Master My Garden Podcast John Jones

In this weeks episode I chat with two fellow gardeners Stela & Julie-Anne all about, The Best Christmas Gifts For Gardeners. 

Having covered this episode before on Master My Garden podcast John was delighted to be joined by the ladies and to hear the types of gifts on their lists suitable for gardeners. 

One of the overriding themes from all was to buy quality gifts that would stand the test of time and focus on sustainable gifts for the garden. 

Included on the lists were lots of really interesting gifts such as: 
Felco secateurs Gardening clothing such as beautiful and practical aprons. Hats to protect from sun and gloves designed for specific tasks. A pass to every open garden in Ireland was Julie-Anne's "money no object gift" while Stela opted for a beautiful glasshouse. Both would love plants or seed but only if they offered a special connection such as snowdrop's which remind Julie Anne of her grandmother and Stela who has a beautiful rose which was gift from a family member who visited after covid having not seen each other for some time. Garden seeds were high on the lists but again should also only be gifted with a little insight into the person who will receive. Also supporting local seed companies was very important for us all. Gardening courses both in person and online were something both would like and  many courses and providers were mentioned. John also mentioned his first online course to go live which is his "Grow Your Own Food Course" which teaches people to grow their own food from scratch. You can find out more here https://mastermygarden.com/courses-2/These are just some of the superb gifts on the lists. Our special guests, Stela and Julie-Anne, are here to guide you through a wonderland of gardening delights - from practical tools to comfortable attire. It's time to ditch the gift cards and surprise your gardening-obsessed loved ones with something they'll really appreciate!

I hope wherever you are gardening that you find some of these super gifts under your Christmas tree this year.

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 
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Looking for ways to beat the winter blues right from your home? In this weeks episode John takes you through a journey of transforming your garden with winter colour bringing vibrancy and cheer even on the darkest days. We share invaluable tips and strategies, delving into the selection of unique plants that not only thrive during winter but also bring in a splash of color and attract delightful birds. We also emphasize the importance of planting location - keep them close to have a cheerful view straight from your windows.

We  dive into an array of winter-friendly plants and trees. Such as Malus Evereste, and Pyracantha, trees that bring in beautiful flowers, fruit, and vibrant leaves. Or the Cotoneasters, Cornus Cornubia, and Holly  plants known for their gorgeous winter berries. For those  who enjoy the scents of nature, we discuss Mahonias, Daphne's, and Viburnum's that provide scented flowers and glossy evergreen leaves. Wrapping up, we'll introduce you to the unique beauty of Hamamelis Mollis (witch hazel), that blooms with yellow flowers in late winter and early spring to bring you right through to spring when everything starts to wake up again. 

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 


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In this weeks episode John chats with Anya Lautenbach all about her gardening story, her new book "The Money Saving Gardener" and how she inspires so many people online with her channels "Anya The Garden Fairy".

Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and drawn into the captivating world of gardening with Anya Lautenbach,  more lovingly known on Instagram as Anya the Garden Fairy. Not your typical gardener, Anya takes us on a unique journey through her childhood in Poland where gardening was not only a survival skill, but also the foundation of her passion. We delve into how this early exposure to nature cultivated not just plants, but her love for propagation.

Join us as Anya offers revolutionary insights into the therapeutic benefits of gardening and how gardening and propagation got her through a tough period in her own life.
 Get an exclusive sneak peek into her upcoming book, The Money-Saving Gardener which is available on pre-order here
https://geni.us/TheMoneySavingGardener

The Money-Saving Gardener simplifies gardening through clear instructions and season-specific projects. Listen in as Anya shares a relaxed approach to gardening designed for everyone, and how she has turned her ADHD  into a powerful tool for success. So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this episode is packed with surprises that will make you think differently about the green world around you!

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 
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Its safe to say that many of our gardens are a little damp at the moment with a run of many wet months here in Ireland. When its like that the garden may not seem like an enticing place however there is still lots to be done and work done now will really set your garden up for success next spring and summer.  

Ever wondered how to guard your bird feeders from predators or attract a variety of birds with diverse food? Stick with us as we spill the secrets and share the importance of a water source for these feathered visitors. Other crucial November tasks we'll be covering include bulb planting, leaf mould creation and the art of taking hardwood cuttings. We'll also share how to prepare for the coming year with new beds and plantings. So, don't let the soggy season keep you away from your garden, join us and discover the joy of November gardening!

The main November gardening Jobs to outline are 
Mulch & feed your soil. Mulching your beds and borders will feed the soil and ensure it is healthy and full of life for next spring. It protects the soil from leaching nutrients. It also locks in carbon, reduces compaction over the winter, prevents weeds and much more so it really is worth the effort. You can mulch with mature compost, well rotted farm yard manure, leaf mould etc. Create No dig beds! from November to the end of February is the perfect time to create no dig beds. Simply cover the ground with brown cardboard (removing all tapes, plastic etc) and altering 15cm/6" of compost on top and leave. These beds will be fully workable straight away so a really fast and easy way to create new beds. Take hardwood cutting. Late Autumn & Winter are perfect for taking hardwood cuttings many plants can be propagated this way including roses, hydrangeas, buddlejas, viburnum and many more. Take cuttings approx 9"to12" long cut below a leaf node and stick into a well drained soil or in a pot by late next spring rooted will have formed and you will have a new plant. Plant Tulips November is the best month to plant Tulips whether in containers or open ground planting in November gives the best results from this spring favourites. With all the leaves that are falling it is a perfect opportunity to make garden gold in the form of leaf mould. To make just gather leaves in a plastic bag fill seal and pierce some holes in it and leave it for 9-12 months then reveal some of the best growing media that you can use for your plants. Plant bareroot and rootballed trees, hedging plants, fruit trees and fruit bushes. From November to March is bareroot season and it is the perfect time to get planting bareroots. Plant over wintering onions and garlic for early harvest next spring. Set up a wild bird feeding station and enjoy hours of pleasure from watching our feathered friends. Remember to set up in areas where the birds feel safe from predators, provide multiple sources of food to attract diverse species of bird and provide water in the area also. 
If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 
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What are the best hedges for your garden? 

The answer to that is wide and in order for you to choose the best hedge you should ask a few questions first. 
Do I want evergreen or deciduous ?Purpose of the hedge ? Shelter, Noise filter, support biodiversity, frame your garden, create a room or space within your garden etc. What height do I want it to grow to?What is my soil like? wet/dry etcSituation ? inland / costalHow many times per year does it need to be cut? can I manage this number of cuts. Once you have answered these you are a long way to choosing the perfect hedge for your garden.

 Allow us to guide you through the labyrinth of hedges, shedding light on the perfect picks for your unique outdoor space. From the classic distinction between evergreen and deciduous hedges to the importance of considering your long-term hedge maintenance plan, we've got you covered.

We're particularly excited to introduce you to some evergreen hedges – think Laurel, Portuguese Laurel, Taxus & Privet. Discover their characteristics, how they can boost your garden's aesthetic appeal, and how you can care for them. Plus, we share tips on the optimal times to plant your hedges.

Lastly, we present a plethora of hedge options for diverse garden styles. Learn about the charm of flowering hedges and the often-overlooked low-growing varieties.  If you're ready to choose hedges that will not only flourish but also promote biodiversity, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for a deep dive into the world of hedges and let's get your garden transformation started!

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 
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In this weeks super episode the topic is Daffodils and other bulbs with Dave & Jules from  Esker Farm Daffodils

Gardening enthusiasts, prepare to be dazzled by the delightful world of daffodils as we walk you through the fields of Esker Farm Daffodils in Co Tyrone with guests  Dave & Jules Hardy.

Dave & Jules  are dedicated growers and are set to divulge the fascinating details of nurturing over 800 unique varieties of daffodils. From a humble hobby to a flourishing business, Dave & Jules  journey will inspire you to take on the challenge of growing these bright, beautiful flowers in your own garden.

Listen in as we explore the intricate process of Daffodil classification – from divisions to sizes and colours. What each division means and what it stands for and how these transfer into showing Daffodils at floral shows.

We look into what makes  Esker Farm Daffodils special a family enterprise involving all the family and results in bulbs of the finest quality and many rare and unusual varieties not found in mass market retailers.

Finally, we journey into the world of the customer with Esker Farm's diverse daffodil and tulip offerings. From bulb mixes to order quantities, David generously shares insights into the customer process, even revealing the complimentary bulbs they send out with orders.  Join us in this petal-powered episode to discover the joy and beauty of gardening!

To order your  Esker Farm Daffodils catalogue or for any more information visit their website here: https://www.eskerfarmdaffodils.com

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email:  info@mastermygarden.com   

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/ 
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/ 
Twitter:https://twitter.com/tweetsbyMMG  
 
Until next week  
Happy gardening  
John 


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