Scotland Grows Show

Scotland Grows Show S8 E6: The Evolution of Scone Palace Garden Fair with Brian Cunningham

Brian Cunningham makes a welcome return to the Scotland Grows Show, two years since he appeared as the very first guest on the show. 
In this episode, we talk about the ways in which Scone Palace Garden Fair has evolved over the last few years including the introduction of a speakers’ tent, the launch of the small space and showcase garden in the Scottish Garden Design Competition, a new demonstration area for this year, and the very unique experience offered at Scone Palace.
Brian’s passion for Scottish horticulture as always shines through and he updates us not just on what to look forward to at this year's Scone Palace Garden Fair, but on his top plant choices and his love for gardening in all seasons.
Further information and tickets for Scone Palace Garden Fair on 30th & 31st May 2025 can be found HERE.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
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Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
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This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show S8 E5: What We Can Learn from Garden History with Kate McClorey

Kate McClorey made the bold transition from a career in IT to becoming Assistant Head Gardener at Floors Castle in the Scottish Borders, and she is back on the podcast to share her experiences over the past few years, including studying a diploma course in garden history at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. 
Kate discusses her motivation for understanding garden history, particularly in the context of her work at Floors Castle, and how this knowledge has deepened her appreciation for garden design. Kate reflects on her favourite historical gardening periods and the fascinating plant hunters of the Victorian era. 
Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply curious about the rich tapestry of garden history, this episode promises a wealth of inspiration and knowledge.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show S8 E4: Exploring Peat-free Growing with Scott Smith

Have you found it a little confusing growing in different peat-free composts?
 
With the impending ban on peat-based composts on the horizon, we welcome Scott Smith, of Husky Horticultural, and former head gardener at ‘Beechgrove’ garden, back to the Scotland Grows Show to talk about his research trial for the RHS Master of Horticulture.
 
Through his trial with sun gold tomatoes, Scott will explore the varying requirements of growing in different peat-free media, offering practical guidance for amateur gardeners navigating this crucial shift.
 
Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities presented by peat-free gardening and the broader implications for the horticultural industry.
 
You can contact Scott for further information on his trial on LinkedIn or by email.
 
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show S8 E3: The Aftermath of Storm Éowyn with Simon Jones

In this episode, we welcome back Simon Jones, a Gardens and Designed Landscape Manager with the National Trust for Scotland in a timely conversation about the devastating impact of Storm Eowyn on National Trust Gardens across Scotland. 
Storm Eowyn saw windspeed of over 100mph hits parts of the west coast of Scotland and Simon shares insights on the extensive damage caused by this recent storm, the emotional toll it takes on those who care for these cherished landscapes, and the resilience required to restore them, as well as explaining how the National Trust for Scotland is handling the aftermath, and the importance of planning for future extreme weather events. The NTS Storm Éowyn appeal can be found HERE.
Simon also offers valuable advice for those looking to replant trees lost to storms, highlighting the significance of preserving native species. Tune in for an episode that not only raises awareness about the challenges faced by the National Trust for Scotland but also celebrates the enduring beauty and resilience of Scotland's landscapes.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show S8 E2: Exploring the Benefits of Therapeutic Horticulture with Fiona Thackery

Welcome back Fiona Thackery to our revisited series of the Scotland Grows Show where Fiona explains the concept of therapeutic horticulture: using gardening, nature connection, and plants to improve health and well-being, under the guidance of a trained practitioner.
Fiona and M.T. explore the role of Trellis in nurturing this emerging practice across Scotland, supporting over 520 projects that bring therapeutic gardening to individuals with various health conditions, and the incredible benefits that gardening offers for mental and physical health, drawing from Fiona's extensive experience as CEO of Trellis, a Scottish charity dedicated to supporting therapeutic horticulture.
Be inspired by the shared passion of the benefits of therapeutic horticulture, and learn how you can support the life-changing work of Trellis, including attending their annual Conference on 14th March 2025.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show S8 E1: From the Classroom to Beechgrove Garden with Lizzie Schofield

In this first revisited episode of the Scotland Grows Show, we're thrilled to welcome back Lizzie Schofield, who, since her last appearance, has become a regular on the gardening series 'Beechgrove'.
Lizzie reflects on her flourishing transition from primary school teaching to full-time gardening and presenting, offering inspiring insights and advice for those considering a similar path.
She also provides an update on their ambitious landscaping projects at home and reveals her favourite plants of the moment, which have evolved since her last appearance.
Join us for a conversation filled with the joy of pursuing one's passion, and keep up with Lizzie on Instagram.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows25 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Scotland Grows Show Christmas Special: The Worst Christmas Weather EVER! with Sean Batty

Our guest today talks about the weather all day long, probably even more than us gardeners do, so it’s very fitting that we talk to none other than Scotland’s own weatherman Sean Batty about this changing climate of ours for our special Christmas episode.
Sean is a meteorologist and weather presenter for STV, having worked for the channel since 2007, but he has been interested in the weather from as young as aged 7.
We discuss the weather extremes he sees and how that affects gardeners and growers, Sean’s new book ‘The Worst Christmas Weather EVER!’ as he introduces younger audiences to the realities of climate change, and we discuss whether we’ll be getting a white Christmas this year, or any year from now on.
Welcome to a very special Christmas episode of the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast partner of Scotland Grows magazine, which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening as we join gardeners around the country picking up tips, plant recommendations, and their stories along the way.
We'd be really grateful if you have been enjoying the Scotland Grows Show all year, or even if this is your first episode, if you would take a minute please to leave a review or rating on your podcast listening platform to help spread the joy of Scottish gardening, it honestly would be so appreciated.
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Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.

Scotland Grows Show S7 E6: Finding Joy in Gardening with Karen Stewart-Russell

Scotland Grows writer Karen Stewart-Russell chats in this episode about so many things: her love of roses, the many things she does with the herbs she grows, and her love of gardening gadgets like an automated greenhouse system, her Bokashi bin, and her hydroponics growing experiment.
Karen’s passion for community also shines through as she discusses her local initiatives: a seed library and plant exchange that fosters community interaction and brightens spirits, and her secret guerrilla gardening efforts to plant bulbs around her neighbourhood.
What is apparent is Karen’s quiet joy for gardening, for her own personal satisfaction rather than for comparison to others, and you can explore Karen’s insightful columns in Scotland Grows magazine. 
Be inspired in this episode with Karen, to find joy in every corner of your green space.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows24 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.
Find out more here: www.nts.org.uk/roots

Scotland Grows Show S7 E5: Championing Local Horticultural Groups with Fergus Cumming

Fergus Cumming is the current Vice-President of Busby and Clarkston Horticultural Society, a society which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022, with roots going back to 1947.
 
As well as having an excellent monthly winter talks series, an annual members’ outing, and an annual flower show, the Society has hosted the Beechgrove Potting Shed twice and Radio 4’s Gardeners Question Time.
 
In this episode, Fergus sheds light on the pivotal role local horticultural clubs play in community engagement and the ongoing challenge of attracting younger members. We delve into leadership transition, community outreach, and the significance of their much-anticipated annual flower show. Fergus shares his insights on simplifying competitions, maintaining a friendly environment, leveraging social media to reach a broader audience, and how to keep things relevant and engaging for a local audience.
 
Fergus also shares his top gardening tips, the importance of learning from experienced growers, and his favourite plants to grow and show.
 
Busby & Clarkston Horticultural Society have the pleasure of hosting the Scottish Gardeners' Forum Annual Winter Gathering on 9th November in Clarkston Halls and more information can be found on the event HERE.
 
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows24 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.
Find out more here: www.nts.org.uk/roots

Scotland Grows Show S7 E4: Scotland's Most Exotic Garden with Richard Baines

The wonderful Richard Baines, Curator of Logan Botanic Garden in southwest Scotland, widely known as Scotland’s most exotic garden, and one of the four gardens of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, uncovers the unique charm of Logan Botanic Garden in this episode.
From its vibrant seasonal displays to its impressive collection of exotic plants nurtured by the Gulf Stream-influenced climate, Richard offers fascinating insights into the garden's ongoing conservation efforts, including international collaborations to preserve endangered plant species, and more importantly why we try to conserve endangered plant species. 
We also dive into the personal side of gardening with a magnolia which Richard has named after his mother, and his slight obsession for the monkey puzzle tree.
Enjoy Richard’s passion for Logan Botanic Garden, his thoughts on adapting to climate change, and his practical gardening advice relevant for us all.
Find out more about Logan Botanic Garden on the Discover Scottish Gardens website.
Welcome to the Scotland Grows Show, the podcast which celebrates everything that is good in Scottish gardening, as we join gardeners around the country to find out what grows well where they are, and pick up tips and stories along the way.
--------------------------------------------
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list so we can let you know when new episodes are published.
Scotland Grows magazine is our digital title which celebrates Scottish gardening, and drops into your inbox 6 times a year. If you would like to receive a copy, just follow this LINK.
You can follow Scotland Grows on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we'd love to have your company there!
And of course, you can always find your share of gardening goodness on our website at scotlandgrowsmagazine.com.
--------------------------------------------
This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.
For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.
Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows24 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.
Find out more here: www.nts.org.uk/roots