Discover New Skills at Toby's Garden Festival Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd May 2025

Toby's Garden Festival is back once again for another unmissable two-day celebration of gardening and the great outdoors, set against the stunning backdrop of Powderham Castle, near Exeter.  

Hosted by BBC Two Gardeners' World presenter Toby Buckland, the festival takes place on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd May 2025 (10am-5pm) and will be encouraging everyone to learn a new skill.  

Visitors can expect a full programme of free gardening and food and drink talks, hands-on workshops, demonstrations, tastings, live music and much more.

Inspirational experts headlining the festival and joining Toby include, BBC Two Gardeners' World presenters Frances Tophill and Joe Swift, as well as BBC 1 Spotlight presenter Victoria Graham, The Telegraph's drinks' writer Susy Atkins and award-winning food writer and gardener, Mark Diacono.  

During her talk, Frances will share insights from her latest book, How to Grow a Garden, offering planting tips and tricks, Joe will be delivering his expert guide, Garden Design 101, teaching visitors how to create their own Chelsea Flower Show-worthy masterpieces and Toby will enlighten visitors with his rule-breaking tips for a beautiful garden.  

Attendees can also enjoy An Audience with BBC's Victoria Graham and hear Mark Diacono discuss his latest book, Abundance: Recipes and Stories from a Gardening Cook.

More than just a garden festival, Toby's Garden Festival has over 180 exhibitors, including award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show plant nurseries and British-grown trees, roses, border and wild flowers, aquatics, shrubs and houseplants, plus sculptures and garden furniture and an 'Artisan Barn' showcasing local artists, crafts, ceramics, textiles, glassware and jewellery. 

 Heritage craft demonstrations, including stave baskets and brush making and free flower crown making workshops with the help of the British Academy of Flower Arts, also run over the two days.

Encouraging visitors to discover new talents, hands-on taster 'Garden and Art Workshops' held in the Castle are available to pre-book, including botanical painting with award-winning artist Harriet de Winton, flower arranging classes with Amelia's Flower Farm and terrarium-building led by Hutch Houseplants.  

In the Castle grounds there will also be free composting masterclasses with soil scientists RhizoPhyllia, wildflower and seed-sowing workshops by Meadow in My Garden and dry stone walling demos.

Commenting on the festival, Toby, says: “As we approach our eleventh festival at Powderham Castle, the value of our gardens, whether it be for wellbeing, local produce, wildlife or learning, has never been more significant.  

That's why, in a first for any garden show, we're going 'back to school' with the introduction of a hands-on 'learning zone' where festival-goers can take their gardening and creativity to another level. With limited spaces, we know they'll be popular, so book early!”

Toby, continues: “As always, we'll have music, street theatre, fabulous artists and makers, plus a fantastic selection of plant sellers from the Westcounty and beyond. As well as an ever growing family of exhibitors we have the most inspirational range of talks on demos ranging from rose care, wildlife gardening, garden design, wine tasting and even making your own bacon. The only problem visitors will have is getting to try them all!”

Celebrating the best of the South West, visitors can also browse Food Drink Devon's market in the Castle's beautiful courtyard featuring over 20 local producers.  Feast Street returns, offering the perfect selection of street food and pop-up bars where visitors can relax by the Castle lake and enjoy live music from talented Devon musicians. Wine enthusiasts can also once again enjoy free wine talks and tastings, courtesy of festival sponsor Wickhams, with expert guidance from Susy Atkins and Mark Diacono in the Castle's elegant dining hall.

Other attractions throughout the festival include street theatre, live music from local artists and vintage vehicles.

For a special experience, Toby's Garden Festival offers a VIP Experience (£100 per person), sponsored by Hawksmoor Investment Management, which not only grants visitors entry into the festival but also, all-day access to 14th century Powderham Castle's breathtaking library and music room with morning tea, coffee and biscuits, canapés and a light buffet lunch, afternoon tea, a glass of fizz and a VIP gift bag. 

Early bird tickets are on sale now and cost £15.00 per person, under 16s free (except Tea and Cake in the Castle and VIP tickets), Tea and Cake in the Castle tickets cost £35.00 per person.  All tickets are available from www.tobygardenfest.co.uk.

Toby's Garden Festivals is kindly sponsored by Hawksmoor Investment Management and Wickhams, with media partner, Country Gardener.

To find the full programme of events and further what's on details, visit the official Toby's Garden Festival website at tobygardenfest.co.uk.  To stay up-to-date follow @tobygardenfest on Instagram, Facebook and X. 

Companion Planting: Maximising Plant Health through Strategic Pairing

In the world of gardening, there's an age-old practice that's gaining renewed attention for its ability to foster healthier, more vibrant plants: companion planting. 

This ancient gardening technique involves strategically pairing certain plants together to promote mutual benefits such as pest control, improved soil health, enhanced pollination, and increased yields. 

While it may sound like a form of horticultural sorcery, companion planting is rooted in ecological principles and has been practiced by cultures around the world for centuries.

The Science Behind Companion Planting

At its core, companion planting capitalises on the interactions between different plant species. Some plants emit chemicals that repel pests or attract beneficial insects, while others fix nitrogen in the soil or provide physical support for neighboring plants. By carefully selecting plant combinations based on these interactions, gardeners can create harmonious ecosystems that support the health and productivity of their crops.

One of the most well-known examples of companion planting is the "Three Sisters" method used by Native American tribes, which involves planting corn, beans, and squash together. The corn provides a sturdy structure for the beans to climb, while the beans fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting both themselves and the corn. Meanwhile, the sprawling squash vines shade the soil, suppress weeds, and help retain moisture, creating a mutually beneficial environment for all three crops.

Benefits of Companion Planting

Companion planting offers a multitude of benefits that go beyond simply improving plant health:

Natural Pest Control: Certain plants release chemicals that repel pests or attract predators, helping to keep harmful insects at bay without the need for synthetic pesticides. For example, planting marigolds alongside tomatoes can deter nematodes, while planting basil near tomatoes can repel tomato hornworms.

Improved Soil Health: Some plant combinations work together to enhance soil fertility and structure. Legumes, such as peas and beans, have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making it more readily available to neighboring plants. Additionally, deep-rooted plants like comfrey can help bring up nutrients from the lower soil layers, benefiting shallower-rooted plants nearby.

Enhanced Pollination: By attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, companion plants can help increase fruit set and yields in nearby crops. Flowers like lavender, borage, and sunflowers are particularly attractive to pollinators and can be strategically planted throughout the garden to support overall pollination activity.

Space Optimisation: Companion planting allows gardeners to make the most of limited space by interplanting compatible crops. Tall, sun-loving plants can provide shade for more delicate, shade-tolerant crops, while vining plants can be trained to climb trellises or fences, freeing up valuable ground space.

Practical Tips for Companion Planting

Implementing companion planting strategies in your garden is relatively simple, but it does require some planning and experimentation. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Research Plant Compatibility: Before planting, research which plants thrive when grown together and which ones should be kept apart. Several books, online resources, and gardening apps provide comprehensive lists of compatible plant combinations. You can ask an experienced gardener for their tips and advice.

Consider Planting Patterns: Companion plants can be arranged in various patterns, including intercropping (planting different crops together in the same space), border planting (placing beneficial plants around the perimeter of the garden), and trap cropping (planting attractive sacrificial crops to lure pests away from main crops).

Rotate Crops Regularly: To prevent the buildup of pests and diseases, rotate your crops annually and avoid planting the same species in the same location year after year. This practice helps maintain soil health and reduces the risk of soil-borne pathogens.

Be Observant: Pay attention to how your plants interact with each other and with their environment. Notice any changes in pest activity, plant growth, or overall health, and adjust your planting arrangements accordingly.

Companion planting is a time-tested gardening technique that offers numerous benefits for both plants and gardeners alike. By harnessing the power of plant relationships, we can create resilient, biodiverse ecosystems that promote healthy growth and sustainable food production.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, experimenting with companion planting can open up a world of possibilities and help you cultivate a thriving garden that's truly in harmony with nature. So, the next time you're planning your garden layout, consider the ancient wisdom of companion planting and watch your plants flourish like never before.

(Image courtesy Delynn Talley from Pixabay)

Cultivating Abundance: The Benefits of Growing Your Own Fruits in the UK

In the bustling urban landscapes and serene countryside of the United Kingdom, an increasing number of individuals are rediscovering the joy and rewards of growing their own fruits. 

Beyond the simple pleasure of nurturing plants, cultivating fruits at home brings a myriad of benefits to both individuals and the environment. 

In this blog post we will explore the many advantages of embracing the art of home fruit cultivation in the UK.

Flavourful and Fresh Produce

One of the most gratifying aspects of growing your own fruits is the unmatched taste and freshness of the harvest. Unlike store-bought fruits that may travel long distances, homegrown fruits can be picked at their peak ripeness, ensuring a burst of flavor that surpasses commercial counterparts. From succulent strawberries to crisp apples, the reward of enjoying fruits straight from your garden is a sensory delight.

Nutritional Superiority

Homegrown fruits are not only more flavoursome but also boast superior nutritional value. When you control the cultivation process, you have the power to choose organic and sustainable methods, avoiding harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. This ensures that the fruits you harvest are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

Environmental Sustainability

Growing your own fruits is a small but impactful way to contribute to environmental sustainability. By reducing the demand for industrially produced fruits, you help decrease the carbon footprint associated with transportation, packaging, and storage. Additionally, adopting eco-friendly gardening practices, such as composting and water conservation, fosters a more sustainable approach to food production.

Cost-Effective Solution

While the initial investment in gardening tools and seeds may seem daunting, growing your own fruits can be a cost-effective long-term solution. As your garden matures, you'll find yourself saving money on grocery bills, especially during peak harvesting seasons. The investment in seeds, soil, and equipment pays off as your garden becomes a reliable source of fresh, organic produce.

Therapeutic and Stress-Relieving

Engaging in gardening has been proven to have therapeutic benefits for mental well-being. The act of tending to plants, witnessing their growth, and connecting with nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Growing your own fruits provides a fulfilling and calming hobby that promotes mindfulness and an overall sense of accomplishment.

Educational Opportunities

For families and individuals alike, cultivating fruits at home offers a valuable educational experience. Children can learn about the natural cycles of plant life, the importance of environmental stewardship, and the significance of healthy eating habits. Gardening fosters a deeper connection to the food we consume, imparting valuable life skills and knowledge.

(Image courtesy of Ralph from Pixabay)