gardenfolk the mag
October really divides us into the Autumn lovers and the Winter dreaders. I admit to falling into the later category but every year I try really hard to embrace the gloriousness of those crisp autumn days and the stunning array of leaf colour and fungi. I do love it... but I still find it hard not to dread the winter to come.
As light levels reduce and those dark mornings creep up on us, the need to focus in on the positives in nature and in the garden is increasingly important. It may be hard to pull back the duvet to be greeted by a cold, dark bedroom but you might be treated to a colourful sunrise as a trade-off. The first frosts may reduce your borders and veggie patch to a brown, slimy mess but the few flowers and plants that remain will shine out all the more. Learning to find joy in as much of life as we can is surely the key to happiness. I hope you find lots this October.
There’s certainly plenty of joy to be found within the pages of this month’s Garden Folk issue. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy!
Anjee
Squash goals:Why everyone should give them a go! Squash goals:Why everyone should give them a go!
Every September, the sight of ripening squash feels like a celebration of the season From the deep orange of pumpkins to the muted steel-blue of Crown Prince, they bring colour, charm, and a sense of abundance to gardens and allotments across the country
Yet, despite their cheerful looks, squash can be a little unpredictable My own harvest this year has been modest at best! Slightly enthusiastic vines, but very few fruits And do you know what? That’s all part of the joy of gardening. Not every season brings perfection, but every season brings learning!
A Feast ofVarieties
One of the reasons squash are so loved by UK growers is the sheer variety available. There really is one for every gardener and every kitchen.
Butternut - The classic choice, reliable, versatile, and perfect for soups and roasting
Crown Prince: A British favourite, prized for its rich orange flesh and superb storage qualities
Delicata: stripy, small, and sweet quick to cook and perfect for weekday meals
Kabocha (Japanese squash): squat, green-skinned, with deeply sweet, nutty flesh brilliant for curries and roasting
Turk’s Turban: flamboyant, colourful, and a talking point in any veg patch or community garden
Pumpkins: from miniature ‘Jack Be Little’ to the giant varieties that win village shows
Big Gardens, Small Spaces
It’s easy to think of squash as a crop for sprawling allotments or country gardens, but I’ve loved seeing how imaginative growers in the East End of London (where I work) are with them From community gardens tucked between tower blocks to balconies brightened by climbing varieties, squash are proving they can thrive almost anywhere
With the right choice of variety and a little training up a fence, trellis, or wigwam, even the smallest spaces can host a plant or two. Watching the golden flowers open to welcome the bees, then spotting the first little fruits forming, brings joy whether you ’ ve got half an acre or a single container.
By Holly Eastlake
Butternut squash.
@agardeningmidwife
Growing your own squash brings joy.
Turks Turban.
Look at the size of this pumpkin.
When that seed pops you will feel such excitment!
Embracing Imperfection
As a midwife, I know that not everything in life follows the plan and gardening is no different Some years the weather is on your side and you ’ re rewarded with baskets of squash that last you through the winter Other years, you’ll be grateful for the two or three that managed to set fruit
But that’s the beauty of it, you can always try again Squash seeds are easy to sow, quick to germinate, and every attempt, whether successful or not, gives you the satisfaction of having been part of the process.
The Joy of Growing
Squash remind us that gardening isn’t about perfection, it’s about participation. It’s about slowing down, tuning into the rhythm of the seasons, and finding joy in the journey as much as the harvest. Even the failures carry lessons, about the soil, weather, or simply the patience required to work alongside nature rather than against it.
So if you ’ ve ever been tempted to grow squash, consider this your invitation Pick a variety that excites you, sow a few seeds next spring, and see what happens You might end up with a wheelbarrow-full of fruits, or just enough for one cosy autumn supper Either way, you’ll have nurtured something special
For me, next year ’ s seeds are already on my wish list Because whether it’s in a big allotment bed, a community plot, or a pot on a London balcony, squash have a way of bringing colour, generosity, and fun to any garden
And really, isn’t that what gardening is all about?
Next year why not aim for a whole wheelbarrow of squash. Holly shows us even when you haven’t succeded as much as you wish not to give up!
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Autumn abundance: Lessons, squash, and the quiet joy of the garden
The garden has begun its gentle exhale. Leaves fall in soft whispers, mornings arrive wrapped in mist, and baskets of harvest sit patiently at the kitchen door, waiting to be turned into soups, bakes, and jars of comfort Autumn feels like the true reward of gardening; a season of gathering, of slowing, of gratitude.
With tea in hand, I find myself pausing and reflecting on what this year has taught me. The lessons are never just about plants; they always reach further into patience, resilience, and the quiet joy of creating space where life can thrive
Not every seedling thrived, and not every plan unfolded as I imagined, yet the garden always gave something back I learned that patience truly pays off, that space is as vital as sunlight, and that working with nature instead of against it brings a softness you cannot force I discovered the freedom that comes with letting go of perfection; allowing plants to lean, sprawl, and find their own way The more I simplified, the more peace the garden gave me
The star of my garden this year was without doubt the squash arch. Two simple frames transformed into something both practical and poetic as climbing varieties of squash wound their way upwards, stretching towards the sky. Honey Bear, Casperita, Bush Baby, Polar Bear, Queensland Blue and Crown Prince each found their place, climbing gracefully overhead and dangling above like sculptural lanterns in soft shades of cream, sage, and deep blue-green Beneath the arch, the soil carried its own quiet abundance; mooli radish, celery, celeriac, carrots, and parsnips pushing steadily downwards, filling out with earthy sweetness as the season turned Passing beneath, I felt as though I was stepping into a hidden world, framed by food and beauty in equal measure
Harvesting squash has its own magic Their colours; muted creams, frosted whites, silvery blues; seem to hold the essence of autumn within them Stacked in baskets or resting on windowsills, they carry the quiet beauty of Hygge, a sense of warmth and nourishment that lingers even before they are turned into soup or roasted with herbs. In their presence, the kitchen feels softer, calmer, more complete.
As I close the gate on this season, I carry these lessons with me. To let things climb and find their own way. To welcome imperfection. To see beauty in simplicity. Gardening is never really about the harvest itself; it is about who we become in the waiting, the tending, the quiet listening to nature’s pace. Autumn reminds me that letting go is part of the cycle, and yet even as the garden rests, I feel the spark of next year ’ s plans already stirring in the soil
Arch of dreams
A lone pumpkin.
We love this just as much as Tori.
By Tori Thomas @torisallotment
Autumn spiced overnight oats
I’m a huge fan of autumn, crunchy leaves, cool winds and watching nature slowing down after summer ’ s rapacious growth. This being said, October is a fabulous month for harvesting your squashes and pumpkins which have been particularly abundant this year So as the mornings grow darker, set aside some of your crop and start your day with a celebration of all that is delicious & quintessentially autumn – for breakfast
Cosy
This recipe is easily adaptable for vegans by swapping the milk & yogurt for your favorite plant based alternative and coeliac friendly by using gluten free oats.
30g chia seeds
45g oats
2 ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
X1 pinch of ground nutmeg (generous)
X4 heads of cloves
X1 apple (grated)
½ orange (zested)
170g roasted butternut squash/ pumpkin
2-3 dates (depending how sweet you desire it)
300ml milk
8 tsp Greek yogurt (heaped)
4 pecan nuts
1 Preheat your oven to 180c. Peel and chop your butternut squash and roast on the oven for 40 minutes or until tender but not browned. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely.
2 Add your chia, oats, spices, apple and orange zest into a large bowl and stir
3 In a blender, blend the butternut squash, dates and milk until smooth.
4 Combine the wet to the dry , stir thoroughly, cover and leave over night in the fridge.
5 To assemble dollop a generous portion of your overnight oats into a glass, top with 2tsp of Greek yogurt, a pecan and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Kerry’s kitchen garden
What a glorious September of sunshine we had - long may it continue into autumn This is our first Autumn of having a greenhouse and it’s bringing me so much joy It's the perfect place to potter around with a cuppa and the morning sun creates a wonderful balmy retreat Currently growing inside, we have a young lemon tree, chillies, peppers, basil and tomatoes
We began really early with the chilli seed sowing and joined Helen (@helenlikesplants) in her January grow along The chilli plants have been our longest investment this year and are now finally ripening so harvesting can begin
We have a quite a variety of chillies growing including: Lemon drop, Apple crisp, Vampire, Spangles, Mango, Hot wax and Biquinho. All of these were given to us as seeds from gardening friends and bring fond memories with them.
Shona (@starof 72) sent me home from a weekend at hers with a wonderful collection of chillies from her greenhouse. I wasn’t feeling my best at the time but a weekend of good company, homegrown food and garden gifts really lifted my spirits.
The Apple crisp & Mango chillies were saved seeds from a trip where I’d had the pleasure of attending Cotswold radio studio for one of the Bearded Growers (@bearded growers) live shows They hosted a ‘Chillioff' with Wool Pots (@woolpots uk) which was such a fun and entertaining evening The chillies ranged from a not-so-hot 500 scovilles to a scorching 1 3 million scovilles Now I’m not one of these people that can tolerate much heat so I played it safe; Mango at 25,000 scovilles was enough for me and the hottest one I dared to try after seeing the reactions from the others in the studio Let’s just say that drinking milk to ease the burn at the end of the contest didn’t seem to help them!
We purchased some Yellow Bell pepper plants and were also kindly gifted some Sweet Flamingo peppers from Suttons. For those of us that grow our own food, we always say how much more flavour it has and that couldn’t be truer for a homegrown pepper. The level of sweetness is exceptional!
Even the tomato plants are still producing and have plenty of fruits still to ripen on the vines. The micro varieties were Blue Zimmer and Dynamite delight and the cherry varieties were Honeycomb and Chocolate cherry. As this is new territory, I’m not really sure what the life span of the plants are so it’s very much a learning curve for this year
Although the greenhouse is full of life, it’s a slightly different story outside in the main beds The tomatoes have now succumbed to the first attack of blight and from experience, once they do, it’s game over I've taken the last few fruits from the plants in hope that they might ripen and all the affected plants have been swiftly removed
Join me next time as I see which harvests make it from plot to plate, and begin preparing the raised beds for autumn sowing
Kerry has absolutely smashed it with the growing this year!
By Kerry Tomlinson
Aren’t these magnificent!
Even the flowers are beautiful on these plants!
@lottie thyme
What
I learnt this year?
The days are getting shorter and there is a slight chill in the air most mornings. Autumn is here and unfortunately very soon plants will start to wilt and come to the end of their time, and before we know it, we are waking up to frost. This is a great time to look back at what you ’ ve achieved and learned about you and your garden this year
For me, the main thing I’ve learned is to slow down and take a breath There is no need to sow all the seeds come early February, in fact I’ve noticed the best things this year were the late seeds I started mid-March and into April Cosmos I was sowing in early March either wilted back or failed to do anything, but the seeds I randomly decided to sow a month later thrived Is it because us gardeners are desperate to get gardening after a long dark winter? That could possibly explain the number of houseplants that I purchased last November and December instead of working my way through the Christmas present list, and the online purchase of eleven Dahlias on Christmas Eve
Iris are stunning planted en masse.
I’ve also realized the joys of pausing, taking a moment to watch a bee looking for pollen, or listening to the birdsong. We all lead such busy lives, sometimes we forget to stop, breathe and observe the little joys our gardens can produce. How amazing is it that the flowers you have grown from tiny seeds are now providing valuable pollen to the bees, or the little pond you created has become home to a frog. Our gardens aren’t just a sanctuary for us but for wildlife as well. Whilst taking a pause I have also found the benefits of taking a slow, deep breath All these wonderful plants and trees are releasing oxygen so why not breathe it in slowly and fully, you will definitely feel better after it
Gardening, like life, is full of ups and downs A storm can knock over your plastic greenhouse containing all your seed trays, slugs can come and munch away your precious Dahlias you ’ ve only just put outside At the time it can be soul destroying but now is the time to look back and learn from our mistakes and possibly even realise it wasn’t that big of a deal
Us gardeners are always looking ahead In May, I’m already thinking about what varieties of Tulip bulbs to buy. When people are posting Instagram stories about varieties of Cosmos in August, I’m either buying the seeds or making notes of the names. It’s not that I’m bored of my garden but rather I’m excited for how I can improve it for next year. Learning the lessons, getting inspiration and praying that in 2026 my third attempt at buying and growing the ‘Wine Eyed Jill’ Dahlia is a success. I’ll keep you posted on that one.
The beginning of a new love
How does the joke go? Intellect is knowing a tomato is a fruit, and wisdom is knowing not to put it into a fruit salad. I’m not sure about you, but I’ve always felt a bit non-plussed about growing tomatoes. They are something we all grow every year and reliably they go through their traffic light changes of green, amber and eventually red (if you ’ re unadventurous like me) and if you ’ re lucky you’ll manage to survive an entire season without the dreaded blight. Then there’s the glut of green toms at the end of the season that are either fried a la whistlestop café or reincarnated as chutney, and somewhere in between lies the rich pickings of nipping to the garden to do all the other gardening jobs and popping those round ripe red balls of tangy sweetness into your mouth as you do so It’s all fairly standard But, this year has been different! An epiphany (e’pip’any?) if you like
This year I have voyaged out far beyond the varying sizes of red snooker balls (round, medium round, large round, cherry, beefsteak and plum) and out into the great, ripe unknown And what an adventure it has been!
I’m not a tomato growing expert, far from it, as will soon become evident, but I do know that this season I have grown the most delicious, varied, beautiful, coloured and textural toms that my garden has even known, and I want to share what I’ve learned as a boring red ball tom grower-turned-heritage adventurer with you.
I’m such a non-expert in fact, that this year my tomato plants rampaged around my polytunnel and greenhouse in a fashion that would befit a tormented bull in a Spanish running festival, but I’m pleased to report that the resultant tomatoes would be proud to be thrown in the great tomato festival of la Tomatina. Next year I will be tidier (honest!), and my plant stems will be orderly and labelled, so that the blackbirds won’t thwart my attempt at naming by digging up and moving each and every label Thank goodness for google, although some varieties which came from plant swaps still remain an enigma
Rookie growing errors aside, here are my top picks of the crop that I’ll definitely be growing again next year, as well as a couple that I won’t! 2025 has definitely sparked a new tomato-growing obsession and I hope the colours, forms, flavours and sheer beauty of these fantastical fruits will inspire you to grow more unusual and heritage varieties too While it might not be a revelation that not all tomatoes are round and red, it might be a surprise that some are black, green, yellow, orange, striped, torpedo-shaped, pearshaped, and more. Here’s my low down on how they look and better still, how I rate them for flavour.
By Kim O’Brien @gardenwithkim
How I rate this years growings!
Yellow Pear
An interesting shape that can only be described as ranging from a ten-pin bowling pin to an actual yellow pear. The flesh is very pithy and extremely bland. These are also disappointingly small
Flavour rating 4/10
Flavour rating 2/10
Purple Smaragd
Looks a little like a torpedo. These tomatoes are lustrous on the outside but are a little lack lustre on flavour on the inside. They also have a particularly tough skin so alth
Honey comb
Small (cherry), round, orange when ripe and deliciously sweet, hardly any of these made it out of the greenhouse. If tomatoes were sweets, they would be honeycomb. Literal flavour bursts in the mouth. Strongly flavoured and tangy with a good strong kick. Absolutely delicious.
Flavour rating 9.5/10
Flavour rating 8/10
Beauty King
This one was amazing and if I could only grow one tomato for the rest of my life it would be this one! I loved the way the bottom of this tomato stays green when ripe and the top turns a rich purple black. I had one truss which had tomatoes in three different colours of red, yellow and green which I believe is an anomaly. They all tasted unbelievably sweet with the same, light, slightly creamy flavour; mildly juicy; and simply bursting with the same flavourful aftertaste
Purple Sunrise
Mellow colours of yellow and purple Sweet and fruity, yet mild and juicy. Gentle on the palette with a delicious aftertaste.
Flavour rating 10/10
Flavour rating 9/10
Golden Bumble
An artisan tomato that was gifted to me by a gardener at the Ramsey Walled Garden in Cambridgeshire when we shared lunch one day last summer. Cute, oval and stripey like a bee (the tomato, not the gardener). A really pretty ovoid shape with a patination of attractive oranges and yellows. Stunning flavour Sweet and tangy
By Marc Ridpath @gardeneriddler
Tomato soup for healing
This is a complete break from my usual articles, as summer gives way to the A word I refuse to acknowledge I like to turn the abundance of produce into delicious warming soup It baffles me that more people don’t make their own soups as they are so simple to make and don’t take a lot of time
So here is my go to soup recipe for using up bumper tomato harvest
The perfect dish to enjoy the last taste of summer.
Serves 4
4 of of tomatoes
Heart and San Marzona are
1.5kg of any type of tomatoes (Crushed Heart and San Marzona are my favourites)
1 Large sweet pepper
1 Large onion
1 sweet onion
6 Garlic Cloves
6 Garlic Cloves
Balsamic Vinegar
Your choice of cooking oil
Balsamic of cooking
Smoked Paprika
Paprika
Rosemary (I love BBQ Rosemary)
Rosemary (I BBQ Rosemary)
Thyme (I usually use Lemon Thyme)
Thyme (I usually use Thyme)
2 stock cubes
Tomato puree
2 stock cubes puree
Cheddar cheese (optional)
Cheddar cheese (optional)
1 Chop tomatoes in half or a few bits if larger and place in large roasting tray. Chop pepper in to chunks removing the seed and add to tray. Also add to the tray roughly chopped onions and whole peeled garlic cloves.
2 Then drizzle on balsamic vinegar and oil on top. Finally add rosemary and thyme leaves, salt and pepper.
3 Place in oven on around 200 degrees and roast for 45 minutes.
4 Once roasted either blend using food processor or hand blender then pour through colander to remove some of the skins.
5 Then serve up with some croutons or crusty bread and enjoy!
I am actually salivating thinking about this soup, good job I have some waiting in the fridge for my lunch one day this week.
I recently read that cooked tomatoes have some added benefits to raw ones as cooking breaks down the cell walls increasing the bioavailability of the antioxidant lycopene. Although raw tomatoes offer more vitamin C so make sure you eat the tomatoes all the ways.
Are you Spring ready? Are you Spring ready?
Autumn may be settling in with its golden leaves and cooler mornings, but for gardeners, spring begins now—at least in the soil. While we’re layering up and sipping warm drinks, garden centres are bursting with spring bulbs: daffodils, tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, and more. The key to a vibrant spring display lies in what you do this season. So grab your gloves, sharpen your trowel, and let’s talk bulbs.
Daffodils: The Optimists of Spring
Daffodils are often early to bloom, lifting spirits with their cheerful yellow faces even on the greyest days. They’re hardy, reliable, and a true symbol of spring’s arrival. But to enjoy their beauty, you need to act before winter sets in.
When to plant:
Daffodils should be planted between September and November, ideally before the first hard frost. If you live in the north, aim for early autumn. In milder southern regions, you can stretch into November.
Where to plant:
These bulbs thrive in full or partial sun and well-draining soil. I’ve had the best results growing them in pots, where I can control the environment and move them to sunnier spots as needed.
Spacing:
Daffodils like a bit of breathing room two bulb widths apart is ideal, though one will do in tighter spaces They also work beautifully in layered “bulb lasagna” arrangements, adding height and depth to your spring display.
Crocus: A Colourful Carpet Beneath Your Feet
Crocuses are small but mighty Their delicate blooms can create a stunning blanket of colour, especially when planted under lawns They pop up just before the grass kicks into growth mode, offering a burst of joy when you need it most
When to plant:
Like daffodils, crocus bulbs should be planted between September and November, before the ground freezes.
Where to plant:
Choose a sunny, well-drained spot. If planting in a lawn, make sure it’s not compacted or boggy crocuses need air and light to thrive.
Spacing:
Crocuses are forgiving. You can plant them in tight clusters for impact or scatter them freely for a naturalised look. I call this the “throw and grow ” method toss them to the wind and plant where they land. That’s my plan this September!
The early bloom which provides the first signs of colour.
By AmyWest @amys allotment adventures
Hyacinths provide an amzing scent that hits you as soon as you enter the garden.
Tulips come in all shapes and colours.
Hyacinths: Fragrance and Flair
Hyacinths may have dipped out of fashion for a while, but they’re back and with good reason. Their bold colours and intoxicating scent make them a standout in any spring garden. They’re also perfect for indoor displays around Christmas (yes, I said it, Christmas!).
When to plant:
Outdoors, plant in early to mid-autumn so they can develop roots before the first frost For indoor forcing, start in late summer or early autumn
Where to plant:
Hyacinths love full sun, ideally six hours a day. Pots are ideal, allowing you to chase the sun and control soil conditions. Mix grit or pea shingle into the soil to ensure proper drainage
Spacing:
Give them room, 2 to 3 bulb widths apart. They also layer well in bulb lasagnas, adding fragrance to your spring tiers.
Tulips are the crown jewels of spring
With endless varieties feathered, dwarf, pastel, neon they’re guaranteed to bring joy Whether you prefer a curated palette or a riot of colour, tulips deliver
When to plant:
Tulips have a longer planting window and can be planted as late as December Late planting helps prevent premature blooming, making them a perfect Christmas gift Stock up now and wrap them with care!
Where to plant:
Like hyacinths, tulips love sun and well-drained, alkaline soil They’re perfect for containers, adding a splash of colour to patios, balconies, or doorstep displays
Spacing:
Tulips don’t mind being close, but they prefer depth plant about 15 cm deep This helps anchor them and protects against frost
Annual or Perennial?
Modern varieties often bloom best in their first year, so many gardeners treat them as annuals But if you ’ re like me slightly lazy and hopeful you’ll leave them in the ground and see what nature offers next spring.
Create a spring space in an old wheelbarrow and give it a new lease of life.
Final Thoughts
Spring success starts in autumn Whether you layering bulbs in pots, scattering them across lawn, or planning a colour-coded border, a l effort now will reward you with a garden tha come March
Gardening is part science, part art, and part It’s about planning ahead, getting your hand and trusting that something beautiful will eme So as you browse the bulb aisles and sketch your spring vision, remember: every bulb pla now is a promise to your future self.
I’d love to see your spring displays tag me posts and let’s celebrate the season together. Happy planting!
Just look at this water setup.
The perfect Autumn activity.
Edible Flower Grow-Along
This year, as part of this year ’ s Garden Folk grow along, we are growing a range of our favourite edible flowers and sharing our progress with you through the magazine and our social media. We're growing: Cornflowers, Nasturtiums, Pansies, Calendula, Amaranth, and Borage from The Hampshire Seed Company.
As we head into the colder months the violas and pansies really come to the forefront as their hardiness means they’ll be blooming even when other blooms are long gone.
They are easy to use fresh or dried and make stunning edible decorations for all kinds of biscuit, cakes and desserts. Something I really love about them though is the specialness they bring to a simple salad.
Looks aside, these little pretty flowers also have hidden health benefits They’re high in Vitamins A and C, are soothing to the skin and assist in reducing inflammation. Try mashing up a handful of flowers with a spoonful of a carrier oil of your choice to create a natural face mask.
Puffed Amaranth seed is delicious.
By Mel Lord
@ thequietplace
Bone dry leaves crackle as they’re scattered by a chilly breeze. Creepy crawlies scuttle in the shadows. Crooked branches scratch at the inky sky. October brings darkness to the garden. Life begins to ebb as winter approaches. Flowers fade, trees become bare and beasts go bump in the night.
Traditionally plenty of plants have been used for protective purposes at this time of year. When goblins and ghouls were believed to be abroad. Houses were kept safe by hanging greenery over the threshold, growing certain kinds of flowers beside the door or bringing bunches inside. Though a couple of blooms in particular are recorded as potent, powerful charms against two of our most fearsome creatures. The vampire and the werewolf.
Frightful flowers
Whilst the Whitby cliffs were shrouded in an ominous fog, Doctor Van Helsing advised Mina Harker to sleep with monkshood hung around her neck, assuring her that it would stop Dracula. Famous for having purple flowers that resemble a clergyman’s cowl, aconite is notoriously toxic. Every part of it is deadly and capable of killing humans and animals in hours if ingested. Though it was named in the earliest film adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel as a successful vampire repellent it has also been associated with wolves, demonic canines and lycanthropy for centuries. With its common moniker possibly originating in the Anglo Saxon period as “wulfbana”. Farmers may have deterred unwanted predators from their land by tipping hunting spears and arrows with its lethal juice or using it to contaminate offerings of meat. Driving away werewolves, halting their transformations or providing a defense against their attacks too. It is likely that the Latin “lycoctonum” comes from a combination of the words “lykos” which means wolf and “kteninein” as in to kill. Whilst “aconitus” might relate to the Roman story of Hercules dragging Cerberus, the three headed hell hound, to some hills with that name during a fight. Pliny and Ovid claim that when the saliva of this gigantic guard dog struck the earth the plant sprang up. Created by the sorceress Hecate.
Additionally aconite, the Que weaponised by Medea when sh Theseus and is responsible for woman named Arachne A ta arrogantly challenged Athena, and crafts, to a competition Ho was truly the best at it When Arachne's skills were greater tha threw wolfsbane over her in a fit her into a spid
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So if you feel the need to venture moon or you're tempted to ta churchyard, be careful Perhap carrying these plants with you garden Then you know that yo safe haven to return to Beyond
Did you know you could specialise in allotments?
Allotment Doctors
By Dr Deborah Burn
@allotmentnews.bsky.social
Study allotments at school, college or university?
Yes you can!
Myself and three other uni students were so inspired by allotments that we took our studies to the very highest educational level possible, becoming “Allotment Doctors” along the way. We hope our educational experiences and subsequent careers inspire and encourage you to think about studying allotments.. Whatever level (or age) you are - even if studying is just a pipedream at the moment - there is a place for allotments in your studies. For parents, this can be about encouraging your little ones to feature allotments in an art, craft or story project. College and uni students have even more options: Allotments fit neatly into studies of society, history, literature, and the sciences. Your hard work and effort could benefit allotments too, as more research is needed into these magnificent places of growth and community.
DrLizCox(SocialSciences,YorkStJohn)
What were you doing before you did your PhD?
I trained in Diagnostic Radiography and volunteered at a Children’s Hospital in Laos, sharing knowledge around radiation safety.
What did you study and how?
My thesis explores women ’ s stories at the allotment, giving voice to their experiences and histories within the allotment space, and adding to a lean discourse exploring this landscape through an important gendered lens.
What were your findings
From soil to plate and from bulb to vase, the bounties of the allotment are enjoyed by many, yet for women, these spaces are ones of radical transformation, resistance, and experience. I demonstrate the important and intricate ways gender can dictate and orientate lived (and embodied) experiences at the plot across the physical, the self, the emotional, the political ,and the philosophical
What do you do now?
I now work within Public Health for a local authority, working to help the local government engage more with effectively and efficiently with research, data and evidence.
What would you say to anyone to encourage them to study allotments at college or uni?
My biggest piece of advice if you ’ re interested in plants and growing and want to study them, is to make sure you ’ re at peace with the fact it might put you off anything soil based for a while! Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed my PhD, it has put me off having an allotment entirely – they are such hard work! – and it’s left me needing a bit of distance from doing (and thinking about) digging, planting, and growing. Hopefully not for too long, though!
DrDeborahBurn(Sociology,NewcastleUniversity)
de to do a PhD about allotments?
dy the centre of my world, I’d had a plot since years in the noughties I had been managing a lp make allotments popular again PhD study felt ind answers to questions that puzzled me about
indings
other plotholders can be all about how ‘tidy’ he aesthetic’), how skilled you are at gardening, effort you put in
dy and how?
etween allotment gardeners: the swapping, the each other out. This wasn’t a romantic happyough, I really got to the bottom of the judgments make about other plotholders before they decide a year doing fieldwork on four allotment sites in and
say to anyone to encourage them to at college or uni?
dy you are at: just go for it! You can do it sionate about allotments. Your project will help re of allotments.
Why did you decide to do a PhD about allotments?
Initially my research was related to the cultural heritage of food in the UK. I began by researching old handwritten recipe books and trying to understand about historic domestic food production and preservation techniques That led me to read about allotments, and I quickly realised that their history was virtually unknown That’s how it all began
What were you doing before you did your PhD?
Objects Conservator, as well as teaching conservation both in the UK and abroad. I also worked on archaeological sites, in museums and for private clients
What did you study and how?
After many years working, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Cultural Heritage studies, and that led to my PhD
What were your findings?
They [allotments] are a force for good. History equated them with poverty, but that was far from the reality. They are now needed more than ever. They have absolutely no downside
What do you do now?
I am mostly retired! And wrote a book Growing Space: a history of the allotment movement.
What would you say to anyone to encourage them to study allotments at college or uni?
The field is wide open to study allotments they are such a significant part of the UK’s history and heritage that they deserve better recognition for the importance they have played, and indeed, still can, if allowed
Why did you decide to do a PhD about allotments?
I was interested in urban green spaces and sustainable food production
What were you doing before you did your PhD?
I was travelling in New Zealand just before I started my PhD, after a Masters at Edinburgh University in Environment, Culture and Society.
What did you study and how?
I looked at how allotments support other aspects of the natural environment that provide benefits to people This ranged from investigating how healthy and sustainable allotment soils were, to how allotments supported people's mental and physical health I also investigated land-use change, looking at what old, closed allotment land was being used for now, and identifying where there might be opportunities for repurposing the land back to use as allotments
What were your findings
Allotments provide a huge suite of other benefits to human health and the wider environment beyond food production They are a massive asset to our society!
What do you do now?
I now work at Natural England on bringing together all our best data to understand and communicate the state of the natural environment to decision-makers, illustrating how every aspect of our society and economy is dependent on healthy, functioning ecosystems
What would you say to anyone to encourage them to study allotments at college or uni?
They're fascinating, you can study them from a whole range of different disciplines, and you get free vegetables when you go on field work. What's not to love :)
Why choose peat free?
By Jamie Marsh @ amies little a lotment
Over the last few years people have been saying “it’s not like it used to be, we used to have a definite start and finish to the seasons ” and I’ve totally agreed with them up until now. But this year autumn has hit us with a bang. This week we ’ ve had wind, rain, hail, sunshine and a bit more rain- we did need it though didn’t we?
Have you heard the old saying, “mother nature will always catch up”? She’s definitely giving it a good go at the moment
Recently, I’ve had a few emails asking me about compost, more specifically peat free compost, so I thought we could have a chat about that this week
Let’s start from the beginning.
Peat isn’t something new that garden centres dreamed up It’s been part of people’s lives for centuries In Scotland, Ireland and the north of England, families used to cut blocks of it from the bogs, leave it to dry, and burn it on the fire for heating and cooking. If you ’ ve ever been to Ireland you might have seen peat briquettes stacked up by the hearth. They burn with a slow, steady heat and a very distinctive smell. For generations that was just normal life.
It was only later on that peat found its way into our compost bags. From the 1960s onwards, multipurpose compost became popular and peat was the main ingredient. It was cheap, light, easy to bag up and store, and plants grew really well in it. Before then, most gardeners made their own composts from loam, leaf mould and manure, but peat was so convenient it quickly became the standard
The trouble is, peat bogs are not just lumps of soil waiting to be dug up They are incredible habitats that have been building for thousands of years as mosses and plants slowly break down without much air That slow process locks away a huge amount of carbon Peatlands cover only a tiny slice of the Earth’s surface, yet they store more carbon than all the world’s forests put together When we dig it up for burning or bag it for compost, all that stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere
It doesn’t stop there Bogs act like giant sponges, soaking up rain and releasing it slowly, which helps reduce flooding. They are home to so many special plants, insects and birds that you just don’t find anywhere else. Once a bog is drained and cut, that’s all lost, and it takes thousands of years to build back again.
That’s why there’s now such a big push to move away from peat. The government has set dates to ban the sale of peat for gardeners, and big projects are underway to restore damaged bogs I think as gardeners we ’ ve got a role to play in that too By choosing peat free we ’ re sending a clear message that we value these wild places and want to protect them
The home of peat.
Peat free composts haven’t always been consistent One bag might be lovely and fine, and the next could be full of woody bits. A big part of that is because much of it comes from council green waste schemes. All those grass cuttings, hedge trimmings and even the odd bit of stick from our brown bins get shredded down and turned into compost. It’s a brilliant way of recycling, but it does mean the quality can vary from batch to batch.
Things are improving though. These days there are plenty of good quality mixes on the market made from composted bark, coir, wood fibre, green waste and even digestates from the anaerobic digestion process They all behave a little differently, so it’s worth getting to know how each brand works with watering and feeding, but once you ’ ve got the hang of it they perform just as well as peat
Of course, the other option is to make your own On my allotment I use pallet compost bins and I honestly think they’re one of the easiest DIY jobs you can do in the garden Old pallets are often free if you keep an eye out locally, and with just four of them fixed together you ’ ve got yourself a sturdy compost bin You can leave gaps between the slats for air, and if you want to be fancy you can hinge one side so it swings open like a door, but even the simplest set-up will do the job
The trick is knowing what can and can t go in. You want a good balance of carbon (browns) and nitrogen (greens). Browns are things like dry leaves, straw, cardboard and shredded paper Greens are your grass clippings, veg peelings and fresh plant material A rough guide is about 70% carbon to 30% nitrogen If you pile in too many greens at once you’ll end up with a slimy heap, so try to spread them out in thin layers and top up with browns in between Sometimes that means holding back the grass cuttings until you ’ ve got more cardboard or straw to add, otherwise the mix gets unbalanced Cutting things up small also helps them break down quicker
Jamie has quite the setup!
Coir is a great alternative.
Growing peat free doesnt mean compromising.
Another thing worth knowing is that some green waste composts made by councils can carry traces of herbicide. If someone has sprayed their lawn with weed killer, those chemicals don’t always break down quickly in the composting process That’s one of the reasons I prefer to make my own I know exactly what’s gone in and I can be confident it’s free from any chemicals
The same goes for manure Horse manure is a great addition to the compost heap and it really helps to heat things up and get them rotting down, but it’s worth knowing where it’s come from If the grazing paddocks have been sprayed for weeds, the herbicide can pass through the horse and end up in the muck That means it could still be active when you use it in your compost or on your veg beds, with the risk of damaging your plants Always ask the source if you can, or stick to trusted local supplies.
Moisture is important too. You don’t want it bone dry, but you don’t want it soaking either. The classic advice is it should feel like a wrung-out sponge. As for turning the heap, some gardeners love to fork it over every few weeks, but I only turn mine once. That’s the advice I picked up from my composting guru and it’s worked well for me. It saves time and still gives me rich, dark compost for the beds.
And here’s a practical tip don’t put your compost bins too far from the garden If you have to trek across the plot every time you ’ ve got a bucket of peelings, it soon becomes a chore Keep them close to hand and you’ll use them more often, and before long you’ll have a steady supply of your own homemade compost
One last word on what not to compost Cooked food, meat and dairy will attract rats, so keep those out of the bins Glossy magazines and heavily printed paper aren’t a good idea either, as the inks don’t break down well Stick to plain cardboard, garden waste and kitchen peelings and you’ll be on the right track.
Switching to peat free might feel like a small step, but when thousands of gardeners all make the same choice it adds up to something much bigger. It means more bogs left in the ground, more carbon stored safely away, more wildlife protected, and less damage done for the sake of a quick grow bag.
So next time you ’ re in the garden centre, have a look for that peat free label It’s a simple swap, but it’s one that really makes a difference And in the long run, it’s better for the planet, for our gardens, and for future generations of gardeners to come
If you ’ ve got any compost or gardening questions please feel free to email me here
Horse manure can provide a cheap or even free feed for your garden.
starting your compost journey now.
Create your own fairy garden: A whimsical DIY guide Create your own fairy garden: A whimsical DIY guide
Fairy gardens are a delightful way to bring a touch of magic to your outdoor space, and the best part is you can start with what you already have.
By Anna White
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking for a creative weekend project to do over the half term break with the children, crafting a fairy garden in a pot is a charming and addictive hobby that blends nature with imagination.
Begin by selecting a pot you already own. It doesn’t need to be perfect cracks or chips can actually add character. Broken pots or pieces of wood can be cleverly repurposed to create a backdrop or tiered levels, giving your fairy garden depth and structure. These elements can act as miniature walls, steps, or platforms, helping to define the scene.
Seasonal bedding plants are ideal for fairy gardens, especially varieties that stay compact and won’t overwhelm the space. Violas are a popular choice they’re cheerful, colourful, and small enough to complement rather than dominate the setup. You can also add moss for a soft, forest-floor effect, and use small succulents or creeping ground covers to fill in gaps. Fairy houses, figurines, and accessories are widely available and are surprisingly affordable.
Discount websites and apps often stock a variety of whimsical items, from tiny benches to miniature animals. For higher-quality pieces, consider supporting small businesses that specialise in fairy garden products. You can use stones, pebbles, bark, or shells to create paths, ponds, or fences.
Once your fairy garden is complete, you can place the pot in a border to fill an empty space or create a standalone display on a patio or windowsill. I warn you, it does get addictive so you will soon add to your collection!
This miniature world brings me so much joy and I hope it does the same for you, so why don’t you gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the enchanting process of building your own magical retreat.
TheWildlife Gardening Almanac
As October arrives, the golden hues of autumn sweep across the garden. Leaves fall, creating a patchwork of amber and russet on the ground, and the air takes on a crisp chill that signals the transition into the colder months. While the vibrant activity of summer has quieted, the garden is still alive with wildlife preparing for the winter ahead Birds search for food to store energy, insects seek out cozy places to hibernate, and small mammals make their last preparations before the frost sets in
October is a time to embrace the beauty of the season and take steps to ensure your garden remains a sanctuary for wildlife throughout autumn and winter.
Wildlife Garden Tips and Jobs for October
Leave Leaf Piles for Wildlife
Instead of raking up all the fallen leaves, leave some in quiet corners of your garden. These piles provide shelter for hibernating insects, such as ladybirds and ground beetles, and are also ideal hiding spots for frogs, toads, and hedgehogs.
Clean and Repair Nesting Features
Take the time to clean out bird boxes and insect hotels, removing debris or old nesting material to reduce the risk of parasites. Repair any damage to ensure these features are ready to support wildlife through the winter months.
Feed the Birds
As natural food sources dwindle, supplement birds’ diets with high-energy foods like sunflower hearts, suet, and fat balls Scatter seeds or fruit on the ground for species that prefer to forage at lower levels Keep feeders clean to prevent the spread of disease, and continue providing fresh water for drinking and bathing Leave seed heads, berries, and rose hips for a wonderful natural food source for them
Create Log and Stone Piles
Log and stone piles are invaluable for garden wildlife in October. They provide shelter for hibernating creatures, such as frogs, toads, newts, and beetles, and attract fungi and insects that enrich your garden’s ecosystem.
Prepare Your Pond for Winter
Remove fallen leaves from your pond to prevent them from decomposing and reducing oxygen levels in the water. Add a small floating object, such as a tennis ball, to prevent the pond from freezing over completely, ensuring wildlife can still access it
Provide space for wildlife and they will come.
Plant for Spring and Early Pollinators
Now is the time to plant spring bulbs, such as crocus, snowdrops, and tulips, which will bloom early next year and provide essential nectar for pollinators emerging from hibernation Consider planting native hedging or shrubs like hawthorn and holly to create shelter and food sources for birds and insects.
Create a log pile in your garden and give wildlife a home for winter.
Are you getting ready for Spring 2026?
With plenty of fallen leaves and plant material to dispose of, October is the perfect month to start a compost heap or refresh an existing one Composting not only reduces waste but also creates a habitat for insects and a valuable soil improver for your garden
Tidy Mindfully
While it’s tempting to cut back everything in preparation for winter, leaving seed heads on plants like teasels, sunflowers, and sedum provides a vital food source for birds and shelter for insects Avoid cutting back hollow stems, as they can house overwintering solitary bees and other insects.
No matter your goriwng space you can create a compost station.
Steps for the Months Ahead
Plant Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs
October marks the start of bare-root planting season Hardy trees and shrubs like rowan, crab apple, and hazel provide food and shelter for wildlife and thrive when planted during their dormant period
Prepare for Hedgehog Hibernation
Check bonfire piles and leaf piles carefully before lighting or clearing them, as hedgehogs may be using these areas as shelter. Provide a safe space for hibernation by creating a log pile, hedgehog house, or leaving dense undergrowth undisturbed.
Have you added any trees to your garden?
Collect and Save Seeds
Save seeds from late-flowering plants like cosmos, calendula, and poppies Store them in labeled envelopes or a jar in a cool, dry place, ready for sowing next spring.
Start Planning Next Year’s Garden
Take stock of what worked well in your garden this year and start planning for the next. Research wildlife-friendly plants, order seeds, and sketch out ideas for new features, like a wildflower patch or pond.
Scary for some but definitely a garden friend.
OctoberWildlife
Highlight: The Artistic Spider
As the garden shifts into autumn, spiders become more noticeable, their intricate webs glistening with morning dew like tiny works of art October is the perfect time to celebrate these misunderstood but essential garden allies While they may seem spooky to some (including me, I am honestly terrified of them), spiders are true masters of pest control, quietly working to keep your garden ecosystem in balance.
Why They’re Beneficial:
Spiders are natural pest controllers, feeding on flies, aphids, moths, and other insects that could harm your plants. They play a vital role in maintaining the balance of your garden’s food chain.
A great activtiy for the colder days.
Webs in the garden are the symbol of colder mornings.
How to help them:
Leave Webs Intact: Avoid clearing away webs they’re important for catching prey and ensuring spiders thrive
Plant Dense Shrubs: Spiders love hiding in hedges, shrubs, or perennial plants, which provide them with shelter.
Let Leaf Litter Be: Fallen leaves and garden debris create safe spaces for ground dwelling spiders to overwinter.
Spiders are your garden’s quiet guardians, ensuring that pest populations stay in check while adding a touch of autumn magic with their intricate, silken creations
Get feeding the birds and make the most of those moments left in 2025.
A Monthly Step By Step Journey
October invites us to embrace the quieter, reflective side of wildlife gardening. By supporting birds, protecting hibernating creatures, and plan(t)ing for the future, you ’ re helping your garden remain a haven for wildlife through the colder months and setting the stage for next year ’ s growth.
See you all next month!
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Big Plans forWinter…
(or trying to stop the deer
AGAIN!)
This year hasn’t been the best year for harvests for me and I thought it was because I hadn’t watered enough, or because sometimes my upwind plot neighbours likes his weedkiller This was until I finally invested in a wildlife camera and caught 35 photos of red deer butts!
By JayneWallace
So with that in mind I have pretty much written off any crops tha aren’t under net and started to embark on a major overhaul of the plot in preparation for next year ’ s growing I always seem to be creating big plans over the winter months. Last year it was a plot long bed of fruit bushes and hoop houses. The year before was hotbeds. The year before that was arches… you get the picture! I don’t seem to give myself an easy time any time of the year, growing season or not! One of these days I will be able to potter, sow green manures (which I will be doing anyway) turn the compost heaps, maybe even paint my fences. But today? Thi is not for today or in fact any time soon. Instead I will be working out where the deer are coming in from and then reinforcing my defences I will be finishing the drying shed, ready for next year And the big job the aviary
Back when I first got the plot TheNotAllotmentDad found this aviary free on Facebay. We made it into a brassica cage complete with pallet collar raised beds, covered it in net and got on with it. However, this mighty plan was put in before I knew my plot at all. I hadn’t realised that the only things that would grow in that patch was bramble and bindweed thanks to the high water level (its right by the stream at the bottom of my plot) and the lack of light thanks to the huge overhanging trees I did try valiantly to keep using it for a few years but this year I gave up, concentrating on other tasks
This means that the aviary is now an eyesore of bramble, bindweed and couch grass along with any other weed that can take root This does not mean however that it won’t be useful, or at least reused I am always a skinflint gardener and there is very little that I consider rubbish on my plot! So what every I can salvage from the aviary walls will be extending my fences up to deter the deer If the wood isn’t salvageable (and I’m not holding much hope) then the wire mesh will be used instead The net that I covered it with will be used for covering beds as needed, and if it is too holey (and I’m thinking the roof at this point) that will be also used to fill gaps between my fence posts
Labelling up photos is a great way to visualise a space.
The pallet collars languishing within will become more hoop houses on each bed, with a small infill of wood chip in each to help retain water I hardly had to water my tomatoes in the old hot bed at all this year so I intend to follow that trend and benefit from this lucky discovery!
As the Council lady abhors a vacuum same as nature, I will be digging back into the bank and putting in three more compost bays, raising the fence at the back of the plot as I go. I’m hoping to start following a fill each bay in a month pattern, along with an air chimney to help speed up the process without having to turn it. If I have space in between the now two sets of bays, I’ll add a water collection point and somewhere more permanent to store my wheelbarrow.
In front of the compost area I’ve planned a designated burn site. Currently, I can’t burn anything unless I have empty beds as I have nowhere clear to set up I’m thinking bonfires in the winter, barbeques in the summer and if I get the chance cold smoking! A small version of the Nettles and Petals hedgehog house (you can find it in Jamie’s book) is also on the cards, as well as extending my seating area
Which all adds up to a lot of grunt work again this year! At least its highly visible so the Council Lady won’t think “nothing is being done on this plot” An eyesore will be gone, a productive area will be in place and I will hopefully have a space to enjoy the fruits of my deer free plot As well as burning off the comfort food calories, always a bonus Here’s hoping Onwards and upwards!
Just look at that amazing polytunnel!
October always feels like a month of shifting gears. The cutting beds are softening now, the colours are deeper, and the pace of the season is slowing.
It’s the moment when flower growers start to think less about harvesting and more about preparing – clearing, composting, collecting seeds and making space for what’s to come
I’m spending a huge amount of time foraging for our autumn and Xmas wreath workshops, as well as hanging whatever stems I can for drying Something that I’m loving experimenting with I definitely don’t do enough documenting of all this stuff over on socials at the momentso call this the garden folk exclusive!!!
This year, that sense of preparation has an extra spark for us We’ve been part gifted a new polytunnel by Premier Polytunnels, and it feels like a real milestone Until now, most of our propagation has been juggled between the domestic greenhouse and polytunnel at my allotment Domestic equipment trying to do a commercial job- It’s been tough!
The new tunnel means we’ll finally have a dedicated space to raise seedlings properly and even a little sheltered growing space for crops that need more protection. It’s a game changer, and we ’ re incredibly grateful! Bit kudos to Premier Polytunnels who have brought us one step closer to those forever goals of our horticultural training school for the neurodiverse and disadvantaged
Notebook of a flower farmer
Autumn sowing is already underway – hardy annuals rooting into their trays and in beds across the farm Having the tunnel means some of these seedlings will have a steady environment to grow on in, without the constant worry of a hard, hard frost or a flood undoing weeks of work It’s the sort of behind-the-scenes shift that makes a huge difference Even if it doesn’t look glamorous on the surface, it’s totally beautiful to me!
You can visit the Wirral Flower Farm for pick your own, weddings and workshops (see starting dates below) :
Oct 11th - Autumn Wreath Making Dec 4th - Xmas Wreath Making
Check out Jen’s website for all the courses available
Gardening in October
October is a month of ‘reset’ in many of our gardens and allotments It’s a time to cut back, put things to bed, mulch, and tidy, but its also a time to plan ahead for spring blooms and get organised for the winter.
Things to sow/plant
Flowers
Forget-me-nots
Cornflowers
Calendula
Sweet Peas
Poppies
Wild Flower Mixes
Crysanthemum
Edibles
Winter Lettuce
Spinach
Broad Beans
Spring Onions
Radish
Spring Cabbage
Peas
Autumn Onion sets
Garlic
Come and join the @gardenfolkmag team for live garden updates throughout the month over on Instagram.
What to listen to while you sow:
An audio journey through the wonderful wild world of plants Episodes cover modern and ancient ways wild plants have been used in human culture as food, medicine and other uses.
Jobs to do
Autumn is upon us this month and as gardeners it’s time to lean into the harvest, preserving, tidying and planning for the seasons to come
Go through your garden or allotment and harvest whatever is ready and available.
Clear away any plants damaged by frost and add to the compost bin
Get creative in the kitchen and find new ways to cook up or preserve your home grown food.
Start planting spring bulbs
Head out on a foraging walk and see what edible fungi you can find while they’re abundant
Watch the sunrise.
Collect herbs for drying on dry mornings
Set up a station to sow microgreens over the winter.
Make sure your water collection set up is as good as it can be.
Plant garlic and autumn onion sets. Protect new shoots from birds
Keep sowing winter salads.
Take time to appreciate nature’s autumn displayperhaps visit a garden
If you’re in need of Garden related ‘stuff’ remember that Garden Folk Supporters get some amazing discounts with some great companies!
Check out the birth flower collection!
Head to the shop
Set the date for November 7th for the next issue