Allotment Diaries Podcast

• EP.66 | The National Allotment Society with Guy Herzmark

  In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Guy Herzmark, the Northern Regional Representative for the National Allotment Society (NAS). With over 25 years of experience as an allotmenteer in Newcastle Upon Tyne and many years of service as a site chair, Guy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for allotment gardening. He shares insights into the work of the NAS, the UK's leading organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting allotments. Representing over 125,000 members, the NAS works closely with governments, landlords, and developers to establish, manage, and preserve allotment spaces. Guy discusses how people can become members, the range of support NAS offers—including advice, legal resources, and insurance—and the key challenges currently facing the organisation. He also gives listeners a glimpse into life on his own plot, sharing some of the recent hurdles his site has encountered and highlighting his favourite things to grow. Meanwhile, Laura and Chay reflect on their own gardening experiences during the recent heatwave, admitting that watering has been their main task lately due to the unusually high temperatures.You can find out more from their website: https://thenas.org.uk/If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

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• EP.65 | Designing Green Dreams with James Smith!

  In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by the talented James Smith, an accomplished garden designer at Landscape Services. James is a former RHS medalist and was a finalist for the prestigious Young Designer of the Year award. With years of experience designing stunning gardens and landscapes across Hampshire and Dorset, James brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the conversation.James shares his journey into the world of landscape design—what first inspired him, how he developed his craft, and what drives his ambitions today. Prior to the interview, Laura and Chay sent James the designs of their own allotment plots, and during the episode, he offers honest and thoughtful feedback—highlighting what he loves, suggesting areas for improvement, and giving practical tips to consider.The chat also touches on James's own growing season, how his new greenhouse has transformed his gardening experience, and what exciting plans he has on the horizon.Whether you're a budding gardener or a design enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration and insight into the creative world of garden design.You can follow James journey on instagram HEREIf you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

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• EP.64 | From Scrubs to Soil: Holly’s Allotment Journey!

  In this heartwarming episode, Laura and Chay sit down with Holly, a midwife and passionate allomenteer from St Albans, to talk about how she discovered solace and mental clarity through her allotment plot. Holly began her gardening journey in 2020, just before the pandemic hit, and shares how her small plot became a vital sanctuary amidst the pressures of frontline midwifery during unprecedented times. She opens up about expanding to a larger plot and managing the demands of her profession, and finding joy through choir singing, gym sessions, and digging in the dirt. To follow Hollys Journey, you can follow her on instagram here: @agardeningmidwife If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

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• EP.63 | ‘Following in my Footsteps’: Leanne's Allotment Journey and BBC Gardeners' Beautiful Borders.

  In this uplifting episode, Laura and Chay chat with Leanne, a passionate allotment gardener who has taken on three plots since 2021. Leanne shares the highs and lows of her gardening journey, the lessons she’s learned, and how growing her own produce has become a vital part of her daily life.The conversation also highlights Leanne’s recent leap into the spotlight with her garden design, "Following in My Footsteps," which she showcased at the BBC Gardeners' World Beautiful Borders exhibit. She discusses the inspiration behind the design and what it was like to bring her vision to life on a national stage.Balancing her gardening passion with a full-time teaching job, motherhood, and caring for her dog Oscar (who makes a charming cameo on the show!), Leanne’s story is one of courage, creativity, and growth. This episode is perfect for anyone looking for motivation to pursue their passions—whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out.You can follow Leanne on Instagram here.If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

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• EP.62 | Buzz Into Beekeeping with Mark: From Hobbyist to Hive Maker!

  In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Mark, founder of Buzz Into Beekeeping, who shares his experience transitioning from a beekeeping enthusiast to launching a small business. Mark outlines how his interest in pollinators led to the development of the Buzz Box Starter Pack—a compact, beginner-friendly kit designed with urban and small-space beekeepers in mind. The discussion explores the practical realities of starting a beekeeping business, including logistical and ecological considerations, and highlights the important role bees play in local ecosystems. The episode also provides guidance for allotment holders interested in supporting pollinator health and addresses common myths surrounding bees. Additionally, Laura and Chay give an update on their own gardening projects and introduce their next guest.Click the link to the 'buzz into beekeeping' website: https://www.buzzintobeekeeping.co.uk/If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

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