Allotment Diaries Podcast

Laura & Chay
  • 4.7 (26)
  • HOME & GARDEN
  • UPDATED DAILY
Allotment Diaries Podcast

The 'Allotment Diaries Podcast' is a podcast that aims to provide an honest look at what it's like to own an allotment plot. It discusses what has worked well as well as what has not worked so well. The podcast will also feature interviews with other allotment holders about their experiences and allotments, as well as special guests. For more information or to submit a question, please email allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com.

  1. EP.66 | The National Allotment Society with Guy Herzmark

    30 JUN

    EP.66 | The National Allotment Society with Guy Herzmark

    In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Guy Herzmark, the Northern Regional Representative for the National Allotment Society (NAS). With over 25 years of experience as an allotmenteer in Newcastle Upon Tyne and many years of service as a site chair, Guy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for allotment gardening. He shares insights into the work of the NAS, the UK's leading organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting allotments. Representing over 125,000 members, the NAS works closely with governments, landlords, and developers to establish, manage, and preserve allotment spaces. Guy discusses how people can become members, the range of support NAS offers—including advice, legal resources, and insurance—and the key challenges currently facing the organisation. He also gives listeners a glimpse into life on his own plot, sharing some of the recent hurdles his site has encountered and highlighting his favourite things to grow.  Meanwhile, Laura and Chay reflect on their own gardening experiences during the recent heatwave, admitting that watering has been their main task lately due to the unusually high temperatures. You can find out more from their website: https://thenas.org.uk/ If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 17m
  2. EP.65 | Designing Green Dreams with James Smith!

    16 JUN

    EP.65 | Designing Green Dreams with James Smith!

    In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by the talented James Smith, an accomplished garden designer at Landscape Services. James is a former RHS medalist and was a finalist for the prestigious Young Designer of the Year award. With years of experience designing stunning gardens and landscapes across Hampshire and Dorset, James brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the conversation. James shares his journey into the world of landscape design—what first inspired him, how he developed his craft, and what drives his ambitions today. Prior to the interview, Laura and Chay sent James the designs of their own allotment plots, and during the episode, he offers honest and thoughtful feedback—highlighting what he loves, suggesting areas for improvement, and giving practical tips to consider. The chat also touches on James's own growing season, how his new greenhouse has transformed his gardening experience, and what exciting plans he has on the horizon. Whether you're a budding gardener or a design enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration and insight into the creative world of garden design. You can follow James journey on instagram HERE If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 29m
  3. EP.64 | From Scrubs to Soil: Holly’s Allotment Journey!

    2 JUN

    EP.64 | From Scrubs to Soil: Holly’s Allotment Journey!

    In this heartwarming episode, Laura and Chay sit down with Holly, a midwife and passionate allomenteer from St Albans, to talk about how she discovered solace and mental clarity through her allotment plot. Holly began her gardening journey in 2020, just before the pandemic hit, and shares how her small plot became a vital sanctuary amidst the pressures of frontline midwifery during unprecedented times. She opens up about expanding to a larger plot and managing the demands of her profession, and finding joy through choir singing, gym sessions, and digging in the dirt.  To follow Hollys Journey, you can follow her on instagram here: @agardeningmidwife  If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 20m
  4. EP.63 | ‘Following in my Footsteps’: Leanne's Allotment Journey and BBC Gardeners' Beautiful Borders.

    19 MAY

    EP.63 | ‘Following in my Footsteps’: Leanne's Allotment Journey and BBC Gardeners' Beautiful Borders.

    In this uplifting episode, Laura and Chay chat with Leanne, a passionate allotment gardener who has taken on three plots since 2021. Leanne shares the highs and lows of her gardening journey, the lessons she’s learned, and how growing her own produce has become a vital part of her daily life. The conversation also highlights Leanne’s recent leap into the spotlight with her garden design, "Following in My Footsteps," which she showcased at the BBC Gardeners' World Beautiful Borders exhibit. She discusses the inspiration behind the design and what it was like to bring her vision to life on a national stage. Balancing her gardening passion with a full-time teaching job, motherhood, and caring for her dog Oscar (who makes a charming cameo on the show!), Leanne’s story is one of courage, creativity, and growth.  This episode is perfect for anyone looking for motivation to pursue their passions—whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out. You can follow Leanne on Instagram here. If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 15m
  5. EP.62 | Buzz Into Beekeeping with Mark: From Hobbyist to Hive Maker!

    5 MAY

    EP.62 | Buzz Into Beekeeping with Mark: From Hobbyist to Hive Maker!

    In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Mark, founder of Buzz Into Beekeeping, who shares his experience transitioning from a beekeeping enthusiast to launching a small business. Mark outlines how his interest in pollinators led to the development of the Buzz Box Starter Pack—a compact, beginner-friendly kit designed with urban and small-space beekeepers in mind.  The discussion explores the practical realities of starting a beekeeping business, including logistical and ecological considerations, and highlights the important role bees play in local ecosystems. The episode also provides guidance for allotment holders interested in supporting pollinator health and addresses common myths surrounding bees.  Additionally, Laura and Chay give an update on their own gardening projects and introduce their next guest. Click the link to the 'buzz into beekeeping' website: https://www.buzzintobeekeeping.co.uk/ If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 56m
  6. EP.61 | Growing with Clare – Containers, Bulbs & a Touch of Scottish Culture

    28 APR

    EP.61 | Growing with Clare – Containers, Bulbs & a Touch of Scottish Culture

    In this episode, Chay and Laura are joined by Clare from Motherwell, an enthusiastic allotment holder now in her fourth year of growing. Clare shares her passion for container planting, discussing the practical and personal reasons behind her approach, with a particular focus on the joy of planting bulbs. Listeners also hear about Clare’s new venture—growing sweet potatoes—as she reflects on the early stages of her progress and the challenges she’s encountered so far. As with many episodes, the conversation naturally drifts beyond gardening. Alongside allotment insights, the trio enjoy a lively detour into Scottish culture, chatting about classic favourites like tatties and neeps, and the ever-iconic Proclaimers. Tune in for gardening inspiration, cultural chat, and plenty of good humour. Follow Clare on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/4mcds_bloomingplot?igsh=aXNjYTR4NnU0cHFj If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 20m
  7. EP.60 | The One Where They Barely Stay on Topic (Featuring Anna)

    14 APR

    EP.60 | The One Where They Barely Stay on Topic (Featuring Anna)

    In the 60th and longest-ever episode of Allotment Diaries Podcast, hosts Laura and Chay are joined by special guest Anna for a delightfully off-topic conversation that starts with good intentions (allotments!) and ends up covering just about everything else. While allotments were meant to be the focus, the discussion veers off the composted path and into all sorts of unexpected territory — including family life, favourite Netflix shows, the joys and perils of 'adolencenses' with smartphones, natural remedies for stinging nettles (some more convincing than others!), and an essential debate about the best 90s boy band. Anna also shares the story of her own allotment journey. When she first took on her plot in May 2023, it was in rough shape — the kind of place where weeds go to thrive and tools go to disappear. But with a lot of hard work, patience, and the occasional snack break, she’s turned it into a productive, peaceful space for her and her son, Noah. The allotment now offers home-grown food, a retreat from daily life, and a place to build lasting memories. It’s a warm, funny, and thoroughly relatable episode that reminds listeners why they fell in love with gardening — and also why it's perfectly fine to go off on a few tangents along the way. Click HERE to follow Anna on Instagram. If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    1h 49m
  8. EP.59 | Laura and Chay record on their plots!

    1 APR

    EP.59 | Laura and Chay record on their plots!

    For the first time ever, Chay and Laura take the podcast to the plot—literally! Armed with a microphone, a questionable sense of direction, and an eye on the looming rain clouds, they attempt a walking tour of their allotments. Expect thrilling updates on what’s thriving, what’s barely clinging to life, and what’s been entirely claimed by weeds.  It’s short, it’s chaotic, but it’s packed with insight—and possibly some accidental slapstick moments.  To see the video, check out the Allotment Diaries Podcast YouTube channel! If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

    44 min
See All (69)

4.7
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

The 'Allotment Diaries Podcast' is a podcast that aims to provide an honest look at what it's like to own an allotment plot. It discusses what has worked well as well as what has not worked so well. The podcast will also feature interviews with other allotment holders about their experiences and allotments, as well as special guests. For more information or to submit a question, please email allotmentdiariespodcast@gmail.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Laura & Chay
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    69
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Allotment Diaries Podcast
  • Show Website
    Allotment Diaries Podcast

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