Gardening with Ben - Garden and Allotment Tips and Advice Podcast

Is your rhubarb turning yellow, collapsing or disappearing for winter? Join me, Gardening with Ben, as I explain what to do with your rhubarb in autumn and how to prepare for next year’s growing season.In this episode, we cover:
• Why rhubarb dies back and when to remove old leaves.
• Tidying the patch and keeping the crown clear.
• Winter care and avoiding waterlogged conditions.
• Why the main annual mulch belongs in early spring.
• When and how to divide established rhubarb.
• Planting new crowns and giving them time to establish.
• Planning ahead for forced rhubarb l...

Think it’s too late to plant vegetables this year? There’s still time to get growing this October!Join me, Gardening with Ben, as I explore seven crops you can sow or plant in autumn, with advice on choosing suitable varieties, preparing your growing space and deciding what needs protection.In this episode:
• Garlic — planting cloves for next year’s harvest.
• Autumn onion sets — getting an overwintering crop started.
• Shallots — choosing autumn planting varieties.
• Broad beans — hardy varieties and sheltered growing spots.
• Hardy peas — autumn sowing for a crop next year.
• Winter lettuce — growing suitable varieties und...

Want to grow your own garlic but aren’t sure where to start? Join me, Gardening with Ben, as I talk through growing garlic in the UK, from choosing your planting stock to harvesting and storing your bulbs.In this episode, we cover:
• The differences between hardneck, softneck and elephant garlic.
• Choosing a growing space and preparing the soil.
• Planting individual cloves, including depth and spacing.
• Caring for your garlic through winter and spring.
• Common mistakes to avoid.
• Recognising harvest time and drying garlic for storage.Along the way, I share my own allotment experiences an...

Join me, Gardening with Ben, for a busy autumn day on the allotment as I plant broad beans, add winter hellebores and start clearing a new growing area.In this episode, I chat about getting broad beans planted for the season ahead, choosing hellebores for winter interest and making progress on another part of the plot. There’s also a behind-the-scenes catch-up as I film gardening content for the next seven days!Whether you’re planting, tidying or planning your next project, come along for a friendly allotment catch-up and some autumn gardening inspiration.What have you been planting this week...

🌱 PLANTING 500 SPRING BULBS AND PREPARING FOR A STORM!
Welcome to another episode of the Gardening with Ben Podcast! It's been another busy October day down at the allotment.
🌷 PLANTING 500 SPRING BULBS
We've planted approximately 500 spring bulbs in our newly rearranged flower bed, including loads of daffodils, alliums and other spring-flowering bulbs. We're hoping for a fantastic display next spring!
🌸 PLANTING CYCLAMEN
We've added beautiful pink, white and red cyclamen to bring some autumn colour into the flower bed. I'll also share some useful tips for looking after them.
🐦 FEEDING THE GARDEN BIRDS
We've topped up ou...

🎙️ Gardening with Ben is BACK!Where have I been? What have I been up to? And what's been happening on my allotment?After a break from regular podcasting, I'm back behind the microphone for a very special catch-up episode!There's been so much happening here at Gardening with Ben, and I'm excited to bring you along for the next chapter.🌱 In today's episode, we're talking about:
Where I've been and what I've been doing.The latest changes and improvements on my allotment.Building new raised beds and preparing for the growing seasons ahead.Our polytunnel transformation and growing plans.Planting...

🌿☀️ It’s a busy time of year on the allotment! In this episode of Saturday Spotlight, I’m sharing the essential July to-dos for your allotment and garden — from watering wisely during hot spells to keeping on top of weeding, feeding, and harvesting. 🍅🥔 Discover how to make the most of your mid-summer garden, including which crops to sow now, how to keep plants thriving in the heat, and the maintenance jobs that make all the difference later in the season. 🌾 Whether you’ve got a large allotment or a small garden space, these simple tasks will help you enjoy a productive and beautiful...

🌿☕ It’s time for another Garden Journal Friday — where we sit down, take a breath, and look back at what’s been happening on the allotment this week. From the wins to the weeds, I’m sharing every bit of the journey as it unfolds. 🌾 Discover what’s growing well, what still needs attention, and the little lessons learned along the way. It’s all about keeping it real — celebrating progress, learning from setbacks, and finding joy in the everyday rhythm of gardening life. 🌱 Whether you’re checking in from your own plot or listening from the sofa with a cuppa, this week’s catch-up...

🌿💚 In this episode of Grow & Give, we’re diving into the spirit of sharing within the gardening community — swapping surplus seeds, plants, and advice to help everyone grow more for less. 🌱 Whether you’re a new gardener just starting out or a seasoned allotmenteer with extra seeds to spare, this chat is all about building connections, reducing waste, and spreading the joy of growing. From seed swaps to local plant exchanges, discover how a little generosity can grow big results. 🌻 So grab a cuppa, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about how we can all grow and give back together. ☕🌾

🍅🌿 As the nights start to cool and autumn creeps in, your tomato plants don’t have to call it quits just yet! In this episode of Tomatoes Till the Frost, I’m sharing my best late-season tomato-growing tips to keep your plants producing right through October. Learn how to protect your plants from the chill, encourage continued flowering, and get every last ripe tomato off the vine before the frost arrives. Whether you’re growing in a polytunnel, greenhouse, or outdoors, these simple steps will help extend your harvest season. 🌾 Grab your brew and join me for some tomato talk — because in my gar...

🌞🌿 We’re halfway through July, and it’s time for a good old-fashioned garden check-in! In this episode, I’m walking through the plot to share what’s thriving and what’s struggling during this busy mid-summer stretch. From bumper crops to pest problems, I’ll take you through the highs and lows happening on the allotment — because gardening isn’t always perfect, but it’s always rewarding. 🌻 Grab your brew, pull up a chair, and let’s chat about the real side of gardening — the wins, the weeds, and the lessons we’re learning along the way. ☕💚
🛍️ Top Recommended Products:
• Garden Trug Ba...

Make the most of a soggy July Sunday by installing a simple drip irrigation system in your polytunnel—selecting tubing, laying out drip lines, and hooking up a time💦🌧️
It might be a soggy Sunday outside, but inside the polytunnel we’re cracking on with something essential — installing a brand-new irrigation system! In today’s episode, we talk through why irrigation is one of the best upgrades you can make to your allotment setup, especially when you want healthier plants, less manual watering, and more consistent growth. We’ll chat about the different types of irrigation you can use in a polytunnel, t...

🌧️💚 It’s a wild, stormy Saturday on the allotment — and we’re heading out anyway!
In today’s episode, I take you along for a real behind-the-scenes look at what happens on the plot when the rain absolutely pours down in July. We’ll chat about how heavy summer rain affects your crops, what jobs you can still get done, and the surprising ways a downpour can actually benefit the garden. From flooded paths and drenched jackets to checking beds, tying plants in, watching how the soil reacts, and keeping spirits high — it’s all part of the allotment adventure. If you’ve e...

🌱✨ Gardening with Ben is officially back! In this exciting return episode, I’m sharing all the fresh tips, new ideas, and allotment adventures coming your way. From what’s happening on the plot right now to the gardening plans I’ve been itching to reveal, this episode is your warm welcome back into the journey. We’ll chat about what’s changing on the allotment, new projects on the go, what’s growing well, what needs extra attention, and the exciting topics you can expect in upcoming episodes. Whether you're a long-time listener or brand new to the podcast, this is the perfect pl...

❄️➡️🌱 We’re moving from winter chill to early spring excitement — February is the month where everything starts shifting! In today’s episode, we dive into what’s happening on the allotment right now, what’s changing as the weather turns, and all the little signs that the new growing season is finally approaching. We’ll talk about the first big February tasks, what you can sow indoors and outdoors, how the plot is coping after winter, and the early prep that makes spring so much easier. From tidying and tool checks to seed organisation, tunnel prep, and spotting the first bulbs pushing through —...

🌱🏡 It’s a busy February weekend down on the allotment — and it finally feels like the countdown to spring has begun! In this episode, we dive into all the essential jobs that kickstart the new growing season, even while winter still lingers in the air. We’ll chat about preparing raised beds, clearing winter debris, early sowing plans, polytunnel organisation, and the small but important tasks that set your allotment up for success. From topping up compost to checking structures, planning crop rotations, and spotting the very first signs of life — February is full of excitement and potential. If you’re eager to get...

🌱📆 January may be the quietest month on the allotment — but it’s packed with lessons, surprises, and wins worth celebrating. In this episode, we look back at everything the first month of the year had to offer: the successes that set us up for the year, the challenges winter threw our way, and the lessons learned that will shape the growing season ahead. We’ll chat about plot improvements, seeds sorted, structures checked, polytunnel prep, winter weather struggles, and the small but meaningful steps that make January such an underrated month on the allotment. From frosty mornings to early sowing plans, this...

🕊️🔍 The Big Bird Watch 2025 is complete — and the results are finally in! In this special episode, we dive into the most exciting sightings, the unexpected visitors, the garden favourites that topped the list, and what these findings say about UK wildlife this year. We’ll look at the birds that dominated the charts, the rare species spotted on plots across the country, and how weather, food availability, and habitat changes influenced this year’s numbers. Whether you're a casual bird watcher or a passionate nature lover, this roundup gives you a fascinating snapshot of how our feathered friends are doing. You’ll also he...

🐦🌿 It’s that time of year again — the Big Bird Watch 2025 is here! In this episode, we’re diving into one of the UK’s biggest wildlife events, where thousands of people head out into their gardens, allotments, balconies, and local green spaces to record the birds they see. We’ll talk about how to take part, what species to look out for, the best time of day to spot more activity, and why this national survey is so important for understanding the health of our bird populations. Whether you're an experienced birdwatcher or just curious about the robins, blue tits, and blackb...

🌱✨ It’s time for a garden update! In this episode, I’m sharing exactly what’s happening on the allotment right now — what’s growing, what’s being planted next, and the new ideas brewing for the season ahead. We’ll chat through the crops that are doing brilliantly, the ones that need a bit of TLC, and the plans I’m rolling out across the plot. From early sowings and new varieties to polytunnel projects and changes coming to the beds, this episode is packed with what’s growing, what’s changing, and what’s exciting in the garden. Whether you’re planning you...

🌱🌟 It’s a brand-new year of growing — and in this episode I’m revealing all my gardening goals for 2025! From the vegetables I’m most excited to grow, to the flowers I want to add for colour and pollinators, to the long-term projects I’m planning across the allotment, this episode is packed full of inspiration and fresh ideas. We’ll chat through my must-grow crops for the year, new varieties I want to try, improvements planned for the polytunnel and raised beds, and the big changes I want to make to improve productivity and create a more wildlife-friendly plot. If you’re planning...

🐌🌧️ If you’ve walked out into your garden or allotment and found half your plants nibbled overnight… you’re not alone! In this episode, we dive deep into why slugs seem to explode in numbers — especially during mild, wet weather — and what you can actually do about it. We’ll look at the main reasons behind sudden slug invasions, from warm winters and heavy rain to sheltered hiding spots and moisture-rich soil. You’ll also hear the most effective, wildlife-friendly methods to reduce slug damage — from beer traps and night patrols to mulches, barriers, and clever planting strategies. Whether you’re growing veg, flowers, s...

🌱🌞 It’s been a busy, sunny Sunday down on the allotment — and in this episode I’m sharing everything we’ve been up to! From the small jobs that make a big difference to the bigger tasks that help get the plot ready for the weeks ahead, this episode is a relaxed catch-up of real allotment life. We’ll chat about what’s growing well, what needs a little attention, the areas we’ve been tidying, and the projects that are starting to take shape. Whether it’s weeding, watering, sowing, pruning or organising the shed, Sundays on the allotment always have their own...

🌱🍅 January might be chilly, but it didn’t stop us having a super-productive Saturday down at the allotment! In this episode, I’m sharing everything we got up to today — the jobs, the tidy-ups, the early prep, the surprises, and the little moments that make winter gardening so rewarding. We talk about clearing beds, checking structures after winter weather, adding compost, planning out new growing areas, and giving the plot the attention it needs before the busy season arrives. Even in January, there’s always something worth doing — and these small steps make a massive difference in spring. If you love real allotm...

🌱❄️ January might be cold, but the allotment is far from quiet! In today’s episode, we take a look at the important jobs we’re doing on the plot right now — the tasks that keep everything ticking over before spring arrives. We’ll talk about clearing old beds, adding compost, checking structures after winter weather, organising tools, planning out this year’s layout, and preparing the polytunnel for early sowings. Even in the cold, there’s plenty happening — and these January jobs make a HUGE difference later in the season. If you’re wondering what you should be doing on your allotment this mon...

🌿✨ Whether you’ve got a tiny plot, a compact raised bed, or a full allotment, there are so many clever ways to maximise every inch of growing space! In today’s episode, we’re diving into easy, practical and space-saving ideas to help you get more harvests, healthier plants, and better organisation — no matter the size of your garden. We’ll explore vertical growing, clever planting combinations, small-space structures, multi-use beds, container setups, and the best crops for squeezing maximum value out of limited space. Even the smallest area can produce a HUGE amount with the right planning! If you want to grow mo...

🌶️🔥 January might be freezing outside, but it’s the PERFECT time to bring some heat into your garden! In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know about starting your peppers and chillies early — from sowing tips to setup, care, warmth, lighting, and choosing the right varieties for a strong head start. We’ll talk about why peppers and chillies LOVE being started in January, how to give them the warmth they need, how to avoid leggy seedlings, and which early tasks make the biggest difference later in the season. Whether you’re growing sweet peppers, fiery chillies, or something unu...

🧅🌱 January is the perfect month to get your onion seeds started — and today we’re diving into exactly how to do it! In this episode, I’ll walk you through why onions love an early start, how to sow them properly, and the simple steps that set you up for a strong harvest later in the year. We’ll chat about choosing the best varieties, prepping compost, using the right-sized trays, how much warmth they need, watering tips, and how to avoid common mistakes like damping off or overcrowding. Starting onions early means bigger bulbs, stronger plants, and a huge head start for...

❄️🌱 The allotment looks completely different under a blanket of January snow — and in today’s episode, we’re taking a peaceful winter stroll around the plot to see what’s happening. From frosted beds and iced-over water butts to hardy winter veg standing strong, this episode captures the quiet magic of a snowy allotment morning. We’ll chat about how snow affects the soil, what winter crops survive best, the hidden benefits of a cold snap, and the small checks you can still do while everything is frozen. It’s a chilled, reflective walk around the plot — perfect for anyone who loves seeing the...

🌱❄️ January might be cold and quiet for many gardens, but there’s still plenty happening beneath the surface — and even on top of it! In this episode, I walk you through what’s growing right now on my allotment, what’s surviving the winter chill, and the early signs of life appearing across the beds. We’ll chat about hardy winter veg, overwintering crops, bulbs beginning to stir, how the polytunnel is coping, and the little jobs that help keep everything ticking along. Even in the frostiest month of the year, the allotment still has stories to tell — and this episode gives you a...

🌱❄️ January might feel slow in the garden — but it’s actually one of the most important months to get ahead! In this episode, we walk through the essential allotment and garden jobs you can do right now to set yourself up for a successful growing season. We’ll talk about clearing beds, topping up compost, checking structures after storms, organising seeds, preparing the polytunnel, pruning winter fruit bushes, and planning out your sowing calendar. These small steps make a huge difference once spring hits and everything speeds up. If you want a clear, simple, motivating list of what to tackle in January, t...

🌱❄️ January may feel slow outdoors, but it’s actually the perfect month to kickstart your growing season! In this episode, we dive into what you can plant and sow right now — indoors, in the polytunnel, and even outdoors if conditions allow. We’ll chat about the best seeds to start early (onions, chillies, peppers, leeks), hardy crops that cope with the cold, soil prep for spring, and how to give your seedlings the warmth and light they need. You’ll also hear easy January tasks that help you get a huge head start before the rush of February and March begins. If you...

🌱✨ A brand-new growing year is here — and in this episode, I’m sharing my biggest gardening and allotment goals for 2025! From new crops I want to try, to changes I’m making on the plot, to the improvements I’m planning across the polytunnel, raised beds, and wildlife areas… this is the full behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming this year. We’ll talk about improving productivity, choosing better varieties, organising sowing plans, boosting soil health, creating more perennial areas, and building spaces that are easier to maintain. You’ll also hear about the new projects I’m excited to tackle — plus a few cha...

🌱✨ As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back at everything the allotment has taught us — the wins, the challenges, the surprises, and the standout moments that made this gardening year unforgettable. In this special New Year’s Eve episode, we take a relaxed stroll through the past 12 months on the plot. We’ll chat about favourite harvests, the projects that paid off, lessons learned from tricky weather, the big improvements made, and what stood out season by season. From early sowings and summer gluts to autumn clear-outs and winter preparations — this is your full allotment wrap-up. It’s a...

🌱❄️ It’s a calm December Sunday, and today we’re heading into the shed for a cosy, productive session of tidying up and getting a few seeds started! In this episode, we talk about the quiet winter jobs that make a big difference before the rush of January and February arrives. We’ll chat about sorting tools, cleaning pots, organising seed packets, preparing compost, and choosing the first seeds you can safely sow in December. Even though the plot is cold and still, the shed becomes the perfect warm nook for getting ahead and setting yourself up for a strong start next ye...

🌱🔧 The shed is the heart of every allotment — and today we’re giving it the full 2025 preparation treatment! In this episode, we get stuck into tidying, cleaning, organising, and setting everything up so the new growing season starts smoothly and stress-free. We’ll chat about clearing out old pots, sharpening tools, checking seed stocks, refreshing compost supplies, reorganising shelves, and creating a sowing station ready for those early January and February seeds. A well-prepped shed makes the whole allotment run better — and now is the perfect time to do it. If you want to enter the 2025 season feeling prepared, motivated, and fully set...

🎄🌱 Merry Christmas, gardeners! In this special festive episode, we’re taking a gentle wander through the allotment and chatting about what Christmas Day looks like for a gardener. From the quiet winter beds to the little signs of life, this peaceful, heartwarming episode celebrates the joy of gardening even on the coldest day of the year. We’ll talk about the magic of Christmas morning on the plot, how winter veg are coping, what small jobs you can still do, and why the allotment is one of the calmest places to be during the holiday season. It’s relaxed, cheerful, and the perf...

🛠️🌱 It’s time for a hands-on weekend at the allotment — and today we’re building a brand-new potting bench! In this episode, I take you through the full workshop-style process: planning, materials, assembly, and the little tweaks that make a potting bench truly useful. We’ll chat about choosing the right height, adding shelves for seed trays, creating storage for compost, using reclaimed wood, and positioning the bench for the best light when sowing. A good potting bench makes early-season sowing easier, tidier, and more enjoyable — and building your own is surprisingly simple. If you love practical allotment projects, DIY builds, and making...

🌱❄️ December might be cold, dark, and muddy — but Saturdays are still packed with quick and meaningful jobs you can do on the allotment and in the garden. In this episode, we walk through the essential weekend tasks that help keep the plot ticking over through winter. We’ll chat about winter pruning, clearing dead growth, topping up compost, protecting tender plants, turning over beds, organising sheds, and keeping pathways safe in icy weather. You’ll also hear about what winter veg is still thriving, how to keep things growing in the polytunnel, and which simple tasks make the biggest impact for next spri...

🌱💚 Every gardener has failures — but what makes the difference is how we learn from them. In this honest and uplifting episode, we explore the mistakes, mishaps, and unexpected moments that every gardener encounters… and how each one can lead to better results next time. We’ll chat about seedlings that never sprouted, veg that bolted overnight, slug disasters, watering mistakes, weather surprises, and crops that simply didn’t perform. But most importantly, we turn each “failure” into a lesson — whether it’s choosing the right timing, improving soil, using better protection, or adjusting your varieties. Gardening isn’t about getting everything perfect — it’...