The Gardener's Lodge

Professor Jeff Ollerton, leading pollination ecologist and author of Pollinators & Pollination and Birds & Flowers, joins The Gardener’s Lodge Podcast to explore the fascinating relationships between plants and pollinators. We discuss bees, butterflies, moths, birds and other pollinating animals; how climate change and hotter, drier UK summers are affecting them; the native-versus-non-native plant debate; and how wildlife-friendly gardening can provide food, habitat and nesting opportunities for pollinators.

DESIGN STUDIO

FREE BIODIVERSITY GARDEN BLUEPRINT

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Episode Links:
Prof. Jeff's Website

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Mykal's Links:
thegardenerslodge.co.uk
Instagram
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The Gardener's Lodge Design & Media ©2026

In this episode of The Gardener’s Lodge Podcast, I’m joined by Jordan from The Shed Organics to explore the world of integrated pest management, and why everything you think you know about pests might be wrong. We dive into building resilient, healthy plants, working with nature instead of against it, and why a few aphids in your garden might actually be a good thing. From soil health to natural pest control strategies, this conversation is packed with practical insights to help you grow a thriving, balanced garden without relying on chemicals.

Jordans Soil Building Episode

DESIGN STUDIO
GARDEN COACHING

FREE PERENNIAL GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
FREE NATIVE NATIVE GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
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Episode Links:
Jordans Website
Jordans Instagram
Jordans Youtube

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Mykal's Links:
thegardenerslodge.co.uk
Instagram
Tik Tok
The Gardener's Lodge Design & Media ©2026

Todd Longstaffe-Gowan, Designer of the world's most Iconic and Important landscapes, from royal palaces to evolving historic estates, uncovering how history, design, and ecology shape Britain’s most significant gardens. Todd shares insights on restoring heritage sites, balancing conservation with the need for progress, and designing landscapes that stand the test of time. Discover the philosophy behind historic garden design, the importance of long-term planning, and how cultural landscapes continue to evolve. A must-listen for garden lovers, landscape designers, and anyone passionate about history, nature, and the future of gardening.

DESIGN STUDIO
GARDEN COACHING

FREE PERENNIAL GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
FREE NATIVE NATIVE GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
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Episode Links:
Todds Website
Todds Instagram

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Mykal's Links:
thegardenerslodge.co.uk
Instagram
Tik Tok
The Gardener's Lodge Design & Media ©2026

I’m joined by lichenologist April Windle from The British Lichen Society to uncover the hidden world of lichens. What they are, how they grow, and why they’re vital for biodiversity, air quality, and ecosystem health. We explore lichen identification, their role as bioindicators, and how they can even signal ancient woodlands and environmental change. We also touch on their cultural history, uses in natural dyes and medicine, and why gardeners should embrace lichens in their outdoor spaces. Plus, in Ask Mykal, I answer a common question about moss lawns and how to work with, rather than against, your garden conditions.

DESIGN STUDIO
GARDEN COACHING

FREE PERENNIAL GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
FREE NATIVE NATIVE GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
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Episode Links:
April Instagram
British Lichen Society Website

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Mykal's Links:
thegardenerslodge.co.uk
Instagram
Tik Tok
The Gardener's Lodge Design & Media ©2026

In this episode, we sit down with Eddie Mordue a farmer, market gardener, and founder of Traditional Garden Growers to explore the foundations of truly healthy gardens: the soil.
We dive into the reality of modern gardening, from synthetic fertilisers and depleted soils to what’s really going on beneath our feet. Eddie shares his perspective from years of growing, and why working with natural systems is the key to long-term success.
We also talk about forgotten, traditional inputs including wool! and how materials that have been used for generations are finding their place again in modern gardens through innovations like Wooltiliser!

DESIGN STUDIO
GARDEN COACHING

FREE PERENNIAL GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
FREE NATIVE NATIVE GARDEN DESIGN DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD
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Episode Links:
Traditional Garden Growers Website
Traditional Garden Growers Instagram

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Mykal's Links:
thegardenerslodge.co.uk
Instagram
Tik Tok
The Gardener's Lodge Design & Media ©2026