Episodes

  • Formal vs Wild - The Epic Battle That Shaped British Garden Design

    Formal vs Wild - The Epic Battle That Shaped British Garden Design
    Feb 11 2025
    Garden expert Nigel Thistledown, traces the fascinating evolution of British gardens from Roman times to the present day. Wearing his signature ivy-covered tweed jacket and speaking in a delightfully cheeky tone, Nigel guides readers through the historical rivalry between formal and informal garden styles, highlighting key figures like Capability Brown and Gertrude Jekyll. He weaves historical facts with personal anecdotes, including tales of his own garden adventures and an impromptu "garden-off" between his neighbors - Mrs. Pembroke (champion of formal gardens) and Mr. Fitzgerald (advocate of wild spaces). The piece is peppered with British humor and whimsical asides, including Nigel's conversations with his plants and his opinions on everything from medieval monks' herb gardens to modern sustainability trends.


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    20 mins
  • The Ultimate Guide to Year-Round Garden Design - A Master Gardener's Secrets

    The Ultimate Guide to Year-Round Garden Design - A Master Gardener's Secrets
    Feb 10 2025
    This episode is an extensive gardening article narrated by the eccentric English gardening expert Nigel Thistledown. Written in his distinctly charming and whimsical voice, the piece guides readers through the art of maintaining a garden that flourishes throughout all four seasons. Nigel shares his personal experiences, including the memorable "Great Frost Incident" where he lost a prized camellia, along with practical advice about seasonal planting, soil preparation, and water management. His narrative is peppered with delightful anecdotes about reciting Shakespeare to hydrangeas, hosting lavender-scented tea parties in his greenhouse, and conversing with local wildlife. The article weaves together expert horticultural knowledge with Nigel's unique brand of humor and theatrical flair, all while explaining how to create and maintain a garden that remains vibrant and interesting year-round. His storytelling style makes complex gardening concepts accessible and entertaining, concluding with a warm invitation to continue following his gardening adventures through the Quiet Please podcast network.
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    15 mins
  • A Garden is Born – Planting the Seeds of Greatness

    A Garden is Born – Planting the Seeds of Greatness
    Feb 10 2025
    In "A Garden is Born – Planting the Seeds of Greatness," eccentric English garden expert Nigel Thistledown shares his wisdom and wit through a charming narrative that weaves together practical gardening advice with delightful personal anecdotes. From soil preparation to plant selection, Nigel guides readers through the fundamentals of creating a thriving garden while sharing amusing tales of his misadventures, including his ongoing feud with Herbert the robin and various gardening mishaps. His distinctive personality shines through in his interactions with plants (which he names and talks to) and his neighbors, particularly Mrs. Pembroke and her prize dahlias. The article combines solid horticultural knowledge with whimsical storytelling, making complex gardening concepts accessible and entertaining. Throughout the piece, Nigel emphasizes that gardens should reflect their keepers' personalities while sharing practical tips for success, all delivered with his characteristic humor and British charm.
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    19 mins