Gardeners' World Season 52 Episode 17 Episode 17

Today's episode of Gardeners' World is full of beautiful and inspiring segments that will encourage organic gardening enthusiasts, take gardening novices under their wing, reinvigorate green-fingered veterans, and bring a lot of joy to anyone who loves nature and all its bountiful beauty.

In the first segment, Monty has a lot to talk to us about sowing seeds. Starting in the greenhouse, Monty explains the process of sowing tomato seeds. He tells us how to make the most of space, keep the soil warm, and make progress with a useful trick. Later, he fantasizes about sowing other seeds, such as petunias, and how he can bring them up to their full potential.

We also revisit Longmeadow to explore the magical paradise that is the Wild Garden. Nick Bailey and Nell Forrest guide us, enthusing about the variety of plants, especially the species of indigenous plants. But they have plenty of work to do since it's all overgrown. With some picking out of unwanted flowers and pruning them into shape, the garden is given a new lease of life and a great place for creatures to thrive.

In another part of Longmeadow, Frances Tophill answers the most frequently asked questions from the virtual garden open day. It includes using LED lights, keeping the marauding cats away, managing the excessive bark mulch and protecting acers from sun and windburn. Frances uses her expertise to illustrate all of these queries, making them clear and applicable.

Moving on to other garden wonders and job stories, we visit Andreas Keller and his family as they give the vegetable plot a much-needed overhaul after a long winter. Andreas dug in manure and compost in October, making sure the soil is rich and fluffy. As it's finally time to plant, Andreas' children do an excellent job of sowing seeds, including rainbow chard, radish, and many others. Andreas is happy with the progress and undoubtedly their harvest will be delicious and nutritious.

Meanwhile, Adam Frost heads to Cambridgeshire to meet garden designer Emma Reynolds and owner Steph Hafferty, two dynamic and talented women. Their message is clear: "don't wait to start growing" as even the tiniest of urban gardens can be transformed into a bountiful and beautiful space. Steph shares the garden ethos of working with wildlife and showcasing local plants as she took over a blank canvas after moving into the house. Emma explains her approach to the design, how it all came together, and how they've utilized the garden for maximum yields and outdoor living.

On the other side, we get a treat! Joe Swift visits Dr. Frances Harris, head gardener at Barley Wood in Somerset, a garden that was once home to novelist and philanthropist Hannah More in the 1700s. Dr. Frances takes us on a beautifully illustrated tour of the garden, providing fascinating insights into the history of Barley Wood. The garden is stunning, and we get a glimpse of Hannah's paradise and its legacy.

As we wrap up, Monty gives some tips on growing clematis and hydrangeas in pots. Using suitable compost, Monty explains the best way to plant them, ensuring the roots are well covered, and then adds some lovely finishing touches with compost around the base of the stems.

It's an episode full of great tips, gardening adventures and inspiring stories, as always! If you're clued up about gardening, you'll get a lot of inventive ideas or if you're new to the game, you'll get the perfect start to this exciting journey.