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“An olla is a terracotta vessel you bury beside your plants. It slowly seeps moisture into the soil, helping reduce the need for daily watering.” A simple solution? An olla. This clever, traditional tool offers a low-maintenance way to water your plants slowly and effectively. In this article, I’m sharing how to make your own homemade version using a couple of inexpensive materials. An olla is a terracotta vessel you bury beside your plants. You fill it with water, which gradually seeps through the porous clay into the soil. This keeps the surrounding area moist and reduces the need for daily watering. What You’ll Need Two small terracotta pots Pond sealant or silicone-based watertight sealant A couple of large stones or slate chips Step 1: Prepare Your Pots Make sure your pots are clean and free from dirt. If you’re using new pots, you can skip this step. If not, give them a thorough wash with warm soapy water and scrub off any debris using a nail brush or scouring pad. You can find suitable pots at DIY stores, but they’re often even cheaper at car boot sales or salvage yards. This is a low-cost project, so there’s no need to spend a fortune. Step 2: Seal the Drainage Hole Take one of your pots and seal the hole at the bottom using your pond or silicone sealant. I’ve used the same pond silicone I used previously to make a mini wildlife pond from an old sink. Apply a generous layer of sealant around the inside of the hole, then press in a stone or a slate chip. This will stop the water from escaping too quickly. Step 3: Attach the Pots Together Next, apply another generous layer of sealant around the rim of the first pot. Carefully place the second pot upside down on top, aligning them so they sit snugly together. Press down gently to seal them. It might look a bit messy at this point, but you can smooth any excess with a cloth or another stone. Don’t worry too much about how it looks. Once it’s buried, you won’t see it. Step 4: Leave to Dry and Place in the Garden Let the olla dry overnight. Once it’s completely set, you can bury it in your garden. While they work well in beds and borders, they’re especially useful in large containers, which dry out much faster in warm weather. Bury your olla deep enough so that just the top is visible above the soil. Fill it with water and place another stone on top to stop insects and small animals from climbing in. “simple sustainable and effective- Why not give it a try?” - Adam

“To anyone wondering if they know “enough,” the truth is, you learn by doing. You just start, and grow alongside your plants.” - Donna Sutton Thinking About Your Own Show Garden? If you’ve ever looked at a show garden and thought, “I’d love to try that one day,” take this as your sign. You don’t need a degree or a perfect plan. You need an idea, a willingness to learn, and the courage to take the first step. Donna Sutton was still learning when she decided to create her show garden for BBC Gardeners World Live. Read on to find out her journey from “I’d love to do that!” to creating her award winning beautiful border… “You don’t need to be a professional to create something meaningful, just someone who’s brave enough to try.” The Opportunity That Found Me In October 2024, I was one month into my WRAGS placement through the Working for Gardeners Association (WFGA), when we were invited to a talk by BBC Gardeners’ World about the Beautiful Borders and how to apply. I never imagined the opportunity would come so soon. It felt like fate, and I couldn’t let it pass me by. With support from the WFGA, including a prospective design course and the guidance of one of their trustees as a mentor, I began planning. It all felt new and a bit surreal, but if you’re reading this and thinking “could I do something like that?” the answer is yes. I didn’t have it all figured out. I just said yes, and started. Submitting My Vision To apply, I had to design a border based on the year’s theme and submit both 2D and 3D drawings, plus a short written brief explaining the story behind my design. Designing from the Heart The 2025 theme was Cultivating Connections, and I saw it as the perfect chance to tell a personal story. “This border represents my transition from maiden to mother, and the connections I’ve cultivated along the way.” My border reflected the emotional journey I’d been on. From the fast-paced years before motherhood, into the grounded, rooted space I found as a parent and gardener. Annuals represented that earlier phase, full of movement and energy. The bridge at the centre symbolised the shift. On the other side, hardy perennials spoke of growth, stability and deep roots. The Joy of Being Accepted The judges asked whether my plants would be in flower by June, a fair concern, especially for a new designer. I explained that I’d grown the flowers for my own wedding a few years earlier and they’d bloomed too early. That mistake taught me a lot, and this time, I knew how to get the timing right. When I got the email to say my border had been accepted, I was over the moon. From there, everything started to grow, literally and figuratively. From Seed to Show I’d already bought seeds, just in case, and started sowing right away. With help from Askham Bryan College, D-Tail Plants and fellow RHS students, we grew everything ourselves. Sowing, potting on, pinching out, moving plants from warm to cool — it was a full-on learning curve. To anyone wondering if they know “enough,” the truth is, you learn by doing. You just start, and grow alongside your plants. Perennials grown from seed for Donna’s Beautiful Border design Plants With Purpose Annuals : Gypsophila elegans ‘Covent Garden’ Nigella damascena ‘Albion Green Pod’ Nigella damascena ‘Miss Jekyll White’ Nigella damascena ‘Miss Jekyll’ Salvia viridis ‘White Swan’ Orlaya grandiflora Lagarus ovatus ‘Bunny Tails’ Briza maxima Setaria viridis ‘Caramel’ Centaurea cyanus ‘True Wild Form’ Perennials : Astrantia major Scabiosa caucasica ‘Perfecta Alba’ Scabiosa caucasica ‘Perfecta’ Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Silver Sheen’ Thymus serpyllum var. albus Storytelling Through Space The design featured a handmade willow bridge, built by me and my dad using coppiced willow from the garden where I worked. Two fairy sculptures, one small and one large, represented me before and after motherhood. Underneath the bridge, a birdbath symbolised my pregnancy. It’s moments like these that remind me: gardens don’t have to be just beautiful. They can tell stories. Yours can too. building the willow bridge Showtime at the NEC In June 2025, we headed to BBC Gardeners’ World Live at the NEC with all the plants and sculptures packed carefully into the van. Over the next four days, we built the border. Judging day came midweek, and I was beyond thrilled to receive a bronze award. The judges loved my take on the theme and encouraged me to explore garden design further. Their feedback was incredibly encouraging. Meeting the Public, Sharing the Journey From Thursday to Sunday, the show was open to visitors. Talking to people, answering questions, hearing what they saw in the border, was the most rewarding part. People asked how to bring parts of the design into their own gardens, and many followed up afterwards through social media. The conversations haven’t stopped. “Creating gardens that feel like stories, where every plant has a place, is exactly where I want to be.” What’s Next on My Garden Path In September, I start the RHS Level 2 Theory course at Askham Bryan College. I’m hoping to enrol in a design course next year, and I’m so excited to keep creating spaces where emotion and plants meet If you’ve ever looked at a show garden and thought, “I’d love to try that one day,” take this as your sign. If it’s on your heart, do it. I promise, it’s worth it. ————- Make sure you follow Donna on instagram where she shares her gardening tips and learnings & you can stay up to date on her gardening journey (@thegranarygarden)

“It wouldn’t be summer for me without a fresh tomato harvest every couple of days.” By mid summer, your plants should be lush and green and full of developing fruit. However, this is also a critical time for their care. With a little attention to detail, you can ensure a great harvest right through to autumn. Watering: Get It Right and Your Plants Will Thank You Consistent watering is vital during the mid summer months. As temperatures rise and fruits swell, your tomato plants become incredibly thirsty. Aim for deep, occasional watering rather than frequent shallow drizzles. This encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the plant more resilient to dry spells and heat stress. How much is enough? A good rule of thumb is to provide 1 to 2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. The best way to check is to feel the soil about an inch or two down. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Water slowly at the base of the plant, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil. Avoid overhead watering, especially in the evening, as wet foliage can encourage fungal diseases. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal for delivering water directly to the root zone, minimising evaporation and keeping leaves dry. “Mulching is also really helpful to keep soil moisture levels consistent. I always mulch even in a greenhouse.” Feeding Your Tomatoes By mid summer, your tomato plants are working hard to produce all those delicious fruits, and they’ll benefit from a boost of nutrients. Whilst a good initial soil preparation provides a strong foundation, supplementary feeding can make a really big difference. Focus on fertilisers that are higher in potassium and phosphorus, which are essential for fruit development. Rather than nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth. Look for a balanced tomato specific fertiliser, or one with an NPK ratio like 5 10 10 or 3 5 4. You can opt for liquid feeds applied regularly (I have feeding Friday), or a slow release granular fertiliser sprinkled into the soil around the plant. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid over fertilising, which can burn roots. Organic options like comfrey tea or well rotted manure can also provide a gentle, steady supply of nutrients. Pruning for Productivity Pruning might seem daunting, but it’s a vital practice for maximising your tomato yield and keeping plants healthy. By mid summer, you’ll likely see a lot of “suckers” – small shoots that emerge in the axil (the point where a leaf stem meets the main stem). These suckers will produce flowers and fruit, but they also divert energy from the main plant and can lead to a dense, overgrown bush. For indeterminate varieties (those that continue to grow and produce fruit until frost), regularly pinch out these suckers when they are small. This channels the plant’s energy into ripening the existing fruit and developing stronger main stems. For determinate varieties (bushy plants that produce their fruit all at once), less pruning is needed, as removing suckers can reduce their overall yield. Additionally, remove any yellowing or diseased lower leaves to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens. Supporting Your Big Boys As your tomato plants become full of fruit, they’ll need strong support. If you haven’t already, now is the time to ensure your stakes, cages or trellises are robust enough to handle the weight. A sudden summer storm or strong winds can easily topple unsupported outdoor plants, leading to broken stems and damaged fruit. Gently tie main stems to stakes using soft ties or twine, avoiding anything that could cut into the stem. For caged plants, gently tuck branches back into the cage as they grow. Regular checks will ensure your plants remain upright and their precious produce is safe. Vigilance Against Pests and Diseases Mid summer can also bring its share of pests and diseases. Regular inspection of your plants is your best defence. Look for signs of common problems like aphids, whitefly, caterpillars or early blight. “By dedicating a little time to these mid summer tasks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a wonderful crop of tasty tomatoes.” Catching issues early makes them much easier to manage. Hand pick larger pests like caterpillars, or blast smaller ones like aphids off with a spray of water. For fungal diseases, ensuring good air circulation through pruning and avoiding overhead watering can help immensely. If you spot disease, promptly remove and discard affected leaves to prevent spread. Organic pest control methods, like neem oil or insecticidal soap, can be effective for more persistent infestations. Savour the Season By dedicating a little time to these mid summer tasks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a wonderful crop of tasty tomatoes. Remember to enjoy the process and always enjoy those tastes and flavours

If you haven’t added rosemary to your vegetable beds yet, you’re missing out on one of nature’s most efficient multitaskers. When most people think of rosemary, their minds jump to Sunday roasts or fragrant kitchen windowsills. But in the garden, rosemary is much more than just a culinary herb, it’s a natural pest deterrent, a companion plant, and a garden design hero. If you haven’t added rosemary to your vegetable beds yet, you’re missing out on one of nature’s most efficient multitaskers. Nature’s Built In Pest Control One of the biggest advantages of planting rosemary in your veg bed is its natural pest repelling abilities. Its strong, aromatic oils act like a force field against common garden nuisances. Rosemary Helps Deter: Cabbage moths Carrot flies Bean beetles Mosquitoes & aphids plant it near cabbage, carrots, beans, or peppers, and you’ll create a protective buffer that helps your more vulnerable vegetables thrive without reaching for a bottle of pesticide. Plant rosemary in the veg beds Attracting the Right Crowd While rosemary keeps bad bugs at bay, it rolls out the welcome mat for beneficial insects. Bees, parasitic wasps, and hoverflies are frequent visitors to its tiny blue flowers. These helpful pollinators and predators help to keep your garden in balance. Low Maintenance, High Reward Rosemary’s drought tolerance and toughness make it an easy companion for dry gardens and raised beds. Once established, it thrives with minimal water and little fuss. That makes it ideal for bordering beds where thirstier vegetables can take centre stage. Who Gets Along With Rosemary? Here’s a quick guide to its best (and worst) companions: Best Companions Brassicas (broccoli, kale, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) Carrots Beans Chillies / peppers Sage, thyme, lavender Not-So-Friendly Neighbors Basil: Too thirsty Parsley: Prefers richer soil Mint: Invasive and incompatible Tomatoes: Conflicting moisture needs Garden Design Tip: Make Rosemary Work for You Use rosemary as a living border, a corner feature, or even a hedge like backdrop in your vegetable beds. Keep rosemary to the sunnier, drier edges. Space about 18–24 inches apart for airflow and access. Rotate your veg crops around this aromatic anchor seasonally. Culinary, Medicinal & Beyond Rosemary tea Of course, the bonus is having fresh rosemary within arm’s reach. It’s perfect for cooking, steeping in teas, or even making herbal insect repellents. Plus, with its year round greenery, rosemary adds beauty and structure to your garden long after your lettuces have bolted. Get plants for free! You can get lots of rosemary plants for free by taking cuttings take a look at our simple guide on how to do this is in only five minutes!

Drought Tolerant Flowers That Thrive in the Heat “There are some cut flowers and garden plants that have not only survived but dare I say thrived in the heat.” I think we can all agree this year has been nothing short of tricky for us gardeners. While the heat has been fabulous for some plants, the combination of hosepipe bans and persistently high temperatures hasn’t been kind to everything! The Resilient Beauty of Achillea That said, there are some cut flowers and garden plants that have not only survived but dare I say thrived in the heat. In my garden, one real standout has been Achillea, also known as yarrow. It’s been absolutely gorgeous, flowering away with barely any need for watering. I mainly grow it for cutting, and while it does have a tendency to spread, it’s a fabulous addition to borders. With such a wide range of colours available, there’s definitely one to suit your garden style. Lavender and Nepeta: Heatwave Heroes Two more stars in my garden have been Nepeta and Lavender. I’ve been using lavender as a scented element in bouquets which has been a lifesaver, especially since my purple larkspur faded much quicker than expected. Nepeta (or catmint) has added a lovely splash of colour and truly proven its resilience through the recent heatwaves. I was a little hesitant to plant it at first, worrying it might attract all 50 neighbourhood cats but I’m pleased to report it’s been absolutely fine! Salvias Steal the Show “It’s my firm belief that every garden should have at least one salvia!” Another heat lover that’s thrived is Salvia nemorosa ‘Sensation Rose’. It’s bloomed beautifully and consistently for months with barely any watering and the bees adore it! There are several salvia varieties that are drought tolerant, and I’ve recently added a few more to my garden. One of my favourites is Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ similar to ‘Sensation Rose’ but in a deep, stunning purple. It’s my firm belief that every garden should have at least one salvia! Making Space for Echinacea One flower I was surprisingly lacking is Echinacea. This drought tolerant, hard working perennial comes in so many beautiful shades and shapes. I’ve now corrected that gap and ordered six new echinacea varieties for my borders. I tried growing some from seed, but unfortunately, they didn’t make it so my next best option was to buy established plants. Aside from being gorgeous and a pollinator favourite, echinacea can cope well with dry conditions. It’s worth noting that because mine are newly planted, they’ll need consistent watering during their first year. But once established, they’ll be a brilliant addition for future heatwaves and bonus: they double as cut flowers for my bouquets. Win win! Soil Matters More Than Ever Right now, I’m focusing on mulching and conditioning my soil. Both my raised beds and borders have had a much needed refresh and a top up of compost and manure. Because my garden is a new build, I didn’t add much goodness to the original soil (if you can even call it that!) in the beginning. I’ve learned a lot since then, and I’m working to fix it year by year. I truly believe the poor soil has contributed to the garden’s struggles during these heatwaves it simply hasn’t been able to hold onto moisture. Looking Ahead: Mulch for Next Summer So my advice? Make mulching your top priority this winter and spring. It will pay off next summer your plants (and future self) will thank you!

“When garden rituals are approached with intention and presence, they become a form of everyday therapy.” The Garden as Sanctuary The garden is more than a space to grow; it’s a sanctuary. A quiet, rooted place where life slows down, and a sense of calm returns. When garden rituals are approached with intention and presence, they become a form of everyday therapy. Grounding, nourishing, and deeply human. Simple Joys, Slow Mornings Bringing Hygge into the garden means embracing the simple things that bring comfort and joy. It begins with the gentle rituals: stepping outside in pyjamas with a warm drink in hand, taking a slow walk through the beds, noticing the changes that have arrived with the light. These moments offer stillness. They soften the noise of the day before it begins. A Space to Pause and Breathe A calm corner in the garden can act as a retreat; somewhere to pause, reflect, or simply breathe. It doesn’t need to be styled or perfected. A bench beneath a tree, a cushion beside a herb pot, a weathered chair warmed by the sun; all become sacred spaces when used with intention. Layered with a blanket, a cup of tea, or the sound of bees moving through lavender, these spots offer restoration without needing to leave home. Tuning into the Senses Sensory experiences are a natural part of gardening, and when noticed fully, they deepen the ritual. The scent of rosemary on fingers, the coolness of damp soil, the light crunch of gravel underfoot; all of it invites presence. “Time in the garden can be fast and functional, but when slowed down, even just for a few minutes, it becomes meditative.” Watering by hand, tying in trailing stems, or snipping herbs with care transforms into a quiet rhythm that calms the mind and settles the body. Marking the Seasons Seasonal rituals add another layer of meaning. Marking the turning points of the year by sowing seeds, harvesting herbs, or gathering petals to dry creates a sense of continuity. These actions, though small, are deeply connective. They link the gardener to the cycles of nature and offer gentle reminders that rest, growth, and change all have their season. Bringing the Garden Indoors Hygge in the garden also flows indoors. A single flower in a jam jar by the sink. A bunch of thyme hung to dry above the cooker. The scent of soil still lingering on hands after planting. These details bring the outside in and extend the peaceful feeling cultivated outdoors. No Rules, Just Intention There is no perfect way to create calm in the garden. What matters is that the space feels safe, soft, and nurturing. Garden rituals don’t need to be elaborate; they only need to be intentional. Whether it’s a slow morning harvest, a dusk walk with bare feet on grass, or time spent listening to wind through leaves, these moments add up. Over time, they become anchors. A quiet language of care. And in that rhythm, of tending, noticing, pausing, peace quietly grows, alongside everything else

“For the allotmenteer, managing water wisely isn’t just about conservation. It’s essential for keeping your crops alive and your soil thriving.” Water is a precious resource, especially during the height of summer when droughts hit and rainfall disappears for weeks, just like what many of us are experiencing right now. On an allotment, where water access can be limited or shared, good water management is not just helpful, it’s essential. But with a bit of planning, practical habits and a few adjustments, you can keep your crops healthy without relying entirely on a hosepipe or endless trips with the watering can. Here are my top tips for keeping your plot productive, even during a dry spell. 1. Harvest Every Drop The first rule of drought resilience is capturing what water you can. If your shed or greenhouse has a roof, fit guttering and direct rainwater into barrels. On an allotment, where water butts can quickly empty in summer, it’s worth going big. Upcycle containers like old baths, food safe IBCs or even vintage milk churns as extra reservoirs. Make sure every square inch of roof space on your plot is channelling rain into storage. In dry spells, that water will be gold. 2. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch Once your soil is wet, keep it that way. A thick mulch of compost, leaf mould, rotted grass clippings or straw around plants helps trap moisture, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature. It’s especially helpful around fruiting crops like courgettes, beans and pumpkins, which have shallow, thirsty roots. Avoid using fresh wood chippings as mulch, as they can alter the pH of your soil and affect crop growth. 3. Choose Drought Tolerant Crops Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme and oregano thrive in dry conditions. Squash, sweetcorn and beans also hold up well. Leafy greens and brassicas need more water, so plant them closer to your water source or reduce their quantity during the hottest months. Save thirsty crops like celery and lettuce for cooler months or shaded corners of your plot. 4. Water Wisely “Forget daily sprinkling. It encourages shallow rooting and wastes water.” Instead, water less frequently but deeply, preferably early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation. Always target the base of the plant. Use a rose free watering can or install a seep hose that slowly releases water directly into the soil, making the most of what you have. 5. Improve Your Soil Good soil holds water better. Add organic matter like compost, well rotted manure or green manure crops to improve structure and boost water retention. Clay soils may crack in summer but can retain moisture well when enriched. Sandy soils need even more organic matter to prevent water loss. 6. Group Your Plants Cluster crops with similar watering needs together. Keep moisture lovers like courgettes and lettuce in one area where you can water more generously. This method, called polyculture, differs from traditional allotment monoculture and also helps improve resilience to pests and diseases as well as drought. A Lesson Learned on My Plot When I took over my plot, I had to start from scratch with water conservation. It was right at the top of my list to sort, and with the recent heat, I’m so glad I did. Now I’ve got a steady supply of stored water and with the odd rain shower we’ve had, I’m managing to keep it topped up too.

Your Chance to WIN one of TEN prizes! Win a Cottage Garden Bundle & YouGarden Club Memberships worth over £440!   To celebrate the launch of Inspired Gardener, we’ve partnered with the plant loving experts at YouGarden to bring you a brilliant launch giveaway with prizes all together worth over £440! We’re giving away gifts to ten lucky winners - including one grand prize bundle  and nine YouGarden Club Memberships, each packed with savings and growing inspiration Whether your garden is just beginning or already bursting with colour, this is your chance to win something wonderful Here’s what you could win   One Grand Prize Winner will receive our complete Cottage Garden Prize Bundle   Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ (17cm pot worth £19.99) A striking shrub with cone-shaped blooms that open in lime green, fade to creamy white and blush pink as the season goes on. A showstopper in borders or large pots   Climbing Rose ‘Iceberg’ (4L pot worth £29.99) An award-winning white rose that flowers generously from summer into autumn. Beautifully scented, easy to grow, and perfect for borders, trellises, or large containers   Wicker garden basket (worth £40) Both charming and useful - ideal for harvesting flowers, produce, or adding rustic style to your potting bench   Thorn-resistant gardening gloves (worth £20) Tough and comfortable gloves designed to protect your hands while pruning or dealing with thorny stems   One-Year Inspired Gardener Membership (worth £33.98) Includes four £5 YouGarden vouchers and two free delivery codes worth £6.99 each, plus access to exclusive offers and seasonal gardening advice   Total value of the grand prize is over £140 Nine Runners-Up will each win a YouGarden Club Membership (worth £33.98)   Each membership includes   • 15% off all plants and garden accessories • 7.5% off outdoor living and garden machinery • Four £5 product vouchers • Two free delivery vouchers worth £6.99 each • Exclusive offers and access to expert gardening advice How to enter Follow @InspiredGardeneruk and @YouGardenuk on Instagram Like the giveaway post pinned to our feed Tag a garden loving friend in the comments - each tag counts as a separate entry Optional: Share the post to your Stories for a bonus entry Entries close at 11.59pm on Tuesday 5 August 2025 UK entries only. Please note: the basket and gloves will be posted separately by Inspired Gardener Why we’re doing this:   Inspired Gardener is a new online publication created to support curious, creative and confident growers of all levels. Whether you’re planting your very first border or growing from seed for the tenth time, we’re here to share inspiration, seasonal advice and honest tips that work. This giveaway is our way of saying thank you for being here with us from the very beginning. We’re just getting started and we can’t wait to grow together This is the first of many exciting things to come and we’re so happy you’re here with us Read our T&Cs

Promoter The promoter of this giveaway is Inspired Gardener, in partnership with YouGarden Ltd Eligibility The giveaway is open to UK residents aged 18 or over Employees of Inspired Gardener, YouGarden Ltd, their immediate families or anyone directly connected with the giveaway are not eligible to enter Entry Requirements To enter, participants must: – Follow both @InspiredGardeneruk and @YouGardenuk on Instagram – Like the official giveaway post on the @InspiredGardeneruk Instagram page – Tag at least one person in the comments (each tag counts as one entry) – Optional: Share the post to their Instagram Stories for an extra entry Entry Deadline The giveaway closes at 11:59 PM on Tuesday 5 August 2025. Entries submitted after this time will not be counted The Prize One winner will receive the following: – 1 x Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ (17cm pot) – 1 x Climbing Rose ‘Iceberg’ (4L pot) – 1 x Wicker garden basket – 1 x Pair of thorn-resistant gardening gloves – 1 x One-year Inspired Gardener Membership (includes 4 x £5 vouchers and 2 x Free P&P vouchers, total value £33.98) No cash or alternative prizes will be offered. The prize is non-transferable and must be accepted as awarded. In the unlikely event that any part of the prize becomes unavailable, the promoter reserves the right to substitute it with a product of equal or greater value at their discretion. Prize Fulfilment – Plants and membership will be supplied by YouGarden – The basket and gloves will be shipped separately by Inspired Gardener – Prizes are non-exchangeable, non-transferable and no cash alternative is available – In the event that any item is unavailable, a similar product of equal or greater value will be substituted Winner Selection – One winner will be selected at random from all eligible entries – The winner will be contacted via Instagram DM from the official @InspiredGardener account within 5 days of the closing date – If the winner does not respond within 7 days, an alternative winner will be chosen – The selection of the winner is final and at the sole discretion of Inspired Gardener and YouGarden. No correspondence will be entered into Publicity By entering, participants agree that Inspired Gardener may use their name and/or Instagram handle for the purpose of announcing the winner publicly Privacy and Data Protection Contact details shared by the winner (e.g. name, postal address) will only be used to fulfil the prize and will not be stored or used for marketing purposes without consent For more information, see our Privacy Policy (below) Instagram Disclaimer This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Instagram Acceptance of Terms By entering, participants confirm they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ————————————————————————   Privacy Policy for Giveaway Entrants Last updated: 22/07/2025 Inspired Gardener is committed to protecting your personal data and respecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect the personal information you provide when entering our giveaway competition, run in partnership with YouGarden Ltd. 1.Who We Are This giveaway is organised by Inspired Gardener, in collaboration with YouGarden Ltd. 2.What Data We Collect When you enter our giveaway on Instagram, we may collect: Your Instagram handle or username If you are selected as a winner, we will request: Your full name Postal address (to send your prize) Optional email address (for membership fulfilment or confirmation) No personal data is collected or stored for non-winners. 3.How Your Data Will Be Used We will only use your data to: Administer the giveaway Contact you if you are selected as a winner Arrange and send your prize Set up your Inspired Gardener or YouGarden Club Membership Keep basic records of prize fulfilment if required for legal compliance We will not add you to any mailing list or send marketing communications unless you give explicit consent. 4.Who Will Access Your Data Your information will only be shared with third parties as necessary for the purposes of delivering the prizes: YouGarden Ltd, who will supply plant prizes and Club Memberships Inspired Gardener, who will supply the handcrafted wicker basket and thorn-resistant gloves Postal or delivery services, to facilitate shipping All parties involved will treat your data in accordance with UK data protection law. 5.How Long We Keep Your Data Data provided by winners will be retained for up to 3 months after the prizes have been delivered After that, it will be securely deleted Non-winners’ data will not be retained or stored at any time 6.Your Rights Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), you have the right to: Request access to the personal data we hold about you Ask us to correct or delete your personal data Withdraw your consent at any time Object to the way your data is processed File a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you believe your rights have been violated To make a request, please contact us at: contact@inspiredgardener.co.uk 7.Security We use appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure your data is stored securely and protected against unauthorised access or disclosure. 8.Children’s Privacy This giveaway is only open to individuals aged 18 or over. We do not knowingly collect data from individuals under the age of 18. 9.Changes to This Policy We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The most recent version will always be available on our website and clearly dated.

“Harvesting your own cut flowers is such a joy - it’s honestly one of the best feelings in the world.” No Green Thumb? No Problem! Growing your own cut flowers is easier than you think, you don’t have to be an expert, I promise! With just a small space and a modest budget, you can grow florist worthy blooms right in your own garden. I started growing cut flowers in 2023, and honestly? I’ve become OBSESSED. There’s something magical about watching your garden fill with colour and then turning those flowers into beautiful arrangements. I love teaching new gardeners how to grow and arrange their own gorgeous cut flowers - without needing a flower farm! Growing beautiful cut flowers is easier than you think! Step 1: Create a No-Dig Patch (Yes It’s That Easy) The easiest way to get started is by making a no-dig patch. It’s beginner-friendly, low-effort, and great for your soil. Use old cardboard (just remove all tape and avoid boxes with heavy ink). Lay it over your chosen area and water it well. Pile on a few bags of compost, manure, or any organic matter you can get your hands on. Water again and let it settle for about a week. This creates a nutrient-rich growing bed with minimal effort. Step 2: Choose Easy Flowers to Grow There's plenty of beginner friendly flowers to choose from Start by picking 5 to 8 easy flowers to grow from seed. Some of my favourites include: Cosmos Achillea Snapdragons Cornflowers Amaranthus Strawflowers Briza maxima Statice Stocks Larkspur Argostemma These are all beginner friendly, and they’ll fill your patch with colour and variety throughout the season. Not keen on sowing seeds? No problem - there are some brilliant plug plants available online . You can also include perennial cut flowers like delphiniums, geums, and lupins for long-lasting beauty year after year. Step 3: Plant and Support Your Flowers Support your flowers with grid netting and canes Once your seedlings or plugs are ready, plant them out after your last frost date. I like to stake mine using bamboo canes or pea sticks and support them with grid netting . This keeps your flowers upright and protected from the wind. Step 4: Water, Watch, and Wait Water regularly. An occasional seaweed feed is helpful (but not essential). Keep an eye out for slugs and snails—these can usually be hand-picked in the early morning or evening. Step 5: Snip, Arrange, Repeat Strawflowers also make great dried flowers By June or July, your flowers should be blooming beautifully. Harvesting your own cut flowers is such a joy - it’s honestly one of the best feelings in the world. And trust me… you’ll be just as obsessed as I am in no time! Support the authors: Get Cara’s favourite gardening t-shirt here *Some links featured may generate commission for our writers

“There’s something oddly satisfying about seeing your tools looking sharp and shiny again Every year, I find myself in the shed staring at my secateurs and wondering how they got quite so grubby. And while the idea of giving them a proper clean might seem like a bit of a faff, it’s actually way easier than you’d think - and pretty satisfying, too. No fancy gadgets needed. Just a few bits you probably already have lying around.   Clean Snips: Showing Your Secateurs Some Love Keeping your tools looking fresh can be quick and easy with Adams tips! Let’s start with the secateurs. If yours are a decent pair, chances are they come apart fairly easily. Usually, there’s just a single bolt holding them together, and a quick go with some pliers will split them into two main pieces. If you feel confident, take them apart so you can get right into the corners. If not, no worries - you can still do a solid clean without dismantling them.  WD-40 will sort out rust in a jiffy First up, give them a once-over with a soft brush or an old toothbrush to flick away any caked-on soil or dried plant gunk. Then, hit the rusty areas with a spritz of WD-40 and leave it to sit for a few minutes. Once it’s soaked in a bit, gently rub at the rust using some fine wire wool. You might need to repeat this once or twice depending on how neglected they’ve been - mine are often in a sorry state, so you’re not alone.  Rub off the remaining marks with a bit of wire wool If your secateurs have wooden handles, give them a light coat of oil and rub them down with a cloth. It helps prevent cracking and gives the handles a nice bit of shine and protection for the months ahead.   Finish up with a rub down, using a cloth to apply a light coating of oil The Sand Bucket Trick: Your New Favourite Hack Once your secateurs are gleaming again, it’s time to turn to the rest of your hand tools - trowels, forks, dibbers, all the usual suspects. Give them a brush or a quick wash and dry if needed. Then it’s onto the next part: the sand bucket trick.  You’ll need a bucket , some coarse builder’s sand, and a bottle of food-safe mineral oil (which you can find in most DIY shops or online). Start by adding a layer of sand to the bucket, followed by a light drizzle of oil - just enough to coat the top of the sand. Let that soak in a little, then repeat the layers until your bucket is nearly full. Go easy on the oil, though - you don’t want it pooling at the bottom.  To clean your tools, simply stab them into the sand and give them a few twists and turns. The gritty sand scrubs away the dirt and rust, while the oil gives a protective coat to help prevent future corrosion. When you’re done, wipe off any excess with an old cloth.  If you like, you can store your tools in the sand between uses. It keeps them clean, rust-free, and ready to grab whenever you need them.  Job Done (and Doesn’t It Feel Good?) A bit of care now means your tools will work better and last longer - plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about seeing them looking sharp and shiny again.  * *Some links featured may generate commission for our writers

Steve is an expert tomato grower - follow his tips for tomato growing success “Nothing beats the sweet, sun-ripened taste of a homegrown tomato.” There’s something incredibly rewarding about growing your own tomatoes, nothing beats the sweet, sun-ripened taste of a homegrown harvest. There are so many different types of tomato from small micro dwarf varieties that can grow on a windowsill all year, cherry varieties that produce hundreds of fruits to the large beefsteak types with meaty juicy flesh. Whether you’re a first time gardener or just want to perfect your tomato growing technique, this simple guide will set you up for success growing tomatoes in the UK climate. Choosing the Right Tomato Variety There's so many varieties to choose from! Not all tomatoes thrive in British weather, so selecting the right variety is key. For outdoor growing, ‘Gardeners’ Delight’, ‘Alicante’, and ‘Roma’ are great options, while ‘Sungold’ or ‘Sweet Million’ flourish in greenhouses. These are all readily available hybrid varieties that are often easier to grow than the heirloom type I normally grow. If you’re looking for more of a challenge you might like to try some of the 10,000 varieties now available, so you’ll never be short of choice. Some heirloom varieties bred by tomato specialists are perfect for shorter summers and cooler climates examples are Yukon Quest and Black From Tula When and how to plant Tomatoes are frost-sensitive, so timing is crucial. Start seeds indoors between February and April, using seed trays and a warm windowsill or heated propagator. By late May or early June, when the risk of frost has passed, they can be transferred to their final growing position outdoors or into a greenhouse. When potting up a small plant always remove some lower leaves and bury the root ball deeply. The stem will grow more roots anchoring in the plant and more roots means a healthier plant and more fruit. Where to Grow Tomatoes Did you know tomatoes come in all different colours? Grow tomatoes in containers: Perfect for patios and small spaces. Use large pots with good drainage and nutrient rich compost. Grow tomatoes using grow bags : Convenient and ideal for greenhouse growing. Grow tomatoes in a garden bed: Well drained soil enriched with compost will provide deep roots with stability (raised beds are ideal for this if you have poor soil) Caring for Your Tomato Plants Water Wisely : Tomatoes love consistency. water regularly, but avoid soaking the leaves to prevent disease. Regular consistent watering helps prevent blossom end rot. Feed Frequently : Use a liquid tomato fertilizer rich in potassium once flowering begins. I always feed on the same day of the week to help my routine. Feeding Friday is a thing !! Support & Prune : Train plants with canes or cages and remove side shoots to direct energy into fruit production. Good support is essential as the fruits can be heavy and you don’t want snapped stems. Monitor for Pests: Watch out for aphids and whiteflies. To combat pests naturally, try introducing companion plants like basil and French Marigolds - the smell of these plants help deter them. Harvesting & Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labour When tomatoes turn vibrant red (or yellow/orange, depending on the variety) and feel slightly soft to the touch, they’re ready to pick. Avoid refrigerating them, as this reduces their flavour, instead store at room temperature. The best part about growing tomatoes is eating them! you'll never want to look at a supermarket tomato again after tasting home grown Steve’s Final Thoughts This beginner’s guide is designed to give you a simple foundation: the what, when, where and why of tomato growing. You don’t need to be an expert or have a perfect garden. Just a bit of time, some patience, and a sunny corner is all it takes.