Ep 4. Episode 4

Gardeners' World season 57 episode 4 is packed with tips, tricks, and practical advice to help gardeners make the most of the summer season. Presented by Monty Don, this episode takes viewers on a tour of different gardens, from grand estates to community projects, and explores the different techniques used to get the best results from plants and flowers.

The episode begins with Monty Don visiting the RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire, where he meets up with Head Gardener Paul Cook to explore the summer garden. They take a walk through the borders and examine the different plant varieties that are in bloom, discussing how to deadhead flowers and prune back growth to encourage more blooms throughout the summer. They also talk about dealing with pests and diseases, including slugs and snails, and how to keep the garden healthy without using harmful chemicals.

Next, we're taken on a visit to a community garden in Birmingham, where local volunteers are growing a wide range of produce, from tomatoes and onions to lettuce and beans. Monty Don talks to some of the gardeners about their experiences and the joys of growing their own food, and offers advice on how to make the most of limited space and deal with common problems such as weeds and pests. He also explores the benefits of companion planting, where different plants are grown together to create a mutually beneficial environment that minimizes the need for artificial fertilizers and pesticides.

The episode also features a segment on growing herbs, with Monty Don showing viewers how to create a simple herb garden that can provide fresh, aromatic herbs for cooking and other uses throughout the year. He talks about the different herbs that are suitable for planting in different conditions, and demonstrates how to propagate herbs from cuttings and divide established plants to get more for free.

Other highlights of the episode include a report on the plight of bees and other pollinators, and how gardeners can help to provide a safe and welcoming habitat for these vital creatures. Monty Don explores different types of bee-friendly plants and flowers, and talks about the importance of leaving some areas of the garden wild and unmanaged to provide a refuge for bees and other wildlife.

Overall, Gardeners' World season 57 episode 4 is an engaging and informative exploration of the joys of gardening in the summertime. Whether you're an experienced gardener looking for new inspiration, or a beginner just starting out, this episode offers plenty of practical tips and insights to help you make the most of your garden.