Show Notes
How can spending time in nature improve our health? In this episode, GP, broadcaster and bestselling author Dr Amir Khan explores the science behind nature's remarkable benefits for both our physical and mental wellbeing. From the calming effects of birdsong and green spaces to creating a wildlife-friendly garden filled with ponds, pollinator plants and butterflies, Amir shares practical ways to make the most of the natural world. He also discusses his work with Butterfly Conservation, why our gardens play a vital role in protecting wildlife, and how even the smallest green space can become a sanctuary for both people and nature. Pick up the August issue of BBC Gardeners' World magazine for lots more advice on creating a butterfly-friendly garden. To take part in this year's Big Butterfly Count, visit bigbutterflycount.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
More from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast
Join singer-songwriter Will Young in his two-acre garden as he explores creativity, nature and the patience required to let a landscape reveal itself. In this conversation Will shares how historic walls and unexpected discoveries have shaped his approach. He discusses designing with structure, reusing materials, welcoming wildlife and finding calm through connection with nature. This warm conversation celebrates gardens as places of reflection, reinvention and everyday magic for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Lift gladioli, outsmart weeds and turn autumn leaves into garden gold with Claire Vennis from BBC Gardeners’ World magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
World-renowned clematis breeder Raymond Evison CBE shares six decades of experience growing, breeding and championing these spectacular climbers. He explains why clematis are best thought of as climbing perennials, how to prune the three main groups, and why planting deeply can help plants recover from wilt or damage. Raymond also offers practical advice on growing clematis in pots, taking cuttings, layering, watering, choosing scented and wildlife-friendly varieties, and combining clematis with roses, shrubs and trees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Grab your secateurs and your cosiest jumper: Claire's jobs this week will bring autumn wins for your garden, wildlife and weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We spend so much time admiring what grows above ground, but beneath our feet lies one of the most biodiverse habitats on Earth. Soil ecologist Dr Frank Ashwood reveals the remarkable hidden world within our gardens, from earthworms and fungi to springtails, mites, nematodes and tardigrades. Frank explains why healthy soil matters for plants, wildlife, carbon storage, flood resilience and climate change, and shares simple ways gardeners can protect it. Expect fascinating discoveries, practical advice and one memorable takeaway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices