Episode 338: Real Organic vs Regenerative Farming
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Release Date: 06/02/2025
Peat, Politics and Horticulture
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Ali Morse is the Water Policy Manager at The Wildlife Trusts and together we talk the truth about peat: how much is still being extracted, why government promises have fallen short, and the role horticulture plays in the story. We also look ahead to the solutions—both practical and political—that could finally protect these precious habitats. Links Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 47: Going Peat Free with John WalkerIn this episode, I speak with John Walker, the “Earth Friendly Gardener,” about the use of peat in gardening, why it’s so harmful, and what's being done to...
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Episode 351: Wild Campuses, Wild Futures
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Liz Morley is the force behind @you_dig_gardens and Nottingham College’s inspiring Wilder Campuses project, where she’s transforming educational spaces into thriving, biodiverse landscapes. We explore her accessible, low-budget approach to rewilding and how it’s reconnecting people with nature right where they study and work. Links The project on instagram: Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 336: Creating an Ark with Mary Reynolds Mary Reynolds—renowned landscape designer, author, and founder of the We Are The Ark rewilding movement—joins Sarah Wilson to explore how even...
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Episode 350: Between Two Lights: A Creative Journey
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
In this episode I have a captivating conversation with writer and artist James Roberts. We explore the profound themes of his book "Two Lights," delving into the beauty and tragedy of the natural world. James shares his journey from city life to the rural landscapes of the Welsh borders, where he finds inspiration in the twilight hours and the delicate balance of nature. We also discuss the intersection of science and creativity, the importance of attention, and the emotional resonance of beauty. Links James Roberts' Substack - "Two Lights" Other episodes if you liked this one:...
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Episode 349: Foraging Feasts with Flavour Fred
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
George Fredenham—aka Flavour Fred—chef, forager, fermenter, and former co-owner of The Foragers at The Verulam Arms in St Albans is this episode’s guest. Known for turning hedgerow finds into award-winning dishes and wild cocktails, George now runs foraging walks, woodland feasts, and fermentation workshops, blending deep ecological knowledge with a flair for flavour. We talk about his journey with wild food and how he’s teaching others to find, cook, and preserve the edible abundance all around them. Links Instagram Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 32: Foraging with...
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Episode 348: A Forest Fix
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
I'm speaking with Olga Evans, co-founder of the Forest Bathing Institute and author of a new book exploring the science behind nature's healing power. We'll discover what forest bathing really means, whether you need an actual forest to benefit, and learn practical techniques you can use wherever you are. Links by Olga Terebenina and Gary Evans Other episodes if you liked this one: — Forest Bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, is the practice of immersing yourself in nature as therapy. It’s the perfect antidote for those who feel disconnected from the land and unattached from nature, which is...
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Episode 347: Can Plants Help You Find Lost Things?
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
I’m speaking with Christina Oakley Harrington, founder of the legendary Treadwell’s Bookshop in London and author of The Treadwell’s Book of Plant Magic. We dive into her lifelong work in magic and folklore, explore the rich, earthy history of plant magic, and uncover the stories and secrets behind the herbs and flowers that have enchanted humans for centuries. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just plant-curious, listen on to find out what plants can do if you just ask. Links Other episodes if you liked this one: — This week’s episode, my guests are Chris Young and Susan...
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Where will the horti cool kids be in September?
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
I’m joined by designer Will Tomson, whose work blends creativity with a deep commitment to biodiversity and sustainability. We chat about some of his exciting projects involving recycled aggregates, who inspires him, his Talking Plants events which he runs with Amy Langron and Katy Merrington, plus we lift the lid on a new and exciting event happening this September for anyone interested in practical, hands-on gardening tips from the best in the game. Links Talking Plants website Talking plants instagram @talking_plants_sheffield Will Tomson/Creative Cultivation instagram Amy...
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Episode 345: GMOs in the Garden
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Pat Thomas is Director of Beyond GM, and we explore the hidden realities of GMOs, the implications of new "Precision Breeding" legislation, and how these changes could affect gardeners, small-scale growers, and our food future. From campaigns like Stop Hidden GMOs to looking at the global landscape regarding GMO policies, Pat offers essential insights and practical advice on where to learn more and how to take action. Links You can help fund the legal case by donating at Check out the Stop Hidden GMOs for more information Read more about GMOs at Other episodes if you liked this one:...
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Episode 344: Lee Miller - Chef and Gardener
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Lee Miller lived many lives—model, surrealist, war correspondent—but it was in the kitchen and garden at Farleys House that she found a kind of peace after the chaos. In this episode, Lee’s granddaughter Ami Bouhassane discusses her book Lee Miller: A Life with Food, Friends and Recipes, and offers an intimate portrait of her grandmother’s postwar years. We explore how cooking became a creative outlet, the mystery of the unpublished Entertaining Freezer, and the role of the garden in shaping Lee’s later life. Links ) – Explore her life as a surrealist, model, war correspondent,...
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Episode 343: Lines Across the Wild
Roots and All - Gardening Podcast
Writer and naturalist Julian Hoffman joins me for a dive into his latest book Lifelines, exploring the fragile beauty of threatened landscapes, the deep connections between wildlife and culture, and what it means to belong—to a place, to a species, to a song. From regent honeyeaters losing their voices to the shifting borders that divide both people and animals, Julian shares stories that remind us of what’s at stake, and what still remains. Links Other episodes if you liked this one: 🎧 Episode 53: “Irreplaceable” with Julian Hoffman In this earlier visit, Julian explores the...
info_outlineI’m joined by Dave Chapman, host of the US chart-topping Real Organic Podcast. We dive into the rise of “regenerative” as the latest industry buzzword, the troubling reality of corporate consolidation in agriculture, and how antitrust issues are threatening the future of truly organic food. We also explore the key differences between organic food markets in the U.S. and the EU—and what they might mean for growers and consumers alike.
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Other episodes if you liked this one:
🌱 Episode 334: Food Farming Revolutionary with Joshua Sparkes
Summary:
In this episode, I speak with Joshua Sparkes, a grower whose innovative, soil-centered approach blends regenerative principles with a deep reverence for the natural world. We explore his unique style of farming, shaped by observation and experimentation, and discuss why it offers a glimpse into what must be the future of sustainable food production.
🔗 Listen here
🌿 Episode 296: Regenerative Design with Erik Ohlsen
Summary:
I chat with Erik Ohlsen, a US-based regenerative designer, permaculturist, and author, about his holistic approach to landscape design. Erik shares insights from decades of practical experience, emphasizing the importance of listening to the land and integrating ecological principles into our gardens and communities.
🔗 Listen here
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