairs of side shoots so your plants can regrow. Don’t wash the leaves until you’re ready to use them as they’ll turn slimy. Courgette cream with red mullet This recipe is from the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023, as seen in the Big Kitchen. Serves 4IngredientsUnsalted Butter600g courgettes, chopped into small pieces (leave a couple whole) 1 white onion, peeled and sliced 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 2 tsp madras curry powder handful of basil leaves olive oil 4 small red mullet (200g-300g each), filleted but with skin onFor the curry oil 3 tbsp madras curry powder1 litre olive oil  MethodFirst prepare the curry oil. Heat the curry powder carefully in a dry pan for 5 minutes to release the oils and flavour. Add the oil and heat to 40°C (tepid in temperature if no thermometer to hand), then cover and leave to cool. After 24 hours, pour the oil through a muslin cloth, then store in a bottle in a cool dark place.Wash and dice all but a couple of courgettes, slice the onion and crush the garlic cloves.Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large pan and sweat the vegetables for 5 mins.Add 2 tsp curry powder and cook for a further 5 mins. Pour in 800ml boiling water, season and simmer for 10 mins, then add the basil leaves and blitz in a food processor until smooth. Keep the mixture warm until you are ready to serve.Cut the remaining courgettes into thin ribbons on a mandolin or into fine strips. Cook these gently in a little butter in a griddle pan for a minute or so, then season and keep warm.Check that all the pin bones have been removed from the red mullet fillets, then season them lightly and smear them with olive oil. Heat a non-stick frying pan and cook the mullet for 3 minutes on each side, until just tenderServe a bed of courgette cream onto each plate and add some ribbons, or strips of courgette. Place the fish on top and drizzle with the curry-infused olive oil. Find more grow your own recipes Find out more about the Fair
Let the colour of 2024 bloom in your gar...
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Pantone's Peach Fuzz is here to flourish As the fresh shoots of a new year start to peek out, we’re looking to the Pantone Colour of the Year, Peach Fuzz, for inspiration. Embrace the warmth of this delicate orange, with Pantone noting that this ‘velvety gentle peach tone’ is the perfect hue to ‘enrich the mind, body, and soul.’Below, you’ll find a beautiful bouquet of blooms in this year’s colour, taken from BBC Gardeners’ World Events of the past few years. You’ll find the full spectrum of colours amongst the incredible variety of plants available to browse and buy at the BBC Gardeners’ World Events. Get tickets to find your perfect hue today! Book your tickets now Dahlia – ‘Maya’ Dahlias offer a spectrum of colours and shapes, from petite pompons to larger blooms. These half-hardy plants thrive in mild winters and are moderately easy to grow, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens. Best planted from May to June in well-drained, humus-rich soil and a sunny location, be sure to give them approx. 60cm between plants. They flower from June until the arrival of the first frost. Versatile and adaptable, Dahlias are suitable for borders, gardens, beds, cut flowers, as well as containers and patio pots, offering a charming addition to any plot. Foxtail Lily – ‘Eremus Cleopatra’ Foxtail lilies, also known as Eremurus, are enduring perennials prized for their striking flower spikes that typically bloom in June or July. These majestic spikes consist of numerous star-shaped flowers, alluring to bees and offering a captivating presence in the garden for about three weeks and should be planted between January to March.They necessitate a cold winter period to ensure the most magnificent blooms, and thrive best in full sun and well-drained soil. They are ideally situated at the back of a border where they can also contribute valuable height to the rear.  Fox Gloves – ‘Dalmatian Peach’ Foxglove ‘Dalmatian Peach’ (Digitalis) is a biennial or short-lived perennial that blooms in midsummer, attracting bees and pollinators. This variety typically blooms in its first year, and prefers humus-rich, moist soil and grows well in sun or part shade.As a hardy plant, doesn’t need winter protection, and can be propagated easily from mid-summer seeds. Ideal for borders or containers, it pairs beautifully with purple companions wherever you choose to plant it. Alstroemeria Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lily or Lily of the Incas, is a hardy perennial originating from South America, renowned for its vibrant summer-to-autumn blooms in reds, oranges, purples, pinks, yellows, and softer hues.Planting these flowers in warm, damp soil during spring or autumn ensures the roots are established quickly, and are perfect for borders, containers, and compact pots. Loved by bees, these blooms thrive in sunny or partially shaded spots, lasting from early summer to late autumn. Roses Roses add charm to any garden, delighting both gardeners and pollinators. Blooming in summer, many varieties re-flower in autumn and endure for years, with a broad variety of hues to choose from. Attractive pollinators and serve as nesting spots for bees, most prefer full sun and fertile soil, while some tolerate shade and poorer grounds. Plant bare-root roses from November to March or container-grown roses anytime, avoiding frozen or waterlogged conditions.  Lupins – ‘Lupinus Salmon Star’ Lupins, classic in cottage gardens, thrive in sunny spots like formal borders and gravel gardens. They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil and bloom in various colours, attracting pollinators. Plant them in sunny to partially shaded areas with moist, well-drained soil. Best placed towards the back of borders, they don’t suit containers due to potential weak growth. Lupins, with their traditional charm, also fit modern schemes when nestled among ornamental grasses for a unique display. Anemone-Flowered Dahlia – ‘Totally Tangerine’ Anemone flowering Dahlias, also called Powder Puff Dahlias, bear distinctive double feathered central petals resembling a Powder Puff, making them ideal for indoor displays as cut flowers. These versatile plants are suitable for garden borders, beds, patio pots, or containers. Growing up to 90cm in height, they bloom from June to October, providing a long flowering period. Trumpet Pitchers – Sarracenia Trumpet pitchers, scientifically known as Sarracenia, are carnivorous plants known for their unique pitcher-shaped traps. These plants thrive in wet, boggy environments, using their pitchers to attract, trap, and digest insects for nutrients. They make intriguing additions to gardens or terrariums, requiring moist, acidic soil and plenty of sunlight. Trumpet pitchers are captivating and low-maintenance plants, adding a fascinating touch to any plant collection. What will take root in your garden this year? Don’t forget, you can glean expert advice at all of our events, with live expertise on stage and one-to-one recommendations from a wealth of exhibitors. With every hue right there at your fingertips, don’t miss out on a great gardening day out and book your tickets today! Book your tickets now Ticket types available See who's on in the Theatre
A glimpse into Adam’s Show Garden&...
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The next phase of Adam Frost's 'Chef's Table' garden Following last month’s announcement of Adam’s headline Show Garden for BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2024, we caught up with the Gardeners’ World presenter as he was visiting a nursery, getting ideas for the edibles, shrubs, and trees to feature in the design. Watch Adam’s sneak peak below, to find out more.  Don’t miss the chance to see see it in person, from 13-16 June. BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW Glimpse into the garden Click to watch the video for the second sneak preview into Adam Frost’s ‘The Chef’s Table.’ Make sure to stay tuned for more information about the Show Garden… More about the Show Garden... Featuring a rustic, outdoor cooking-dining area, Adam’s Show Garden will be surrounded by edibles growing in a naturalised setting.  Keep an eye out for more information about the garden coming soon!You’ll have plenty of plot to plate inspiration to dig into as Adam will be welcoming chefs from the adjoining  BBC Good Food Show Summer to share inspiration and ideas on the garden.  A refresh of the first sneak peek... Click to watch the first video, when Adam announced his garden, with the permission of Mrs Frost of course! Adam's top tips... You’ll be able to glean tips and expert advice from Adam in the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre, or at drop-in stages around the Show.He’ll be there every day, Thursday to Sunday.  Join Adam at the Show! A ticket to BBC Gardeners’ World Live gives you a summer day out blossoming with garden inspiration, top experts, shopping and entertainment. From seasoned gardeners to new gardeners, there’s something for everyone. Get tickets today, and get ready to learn, explore, have fun, and enjoy a glorious summer in your garden!  BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW
Nicki Chapman chats gardening
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Nicki Chapman chats gardening We’re so excited to welcome back Nicki Chapman as host of the BBC Gardeners’ World Theatre. Why not get a taste of what’s to come at the Show and listen to her Show interview from last year? You’ll find out what to expect at the Show, plus Nicki’s dream garden.BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2024 will take place from 13-16 June 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham. The experts 'In Conversation' with Nicki Your favourite gardening experts will step off the screen and onto the BBC Gardener’s World Live Theatre each day of the Show. Don’t miss the ‘In Conversation’ sessions with host Nicki Chapman. Listen to Nicki’s show interview from last year here.  THE THEATRE Find more about Nicki Find out more about the Show
Your 2023 gardening gift list!
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'Tis the season to find the perfect gift! Make someone’s day merry and bright this Christmas by finding them a gift they’ll treasure. Whether it’s for someone with the greenest of fingers or someone who’s gardening passions are just starting to sprout, there’s something for everyone below. Featuring products from exhibitors who will be attending BBC Gardeners’ World Events in 2024, ease your festive worries and tick everyone off on your list, with plenty of time to relax with a mince pie before the big day.Please note that all gifts are subject to availability and delivery times of independent suppliers may vary. The gift of a great gardening day out Help inspire someone’s gardening projects in 2024 with tickets, with plenty of days to choose from, including:BBC Gardeners World Live, Birmingham’s NEC, 13-16 JuneBBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, Beaulieu, Hampshire, 3-5 MayBBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair, Audley End House & Garden, Essex, 30 Aug – 1 September (on sale Feb) BOOK SPRING Fair TICKETS BOOK GW LIVE TICKETS Explore even more events in 2024 Treat yourself or a loved-one all year round with the Do What You Love Annual Pass!From gardening and food, to art, dance, knitting and stitching, there are many great days out to enjoy with your Annual Pass, including all three of BBC Gardeners’ World Events in 2024.Find out out more, and order your Annual Pass, below: BUY AN annual PASS TODAY A little something special... Ceramic heartsBroadlands Pottery | £5 – 11 Give a loved one an everlasting reminder of how wonderful they are, with a handmade ceramic decoration from Broadlands Pottery. With plenty to choose from with a floral flourish, they’re bound to leave smiles in their wake, whether it’s for family or friends. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live – stand AC10 BUY NOW Velvet Rose & Oud candleBumble and Bee | £14 Fill their home with the beautiful scents of velvet rose & oud. These hand poured soy wax candles boast a 35 hour burn time, giving them plenty of time to bring an extra level of aromatic cosiness  Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G190 BUY NOW Floral earringsBurbi | £18 Let them bring their love of all things floral everywhere with some delicate floral studs – the delightful accompaniment to any outfit.  Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live – stand E120 BUY NOW Famous Gardeners Wash BagElegance Natural Skin Care | £28.95 Take care of your favourite gardeners’ green-fingered hands with a wash bag filled with everything they need for a bit of potting skin care. Including honey hand cream, honey hand soap, a nail brush and flannel mitt, all inside a green wash bag, they’ll be ready to dig in time and time again. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live – stand E154 BUY NOW Donkey GlovesDonkey Gloves | £16 Are they looking to take on new gardening challenges in 2024? Give the gift of practical and stylish gardening gloves, designed by horticulturalist and ex-Blue Peter gardener, Clare Cooke. With four sizes available and profits supporting a private animal sanctuary, they’re both practical and charitable. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand G274) or Spring Fair (stand G124) BUY NOW More than a stocking filler Root wrapped raspberry canesFrank P Matthews | £16 for all varieties Help them start their grow-your-own journey with raspberries. With over 100 years’ experience, Frank P Matthews offer a broad variety of trees, including fruit trees that can be planted during the festive period for masses of delicious fruit next summer! Easy to grow, easy to maintain and only needing a small space, they’re a great first step.  Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live – stand E282 BUY NOW Open Terrarium KitThe Seaside Jungle Co | £50 Looking for a sustainable, but low maintenance way to bring some greenery indoors? This open terrarium kit is a great choice and comes with a hand-blown recycled glass terrarium, soil, and a selection of succulents to make it their own. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand F17 BUY NOW Hydro-herb kitsFig & Fox | £22 for all types Perfect for the chef in your life, these recycled wine bottles house everything they need for a replenishing stock of their favourite herb! With simple instructions for watering and enough hydroponic fluid to keep growing for approximately two years, their next dish will be full of fresh flavours.  Plus, each kit comes with spare parts, giving even the newest gardeners a chance to learn as they go. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G64 BUY NOW A touch of luxury Stunning oil paintingsHeather Philp | From £80 Let flowers blossom no matter the time of year with a beautiful oil painting that’ll brighten up any home. Whether you’re keen on original paintings or the giclée print of them, add a splash of colour all year round. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G168 BUY NOW Sensory Garden BorderGarden On A Roll | £75 – £630, depending on size/border type Help a novice gardener make the most of any border with the innovative Garden on a Roll! With nine different border options, you can choose the one best suited and order it to size.Whether they would prefer a shady, sunny, Mediterranean or a sensory border (as shown to the right), let them create it with a bio-degradable template, designed by professional horticulturalists. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G66 BUY NOW Hand embroidered suzani throwTwizzell UK | £150 Bring handmade luxury to their home with stunning limited edition suzanis. Hand embroidered and lined in velvet, these beautiful blankets are reverseable and ready to make a statement in any home.Hurry – with just one of each pattern, they’re bound to be snapped up quickly! Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G10 BUY NOW Splurge-worthy surprises NEW Supper Club at Lime Wood with Adam FrostLime Wood Hotel | £185 pp Treat them to a one-of-a-kind evening with the all-new Supper Club at Lime Wood (Lyndhurst, Hampshire). Indulge in laidback luxury at Lime Wood’s restaurant, Hartnett Holder & Co, where Chef Director Luke Holder and Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost present a seasonal Supper Club menu featuring locally sourced produce, including a selection from Lime Wood’s own greenhouse.Places are extremely limited – tickets include welcome drinks, a seasonal banquet with wine, a talk from your hosts and a night to remember! BUY NOW Eleanor Double Folding Hanging ChairMaison & Garden | £379.99 Add a stylish seating area to the garden with space for two people to enjoy. Easy to store with an innovative folding design, this sturdy chair comes with large comfortable seat and back cushions, making it a great place to sit back and relax in. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (stand G240) or Spring Fair (stand G210) BUY NOW iMOW® RMI 422 Robotic MowerStihl | £1,100 Give them the independence to focus on other areas of the garden with a robotic mower. Fully automatic, it includes a mulching mower unit to cut, shred and fertilise the lawn. Compact and perfect for medium-sized green areas of up to 800 m² and gradients up to 35%. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G132 BUY NOW NEW Cheeky Charlie Charcoal OvenCharlie Oven | £4,500 Encourage their love for outdoor cooking with a tabletop version of the original Charlie Oven! Perfect for gardens with slightly less space but with all the same design, functionality, and footprint as the original freestanding oven.  Whether you’re looking for a barbecue, hot or cold smoker, or pizza oven, this does it all in one and can be matched to their tastes with 10 colours available. Find them at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair – stand G12 BUY NOW Don’t forget, you can explore all the exhibitors above and even more more at all our 2024 events. Secure your tickets for BBC Gardeners’ World Live or the Spring Fair today, and mark the Autumn Fair dates on your 2024 calendar for an unforgettable experience! BOOK TICKETS FOR SPRING FAIR BOOK GARDENERS' WORLD LIVE TICKETS Discover what's in store at BBC Gardeners' World Live in 2024 Browse the BBC Gardeners' World Theatre timetable and see who's on when
Transform your urban garden
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Create an urban oasis Small urban gardens, balconies and roof terraces needn’t be a barrier to growing the plants you love. From living walls to hanging pots and growing climbers, you can utilise every last inch of your space to create an urban jungle in the heart of the city. Find out some top tips for getting the most out of your urban garden from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine below.What’s more, NEW to BBC Gardeners’ World Live this year, are the Urban Garden Area. There will be plenty of inspiration to take-home in this area, from two Showcase Gardens, designed by Cherry Carmen, as well as a stage dedicated to all things urban gardening!  FIND OUT MORE Top tips for urban gardens Get the most out of your balcony If you have a balcony or small garden with a low fence, you can maximise your growing space with balcony planters. These nifty planters can be hung over the balcony rail or fence ledge, giving you extra growing space that needn’t impact on the area beneath it. For more top tips on balconies, read more here from expert Chris Collins. Use every inch of your space Level surfaces, including the tops of low, sheltered walls, may be used as an additional space to house potted plants. Do this only where it’s safe to do so and use heavy pots such as terracotta, which are less likely to be blown off by wind.  Hanging pots Fill trellis by hanging pots planted with fast-growing bedding. Using brackets that can attach pots to a range of surfaces including fence posts, fences, walls, trellis and even drain pipes, you can fill space that would otherwise be bare. These easy to use, multi-purpose brackets can be used again and again, to fill space where you need it at the time. Grow climbing plants Another way to utilise wall space is to grow climbing plants. Several species of clematis can be grown in containers, and will climb up a simple trellis or wire frame, attached to the wall. You can also grow annual climbers for a more temporary display.  Create a private area Looking to screen off overlooking windows? Why not erect a pergola to increase privacy, creating a cosy, private seating area? You can also grow climbers up it.Or, plant a tree to provide privacy in your garden. It’s often better to plant it in the middle of the garden, as opposed to on the boundary – check where you think it would work best.  Add some colour Accent colours on walls work just as well outside as inside your home. Blues help to make a space feel bigger, while brighter colours can act as stunning backdrops for plants. Either way, some colour will help bring year-round energy to walls, fences, sheds or trellis. Water features Bring the soothing effect of water into a garden. Water features come in all shapes and sizes, and many require minimal wiring and a pump, while others are solar-powered or fitted with LED lights. Place on pebbles for a natural scene.  More balcony tips Find out more about the Show