#506 Exploring the Gardener’s World Live 2023.

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Welcome to the Veg Grower Podcast, where we dive into the wonderful world of growing our own food! In today's episode, we'll take you on a journey through our visit to the highly anticipated Gardener's World Live 2023 event. Join us as we share the inspiring highlights, captivating interviews, and a delightful elderflower cordial recipe that will quench your thirst this summer.

On the Allotment: Preparing for the Journey

Before embarking on our adventure to the Gardener's World Live, we made sure to prepare our beloved allotment. Watering and weeding diligently, we also took the opportunity to plant some squash plants in the empty spaces. Our efforts were rewarded with a bountiful harvest of potatoes, rhubarb, broad beans, and cherries, ensuring that our allotment thrives even during our absence.

Gardeners World Live Show: A Gardening Paradise

Now, let's transport you to the Gardener's World Live Show, where green thumbs from far and wide gather to celebrate their love for gardening. We had the pleasure of chatting with Jenny and Kate, two incredible individuals who not only shared their own highlights from the show but also offered their unique perspectives as wheelchair users navigating the event. From vibrant show gardens that ignited creativity to meeting gardening experts like Monty Don, the Gardener's World Live Show proved to be a true gardening paradise for enthusiasts of all abilities.

Back in the studio, we couldn't wait to share our personal highlights from the Gardener's World Live Show. The vivid colours of the flower displays and the exquisite fragrances filled our senses, inspiring us to bring a touch of the show's magic to our own gardens. Discovering rare plant varieties in the plant market was a delightful experience, and we couldn't resist adding a few new treasures to our collection. But the journey doesn't end there – we have a special treat for you!

Elderflower Cordial Recipe: Refreshingly Floral

As summer arrives, it's time to indulge in the refreshing flavours of elderflower cordial. We've crafted a simple yet delightful recipe that showcases the essence of elderflowers. Gather the freshest elderflower heads, infuse them with zesty lemon, and sweeten the mixture with sugar. Our recipe also includes a touch of citric acid for a tangy twist. Sip this floral elixir when the sun is high, and let its enchanting flavours transport you to a blooming garden.

Ingredients:

• 20-25 elderflower heads
• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) granulated sugar
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) boiling water
• 2 lemons
• 75g (2.6 oz) citric acid (available at pharmacies or specialty stores)

Instructions:

1. Begin by shaking the elderflower heads gently to remove any insects or debris. Make sure to use freshly picked elderflowers for the best flavor.
2. In a large heatproof bowl or container, place the elderflower heads.
3. Zest the lemons and add the zest to the bowl with the elderflowers. Cut the zested lemons into slices and set them aside for later.
4. In a separate pot, bring the water to a boil.
5. Carefully pour the boiling water over the elderflowers and lemon zest in the bowl. Stir gently to submerge all the flowers.
6. Cover the bowl and let the mixture steep for 24-48 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse.
7. After the steeping time, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot.
8. Add the sugar and lemon slices to the strained liquid, and heat gently over low heat until the sugar has dissolved completely. Stir occasionally to ensure thorough mixing.
9. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the citric acid until fully dissolved. This helps to preserve the cordial and gives it a tangy flavor.
11. Allow the cordial to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, pour the cordial into sterilized glass bottles or jars. Seal the containers tightly.
13. Store the elderflower cordial in a cool, dark place or refrigerate. It should keep for several weeks.

To serve, dilute the cordial with still or sparkling water, adjusting the ratio to taste. Enjoy the floral and refreshing flavors of homemade elderflower cordial!

Note: Always be cautious when foraging for elderflowers and make sure you can properly identify them. Avoid using elderflowers near busy roads or polluted areas

Conclusion: Embrace the Green Journey

Thank you for joining us on this virtual journey through the Gardener's World Live 2023. We hope you've been inspired by the highlights, interviews, and our elderflower cordial recipe. Remember, gardening is not just about nurturing plants; it's about cultivating a connection with nature and embracing the joy it brings to our lives. Stay tuned for more episodes, gardening tips, and exciting adventures on the Veg Grower Podcast. Until next time, keep growing and thriving!

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