Home Grown with Martha and Jamie

In this episode, Martha and Jamie break discuss how to get our gardens summer ready! and how to grow heat loving fruit, veg and flowers successfully in the UK. They explain what tender plants are, how to protect them, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to failure. From melons and cucumbers to beans, tomatoes and summer flowers such as cosmos, zinnias, sunflowers and more, they share practical advice to help you grow more food with less frustration. We will even discover the fastinating origin of the cavendish banana. And If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Melon Rich Sweetness:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/melon-rich-sweetness/Cosmos Apricot Lemonade:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/cosmos-apricot-lemonade/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie explore the varied and intriguing world of perennial vegetables and why they are one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to grow food. From interesting ways to use classic crops like asparagus and rhubarb, to unusual perennials you may not of heard of - but will want to grow! they break down how to plant once and harvest for years, reduce effort in the garden, and build long-term growing systems.And If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Perennial Nodding Onion:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/perennial-nodding-onion/Perennial Onion Red Bunching:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/perennial-onion-red-bunching/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie break down everything you need to know about gardening in April. From what to sow, how to grow your own utensils, and how to catch up if you feel behind, to dealing with unpredictable weather, slugs and seed starting challenges. They share practical advice on crops like beans, melons, leafy crops, tender plants and bed preparation tips, while also exploring seasonal highlights such as bluebells, things to forage for, and early harvests.And If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:French Bean 1500 Year Old Cave Bean:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/french-bean-1500-yr-old-cave-bean/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie break down companion planting and how different plants support each other within a growing system. From additions to classic combinations such as tomatoes, basil and marigolds, to lesser know companions for productive and diverse gardens. They share their top practical tips, discover which symbiotic pairing combines to create coral reefs, and explain the biology behind plant relationships, from pest control to soil health.If you would like to pre-order a copy of Jamie's children’s book there is a link below, thank you for your support! 💚 https://geni.us/PlantsNeedFriendsTooAnd If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Marigold, Lucy's Starburst:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/marigold-lucys-starburst/Strawberry Drying Corn:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/drying-corn-strawberry/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie are joined by Jason Williams to explore what’s possible when growing food in small, urban spaces. From his beginnings on a balcony 18 floors up in Manchester to becoming an award-winning designer and educator, Jason shares how constraint can spark creativity. They discuss the realities of high-rise gardening, edible pond plants, and how even the smallest spaces can support biodiversity and meaningful harvests. Drawing on insights from urban systems like sponge cities in China, this episode blends practical advice with a powerful reminder: you don’t need land to grow, just the willingness to start.We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Martha and Jamie discuss how to more grow food when space is limited. They share practical strategies for small gardens, balconies, patios and window boxes. Discuss succession planting, vertical growing, container layouts and crops that produce quickly in small beds. And cover projects such as worm farms, mini wildlife ponds and how to create a small but biodiverse ecosystem. Martha also explores the history of intensive market gardening in London and looks at shade-tolerant edible plants from Japan.If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Spring radish, the 18 day radish:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/spring-radish-de-dix-huit-jours/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jamie and Martha discuss unusual crops they’ve grown or discovered, including unusual roots, rare herbs, lesser-known vegetables and some of their favourite unusual varieties of common crops. They discuss why some plants never become commercially popular, the origins of some of our garden favourites and why home growers have the freedom to experiment with far greater diversity. Get your note books ready, your seed wish list is about to grow! If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Mangelwurzel Mammoth Red:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/mangelwurzel-red/Celery Blush (Pink):https://shegrowsveg.com/product/celery-blush/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie step into the hopeful energy of March in the garden, that turning point where winter loosens its grip and the growing season begins to stir. They share everything you can sow, grow, and get underway right now, from hardy early crops to seeds started under cover, along with the essential jobs that set the garden up for the months ahead. They also chat through their favourite tomato varieties and what they’re choosing to grow this year, from reliable classics to flavour-packed newcomers. Beyond the practical, they explore the folklore and seasonal rhythms woven through March, from the spring equinox and the story of Persephone’s return to the appearance of boxing hares in open fields and the sudden blaze of daffodils across the landscape. Expect a blend of timely gardening advice, personal growing plans, and reflections on the signs of spring that remind us the garden is waking up again.If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Black Cherry:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/tomato-black-cherry/Wild Tomato Red Currant:https://shegrowsveg.com/product/tomato-red-currant/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jamie and Martha break down the biggest garden pests, why they become a problem, and how to prevent them; including slugs, aphids, spider mites, wireworm, rabbits and deer. They explain why pesticides fail long term, why prevention matters more than cure, and how building biodiversity and balance can reduce pest pressure over time. With practical takeaways, fascinating facts and the their personal anecdotes from pest filled seasons past.If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Spring Onion Purplettehttps://shegrowsveg.com/product/spring-onion-purplette/The perfect companion for carrots such as Carrot Ox Hearthttps://shegrowsveg.com/product/carrot-oxheart/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Martha and Jamie dive into the joyful, hardworking world of flowers in the vegetable garden. 🌸From multifunctional companion plants that deter pests and boost soil health, to edible blooms that elevate both flavour and beauty on the plate, they explore why flowers deserve a central place in productive spaces. They discuss flowering vegetables and what bolting really means, share fascinating pollination facts, and unpack how attracting insects isn’t just good for biodiversity, it also increases our yields. Expect practical growing tips, fascinating facts, and plenty of encouragement to let your add more blooms to your patch. If you would like to grow our seed of the week, or some of the other varieties we discussed, you can find the links below:Dahlia Bishop’s Childrenhttps://shegrowsveg.com/product/dahlia-bishops-children/?srsltid=AfmBOoorvxUtdcaiseqRdQA1sUhc9chWhxLwOaqr1EYb1WeaJzBnsBM4Nasturtium Purple Emperorhttps://shegrowsveg.com/product/nasturtium-purple-emperor/We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jamie and Martha are joined by foraging educator Fern Freud of Foraged by Fern, and Nimbus the dog. From wild garlic and nettles to mushrooms and truffles, they discuss how to start safely, common mistakes, sustainable harvesting, foraging's relationship to gardening, and why it is as much about mindset and as it is about food.We love hearing your questions and comments - so please do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What should we be doing in the garden in February? In this episode, Martha and Jamie walk through February in the garden. They explain what this month is really for, what seeds are worth starting now, what should wait, and how to work with light, cold, and soil to get your plants off to the best possible start. They discuss practical growing advice, seasonal mindset shifts, plant science, and simple rituals that set up the growing season.If you’d like to try our “Seed of the week” or some of the other varieties mentioned, links below:Link to Dwarf Aubergine "Lilac Wand"https://shegrowsveg.com/product/dwarf-aubergine-lilac-wand/Link to Swiss Chard "Peppermint"https://shegrowsveg.com/product/swiss-chard-peppermint/We love hearing your questions and comments - so do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jamie and Martha explore everything you need to know about growing chillies and so much more. From when to sow seeds, top tips for success, and how to care for plants indoors or out, to why chillies evolved to be spicy, why you can feed them to a parrot, and how heat is measured, this episode blends practical growing advice with plant science, history, fun trivia, and flavour.If you’d like to try our “Seed of the week” or some of the other varieties mentioned, links below:Link to Chilli “Zimbabwe black”https://shegrowsveg.com/product/chilli-pepper-zimbabwe-black/Link to Chilli “BUENA MULATA”https://shegrowsveg.com/product/chilli-pepper-buena-mulata/We love hearing your questions and comments - so do get in touch:hello@homegrownpod.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why does being in nature make us feel better? In this episode of Home Grown, Jamie and Martha explore the science behind gardening, mental health, and the power of plants. From dementia prevention and grounding to the plant that helped create the contraceptive pill, this is a deep dive into how plants shape our bodies, brains, and society.We love hearing your questions and comments - so do get in touch:homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Thomas GriffinArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode sees Martha Swales and Jamie Walton joined by botanist, author and broadcaster James Wong for a wide-ranging conversation about plants, curiosity, and seeing the natural world a little differently.From growing up in Singapore to training at Kew, James shares how early experiences shaped his fascination with plants and why experimentation has always been at the heart of his work. The chat explores ethnobotany and why culture matters just as much as science when it comes to understanding how we grow, eat, and use plants.They talk TV, from memorable moments on screen to making complex plant science genuinely accessible, as well as James’s famously packed indoor growing experiments and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. They discuss unusual edibles, surprising crops, and plants worth growing now for the future.Presented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Kate McIntosh and Charlie HewittExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To kickstart Homegrown in 2026, Martha and Jamie discuss the best tips and tricks to starting your garden this January. From choosing the best compost and seeds, to adapting your garden through the changing of the seasons, they'll be sure to set you up with the know-how to help your plots thrive this year. 🪴They'll be chatting about their personal favourite fruit and veg to grow at home, the cycle of life in a garden, plus sharing anecdotes from their own gardening experiences and folklore traditions such as Wassailing! This is an episode about new beginnings, preparing for the year ahead and understanding how to keep your garden happy through the early cold months into Spring and Summer. We love hearing your questions - do get in touch:homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Kate McIntoshExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the Christmas countdown on Home Grown, and Martha and Jamie are here to bring Christmas cheer in the form of practical ways to bring the season into your home... from your garden! Whether it's making holly and ivy wreaths, drying orange slices or creating natural homemade gifts. Also Jamie explains his new Boxing Day seed sowing tradition and the benefits of starting early, while Martha talks through creating decorations using what you already have outdoors. Plus we have an incredible Christmas Hamper ready for one lucky listener to win. With over £300 worth of gardening goods this will set any grower up for 2026. Listen to the pod to find out how to enter. If you're enjoying Home Grown please do tell your friends and share the love online with a nice review. It really does help more people hear about the pod. homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Charlie HewittExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martha Swales and Jamie Walton settle in for a cosy winter edition of Home Grown, bringing together gardening know-how, seasonal science and the small wonders happening just outside your window at this surprisingly busy time of year. They chat about the creatures riding out the cold months, to when the Winter Solstice takes centre stage and the mood shift it brings, plus how to stay connected to the outdoors even when it’s cold and gloomy.There’s plenty of seasonal growing chat, including vegetables that actually improve after a frost, the deepening reds of radicchio, and the mystery of Christmas potatoes. They touch on evergreens, mushrooms, stored winter veg and the small kitchen joys that make this season feel special.homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Charlie HewittExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Home Grown, Martha Swales and Jamie Walton explore the art of preserving and what it really means to keep the harvest. From ancient bog butter to shipwrecked pickles and honey that has lasted for thousands of years, they look at why some foods stand the test of time.Back in their own kitchens, they talk through the essentials of fermenting, pickling, chutneys and jams, drawing on global traditions and the quiet satisfaction of bottling the season. They share simple ways to start, how to keep ferments safe, ideas for unripe tomatoes and the methods that need a careful hand.It is an episode about saving the season, understanding the science behind long-lasting food and capturing a taste of tomorrow from the garden.We love hearing your questions - do get in touch:homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Shadia OseniExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Home Grown, Martha Swales (@marfskitchengarden) and Jamie Walton (@nettlesandpetals) dive into the wonderful world of fruit trees. From why winter is the perfect time to plant one, to quirky apple history and some truly wild varieties, they explore everything you need to know before adding a tree to your garden, balcony or allotment.Martha and Jamie taste unusual apples, unpack the magic of grafting, and share incredible stories like that of Johnny Appleseed the American Pioneer. They break down pollination groups, self-fertile varieties, pruning styles and the top mistakes people make when planting young trees. Plus they answer your questions on growing fruit trees in pots and choosing the right varieties.The duo also run through the best companion plants for healthy, happy fruit trees before finishing with some delicious recipe inspiration, from pear tart to crumble.We love hearing your questions - do get in touch:homegrown@joypeddlers.comPresented by: Martha Swales and Jamie WaltonVideo Editor and Socials: Shadia OseniExec Producer: Charlotte DawesArtwork: Rare Studio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.