Joe Swift's top tips for December Watch the video below to find out what to grow in December, from expert gardener Joe Swift. What’s more, you’ll be able to see Joe and get even more expert advice for your garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live on Sunday 16 June. BOOK 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)} As well as planting perennials and deciduous shrubs this December, why not try growing Sarcococca. Christmas box, Sarcococca confusa, is a dense, winter-flowering evergreen shrub, bearing sweetly scented, pure white blooms, in contrast with dark green leaves. It’s extremely tolerant of shade and is therefore perfect for growing in a woodland border or shady corner, where you can enjoy its heady fragrance throughout winter.Grow Sarcococca confusa in moist but well-drained soil in sun or shade, ideally near a path or in your front garden, where you can appreciate its scent. /*! 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)} 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 and everyone in between, the Show has something for everyone.Get ready to learn, explore, and have fun alongside fellow nature lovers at the Show– the ultimate celebration of all things gardening! Join Joe Swift at the Show on Sunday 16 June. BOOK TICKETS

Warm up this winter with home-grown chillies We’ve got quite the winter warmer for you this month, for both your plot and plate! Try growing chilli peppers for a sizzle of heat into your winter dishes, with some top tips from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. What’s more, put your delicious chillies to good use in a recipe from Ching-He-Huang, as seen on the Summer Kitchen at the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023. Chilli peppers can be sown anytime of year, but you’ll need a heated propagator and a grow lamp to give them a good start.  How to grow Chillies need a warm, sunny spot for the best results and the hottest chillies. Ideally, grow them in a greenhouse or raise them in pots on a south-facing patio or windowsill. Chillies need a long season to grow, so it’s best to sow seed early in moist, peat-free multi-purpose compost, and keep in a heated propagator under a growing light, to prevent seedlings going leggy (sow seed in March if you don’t have a heated propagator).  Potting out Pot on into individual pots when the first true leaves appear. Keep potting on if growing in pots or plant out into the greenhouse when night temperatures exceed 10ºC – ensure the soil or compost is free-draining. Feed weekly with a high potash fertiliser once plants have started flowering, and harvest chillies as and when they appear.  Care Once planted out, chillies require very little attention. Pinch out the growing tips when plants are about 20cm tall to encourage bushy growth. Tall varieties may need staking.Water your chilli plants little and often. As soon as the first flowers appear, feed weekly with a high-potash liquid fertiliser such as tomato feed.In hot weather, mist chilli plants to increase humidity and deter spider mites. Chillies will be ready to pick from late summer. For the mildest flavour, pick chillies while they’re still green, leave them to mature for more heat. Hawaiian sticky mushroom and pineapple fried rice As seen on the Summer Kitchen at the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023 with Ching-He Huang. Serves 2 1 tbsp rapeseed oil2 1/2 cm-sized piece ginger, finely grated100g carrots, chopped into small pieces200g can sweetcorn, drained400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed well200g fresh king trumpet mushrooms, sliced into strips300g cooked jasmine rice1 tbsp dark soy sauce2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce1 tsp sriracha2 tbsp tamari or low-sodium light soy sauce150g fresh pineapple, chopped into small pieces (if you’re using fruit from a whole pineapple, keep the hollowed-out shell to serve)1 tsp toasted sesame oilsmall handful chopped chives1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped, to serve1 tsp chiu chow chilli oil, to serve Fresh king trumpet mushrooms, wok-fried in tamari, sweet chilli and sriracha, then served with chickpeas, sweetcorn and carrots in a hollowed-out pineapple. Serve with chiu chow chilli oil for a spicy kick. Heat a wok over a high heat until smoking, then add the rapeseed oil. Once hot, give the oil a swirl, then add the ginger and stir-fry for a few seconds. Add the carrots and cook for a few seconds, then add the sweetcorn, chickpeas and mushrooms and cook, tossing, for less than 1 min. Add the cooked rice and use your spoon to gently break down the rice in the wok.Add the dark soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, sriracha and tamari or light soy sauce and toss to mix well. Add the pineapple and stir to combine.Now add the ground white pepper and toasted sesame oil. Spoon the mixture out of the wok and into a hollowed-out pineapple, if using. Sprinkle over the chopped chives and chilli, then serve with chiu chow chilli oil on the side. Find more grow your own recipes Find out more about the Show

How to care for birds in your garden this winter The Woodland Trust, who you may have seen at our BBC Gardeners’ World Events earlier this year, have put together some top tips to care for birds in your garden this winter. Read on below to find out more!  Winter can be a difficult time for wildlife. Temperatures plummet and food becomes difficult to find. Insect-eating birds turn to alternative foods, some species travel far and wide, and foraging behaviour adapts, but we can lend a helping hand by providing a welcome source of extra food for birds to turn to in leaner times. Different birds are attracted to certain foods, often reflecting their special adaptations for natural food types. Offer a variety of tempting morsels to maximise your bird table’s wow factor. Where to feed birdsIt’s not only the types of food that tickle particular birds’ fancies, but also where they’re fed. You may have noticed that dunnocks and wrens shy away from bird tables and hanging feeders.Sprinkle crumbled fat balls and seed beneath shrubs for secretive and ground feeding birds. Smear fat mixtures into the cracks and crevices of branches or bark for treecreepers, nuthatches and woodpeckers. And don’t forget to clear feeders and feeding areas of snow after fresh falls as smaller birds can struggle to get through it. Waxwing Planting for birds One of the most satisfying and hassle-free ways to feed birds in winter is to plan ahead and let nature provide. Rowan produces a lasting crop of berries that in bumper years can see birds through for several months. They’re a favourite of mistle thrushes which will guard them jealously from other hungry visitors. Ivy is also a good plant to encourage, its late-ripening berries offering food through the colder months and its evergreen leaves provide the perfect larder for wrens to search out hibernating insects. Redwing Keep it upOnce you start feeding birds, try to keep regular in your topping up habits. While most visitors will adapt and move to new feeding grounds when natural food gradually runs out, a sudden drop off in feeding puts them on the hop. In winter when alternative food sources are already scarce, this could mean the difference between life and death for some.Woodland Trust woods support wild birds year round with food and shelter in their natural environment so even if you don’t have your own outdoor space you can be there for your favourite winter visitors by standing up for trees with the Woodland Trust. To find out more about our work and get involved, click the button below: Blackbird FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WOODLAND TRUST With thanks to See what's on at BBC Gardeners' World Live in 2024 Applications for Beautiful Borders are now open - find out more

Time to grow: asparagus This November, add asparagus to your vegetable patch for a delicious addition to your summer table with some advice from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. What’s more, you’ll be able to put your asparagus to use with a delicious gnocchi with asaparagus, lemon and ricotta recipe, as seen on the Summer Kitchen with Chris Baber at the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023. Asparagus is a tasty vegetable that grows every summer. Some may think it’s hard to grow asparagus because it needs a lot of space and time. It’s true that you won’t get any shoots to eat in the beginning, but after a few years, it’s definitely worth it. Plus, once you get it going, taking care of the asparagus is not too difficult, and you can enjoy it for up to 20 years. How to growAsparagus plants thrive in soil that gets a lot of light and can drain well. If your soil is heavy, you can still grow asparagus, but it’s a good idea to build a raised bed for it. Pick a sunny spot and make sure the soil is well-prepared with lots of natural material like compost, and make sure it’s free from weeds.If you happen to get an existing asparagus bed, it’s best not to replace it with new plants. If you want to grow more asparagus, find a different spot that doesn’t have asparagus diseases. Also, avoid planting asparagus where you previously grew potatoes.Asparagus can be raised from seed, but the most reliable method is to plant one-year-old dormant plants called ‘crowns’ in March. Some varieties can also be planted in autumn.  PlantingWhen you plant new asparagus crowns, make sure to give them enough water and keep the area free from weeds. Let the crowns grow lots of feathery leaves so they can become healthy and strong. It’s important not to pick any asparagus during the first two years because it will make the plants weaker. At the end of the growing season, trim the foliage to about 10 centimeters above the ground, and in the fall, cover the area with compost that has decomposed well. Also, make sure to keep the area free from weeds and remove any asparagus beetles you see in the spring. CareAfter you plant asparagus, avoid picking any for the first two years. When the third year rolls around, you can start harvesting in mid-April when the spears reach about 18 centimeters in height. Use a sharp knife to cut them about 2.5 centimeters below the soil level. If the weather is warm, you can pick them every two to three days for about four weeks. In the following years, you can harvest over a longer period.Stop gathering asparagus around mid-June. This break allows the plant to store energy for the next year. It’s also a good time to provide some general fertilizer to the plants. Problem solvingKeep an eye out for asparagus beetles from late spring onward. If you spot any tiny bugs or adult beetles, remove and destroy them. At the end of the year, burn the old asparagus stems to get rid of any beetles that might be hiding for the winter.Asparagus can also suffer from a disease called violet crown rot, which makes the base of the plants rot. If this happens, you’ll need to dig up the affected plants, burn them, and start fresh in a new spot Gnocchi with asparagus, lemon and ricotta As seen on the Summer Kitchen with Chris Baber at the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023. Serves 2500g shop bought gnocchi2 tbsp olive oil2 garlic cloves, sliced250g asparagus, cut into bite-sized piecesknob of butterhandful of grated parmesan1 tbsp lemon juiceZest of 1/2 lemon 4 tbsp ricottahandful of rocket leavesdrizzle extra virgin oil, to serve  Cook the gnocchi in a large pan of boiling water for a couple of minutes until it rises to the surface. Drain and allow to steam-dry in the strainer for 2 mins.While the gnocchi is cooking, heat 1 tbsp oil in a large frying pan over a medium hear. Add the garlic and asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper, plus 2 tbsp water from the gnocchi pan to create some steam, then cook for 3 mins stirring now and again. Transfer the cooked asparagus to a plate.Put the pan back on a medium-high heat. Add the remaining oil to the pan with the butter. When the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the gnocchi. Fry for a couple of minutes until slightly golden.Add the asparagus back to the pan with a splash of water, the grated parmesan and the zest of half the lemon. Toss together for a minute, then stir through the riccota, a squeeze of lemon juice and seasoning.Serve up, then top with a handful of rocket and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Find more grow your own recipes Find out more about the Show

Zöe's Story: Taking a ‘Tea Break’ At BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair 2023, Zöe Defoe designed and created the ‘Tea Break’ Beautiful Border. Zöe’s Border was inspired by the concept of having a conversation over a cup of tea and cake whilst listening to bird song, surrounded by beautiful and scented flowers and plants that you have grown is one of the great pleasures that a garden brings.  As part of her Beautiful Border, Zöe decided to raise awareness for the Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group (ADSHG). Find out more about her journey creating her Beautiful Border below. If you are interested in designing and creating your own Beautiful Border at one of the BBC Gardeners’ World Events in 2024, click here to find out more > Written by Zöe Defoe In early September, I exhibited my first show border for the BBC Gardener’s World Autumn Fair. It had been months in the planning, and it involved conquering a lot of my personal fears to be able to do it. I had a lot of anxiety in the lead-up to the show and a lot of fatigue throughout, as well as managing the early September heatwave! That said I had an absolutely amazing time meeting lots of other like-minded people, celebrity gardeners and designers and learning lots along the way.  The theme this year was ‘My Garden Escape’. I chose to use grasses and lots of bright colourful flowers to create the feeling of seclusion, sanctuary and also joy. I also set up a bistro table and chairs laid with a tea set – the perfect place to sit and relax and appreciate your surroundings. I called my border, ‘Tea Break’ which ended up being used as a pun by many! I was lucky enough to achieve a silver medal. Why ADSHG?I was diagnosed with Addison’s disease in 2017 after years of asking doctors to find out why I was so sick and tired all the time. I had already been diagnosed with Graves’ disease aged 10, and B12 deficiency in my twenties. I subsequently developed Hypothyroidism and later also had shingles. At the point of diagnosis with Addison’s disease at the age of 37, I was very unwell but grateful that my persistence had paid off and, by all accounts, just in the nick of time! I wasn’t happy with my first endocrinologist so requested to move to another hospital and my care has been amazing! I was also informed about the ADSHG. The information and social media content from the ADSHG has been phenomenal. I’ve also been able to take part in research projects that have been shared by ADSHG through social media and will soon be doing a Professional Doctorate myself looking at autoimmune conditions. Addison’s and meI think the hardest thing for me upon diagnosis was getting used to taking medication three times a day and knowing when to up-dose. Since then, it’s the weight gain that has been the hardest to deal with, I feel like my body has changed a lot, so it has been about accepting those changes. I get bad bouts of fatigue and pain from time to time and have to listen to my body and rest when this happens. Why Gardening?I found gardening helped me to slow down, process my thoughts and gently exercise. It is a great stress buster. It is also a great reward to see something you have sown grow into an amazing flower, fruit or vegetable. I am a strong advocate for therapeutic horticulture. A garden is both a place to gently work and a sanctuary. My design shows the beautiful balance between the two – the seating area a retreat at the back of the border, the gardener’s gloves and tools at the front.Tea break symbolises the need to pause and take notice of your surroundings – something especially important to me upon my diagnosis with Addison’s disease. A garden is never finished, it’s constantly changing and evolving. As Lao Tzu said, ‘nature does not hurry, yet all is accomplished.’What better way to escape to the garden than with a ‘Tea Break’? If you’d like to donate and contribute to Zöe’s fundraiser, or find out more about the Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group (ADSHG) click the buttons below.  Zöe's fundraiser Addison's Disease Self-Help Group Zöe's Beautiful Border Apply to bring a Beautiful Border to 2024

Discover everything included in your ticket to BBC Gardeners' World Live! One ticket, a Show-load of summer inspiration!In this helpful guide you can uncover all the garden inspiration to be had with a ticket to the BBC Gardeners’ World Live in June 2024. Don’t forget, your ticket includes entry to the BBC Good Food Show Summer, so that’s two events, just one ticket… BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW The ultimate gardening day out awaits... We can’t wait for another Show next summer filled with garden inspiration, expert advice, tip-top shopping, live entertainment and much more! Save the date for 13-16 June 2024. WHAT'S ON Top experts, entertaining and informative talksThere’s no better place to find a Show-load of expert advice. Catch the experts on the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre as they share topical tips and seasonal advice to help you make the most of your space. It’s going to be a great day out!What’s more, you’ll be able to pick up even more expert advice from the drop in stages around the Show, from the Let’s Talk Plants Stage to the House Plant Hub. EXPERT ADVICE Garden inspiration Looking to be inspired for your own plot? There’s plenty to dig into at the ShowShow Gardens: Discover show-stopping gardens bursting with inspiration  APL Show Gardens: All designed to typical back garden sizes, these gardens are always packed with great ideas that you can apply to your own space. Beautiful Borders: Space-savvy ideas to make the most of your garden no matter the size of your plot.Showcase Gardens: Smaller than the Show Gardens, but bigger than the Beautiful Borders, the Showcase Gardens show what incredible results can be achieved in a compact garden setting. DISCOVER GARDEN INSPIRATION BBC Good Food Show Summer Entry to the BBC Good Food Show Summer is included with all tickets to BBC Gardeners’ World Live.The BBC Good Food Show Summer is a summer foodie celebration like no other! There’ll be food and drink to taste and buy, even create a tasty summer picnic to enjoy at the Show, with exhibitors on hand to serve up the best product knowledge and ingredients advice.  BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER The Floral Marquee Browse one of the largest floral marquees in the country to find an incredible variety of plants for sale, direct from the growers. You’ll find stunning displays to inspire you and plenty of growing advice on hand. discover the floral marquee Toe-tapping live entertainment Enjoy live entertainment throughout your visit, with you’ll find toe-tapping tunes from the Bandstand. With the line-up soon to be announced, there’s something for everyone’s taste! /*! 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))} For Expert Beginner Curious Young Seasoned All Gardeners Subscriber Club Lounge If you’re a subscriber to BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, you’ll get to enjoy the Subscriber Club Lounge at the Show. Situated next to the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre, you can watch your favourite presenter on stage, pick up some goodies and enjoy added extras including a morning welcome from the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine team, on-hand for advice and info. To access the Lounge, simply bring along your voucher which you will receive alongside your e-tickets, and present it for scanning at the reception desk. Subcsriber tickets One-to-one expert advice In the heart of the Floral Marquee, you’ll find The Plant Experts. Their advice desk is the place to head for one-to-one gardening help, so come armed with questions!  THE PLANT EXPERTS So, what will you do first? Your ticket to BBC Gardeners’ World Live gives you access to a day blossoming with inspiring gardens, experts, fun activities, and inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just someone who loves soaking up the change in seasons, the Fair has something for everyone.Get ready to learn, explore, and have fun alongside fellow nature lovers at the Show– the ultimate celebration of all things gardening! BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW What's on Find out more about tickets

Happy Apple Day! Apple trees are a wonderful enhancement to any garden. During spring, their blossoms are a visual delight, and in autumn, their fruits offer a delectable taste. These trees can serve as a central element, adding structure to the garden, and they offer diverse habitats for a range of wildlife, including bees, birds, and moths. For more information about growing your own apples, take a look below with some tips from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. SUMMER PRUNING TIPS expert advice to help you grow Apple trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them adaptable to gardens of all dimensions, thanks to the utilization of dwarfing rootstocks. These compact fruit trees remain small throughout their lifespan and can even thrive in containers. When cultivating apples, it’s essential to select a location with well-drained, moist soil and ample sunlight. Pruning should occur during either the summer or winter, depending on your tree’s desired shape, and apples should be harvested once they ripen. When to grow The optimal season for planting bare-root apple trees is winter. These trees are more cost-effective compared to their container-grown counterparts and offer a broader selection of varieties from fruit nurseries, spanning from October to March. The ultimate height of these trees varies depending on the rootstock they are grafted onto.Pot-grown apple trees, on the other hand, can be planted throughout the year. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the summer months often bring drier conditions, so keep them well watered. Planting When planting apple trees in your garden, it’s important to select a sunlit location and ensure there is ample space for branch growth. Even if your garden is small, don’t fret; you can also cultivate apple trees in fan, cordon, or espalier shapes, training and pruning them to be grown against walls, fences, or trellises.Before planting your apple tree, prepare the soil accordingly. Create a square hole, insert a tree stake, and position the tree within it. While adding soil around the tree, support the tree in place.Verify that the “graft point,” a slight swelling on the stem where the rootstock was grafted, is positioned just above the soil’s surface. Compact the soil around the roots to eliminate any air pockets and secure the stem to the stake. Ensure the tree receives consistent watering throughout the year. Caring If well maintained and fed, an apple tree will mature and crop for decades.Once a year in late winter, apply a balanced fertiliser, such as pelleted chicken manure, around the base of the tree. Encourage good flowering and fruit formation by applying sulphate of potash fertiliser. Each spring, spread a mulch of garden compost under the tree to condition the soil, hold in moisture and suppress weeds.  Your harvest Some apples start ripening in August, but most are ready in September and October. Pick them as they ripen to avoid fruits falling and being damaged. Cup them in your hand and lift. If the apple doesn’t pull away gently, leave it for another week.  Summer pruning tips Be inspired to grow at the Show

Ideas for water in your garden We take a closer look at the SubAqua Show Garden from the 2023 Show with David Hurrion, and have some great ways to include water in your own garden from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. Garden water elements elevate the appeal of any outdoor space by offering decorative charm, creating a tranquil ambiance, and fostering a habitat for various wildlife.Incorporating a water feature into your garden doesn’t have to be a costly endeavor. Even something as uncomplicated as an appealing garden water bowl can have a substantial effect, as it catches and reflects sunlight alongside nearby plants. You can produce serene trickling sounds with a streamlet or fountain, and a pond can enable you to cultivate aquatic flora while also serving as a residence for newts, frogs, and dragonflies. Water rills Water rills are shallow conduits that facilitate the movement of water from one location to another, offering a continuous and peaceful auditory backdrop that can complement any garden. Ponds A garden pond is versatile and adaptable, fitting seamlessly into gardens of all sizes and design aesthetics. Whether you prefer a biodiverse haven teeming with plants or a serene, minimalistic pool with clean, straight edges, a pond offers endless possibilities. You can enhance its ambiance by incorporating bubbling sounds through the use of fountains or rills. Water pouring jugs Pouring jug water features have a romantic, classical feel to them. Purpose-made jugs with a hole for the pump to discreetly slot into are easy to find and they can be either be free-standing features that pour into a bowl, or used as a starting point for rills, pouring into a pond or even a swimming pool. Plant around the jug to integrate it in your overall design.  Pebble piles Pebble piles are one of the simplest and cheapest to set up. A pile of artfully placed stones and pebbles conceal a pump and water reservoir beneath. You can use a similar set up with a millstone – a pump hidden in the central hole of the millstone will radiate water out, and if needed, can be concealed by a heap of pebbles.  Fountains Fountains are ideal if you have an area that’s in need of a focal point. There are lots of different styles to choose from, including polished metal spheres and stone monoliths and columns. Troughs and tanks Watertight troughs and containers can be filled with water to create interesting unique features. This upcycled metal trough has a bed of grey pebbles to precent the water looking too dark and murky, while colourful planting softens the hard edges.  Take a look at the gallery below to get inspiration from the water features seen at our previous Shows… /*! elementor-pro - v3.19.0 - 07-02-2024 */ .elementor-gallery__container{min-height:1px}.elementor-gallery-item{position:relative;overflow:hidden;display:block;text-decoration:none;border:solid var(--image-border-width) 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Time to sow: broad beans October is a great time to sow broad beans and we have some tips from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine to get you started. Plus, we’ve got a recipe from the BBC Good Food Show Summer for your harvest later.  Home-grown broad beans offer a delightful and exceptionally tender addition to your menu, typically among the earliest harvests of the year. These beans are simple to cultivate from seeds, producing vibrant pods containing green or white beans, perfect for enhancing salads, stews, and soups. Their compact growth means they’re suitable for planting directly in the ground, raised beds, or spacious containers. Alternatively, you can acquire young plants in the early spring season How to grow: Plant broad beans outdoors during either spring or autumn, spacing them 20cm apart within rows separated by 60cm. If you reside in a chilly region, contend with dense soil, or face issues with rodents, consider sowing the seeds indoors initially, and then transplant the young plants six weeks later. To deter blackfly infestations, prune the plant tips, and for taller varieties, provide support to prevent them from bending due to the weight of the beans. Optimal tenderness is achieved by harvesting the pods when they reach a mere 6cm in length.If you started off your broad beans in pots, they will be ready to plant out once the roots have filled their pots. Plant around 20cm apart and water in well. Steps for outdoor broad bean sowing:Prepare the planting area by incorporating an ample amount of compost or manure into the soil using a garden fork. Afterward, use a rake to create a finely crumbled surface.Create furrows that are 5cm deep, leaving approximately 20cm of space between each furrow. Alternatively, you can opt for double rows with a 60cm separation.Plant the broad bean seeds at a depth of 5cm within the furrows.Cover the seeds with soil, compact it gently, and ensure thorough watering.If you anticipate cold weather, provide protection by using horticultural fleece or cloches to cover the sown area. Steps for indoor sowing:For those residing in colder regions, dealing with dense or waterlogged soil, or combating seed-eating mice, initiating the broad bean sowing process indoors is a wise choice.Begin by filling small pots or modules with peat-free multipurpose compost.Insert a single seed into each pot or module, ensuring a planting depth of 5cm.Position these containers in a cool, frost-free environment, such as a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. Typically, germination should occur within a span of three weeks.Once approximately six weeks have elapsed and the roots have occupied their respective containers, it’s time to transplant the young broad bean plants into the outdoor garden space. Care Shield the freshly sown area by draping it with netting to safeguard the seeds against avian and squirrel interference. The emergence of seedlings hinges on the prevailing weather conditions and the state of the soil, typically manifesting within a few weeks.Once the blossoms make their debut, ensure a consistent watering regimen, and employ a hoe to maintain weed control within the rows.To ward off blackfly invasions, promptly pinch off the growing tips as soon as the flowers materialize.For taller broad bean varieties, it’s essential to provide sturdy support using canes and twine. Position robust supports at the termination of each row, then proceed to encircle them with rows of twine, spaced at 30cm intervals, to bolster the plants. This support infrastructure should be installed while the plants remain small in size. Your harvest If you want to eat broad beans in their pods, harvest them really young (when they’re about 6cm long) before they have the chance to become tough or bitter. To eat them shelled, wait a little longer, until you can clearly see that the pods are bulging with beans.After harvesting, leave the plants in the ground for as long as possible. Like other legumes, broad beans have nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the nodules on their root system, which boost nitrogen levels in the soil. The crops you grow in this area in the following year will reap the benefits Why not try using your broad beans in this bean salad recipe below? Honey mango jerk halloumi & bean salad As seen on the Summer Kitchen with Craig and Shaun McAnuff at the BBC Good Food Show Summer 2023. Serves 4200g kidney beans, washed and drained200g butter beans, washed and drained200g black beans, washed and drained100g watercress, spinach and rocket salad200g cherry tomatoes, halvedhandful of parsley, chopped1 large avocado, sliced1 tbsp balsamic vinegar250g halloumi, thickly sliced1 tsp jerk seasoning rubsplash of avocado oilgrated parmesan, to serve For the honey mango jerk dressing 2 spring onions 2 garlic cloves 5 pimento seeds 6 thyme sprigs 1/2 scotch bonnet, or 1 red chilli, deseeded 50ml honey 150g fresh mango chunks 1 tsp light soy sauce 1 lime Tip all the beans, salad leaves, tomatoes, parsley and avocado into a large bowl. Add the vinegar and toss to combine. Chill until ready to serve.Lightly season the halloumi with jerk rub. Add a splash of avocado oil into a griddle pan set over a medium heat and grill the cheese slices for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the halloumi to a plate lined with kitchen paper.Put all the dressing ingredients into a blender and whizz for 20 seconds. Chill until needed.Tip the chilled salad into a large bowl or onto a large plate. Put the halloumi and avocado on top, followed by the dressing. Finish with grated parmesan, if you like.

Five top tips for your dahlias this autumn Find out more below about caring for your dahlias, with some help from our friends at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. Discover how to grow dahlias from our previous blog here. Tip 1: Extend blooming To enjoy dahlias’ vibrant blooms into October and beyond, practice regular deadheading and feeding throughout the autumn months. This will encourage continued flowering until the first frosts arrive. Tip 2: Frost protection Once frost hits, it’s crucial to protect your dahlias. After the foliage has blackened, cut the stems back to about 12cm. Gently lift the tuber from the ground with a garden fork, removing soil with your fingers. Place the tubers upside down on a newspaper-lined tray to dry out for a couple of weeks in a dry, cool location. Tip 3: Proper storage After drying, store the dahlias in a cool, frost-free place. Use a shallow tray filled with dry compost or horticultural sand. It’s essential not to water them during this period. Dahlias do not require light, so a dark garage or cellar is an ideal storage space. Keep them here until it’s time to repot them in late March or early spring.   Tip 4: Frost-prone areas In regions with severe frost or excessive winter moisture, dahlias may not survive in the garden. It’s best to lift and store tubers as mentioned above. However, if you’re in a mild area with well-drained soil, consider covering the soil around the tubers with a thick layer of mushroom compost and straw. This protective layer will insulate the tubers from frost damage. In spring, simply remove the excess compost to reveal your dahlias. Tip 5: Care for limited space If you lack space for lifting and storing dahlia tubers, you can cover the soil with a generous layer of mushroom compost and straw to shield them from frost. This technique is especially useful in milder climates. When spring arrives, rake away the excess compost to allow your dahlias to flourish once again. Take a look at the gallery below for inspiration from dahlias that bloomed at BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2023 to see just some of the varieties of dahlias you could grow in your own garden. Find more top tips and advice Find out more about the Show

Late summer tips The Plant Experts Lucy Chamberlain and Saul Walker have shared a few tips about late summer harvesting. Watch the video below to find out more… Find more top tips and advice Find out more about the Show