The Potty Plotters Plotcast - Growing on the Allotment

S2 E37 - Murder on the Plot, Beans and Medlars

Elaine and Julia are back with another lively episode of the Potty Plotters Plotcast! This time, they kick off with a humorous discussion about the burning season on the allotment and the potential for a murder mystery game inspired by Cluedo, but with a plot twist. They brainstorm how the podcast could be integrated into the game, making it a unique experience for listeners.
The episode takes a turn towards practical gardening advice, as Elaine and Julia delve into the art of dealing with snapdragons and the versatile nature of borlotti beans. Julia shares her method for drying and saving seeds for next year, while Elaine discusses the importance of cutting down summer fruiting raspberries and the intricacies of managing raspberry canes for future harvests.
As always, listener questions are addressed, including a quirky suggestion from Tracy about using odd socks to protect corn cobs from pests. The episode also explores the peculiar fruit known as medlars, with Elaine and Julia considering the potential of making medlar jelly from the overlooked fruit.
Gareth joins the conversation with an update on his garlic planting progress, sparking a discussion about the care and maintenance of garlic over the winter months. The episode wraps up with a preview of what's to come in the next instalment, including discussions on splitting rhubarb crowns and dealing with squashes and pumpkins.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
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Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk 
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E36 - Lasagne, Tights and Where Is The Weatherman?

Elaine and Julia are back with another lively episode of the Potty Plotters Plotcast. In this episode, they welcome new neighbours Glynis and Trevor to plot number 32 and discuss the noisy yet charming atmosphere of their allotment.
The trio dives into the practicalities of using IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) for water storage on the plot, offering tips on how to keep the water clean and algae-free.
The conversation then shifts to the weather, with Gareth attempting to fill in for the absent weatherman Rob Rose.
Elaine and Julia guide Gareth through the process of creating a "lasagne" pot, layering bulbs like alliums, tulips, and muscari for a beautiful spring display. They also offer practical advice on protecting bulbs from pests using tights and chicken wire.
The episode wraps up with tips on caring for dahlias after a frost, including how to cut them down and store them for winter. They also discuss the benefits of sprout tops and how to manage Brussels sprouts for a bountiful harvest.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
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Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E35 - Seeds, Sweat Peas, and Spring Bulbs

Elaine and Julia are back, and this time they're recording outside at the beginning of October. They kick off by discussing the unfortunate fate of Gerry's sweet corn, stripped by magpies, and move on to updates from last week's episode. Gareth, shares his experience with poached pears and planting garlic in tubs.
We provide tips on how to salvage green pumpkins and prepare them for Halloween. The conversation shifts to the importance of organizing seeds, with Elaine revealing her clever method of storing them in a wardrobe and the benefits of using shower caps to protect spring bulbs from squirrels.
The episode also covers the perennial nature of chili plants and how to overwinter them, along with a discussion on overwintering broad beans, peas, and onions. The duo debates the merits of taking a gardening break during winter versus continuing to plant hardy varieties.
Elaine and Julia also remind listeners to send in their recipes using produce from their allotments for an upcoming episode.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
Follow us @pottyplotters on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E34 - Storing Your Apples and Growing Garlic

Elaine and Julia are back with another engaging episode of the Potty Plotters Plotcast!
In this episode, they tackle a listener’s question from Alix in Bristol about the pros and cons of using fabric pots and air pruning for patio gardening. Elaine shares her experiences with fabric pots and explains why she prefers reusing plastic pots. Julia dives into the concept of air pruning and its benefits for root development, particularly for sweet peas and trees.
The conversation takes a delightful detour into the world of pears, with Elaine sharing tips on how to poach and serve them. They also discuss the challenges of growing wedding flowers and offer practical advice for those considering DIY wedding bouquets.
Elaine and Julia address common plot disasters, from misplaced trees to collapsing sheds, and share their own experiences with wind-damaged archways and overgrown perennial beds. They emphasize the importance of learning from mistakes and planning ahead.
Also, September is the perfect time to plant garlic – we explain how.
As the episode wraps up, they talk about storing apples for winter and share a top tip for making crumble mix in advance. They also invite listeners to share their favourite recipes and plot disasters for future episodes.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
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Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E33 Wildlife On The Plots and Rusty Plants

Elaine and Julia are back, taking refuge in the new summer house at Potty Plotters HQ due to the unseasonably cold September weather. In this episode, they discuss the challenges of managing allotments and gardens during unpredictable weather, with a focus on wildlife and the impact of frost on their beloved dahlias and other plants.
The duo shares their experiences with the recent frost, the importance of timing when planting, and how the weather has affected their harvests this year. They also delve into the joys and frustrations of growing tomatoes and cucumbers, offering tips on how to manage late-season crops.
Julia reveals a clever hack for organizing seed packets, ensuring she always knows what she's planting. They also discuss the importance of planning for next year, even when this year's harvest has been disappointing.
Listener questions are addressed, including advice on dealing with wonky parsnips and exploding sweet peas. Elaine and Julia also talk about the diverse wildlife they encounter on their plots, from ducks and swans to foxes and hedgehogs, and the challenges of managing pests and diseases like powdery mildew and rust.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
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Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E32 - Pumpkins, Squashes, and Allotment Laughs

Elaine and Julia return with another delightful episode of the Potty Plotters Plotcast, filled with laughter and practical gardening advice.
This week, they dive into the world of squashes and pumpkins, sharing tips on how to manage these sprawling plants on your allotments. They discuss the importance of lifting pumpkins off the ground to prevent rot and the benefits of turning them to achieve an even colour. The duo also marvel at Eric's impressive squash archway, a true tourist attraction on the plot, and provide insights on how to care for butternut squashes as they ripen.
They touch on the challenges of powdery mildew and offer solutions like homemade sprays and strategic leaf removal. Julia explains the process of taking semi-ripe cuttings from plants like salvias and lavenders, ensuring a bountiful supply of new plants for the next season.
Elaine and Julia also address common allotment problems, including rust on snapdragons and spider mites on aubergines, sharing their tried-and-true methods for managing these issues. The episode wraps up with a look at their recent media appearances and contributions to gardening magazines, highlighting their ongoing commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering a sense of community among gardeners
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
Follow us @pottyplotters on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E31 - The Bee's Knees

This time Elaine and Julia talk to Thelma Robinson from the Derbyshire Beekeepers Association. Thelma educates listeners on the challenges bees faced this year, the importance of planting for pollinators, and the fascinating behaviour of honeybees. Julia’s curiosity leads to a whimsical discussion on whether bees have knees, adding a touch of humour to the informative segment.
We share invaluable advice for Sarah, a novice gardener from Derbyshire, on starting her allotment journey and selecting the right potato varieties for festive feasts.
The importance of planning and preparing your allotment for winter is highlighted, with suggestions on fruit trees, paths, and maintaining structures.
As the episode wraps up, Elaine and Julia reflect on the joys and challenges of participating in horticultural shows, offering tips on how to present your produce and avoid common pitfalls. From the importance of uniformity to the proper labelling of jams, their experience as judges provides listeners with a comprehensive guide to showcasing their gardening achievements.
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Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk 
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E30 - How To Win An Allotment

In this episode, Elaine and Julia tackle the topic of weed management on allotments, offering practical advice and sharing personal anecdotes about the use of weed burners. They discuss the pros and cons of using weed burners versus traditional methods and the importance of safety when handling such equipment. 
Elaine and Julia also delve into the exciting opportunity to win an allotment site through the Green Allotments competition. They speak with Deborah, the CEO of Green Allotments, who explains the details of the competition, the criteria for entering, and the long-term benefits for the winners. The conversation highlights the importance of community involvement and the joy of creating sustainable, biodiverse gardening spaces.
Additionally, the episode touches on the joys of growing cultivated blackberries, the importance of planning for next year's flowers, and creative ways to involve children in allotment activities. Elaine and Julia share their experiences with growing cut flowers for weddings and how planning ahead can lead to beautiful, bountiful gardens.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
Follow us @pottyplotters on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E29 - What Do You Do In Your Shed?

Elaine and Julia are back for another episode of the Potty Plotters Plotcast, enjoying the lovely weather outside.
The main topic of discussion is the multifaceted use of sheds on allotments. Elaine shares her experience of having three sheds—one for pots, one for tools, and a sitting shed for relaxation and occasional tea and cream scones. Julia talks about the importance of having a personal space on the allotment and the benefits of sheds, especially for those who spend long hours on their plots.
Later, they interview Luke from Derby County Community Trust, discussing the allotment projects they've been working on together. Luke shares insights into the importance of planning and having a purpose for the allotments, the challenges of managing produce, and the broader impact on the community.
Elaine and Julia wrap up with a segment on the do's and don'ts of allotment gardening, emphasising the importance of following site rules and the benefits of using cardboard as a weed suppressant.
Follow us @pottyplotters on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk 
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.

S2 E28 - National Allotment Week 2024

In this lively episode, Elaine and Julia celebrate National Allotments Week, discussing the importance of showcasing allotment activities and welcoming the local community to learn more about the joys of allotment gardening. They reflect on the changing demographics of allotment users, noting the increase in flowers.
The duo shares amusing anecdotes from their recent experiences, including a mishap with well water and a giant cucumber from Steve's plot. They also introduce a massive Beefmaster tomato, sparking a humorous debate about its size and comparisons to cricket balls and large oranges.
They respond to listener questions, offering advice on courgette pollination issues and the impact of a lack of pollinators this year. They suggest using a paintbrush to manually pollinate courgettes and discuss the benefits of planting more pollinator-friendly plants around allotments.
Listener Gemma from South East London shares her successes and failures on her allotment and seeks tips on growing loofahs in her new polytunnel. Elaine provides detailed instructions on how to grow loofahs, emphasizing the importance of patience and proper care until the first frost.
Mandy from Matlock recounts her journey of transforming a neglected allotment into a productive space, despite numerous challenges. She seeks advice on what to plant in the gaps left by mishaps, and Elaine and Julia suggest various options, including dwarf French beans, chard, and autumn carrots.
If you enjoy the Plotcast and would like to support us to keep going, head to https://ko-fi.com/thepottyplotters
Follow us @pottyplotters on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Get in touch: naughtycorner@pottyplotters.uk
A podcast for help with your allotment or gardening.