Squashes, Hebes, and the new RHS patron is announced!
Digest
This episode of Gardening with the RHS delves into the fascinating world of shrubby Veronicas, also known as heebies. Ros Marshall, the project leader of the RHS Trial, shares her insights on the recent trial, which involved testing over 120 varieties of these evergreen shrubs. The trial revealed valuable information about their hardiness and led to the awarding of 9 new AGMs (Award of Garden Merit). The episode also features an exciting announcement from RHS Director General Claire Madison, revealing that King Charles III has become the new patron of the RHS. Claire highlights the King's passion for sustainability and his commitment to environmental projects, particularly the Coronation Meadows initiative. The episode concludes with an insightful segment on winter squashes, featuring RHS Horticulturalist Liz Mooney. Liz shares her expertise on growing, storing, and cooking these versatile vegetables, highlighting her favorite cultivars and providing practical tips for successful cultivation.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the episode of Gardening with the RHS, hosted by Guy Barter. It sets the stage for the upcoming discussions on shrubby Veronicas, the new RHS patron, and winter squashes.
Shrubby Veronica Trial Results
This Chapter focuses on the results of the RHS's extensive trial on shrubby Veronicas, also known as heebies. Ros Marshall, the project leader, discusses the trial's methodology, the challenges faced, and the key findings. She highlights the hardiness ratings of different varieties and the awarding of 9 new AGMs (Award of Garden Merit).
King Charles III Becomes RHS Patron
This Chapter announces King Charles III as the new patron of the RHS. Claire Madison, the RHS Director General, discusses the King's long-standing interest in sustainability and gardening, and how his patronage will benefit the organization. She highlights the King's involvement in environmental projects, particularly the Coronation Meadows initiative.
Growing Winter Squashes
This Chapter features RHS Horticulturalist Liz Mooney, who shares her passion for growing winter squashes. She provides comprehensive advice on planting, growing, storing, and cooking these versatile vegetables. Liz highlights her favorite cultivars, including Crown Prince, Bonbon, and Spaghetti Squash, and offers practical tips for successful cultivation.
Keywords
Shrubby Veronica
Shrubby Veronica, also known as Hebe, is a genus of evergreen shrubs native to New Zealand, Australia, and South America. They are popular for their attractive foliage and showy flower spikes, which bloom in various colors, including pink, white, and blue. Shrubby Veronicas are relatively low-maintenance and can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, ground cover, and containers. They are also known for attracting pollinators, such as bumblebees.
RHS
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is a UK-based charity dedicated to promoting horticulture and gardening. Founded in 1804, the RHS is a leading authority on gardening, offering a wide range of services, including educational programs, research, plant trials, and horticultural shows. The RHS also maintains several gardens across the UK, including Wisley, Harlow Carr, Hyde Hall, and Rosemoor.
King Charles III
King Charles III is the current monarch of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms. He is known for his passion for sustainability, environmentalism, and gardening. He has been involved in numerous environmental projects, including the Coronation Meadows initiative, which aims to protect and restore wildflower meadows across the UK. King Charles III is also a keen gardener and has cultivated his own gardens at Highgrove and Sandringham.
Winter Squash
Winter squashes are a type of squash that are harvested in the fall and can be stored for several months. They are known for their hard rinds and flavorful flesh, which can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, baking, and steaming. Popular varieties of winter squashes include butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash, and pumpkin. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Q&A
What are the key findings of the recent shrubby Veronica trial?
The trial revealed valuable information about the hardiness of different varieties, leading to the awarding of 9 new AGMs (Award of Garden Merit). It also highlighted the importance of sheltered locations for these shrubs, especially in harsh winters.
What are some of the benefits of King Charles III becoming the RHS patron?
His patronage will bring increased attention to the RHS's work in promoting sustainability and gardening. It will also provide opportunities for collaboration on environmental projects, such as the Coronation Meadows initiative.
What are some of Liz Mooney's favorite winter squash cultivars?
Liz's favorites include Crown Prince, Bonbon, and Spaghetti Squash. She appreciates their flavor, storage potential, and versatility in the kitchen.
What are some tips for growing winter squashes successfully?
Liz recommends planting them in full sun, providing them with good quality soil, and ensuring adequate moisture. She also suggests training trailing varieties vertically to maximize space.
Show Notes
From butternuts to tromboncinos – on this week's show, Wisley’s Liz Mooney tells us about some of her favourite squashes with top tips on how to grow them. Roz Marshall talks us through the results of the RHS Hebe trial at Wisley and Harlow Carr, and Director General Clare Matterson reflects on the announcement of King Charles III as the new patron of the RHS.
Presenter: Guy Barter
Contributors: Liz Mooney, Roz Marshall, Clare Matterson
Contact: podcasts@rhs.org.uk
Links:
Shrubby Veronica (Hebe) trial results
Table of contents
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