In this weeks episode John chats with Des Doyle, garden designer, course creator and now author all about his new book "Growing Beauty". The conversation goes in many directions as Des sharing his gardening knowledge with us, we delve into sustainability, garden design, great plant combinations, gardening for mental health and so much more.

Discover the transformative power of gardening with the wisdom of Des Doyle, who returns to grace our show following his memorable insights from episode 53. With his new book "Growing Beauty" in hand, Des takes us on an intimate tour of his personal garden sanctuary, guiding us through the rhythmic dance of seasons and the intricate beauty of plant life. Our conversation blossoms, shedding light on creating spaces that resonate with their environment and the healing touch that comes with every leaf and petal.

Sustainability in gardening often seems like an elusive goal, but not when Des Doyle shares his approach to cultivating eco-conscious and historically resonant landscapes. We navigate the delicate balance between aesthetic allure and environmental responsibility, exploring the selection of robust plants like hellebores and the cautionary tale of trend-driven, resource-intensive species such as dahlias. This episode champions the virtues of supporting local nurseries and making garden choices that echo far beyond the confines of our own backyards, fostering a greener future for our communities and our world.

Des imparts his expertise on creating a garden that captivates across all seasons. From the strategic use of foliage to the interplay of light and shadow, we uncover the secrets to a perennially enchanting garden. Candida Firth McDonald and filmmaker Alan's contributions are celebrated for bringing "Growing Beauty" to life in book and film.

We round off the episode chatting about the restorative benefits of gardening and nature when it comes to mental health with Des chatting personally about how gardening helped him with his own mental health struggle a number of years ago.

"Growing Beauty" the superb first book by Des Doyle is available to purchase here:
https://gardenfable.com/product/growing-beauty-book/

You can also contact Des through his website here:
https://gardenfable.com/contact/

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: info@mastermygarden.com

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

Until next week
Happy gardening
John

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In this weeks episode John looks at what we can sow in the April vegetable garden and other gardening jobs.
April is the month when seed sowing is at its peak with lots on the sowing list for this month. We can begin sowing and planting outside once conditions allow. In some areas and especially in colder parts of Ireland frosts are still prevalent and will be until perhaps mid May so again proceed with caution. If planting out veg later in the month if possible give it some form of protection from the elements using fleece or bio-netting.

Some seeds drop off the sowing list this month and later in the month tender crops can be sown including sweet corn, courgette, squash, French beans etc. Successional sowing can be continued on a regular basis.

Join us as we arm you with the strategies and timing to sow and grow for an abundant season, regardless of the weather's whims. If you’ve fallen a bit behind, we've got your back, revealing how to catch up on planting aubergines and peppers in the greenhouse. Discover the joys of succession planting, ensuring your garden remains a cornucopia of fresh veggies, herbs, and flowers. Plus, learn why now is the perfect moment to invest in the future by sowing perennials and biennials that promise vibrant colour in the coming year.

This episode isn't just about what goes in the ground; it's about reaping the rewards on your plate. Let's talk about my unsung heroes of the vegetable plot – onions from seed, chard and more. We don't overlook the aromatic charm of fresh herbs. I'll also share my secrets for a continuous supply of cut-and-come-again greens and the monthly sowing schedule that keeps your herb garden lush. Tune in for a treasure trove of practical advice that'll turn this month’s gardening into next season’s feast.

Join the Master My Garden grow your own food course which gives you step by step guide to growing all your own food. Monthly sowing guides, videos tutorials and much more for just €97 with lifetime access. You can join here
https://mastermygarden.com/grow-your-own-food/

If there is any topic you would like covered in future episodes, please let me know.
Email: info@mastermygarden.com

Check out Master My Garden on the following channels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mastermygarden/
Instagram @Mastermygarden https://www.instagram.com/mastermygarden/

Until next week
Happy gardening
John

Support the show