How I Grow

A Chat With Alex Stott About Alex BIO: Alex is an event producer and passionate gardener from Melbourne's inner suburbs. Alex tends a thriving courtyard oasis, focusing on sustainability, growing from seed, and attracting local wildlife. A creative soul and nature lover, she enjoys making mosaics, repurposing secondhand finds, and relaxing in the garden after a busy day. Alex's location: Inner Suburbs Melbourne, VIC. To learn more about Alex's Courtyard Garden: My Smart Garden Article: https://mysmartgarden.org.au/case_study/alexs-courtyard-garden-in-stonnington/ More about this episode: In this episode of How I Grow , Nat sits down with Alex, an event producer from Melbourne's inner suburbs who has turned a 10-by-7 meter tiled courtyard into a diverse, pollinator-friendly sanctuary. Alex shares how her gardening journey had a later start, sparked at age 35 during the Melbourne COVID lockdowns after losing her job. With a tiny budget in a rental property, Alex famously began by growing zucchinis in an old pillowcase tucked inside a milk crate. Fast forward to today, and that same trial-and-error approach has completely transformed her current ground-floor apartment courtyard. From a flat-pack greenhouse and raised veggie beds to an impressive passionfruit vine that yielded over 120 fruits last summer, Alex’s story is a beautiful look at getting creative with small spaces. Alex also shares the ups and downs of the garden, including accidentally baking plants in the summer heat of the greenhouse and dealing with the failure of a thorny youngberry bush. Beyond the garden beds, Alex speaks from the heart about how stepping out into the courtyard has become a necessary respite from a busy, and sometimes stressful, 9-to-5 job. She shares her excitement of pulling out her beloved orange tin of seeds each spring, finding pure joy in the entire process of watching a seed grow rather than just focusing on the finished vegetable. Whether she's bringing a bargain-bin grapevine back to life, creating DIY mosaics to decorate the walls, or successfully growing a coffee tree in a pot, Alex’s approach is all about experimenting and keeping things sustainable through hard-rubbish finds. It’s a refreshing reminder that you don't need acreage to create a vibrant ecosystem. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of trial and error, a desire to attract local wildlife and the willingness to just start planting. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat With Kyrra-Leigh About Kyrra-Leigh BIO: Kyrra is a backyard flower and veggie grower from regional south-west Victoria. She shares her journey on TikTok, helping others create cut flower gardens at home with simple, honest tips while studying horticulture and learning as she goes. Kyrras location: South West Victoria To learn more about Kyrra: TikTok: @kyrraleigh22 More about this episode: In this episode of How I Grow , Nat chats with Kyrra-Leigh, a high-intensity disability worker from Southwest Victoria, who has turned her one-acre property into a prolific cut flower and vegetable haven. Kyrra shares how her obsession with plants was ignited, from growing up on her family hobby farm and bonding with her mother over a veggie patch to learning how to propagate carnations by her great-grandmother’s side. Whether she is planting her dahlias or collecting her favourite bush beans, she always lets Mother Nature take the lead. Kyrra’s story is an inspiring look at a "no-fuss," realistic approach to growing. Beyond the garden beds, Kyrra speaks from the heart about how digging in the dirt serves as her essential "grounding" ritual after long, demanding overnight shifts. She describes the therapeutic magic of hearing the bees and feeling the soil between her hands, a process that centres her when her professional life is dedicated to giving everything to others. Currently studying a Certificate III in Horticulture, she balances technical plant ID and propagation skills with a refreshingly realistic perspective. She proudly shares her "stuff ups" and DIY fixes, it’s a candid reminder that whether you have a massive paddock or just a few pots on a balcony, gardening is about the joy of giving it a go and the peace found amongst the garden beds. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat with Sam from Avonlea Cottage Gardens BIO: Sam is a keen gardener, mum of five, and the creator behind Avonlea Cottage Gardens. She shares her journey of transforming bare grass into a whimsical cottage garden, inspiring others online to create beautiful, life-filled gardens of their own. Sam's location: South East Queensland, VIC To learn more about Sam: Instagram: @avonlea_cottage_garden TikTok: @avonlea_cottage_gardens More about this episode: In this episode of How I Grow, Nat chats with Sam, the creator behind Avonlea Cottage Gardens. Sam shares how her gardening journey began as a beautiful way to give her five children the same fond memories of picking fresh food that she had growing up. What started as a blank slate of grass and gum trees has blossomed into a stunning, sanctuary like cottage garden in the South East Region of Queensland. She also opens up about the peaceful joys of creating a space that both nurtures her family and serves as a personal creative outlet. Along with the wins, Sam keeps it relatably real about the natural ups and downs of gardening, from unpredictable weather to learning through simple trial and error. She also shares the heartwarming story behind her custom timber greenhouse, which she built using reclaimed windows and the helpful guidance of a retired builder. Looking forward, Sam talks about her shift toward relaxed, low maintenance planting and her dreamy plans to build a life sized fairy garden for her children. It’s an inspiring conversation for anyone looking to add a little more magic to their own backyard! 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

A Chat with Emily Todd BIO: Emily is a 26 year old garden lover and horticulture student from Melbournes outer east. Em grows flowers and tends a small kitchen garden, sharing the joy of gardening online. A creative soul and animal lover, she enjoys cooking, painting and pottering in the garden. Emily's location: Yarra Valley, VIC To learn more about Em: Instagram: @emtoddx TikTok: @emtoddxx More about this episode: In this episode of How I Grow , Nat sits down with Emily, a 26 year old creative from the Yarra Valley who has turned her 500m2 block into a blooming sanctuary. Em shares how her obsession with plants started at a young age by her mother’s side, making mud cakes and tucking flowers into her hair, a childhood spark that eventually led her to further her knowledge with growing flowers and vegetables from scratch. From her front yard filled with dreamy roses, poppies and foxgloves to a backyard "chaos" of pumpkins rambling over her chicken coop, Em’s story is a beautiful look at how she’s teaching herself and others to get out into their gardens and create. Em tells us about her up's and down's in the garden, including losing her beloved chickens to a fox last November. Beyond the garden beds, Emily speaks from the heart about how digging in the dirt has become her "free therapy". She describes the pure magic of watching a tiny seed transform into a towering flower and how that process has taught her a level of patience she never had before. Whether she's pickling homegrown cauliflower or dreaming up new garden designs to help others start their own garden spaces, Em’s approach is all about slowing down and finding purpose in the soil. It’s a refreshing reminder that you don't need acreage to create a life full of color. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of trial and error and a genuine love for the "petals and poultry" lifestyle. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

We interview Doug, one of our "The Seed Collection Community" members. BIO: A retiree, I started growing my own vegetables 2.5 yrs ago in our suburban yard on the Gold Coast, QLD with no prior experience. Gardening helps me stay active mentally and physically. I mainly grow in raised beds, pots and growbags, as is easier on my back and knees. Location: Southern Gold Coast, QLD, Australia. More about this episode: We trace Doug’s shift from health scare to thriving garden, turning sandy soil and palm stands into productive raised beds. He shares practical methods for container sweet potatoes, ginger and turmeric in pots, probiotic sauerkraut, and calm, effective pest management. • Why raised beds suit sandy soil and sore knees. • Hugelkultur-style filling with chopped palm to save soil costs. • Cool-season crops started early under shade and in pots. • Vertical sweet potato in 160-litre pots with trellis control. • Summer winners: sweet corn, ginger, turmeric. • Fermenting sauerkraut for gut health and easy storage. • Mindset of persistence, balance and simple tools 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview Breanna from @tiny.garden.growing Instagram: @tiny.garden.growing BIO: I am a passionate self taught gardener, proving that a tiny garden CAN be productive. I aim to inspire people to want to eat healthier homegrown food, garden sustainably and create habitat for native critters - irrespective of garden size! Location: Melbourne's outer South East ----------------------------- More about this episode: Do you believe a lush garden is out of reach for city dwellers? Let Melbourne's own Breanna from Tiny Garden Growing prove you wrong! On our latest episode, she takes us through her surprising journey, transforming a tiny urban space into a veritable cornucopia. Discover how creativity and a little bit of soil can work wonders, and how you, too, can yield a bountiful harvest from even the smallest of balconies or backyards. From balancing soil composition for pots to selecting the right fruit trees for cooler climates, Brianna's expertise will leave you eager to green your space, no matter the size. We chat about how involving children in the process not only educates them on the origins of their food but instills a sense of environmental stewardship. Hear heartwarming anecdotes of youngsters engaging with nature and learn why it's critical to share this knowledge with the next generation. Not only will you be nurturing plants, but you'll also be fostering a greener future with every seed sown. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview Alysse Gallagher Instagram: @ one_fine_farm @practical_permaculture BIO: Our family Oscar/Hubbie & kids (Addie & Gus) are embarking on creating a Permaculture inspired homestead. After travelling Australia for 18 months, we are starting from scratch. We are documenting our journey to help show others what is possible. Location: Northern NSW -Clarence Valley, Yaegl Country ----------------------------- More about this episode: Have you ever dreamed of transforming a simple plot of land into a thriving, self-sufficient homestead? Our latest conversation with Elise from One Fine Farm is an intimate look into the realities of permaculture living, where she shares her family's journey in northern New South Wales. From the careful observation of rain patterns to the ambitious plans for crop cultivation, Elise's story is a compelling tapestry of hard-won wisdom, community spirit, and a profound connection to nature. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

In this episode, we unlock the secrets to transforming your patch of green into a thriving sanctuary for bees. Amid the challenges of industrial agriculture, diseases, and climate change, bees are facing an uphill battle, and our discussion focuses on how every flower choice and garden design can tip the balance in their favour. From the stunning salvia to the humble candytuft, we explore a palette of plants that not only please the eye but also offer a veritable buffet for our buzzing friends. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview with Taj Scicluna Instagram: @botanical_education Website: www.botanicaleducation.com Email: info@botanicaleducation.com.au BIO: Taj is an artist who fuses together her love of Herbalism, Foraging, Writing, Cooking, Ecosystem Health, Personal Health and Education into a cohesive offering. Location: Macedon Ranges, Victoria ----------------------------- More about this episode: Join us as we explore the essentials of a successful herb garden with our special guest, Taj from Botanical Education. In this informative discussion, we'll delve into the cultivation of medicinal plants and the benefits of a diverse garden for both our health and local ecosystems. Taj, an expert in plant care, shares her experiences and insights on how a close relationship with nature can enhance our environments and well-being. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Dive into the straightforward yet rewarding world of growing peas. This guide uncovers the practical aspects and benefits of adding peas to your garden. We'll talk about the basics of Pisum sativum, a versatile plant that offers both sweet and starchy flavors, depending on when you pick it. We're looking into different pea types, from traditional garden peas to the crunchier sugar snaps, and why they're great for cooking. I'll walk you through the steps of growing peas, starting from preparing the soil to supporting their growth. You'll learn how to enjoy the freshest peas right from your garden. We'll also cover how to save seeds for next year's planting, ensuring a continuous supply. The guide includes tips on selecting the right containers, avoiding overcrowding, and using trellises effectively. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview with Chris from GreenThumbGuru on Instagram Instagram: @greenthumbguru @simple.life.on.16acres YouTube: simple life on 16 acres BIO: Chris is a self taught vegetable gardener with over 14 years experience. His philosophy is around gardening naturally without chemicals, using permaculture principles, focusing on supporting a strong foundation for plants, wild life, and the soil biology ----------------------------- More about this episode: Our guest, Chris paints a picture of his journey from nostalgic beginnings, inspired by his grandparents, to the lush slopes of the Manning Valley where he and his family now cultivate life without the interference of chemicals. As we stroll through his verdant domain, Chris unveils the fabric of his ethos: teaching his children the cycles of nature, the interplay of composting chickens enriching the soil, and the integration of permaculture principles that shape his gardening philosophy. Chris shares the seasonal rhythms of his garden, the careful dance with pests, and the collective wisdom within the gardening community that both celebrates and commiserates over nature's curveballs. This episode is a foray into the future too, where Chris's dreams of market gardening take root, hinting at the aspirations that sprout from every well-tended plot of land. This conversation is as much an exploration of personal growth as it is of gardening. We reflect on the significance of embracing the here and now, the lessons tucked within past trials, and the quiet fulfillment of choosing a path that's uniquely ours. There's a patience required in gardening, mirrored in life's own pace, that Chris's story so vividly illustrates. Our chat winds down with a nod to the importance of community gardens, the initiation of green thumbs, and a gracious note of appreciation for the insights Chris brought to our table. This episode is a tribute to the green-thumbed enthusiasts and the nurturing of a life interwoven with the natural world. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Ever wondered why some chilies pack a punch while others barely tickle your taste buds? Brace yourself for a spicy journey as we unravel the mysteries of the Scoville scale and the fiery chemistry of capsaicin in our latest episode. We'll guide you through the heat spectrum, from the mild-mannered bell peppers to the tongue-numbing Pepper X, and share some intriguing chili facts that even seasoned spice lovers might not know. Plus, discover how the capsaicin concentration can vary within different parts of the chili and how growing conditions can influence the overall heat level of your favourite chillies. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview with Grace from LiveSimplyWithGrace on Instagram Instagram: @livesimplywithgrace ----------------------------- More about this episode: Have you ever looked at a flourishing garden and felt a deep connection to the earth? Grace from Live Simply with Grace certainly has, and she's bringing that love for the soil to a life on wheels. We got the chance to sit down with this remarkable eco-warrior to bring you the insights of maintaining a sustainable lifestyle amidst the adventures of travel. Grace's story began in the roots of her family garden and blossomed into a vibrant online community, where she now shares her journey and passion for organic living, no matter where the road takes her. Turning kitchen scraps into eco-friendly treasure while touring the country might seem like a magic trick, but it's all in a day's work for travellers like us. We chat about the wonders of bokashi composting, an innovation that's shaking up how we deal with waste on the go. The ShareWaste app became our compass, guiding us to local compost hubs and connecting us with fellow environmental stewards. It's not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it's a movement to safeguard our planet and cultivate a sense of community, one fermented bin at a time. The art of gardening is a dance with nature, demanding both grace and grit. In our exchange, we unearth the parallels between nurturing our gardens and nourishing our lives. We share tales of pest woes, celebrate the victories of natural remedies, and honour the humble lessons that our green endeavors have taught us. Whether it's adjusting our sails when the winds of life shift or marveling at the resilience of a tiny seed, this episode is a testament to the growth that comes from getting your hands dirty and your heart invested in the land. Join us as we weave through these stories, offering tips, laughter, and a whole lot of green-thumb wisdom. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Have you ever watched your beloved seedlings wilt and wondered where you went wrong? Worry no longer! Our latest episode is a treasure trove of gardening wisdom, ensuring your young plants not only make it to the garden but flourish beyond your expectations. We dig into the telltale signs that your seedlings are primed for relocation and share the secret of using an overcast day to your advantage, safeguarding your green infants from the harsh realities of direct sunlight. Join me as we gently unearth the art of transplanting with tender care, from the initial thorough watering to the protective measures against transplant shock. We'll explore the creation of an ideal bed, rich with moist soil and organic matter, to cradle your plants in comfort. Plus, you'll learn the finesse needed to separate entwined seedlings without stressing them out, and the urgency of getting them into the ground posthaste. This episode is your guide to transforming your garden into a vibrant sanctuary where plants don't just grow—they thrive. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

An interview with Penelope from Queenpenelopespatch on Instagram Instagram: @Queenpenelopespatch ----------------------------- More about this episode: Embark on an enchanting expedition into the lush world of organic gardening with none other than Penelope from Queen Penelope's Patch. Alongside me, your host Gemma, we unveil the tapestry of Penelope's experiences, from her childhood fascination with seeds to her thriving fifteen-year-old garden. Our conversation meanders through the challenges and victories of cultivation, from a once meager and weedy backyard to a verdant paradise boasting 'Raspberry lane' and fruit trees that reach for the sky. Penelope's garden isn't just a feast for the eyes—it's a testament to the miracles that patience and a bit of green-thumbed magic can achieve. Join us as we share a pot of wisdom on the art of conversation with plants and the secrets of successful harvests. Who knew that listening to your garden's whispers could lead to an abundance of chilies, even in cooler climates? Penelope graciously offers her hard-earned insights into nurturing your greens, from recognizing when they cry out for magnesium to celebrating the self-sufficient joy of homegrown and preserved produce. The warmth of her stories about preserving the fruits of her labor might just inspire you to don your gloves and revitalize your own soil. In our heart-to-heart, Penelope and I don't shy away from the emotional resonance that gardens hold. We reflect on the gladioli that bloom in remembrance, the once-troublesome mandarin tree that now bursts with life, and the bees that find solace among our flowers. As we share our passion for fostering pollinators, you'll find yourself drawn to the beauty of multi-purpose plants and the profound well-being that blooms from a personal connection with the earth. So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding green thumb, this conversation promises to plant seeds of inspiration and cultivate a deep-rooted love for the natural world. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Unlock the secrets of transforming your kitchen scraps and garden waste into gold for your garden in our latest podcast episode, where we delve into the world of composting. Prepare to be empowered with knowledge as we guide you through the simplicity and multitude of benefits that composting brings to your backyard and the planet. From setting up the perfect compost bin or pile to mastering the delicate balance of nitrogen, carbon, water, and oxygen, we've got every base covered. Our conversation isn't just about the ‘how’, but also the impactful ‘why’—enriching your soil, slashing landfill contributions, and significantly cutting down on greenhouse gases. We've also packed this episode with practical tips to keep your compost pile thriving in every season, even when the winter frost bites. Learn how to maintain that sponge-like moisture level and why tossing in a mix of greens and browns is essential. Our expert advice doesn't stop there; we tackle common composting quandaries like adding citrus peels and keeping unwanted odors at bay. And for those looking to add a little wriggle to their composting routine, we discuss how worms can magically accelerate the process. Tune in for an episode that's sure to nourish your eco-conscious spirit and help you give back to the earth, one compost heap at a time. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Are cabbage moths and butterflies turning your garden into a battleground? Join me as we arm you with the tactics to defend your brassicas against these voracious vegetarians. We'll identify the enemy – those fluttering white foes and their ravenous larvae – and I'll share my arsenal of tried-and-true strategies. Discover how fine netting, aromatic companion plants, and even moth scarecrows can protect your cabbage, broccoli, and kale. And should an infestation strike, learn the crucial steps for manual caterpillar combat to keep your leafy greens safe. This episode is a treasure trove for any gardener waging war on cabbage pests. As our gardening saga draws to a close, I encourage you to join forces with fellow green thumbs in our Seed Collection Community on Facebook. It's a place brimming with shared wisdom, where your love for the soil can find kindred spirits. And don't forget to visit www.theseedcollection.com.au – your go-to resource for seeds and sage advice. Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or just starting to sow your first seeds, this community and our website are wellsprings of gardening knowledge, ready to help your garden grow with health and vigor. Thanks for tuning in and may your garden be bountiful! 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Ever wondered why those carefully planted seeds never blossom into the garden of your dreams? Fear not, green thumbs and budding gardeners alike, as we unpack eight common seed sowing blunders—and how to sidestep them. Our latest episode is a treasure trove of tips, from nurturing the perfect soil temperature for your seeds to striking that elusive moisture balance. Say goodbye to the confusion of unlabeled plants and the heartbreak of contaminated pots; we're here to guide you through the intricacies of raising resilient seedlings. Stroll down the garden path with us as we delve into the art of plant care post-germination. You'll learn to read the warning signs of overwatering, wage war against weeds, and fortify your fledgling greens against pests. Don't let leggy seedlings dampen your horticultural spirit—we've got the know-how to help you cultivate sturdy stems and balanced nutrition for your plant babies. Plus, join the conversation with our vibrant Seed Collection community, where shared knowledge blossoms into lush gardens. This episode isn't just about growing plants; it's about growing your confidence as a gardener. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Unlock the aromatic mysteries of cultivating your own garlic as we team up with the Seed Collection to guide you through the enchanting process from clove to bulb. Whether you're an aspiring green thumb or a seasoned gardener, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge, including tips on selecting the right garlic variety for your region, the benefits of using organic seed garlic, and the essentials of planting. We'll walk you through nurturing your garlic with the right balance of sun, soil, and care, culminating in the rewarding moment of harvest. Plus, discover the enriching influence garlic can have on your garden's ecosystem, serving as a natural pest deterrent and an ally to your other plants. As we travel through the lifecycle of this culinary staple, we'll also spotlight the culinary gem known as garlic scapes, revealing how these flavorful shoots from hardneck garlic not only add zing to your dishes but also encourage your bulbs to thrive. Hardneck versus softneck garlic is more than just a gardener's debate – we'll break down their differences and quirks, from bolting behaviors to storage longevity. And for those eager to enjoy their garlic bounty year-round, we'll share innovative preservation methods, such as creating aromatic herbal infusions, crafting homemade garlic powder, and even the art of fermenting garlic in honey. All the while, we'll stress the importance of clean techniques to ensure your preserved garlic remains a highlight in your pantry. Join us for this odyssey into the world of garlic, where every step from soil to storage is filled with potential and discovery. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au

Tired of those slimy critters turning your garden into an all-night buffet? Get ready to arm yourself with nature-friendly tactics to protect your leafy greens from ravenous slugs and snails. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice, weaving through the ins and outs of gastropod management. From the comfort of nocturnal patrols to the clever use of barriers and traps, we're here to guide you through creating a thriving ecosystem that's inhospitable to these pesky mollusks. And for those with a bit of yard to spare, we'll explore how our feathered friends and even the occasional chicken can join the fight in safeguarding your garden's vitality. As your garden hosts for this episode, we don't just stop at pest control. We also delve into the world of garden detective work, interpreting the cryptic clues left behind by slugs and snails to understand their behaviors and seasonal patterns. Discover how to armor your garden using plants like lavender and strategically placed dry mulches to repel these slimy invaders. It's not just about the battle; it's about understanding the enemy and arming your garden with the means to remain beautiful and productive. Tune in for a holistic approach to managing your garden's most surreptitious pests, ensuring your plants can grow without becoming a gastropod gourmet meal. 'How I Grow' is produced by The Seed Collection Pty Ltd. Find out more about us here: www.theseedcollection.com.au