BBC Gardener’s World contributor and social media star Jamie Walton is on a mission to help us all discover the joy of growing. We sat down with him to talk biodiversity, ecological vs organic gardening and whether there's such a thing as a weed.
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Did you start gardening at a young age?
No, gardening wasn’t always part of my life – in fact, I didn’t have a garden growing up and hadn’t sown a seed until my early 20s. Yet, on a whim, I offered to caretake a small unkept garden and by learning through trial and plenty of error, I turned a small lawned area into a productive vegetable garden, which in hindsight became the catalyst to everything that has since followed. That sparked a career in horticulture, where I worked my way up from trainee to head grower, developing a focus on ecology, biodiversity and soil health. I posted a few videos online, and I now find myself part of a global gardening community.
Why do you choose ‘ecological gardening’ instead of organic methods?
Organic gardening methods were hugely important for me when I began gardening as it was always my aim to grow sustainably, and to not form a reliance on synthetic chemicals. Yet, ecological gardening goes a step further. While organic methods often focus on what we should leave out, ecological gardening looks at what we put back, working with nature to restore balance rather than simply maintaining it.
By nurturing soil life, fostering biodiversity and attempting to create self-sustaining ecosystems we don’t just reduce harm, we actively look to rebuild and strengthen natural processes. It’s a way of gardening that not only grows food but also enriches the land, making it more resilient for future generations.
Is there such a thing as a weed?
A self-seeded tomato seedling popping up where it wasn’t expected is as much a weed as a thistle or a dandelion. Once we understand the importance and versatility of many of these misunderstood plants, they often become far more welcome. Many possess a remarkable ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making them nature’s first responders in disturbed and damaged soil. Weeds play critical roles in our gardens and ecosystems.
What is your favourite homegrown crop?
I would have to say nettles. I use them in a myriad of ways and really value them as an edible crop for their nutrient density and versatility. They are also a great companion for other crops such as tomatoes (probably my second favourite crop) and offer habitat for beneficial insects. I do grow mine in pots though so that I can keep them contained.
What are some ways we can all improve biodiversity in our gardens?
One of the most effective things we can do is embrace diversity in planting. By growing a mix of native wildflowers, trees, shrubs, perennials and vegetables we can provide food and habitat for a wide range of pollinators, insects, birds and ourselves. Reducing bare soil and keeping things a little untidy can help too – leaving seed heads, fallen leaves and hollow stems gives small creatures places to nest and overwinter. Most importantly, avoid pesticides and chemical fertilisers to allow life to thrive at every level, from the soil microbes to the birds.
Nettles and Petals: Grow Food. Eat Weeds. Save Seeds. by Jamie Walton (Leaping Hare Press, £16.99) is out now.
Discover more gardening advice
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- How to make your garden insect friendly
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Top image: Jamie Walton for Nettles and Petals. Credit: Samuel Binstead
