Gardeners' World Season 46 Episode 25 Apples

In this episode of Gardeners' World, the focus is on a quintessential autumnal fruit: the apple. Host Monty Don visits a traditional apple orchard in Sussex to learn about the importance of heritage varieties and the art of growing them. He also shares tips for growing apple trees in small spaces, including container gardening and espalier techniques. Back in his own garden, Monty demonstrates how to prune a neglected apple tree to encourage healthy growth and abundant fruiting.

Meanwhile, Rachel de Thame visits an apple festival in Swathling to discover the many culinary uses for apples beyond just pies and crumbles. She also takes a tour of a cider orchard to learn about the different types of apples used in cider-making and the fermentation process. Back in her own garden, Rachel offers some creative ideas for using apples in savory dishes and shares a recipe for an apple and fennel slaw.

In Norfolk, Nick Bailey explores the world of apple breeding and meets a couple who have developed their own variety of cider apple. He also learns about grafting techniques and the importance of rootstock selection for apple trees. In his own garden, Nick demonstrates how to graft an apple tree and encourages viewers to give it a try.

Elsewhere in the episode, garden designer Joe Swift travels to Belfast to visit an urban community garden that is bringing people together through gardening and sustainable practices. He also shares his top tips for creating an edible garden, including the best plants to grow for early, mid, and late season harvests.

Throughout the episode, there are also segments on garden crafts, seasonal jobs, and viewer questions. Overall, this episode of Gardeners' World offers a comprehensive look at all things apple, from growing and pruning to cooking and cider-making. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, there's something here for everyone to learn and enjoy.