White Strawberries: Gardening for Wellness & Joy

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentSam missed an episode! Why?Taking time to pause, reflect, and reset is just as important in life as it is in the garden 🌱In this personal episode of White Strawberries, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast after nearly a year of consistent episodes. From humble beginnings (yes… five downloads and my mum falling asleep 😅) to growing a global audience, this episode dives into what’s working, what’s been surprisingly hard, and what’s coming next.With the lead-up to Matariki, I’m stepping into a seasonal reset — reflecting on the past six months and intentionally designing the next phase of this podcast, my courses, and how I support you.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build something from scratch — or you’re on your own journey of growth — this one’s for you.🌱 What You’ll Discover What I’ve learned after 45 podcast episodes  Real podcast growth stats The hidden complexity of email lists, websites, and automation  Why I’m taking a month off and what I’m resetting  The vision behind my Grounded gardening course  I've reduced my grocery bill while eating high-quality food  Why growing your own food is becoming more important than ever  How you can shape future episodes through Q&A and voice messages 🔗 References & Resources Mentioned Grounded Course (coming soon)  White Strawberries Podcast Website (in progress) 🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes You Might EnjoyAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 Before you plant another single tree, there’s one step that can save you years of frustration: observation.In this Mastering the Garden episode of White Strawberries, I walk you through how to understand your land before you grow — from mapping shade and wind to testing soil, water movement, and frost patterns.Using real examples (including why my mum’s feijoas fruit weeks before mine just 12 minutes away), we explore how small environmental differences shape what thrives — and what struggles.This episode is your practical guide to working with your land instead of against it, using simple, often free tests to build a resilient, abundant garden.🌿 If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have a “green thumb,” this might be the missing piece.🌱 What You’ll Discover How to map shade across seasons and use it to your advantage  What wind patterns reveal about plant placement and disease risk  How frost moves through your land — and how to work with it  Simple ways to observe water flow, drainage, and waterlogging Easy at-home soil tests (including structure and moisture checks)  How weeds can give clues about your soil conditions  Why climate zones (like USDA) are helpful — but limited 🔗 References & Resources Mentioned Permaculture Research Soil Test Handbook — by Chris Trump & collaborators  iNaturalist (plant identification app)  Seek by iNaturalist (child-friendly version) 🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes Referred to How I Saved My Garden from Summer Storms, Flooding and Wind (Episode 37). Look it up on your platform 🤗About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentShould we be using pesticides on our fruit trees? And if not… what do we do instead?In this episode of White Strawberries, I’m joined by Matthew Priestley, whose work and thinking around ecological systems challenges and encourages us to rethink how we respond to pests in our orchards🌿We explore what’s really going on when pests and disease show up, and why reaching for sprays might be missing the bigger picture. From airflow (including opening up a “wind tunnel”) to soil health, tree nutrition, and system design, this conversation is all about working with your ecosystem instead of against it.If you’re growing fruit trees and wondering how to manage pests without pesticides, this episode offers a practical, grounded alternative rooted in science, observation, resilience, and long-term thinking. What You’ll Discover Should you use pesticides on fruit trees—or avoid them altogether?  What pests and disease are actually telling you  How airflow and pruning reduce pressure naturally for some fruit trees Why soil health and tree nutrition are foundational  How systems evolve as your trees grow and mature  What to do instead of spraying (organic and non organic pesticides)Find Matthew on the BrotherWood site here and on Socials here.Some of Matthew's favourite resources:Products he mentioned (He has no affiliation with these):Hortitech Foliar ProtectHydrolysed FishWood VinegarBook recommendations: Michael Phillips, The Holistic OrchardNicole Masters, For The Love of SoilEducation/Inspiration:Permadynamics, permaculture based training, PDCs and short coursesElaine Ingham - Soil food webMatt powers - Regerating soilPaul Stamets - FungiIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love your support:⭐ Jump into your podcast app and leave a rating & review 💌 Send me a question or share your thoughts 🌱 Tell me what’s happening in your garden right now🔗 Connect with Me📍 Website: whitestrawberriespodcast.com 📸 Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastMay your strawberries be white and your soil full of carbon 🌱About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentDiscover how to design a garden that produces fruit all year long using the power of guilds. In this episode of White Strawberries, I dive into the concept of plant guilds—groups of plants, animals, and insects that support one another—and how they can transform your orchard or food forest into a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem.Learn why harvest gaps happen, even in productive gardens, and how understanding guild relationships ensures consistent yields, healthier plants, and richer soil. From observing microclimates to layering fruit trees with companion plants, this episode is packed with practical strategies for gardeners who want abundance without the stress.What You’ll Discover / Key Points: Why gardens often have unintentional harvest gaps and how guilds solve this problem  The role of companion planting and supportive guild members in fruit production  Practical steps for designing a guild-based orchard or food forest  How observation and seasonal rhythms guide planting decisions  Ways to enhance soil fertility, plant health, and biodiversity through guilds References & Links:📄🌳Fruit Trees Year- Round Free Resources. Previous White Strawberries episodes you might enjoy: Mediterranean Guild Gardening: Figs, Grapes, Olives & Companions | Mastering the Garden Permaculture: Explained | With Dr. Sez the Vet White Strawberries: How They Inspired This Podcast | Sparking Joy – Subtropical and Topicals in a Cold Climate | With Steve Fawcett from Tropo🌱 Keywords: fruit guilds, perennial gardening, year-round harvest, companion planting, food forestAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentI'm uploading this episode for a second time because it is mushroomy gold!!In this earthy and enthusiastic episode, I chat with Sarah Williams—permaculture gardener, mushroom grower, and the green-fingered soul behind Sarah’s Green Acres—about growing wine cap mushrooms, also known as burgundy mushrooms or garden giants.We explore:How to grow them in a food forest or permaculture orchardWhy yours might not be fruiting yet (ahem, speaking from experience!)Cooking, freezing, and eating them—especially if you're cutting back on meatWhy they’re hard to find in shops, and why that's exactly why we should grow themTheir role in nutrient cycling, soil health, and lazy gardening magicPlus, we spiral delightfully into tangents about refractometers, bitter greens, the spray-heavy brassica world, and why we sometimes avoid testing our soil (just in case it bursts our bubble).If you’ve ever wanted to grow something that tastes amazing, supports your soil, and you can’t find at the supermarket—this episode is for you.✨ Want us to dive deeper into mushrooms, logs, bags, or bitterness? Let me know! 📸 Find me @whitestrawberriespodcast 🌱 Follow Sarah on Instagram at @sarahsgreenacresAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentAutumn is a busy, beautiful season in the garden, and what you plant now will feed you all winter. In this episode of White Strawberries, I share practical tips for creating a winter garden that thrives in a temperate climate. 🥕🌸Whether you’re gardening for wellness, flavor, or sustainability, this episode gives you actionable ideas to set your winter garden up for success.What You’ll Discover:The two essential rules for a successful winter garden: timing and plant hardinessHow to plan succession planting for continuous harvest over winterNitrogen-fixing crops that enrich the soil while feeding youWhich perennials and annuals are best for temperate winter climatesTips for saving seeds to build a resilient, microclimate-friendly gardenFlowers and crops that bring both joy and nutrition this seasonReferences & Links:Nitrogen 101: Transforms Your Garden | Mastering the GardenMore Perennials, Less Hustle | Sparking Joy🌱 Keywords: autumn gardening, winter harvest, succession planting, nitrogen-fixing crops, perennialsAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn this episode Maria- kitchen gardening pro- and Sam explore the magic of fermentation and how it can transform your kitchen and your health. From homemade apple cider vinegar to quick kefir ferments, Maria shares her practical tips for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. We dive into the science behind fermentation, how to safely use homegrown or supermarket apples, and ways to preserve and enjoy vegetables and fruits year-round.Whether you want to improve gut health, reduce food waste, or simply add flavor and nutrition to your meals, fermentation is a simple skill anyone can master. Learn how to create brined vegetables, kefir-infused fruits, and other delicious ferments with minimal equipment and maximum results.What You’ll Discover:How apple cider vinegar fermentation works in two stagesEasy starter ferments: water kefir, coconut kefir, and vegetablesSafe jar sterilization and storage practicesReducing sugar while preserving fruit and vegetable harvestsHow fermentation can boost gut microbial diversity and reduce inflammationReferences & Links:Wild Fermentation by Sandor KatzGut-microbiota-targeted diets modulate human immune status (PubMed) About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentSprouting and soaking might be some of the simplest — and most forgotten — kitchen skills we have 🌱In this conversation, I sit down with my dear friend Maria to chew the fat (and the nut!) on soaking grains, sprouting seeds, activating nuts, and why our ancestors prepared food this way for thousands of years.We explore antinutrients, phytic acid, lectins, and why traditional preparation methods can improve digestibility and nutrient bioavailability. From broccoli sprouts and sulforaphane to soaking pulses with salt and grains with a splash of acid, this episode blends practical kitchen rhythms with grounded nutritional science.We also talk omega-3s, chia gels, linseed eggs, and the difference between sprouts and microgreens — because they are not the same.This episode covers: sprouting seeds, soaking beans, activating nuts, reducing antinutrients, broccoli sprouts, omega-3 balance, and traditional food preparation.During this episode we're looking at my (Sam's) new Sprouting Kit from Kings Seeds. You can check that out, along with their range of organic sprouting seeds, here:King’s Seeds (NZ) – Organic sprouting seeds & starter kits About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 In this episode we explore how the diet and wellness practices of Brian Johnson — who aims to optimise health and longevity — intersect with what we can grow in our own gardens. From legumes to berries, brassicas to nuts, Sam breaks down practical tips for growing for longevity.  Discover what’s feasible in your garden, when to plant, and how to save seeds, all inspired by Johnson’s “don’t die” food guide and anti-aging meals.What You’ll DiscoverThe kinds of things Brian Johnson eats within his 5 hour food window.How to grow legumes (peas, broad beans, lentils) year-round for proteinWhich berries (blueberries, blackcurrants, native berries) deliver high polyphenols and longevity compoundsGrowing and using garlic, ginger, and turmeric for flavor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefitsHow brassicas (cabbage, kale, cauliflower) contribute sulforaphane and support cellular healthPractical insights on cultivating walnuts, olive oil, and citrus in New Zealand climatesThe role of fermented foods and plant-based proteins like hemp and pea in a nutrient-rich garden-to-table lifestyleReferences & Resources MentionedNutty Pudding Recipe (Brian Johnson’s protocol)Longevity Meal with Lentils (Brian Johnson’s protocol)Koanga Institute – Heirloom & Heritage SeedsPrevious White Strawberries Episodes:What to Grow When: Timing Your Veges Right | Mastering the GardenNitrogen 101: Transforms Your Garden | Mastering the GardenMediterranean Guild Gardening: Figs, Grapes, Olives & Companions | Mastering the GardenAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment💚The waitlist is open: Find Information on the Grounded Course hereA friend once asked me how I could justify spending 10 hours a week in the garden.That question stuck with me.In this episode of White Strawberries, I explore the research behind the Blue Zones — the regions identified by Dan Buettner where people live the longest, healthiest lives — and filter those findings through the lens of gardening.This isn’t a double-blind clinical trial. But it is a fascinating look at lifestyle patterns that consistently show up in long-lived communities: natural movement, plant-based eating, nervous system regulation, strong social ties, and purpose.And when you look closely… gardening sits right in the middle of it all.🌱 What You’ll DiscoverWhat the original Blue Zones are and why they matterWhy “move naturally” may be more powerful than gym workoutsHow gardening supports longevity through functional movementThe role of beans, sourdough, fermented foods, and modest animal proteinWhy daily stress reduction rituals matter for brain healthHow purpose (ikigai) and family connection impact lifespanWhether wine at five is really about wine — or community📚 ReferencedBlue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest by Dan Buettner Official website: https://www.bluezones.com🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes MentionedMediterranean Guild Gardening: Figs, Grapes, Olives & Companions | Mastering the GardenDirty Dozen Guide: Nutrition, Pesticides & Biodiversity | Mastering the GardenChickens in the Garden | With Dr. Sez the VetNitrogen 101: Transforms Your Garden | Mastering the GardenAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentLooking to make the most of your garden or property without selling your harvest? In this episode of White Strawberries, I share five creative side hustles you can start right at home. From hosting garden tours and beehives to earning carbon credits, leasing land, or renting out a minor dwelling, these ideas can help offset costs, invest in your property, and even bring in a little extra cash.I cover practical tips, real-life examples from New Zealand, and legal considerations so you can get started with confidence. Perfect for gardeners, landowners, and anyone curious about turning their property into a rewarding side hustle.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentThis summer has been brutal for gardeners — relentless rain, flooding, fallen trees, fungal disease, and damaging winds arriving right in the middle of the growing season.I want to share with you five practical techniques that genuinely saved my garden during extreme summer weather. These aren’t idealised systems or expensive upgrades — they’re real-world responses to waterlogged soil, wind stress, and disease pressure in a changing climate.This is about observing your space honestly, responding early, and growing with the climate you have — not the one you planned for.🌱 What You’ll DiscoverThe five simple changes that helped my garden survive summer stormsWhy dead mulch and living ground cover work better togetherHow swales protect roots by controlling water movementThe correct way to stake trees so wind strengthens instead of kills themHow fungal disease, wind, and waterlogging are connectedWhy plant diversity is your best insurance policy🛠️ The Five Garden-Saving TechniquesMulching deeply with dead organic matterMulching with living ground coversDigging swales and paths to direct excess waterTying trees correctly for high-wind conditionsCreating raised growing areas through soil and path design🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes MentionedMulch, Wanted, Dead or Alive | Mastering the Garden Why Raised Veggie Beds Burn Out Beginner Gardeners | Mastering the Garden 📚 Books & Resources ReferencedThe Permaculture Home Garden — Linda Woodrow 🌿 Join the new Waitlist!! Grounded — a live, four-week online workshop for intermediate gardeners reimagining their space for joy, wellness, and resilience 👉 https://whitestrawberriespodcast.com/grounded101 Gardening — a beginner-friendly introduction to growing for joy and wellness 👉 https://whitestrawberries.com/101gardening🌦️ Final ThoughtClimate-resilient gardening isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing things differently. Observe closely, respond early, and let the land show you what it needs.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentAnnual raised beds often feel productive at first… and then stop thriving. We talk about the hidden workload of annuals, why potting mixes run out of nutrients, add toxicity to our soil and how lack of biodiversity can lead to pests and frustration.This isn’t an anti–raised bed rant. There are things they do well. But if you’ve ever felt like you’re doing “everything right” and your garden still isn’t feeding you — this episode will help you understand why, and what small shifts actually make gardening easier.🌱 In this episode, we explore:Annuals vs perennials (and why annuals are more work)Why raised beds look great… then strugglePotting mixes, wetting agents, and soil lifeBiodiversity, predators, and pest pressureSimple ways to build healthier, lower-stress garden bedsIf you’d like a visual of how I build a sandwich bed, DM me “Sandwich Bed” on Instagram or Facebook and I’ll send it through.🔗 Previous White Strawberries Episodes MentionedHelp! My Garden Isn’t Thriving | Mastering the GardenThe Secret to Thriving Roses | Sparking Joy About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentHi everyone! We have flooding and power outages throughout my area this week! So I'm hunkering down with the kids and re-releasing a top hitting podcast of mine. Check it out!!In this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful reality of applying permaculture principles in your own life with Sez the Vet!Sam and Sez explore the highs and lows of designing gardens, observing your land, and working with nature (even when it feels like society is pushing against it).💚 From sun mapping and creating guilds and chickens doing their part, this episode is packed with real-life examples of how Sam and others have implemented permaculture practices—while acknowledging the challenges that come with them.Join us for an honest conversation about gardening in today’s world and how small, thoughtful steps can lead to big, sustainable changes. It’s not about doing it perfectly; it’s about doing what works for you, your family, and your land.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to White Strawberries for more adventures in sustainable living!📸 Let’s connect: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentThere’s no shortage of gardening advice online — but more information isn’t making us better gardeners. In fact, it’s often doing the opposite.In this Mastering the Garden episode of White Strawberries, Sam explores why overwhelm, comparison, and perfectly curated (often fake AI rubbish) can quietly drain our confidence and joy. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing it wrong” despite knowing so much, this episode is for you.This is a conversation about community over content — and why real transformation on our land doesn’t come from another tip, trick, or algorithm-fed reel. It comes from proximity. From being around people who observe carefully, ask better questions, and live intentionally with their land — not perfectly, but honestly.Drawing on permaculture thinking, lived experience, and the idea of “spirals” of achievement versus apathy, Sam unpacks how peer groups quietly shape our standards, energy, and outcomes in the garden (and beyond). She also shares practical ways to find — or create — the kind of gardening community that actually supports growth, alignment, and joy.This episode also gently introduces Grounded, an upcoming course designed to bring real people together in real time — not for more information, but for shared momentum and discernment.🌱 If you’re ready to step off the information treadmill and into something more grounded, this one’s for you.🌱 What You’ll DiscoverWhy gardening overwhelm isn’t an information problemHow peer groups influence confidence, standards, and joyThe difference between spirals of apathy and achievementWhy AI garden imagery is damaging our gardenReal-world ways to find or create aligned gardening communitiesHow intentional proximity accelerates learning and clarity🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes You Might EnjoyHelp! My Garden Isn’t Thriving | Mastering the Garden3 Reasons Not to Garden | Sparking JoyPermaculture: Explained | With Dr. Sez the Vet 🌱 Join the Grounded waitlist:👉 LINK COMING SOON- Come back soon🤗(Details shared with the waitlist first. No commitment.)About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentCreating garden goals that bring you joy, wellness, and sustainability in 2026—without getting caught in the “more, more, more” trap!I guide you through a simple four-question exercise to set achievable garden intentions:Choosing two new plants to try this yearMaking your garden easier and more sustainableShifting your mindset to let go of what doesn’t serve youTackling that one task you’ve been putting off, in a way that’s funLet's do it together! I'll share my goals and lots of examples of what you might like.References & ResourcesKoanga Institute (Heirloom & Heritage Seeds – NZ) – sourcing broad beans and other seeds https://koanga.org.nz/Ashwagandha: a medicinal herb that comes with a bunch of hype around it at the moment... So of course I want to grow it 😉Previous White Strawberries Episodes Mentioned:What to Grow When: Timing Your Veges Right | Mastering the GardenNitrogen 101: Transforms Your Garden | Mastering the GardenWine Cap Mushrooms in Orchards | With Sarah WilliamsAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentSupermarkets love annual crops — but only a very narrow version of them.In this Sparking Joy episode of White Strawberries, I explore annual vegetables and fruits you’ll almost never see on supermarket shelves — not because they’re inferior!!We talk about why supermarket produce is bred for transport, uniformity, and shelf life — and what gets lost along the way: flavour, phytonutrients, biodiversity, and joy. From purple tomatoes and unusual potatoes to heirloom beans, peas, and self-seeding “weeds,” this episode celebrates annual plants that thrive in real gardens, not industrial systems.🌱 What You’ll DiscoverWhy supermarkets sell such limited annual varietiesAnnual plants that thrive outside industrial systemsNitrogen-fixing crops that feed both you and the soilCommunity-loved annuals you won’t find on shelvesHow joy, flavour, and wellness are deeply connected🔗 References & Resources MentionedKoanga Institute (Heirloom & Heritage Seeds – NZ) Cooking Beans — Susan Young🎧 Previous White Strawberries Episodes You Might Enjoy:What to Grow When: Timing Your Veges Right | Mastering the Garden Nitrogen 101: Transforms Your Garden | Mastering the Garden Wine Cap Mushrooms in Orchards | With Sarah Williams About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentNext summer, I’m choosing a quieter, more generous way of gardening — more perennials, less hustle.In this Sparking Joy episode of White Strawberries, I reflect on why perennial plants suit real life so much better than annual-heavy gardens, especially when you’re a parent, a busy human, or simply someone who wants joy without burnout.We explore what makes a plant perennial, why supermarkets shape such a narrow food system, and how home gardeners have the freedom to grow softer, stranger, more seasonal, and more nutritious plants. From globe artichokes and asparagus to berries, figs, kawakawa, and heritage fruit, this episode celebrates the plants that keep giving — even when we step away.I also share how I’m planning my own perennial spaces using soil clues, microclimates, wind, drainage, and community wisdom, plus a community-sourced list of favourite edible perennials that rarely appear in supermarkets — and why that’s exactly the point.🌱 Gardening for wellness, curiosity, and joy — not perfection.🌿 What You’ll DiscoverWhy perennials thrive when life gets busyThe hidden ways supermarkets shape what we eatWhy flavour, diversity, and resilience matter more than shelf lifeHow to plan perennial placement using soil, wind, shade, and drainageWhy heirloom and heritage plants outperform supermarket varietiesFavourite edible perennials shared by the communityHow perennials can support and protect annual garden beds🔗 References & Resources MentionedKoanga Institute (Heirloom Seeds – NZ)Koanga Institute – Living Seed BankPrevious White Strawberries Episodes that may be your next step:Perennial Vegetables for Harvesting Over Winter | Sparking Joy Mediterranean Guild Gardening: Figs, Grapes, Olives & Companions | Mastering the GardenElderberries: Grow & Use Them Year-Round | Sparking JoyGrowing Tropicals in a Cold Climate | With Steve Fawcett🪴 Community-Favourite Edible Perennials List:Apricot, banana passionfruit, blackberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, boysenberries, cape gooseberries, cherries, currants (red/white/black), elderberries, feijoas, figs (fruit + leaves), grapes (fruit + leaves), guava berries, huckleberries, josta berries, lemons and citrus varieties, loquats*, sorrel, mango, medlar, mulberries, paw paw (mountain & American), passionfruit (yellow, banana, vanilla), pepino, plumcot, peachcot, quince, raspberries, tamarillo, watercress, alpine strawberries (red & white), yacón, Jerusalem artichoke.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentDiscover the gentle power of manure in your garden! In this episode, Sam dives into ruminant manure, vermicompost tea, and worm juice, showing how these natural fertilizers can improve soil health, boost nutrient uptake, and make your plants thrive. Learn practical tips for safe application, the science behind soil-building benefits, and how to make the most of your compost and worm farm.🌱 What You’ll Discover:Why ruminant manure (cow, sheep, alpaca) is safe and weed-freeHow mixed manures and vermicompost improve soil and fruit qualityPractical tips for liquid feeds, soil drenching, and foliar spraysThe difference between vermicompost tea and worm juiceTools and tricks to track plant health and nutrient density📚 References & Episodes:Help! My Garden Isn’t Thriving – Episode 24Composting! Hot or Not? – Episode 92022 Plants journal study on kiwi fruit and manureAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentGuest: Alison White, Co-convenor of the Safe Food CampaignIn this episode, I sit down with Alison White, the woman behind New Zealand’s version of the Dirty Dozen list — a ranking of the most pesticide-contaminated foods available on our shelves. Alison has a Master’s in Public Health, is a lifetime member of the Soil & Health Association, and co-convenes the Safe Food Campaign.Together, we unpack:How the Dirty Dozen is created and what makes NZ’s version uniqueWhy grapes, celery, and strawberries consistently top the listThe worrying truth about glyphosate (RoundUp) and how little NZ actually tests for itHow pesticide regulation gets tangled in industry influencePractical ways to reduce your exposure — from vinegar rinses to growing your own produceThis conversation will leave you thinking differently about what’s on your plate — and why home-grown food might just be one of the most powerful forms of resistance. Link for Further Reading:The Dirty Dozen – latest update via Soil & HealthOOOOBY (organic box service)Harraway’s Organic Oats collectionPesticides in New Zealand ChildrenSafe Food Campaign NZ – FacebookSafe Food Campaign Chlorpyrifos Petition SummaryDr. Libby BlogAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌹 Welcome to White Strawberries, your go-to podcast for effortless, joyful, and sustainable gardening. In this episode, I dive into why my roses are thriving without sprays, how biodiversity supports healthy plants, and how to make your own rosewater and tea from fragrant blooms.What you’ll discover in this episode:Common rose pests and how nature balances them.How planting a diverse garden supports predatory insects like ladybugs and praying mantises.Companion plants that naturally protect and enhance roses.Choosing the right rose variety: Wild, Heirloom, and Modern Roses.How to make rosewater and a simple rose tea at home.The nutritional and skin benefits of roses grown in organic, biodiverse gardens.Research & References:Flower diversity increases aphid predation on tomatoesEffect of companion planting on pest suppressionA 2018 study:  extracts from Rosa damascena  Rose‑petal extracts have antioxidant and anti‑hyaluronidase activity — meaning they can neutralise free radicals  📸 Follow me for images, videos, and behind-the-scenes gardening tips:Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastFacebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentCould the future of food be rooted in trees, not annual grains? In this episode of White Strawberries, I’m joined by journalist and NPR reporter Elspeth Hay, author of the  hopeful manifesto Feed Us with Trees: Nuts and Future of Food. Her work uncovers a surprising truth: for thousands of years, humans relied on perennial nut trees—oaks, chestnuts, hazelnuts—as our main sources of flour, oils, and everyday staple foods. At a time when the majority of the world’s calories come from monocropped annual grains, Elspeth invites us to imagine a different path: one where our landscapes are abundant, resilient, biodiverse, and shaped by the long memory of trees.We explore: 🌰 The ancient human relationship with nut trees 🌰 Why forest gardens and perennial food systems nourished entire cultures 🌰 The industrial narratives that pushed us into annual agriculture 🌰 Insights from Indigenous knowledge-keepers, agroforestry, and nut growers 🌰 The approachable, personal journey behind writing Feed Us with TreesWhether you’re a gardener, permaculture practitioner, homesteader, or someone rethinking how we grow food, this conversation will expand your imagination and reconnect you with the ancient wisdom of tree-based agriculture.If you’ve ever dreamed of growing food forests, diversifying your diet, or stepping away from nutrient-poor annual beds — this episode is for you.💚🌿Sam✨ Let’s connect:Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastFB Community: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentI’m not usually a political person, but sometimes a little adulting is needed. And I think it’s important that everyday Kiwis actually know what’s happening in our food system.In this episode, I sit down with Callum from GE Honesty to unpack the basics of genetic engineering, gene editing, and what these proposed changes, that are currently with parliament, could mean for New Zealand farmers, gardeners, and the nutrient density of our food.Whether you’re new to the GE conversation, a home gardener wanting to understand how this might affect seeds and soil, or simply a curious Kiwi trying to keep up with the headlines — this episode is for you.And if you’re overseas, I’d genuinely love to hear how GE crops and policies have impacted your country too.🌱 Topics we cover: – What genetic engineering actually is (in normal-people language) – How GE changes could impact NZ gardens, farms, and ecosystems – Why transparency around GE laws matters for all New Zealanders – What we can do if we don't want GE seeds in New ZealandThis is an episode close to my heart, and I’m grateful to have you here for it.💚🌿Sam✨ Let’s connect:Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastFB Community: White Strawberries PodcastLearn More: Seeds of Deception by Jeffrey Smith: A book that exposes perceived dangers of genetically engineered foods, as explained in this YouTube video.GE Honesty website: www.gehonesty.nzThe bill proposed in Parliament: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2024/0110/latest/whole.htmlOMG GMO trailer: this YouTube video.NZ media article: “Gene technology changes: What you need to know” Focus on Tikanga Māori.NZ plant & food research: “Nutrient density research – Phase 1 report released” About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌻 How cool are sunflowers?In this Sparking Joy episode of White Strawberries, we explore everything there is to love about sunflowers — their ancient history, mythological roots, and the many ways they bring life (and light!) to your garden.From Greek mythology’s Helios and the sunflower nymph, to modern uses like phytoremediation — where sunflowers help clean toxins from the soil after disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima — these plants are true multitaskers.We also dive into how to: 🌻 Use sunflowers as living garden structures for beans, peas, and pumpkins 🐝 Support pollinators and boost biodiversity 🌿 Choose heirloom, non-F1 sunflower seeds for saving and replanting 🥗 Enjoy the nutritional power of sunflower seeds — packed with healthy fats, protein, and minerals 🐔 Feed your chickens homegrown, nutrient-rich seeds for a sustainable flockWhether you’re a permaculture grower, a seed saver, or just love bee-friendly blooms, this episode will inspire you to plant a few giants of your own.🌻 Sunflower suppliers mentioned: Koanga Institute Kings SeedsAlso- thank you Elena, a listener, for sending this link through. They do free soil testing in Aotearoa: Soil Safe.📸 Let’s connect on Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn this episode we’re diving into asexual propagation: making clones of a plant we want. For beginners! There are more ways, but these are the easiest!! AKA- Why My Baby Strawberries are Yucky. AKA- How to steal plants. Think of it as taking the complete DNA of a plant you love and bringing it home to grow in your garden.I cover: 🌱 Root cuttings – the basics, tips, and tricks for plants like comfrey that practically clone themselves. 🌱 Cuttings – how to take branch cuttings, caring for them, and maximizing your “strike rate.” (This needs its own episode!) 🌱 Grafting – a more advanced way to join plants for strong root systems and delicious fruit. 🌱 Root division and runners – from grasses and sugarcane to strawberries, learn how to multiply your plants efficiently.Along the way, I share my own experiments, confessions, and share the joy of “free” gardening—getting plants from friends, neighbours, or the park 🙊By the end of this episode, you’ll see why asexual propagation is perfect for creating more of the plants you love. Grab a fork, a spade, or just your curiosity—and let’s grow something amazing together!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentThis week on White Strawberries, we’re talking about DIY electrolytes — making your own hydration mix right from the kitchen (and garden).Whether you’re in autumn apple season in the Northern Hemisphere or heading into long, sunny days here in New Zealand, this episode shows you how to turn fruit surplus into clean, functional hydration — without the bright blue sports drinks or artificial sweeteners.I share how a 12-hour adventure race taught me the importance of electrolytes, what I learned from Dr. Stacy Sims — author of ROAR and a leading expert in female physiology and hydration — and how to hit the “Goldilocks zone” for osmolality so your water actually hydrates you.You’ll hear my go-to recipe using apples, honey, Himalayan salt, and cream of tartar — plus how to freeze it into easy electrolyte cubes for race day, gardening, or kid’s sport.✨ Why it sparks joy: It’s gut-friendly, garden-inspired, and turns food surplus into fuel. It’s hydration that actually works — and it tastes good.💧 Get the full recipe and breakdown — DM me the word electrolyte on Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastMay your garden be abundant, your strawberries white, and your hydration delightfully balanced.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 In this episode, I’m tackling a problem I hear all the time — what to do when your garden isn’t thriving.Maybe your garden used to be amazing, but now your plants are struggling. Maybe you are hesitant to continue to purchase soil and your plants aren't thriving.  Maybe your potting mix has released all it's fertiliser, or maybe you're starting from scratch!  Leaves are pale, flowers are sparse, and growth is slow. I’ll walk you through practical ways to fix infertile garden soil and bring your garden back to life.I’ll cover: 🌿 What to add to a garden bed to support growth 🌱 How organic soil amendments like cow manure, seaweed, and banana peels can help ⚡ Why N-P-K nutrients for plants are essential, and what each one does 💧 How to manage soil moisture like a “wrung-out sponge” 🌸 The take-home message: diversity is key — feed your soil, feed your plants, and your garden will thrive📸 Let’s connect: @whitestrawberriespodcast📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 In this episode, I explore something that’s been top of mind lately — ground covers.Ground covers form one of the eight layers of a forest and play a vital role in any thriving garden, orchard, or food forest. They’re not just about filling space — they’re about protecting, nourishing, and bringing life to your soil.I’ll chat about: 🌾 Why we need to mulch our soil 🧹 How to clear the space first 💚 Why living mulches (aka ground covers) are so awesome 🌿 What to consider when choosing ground covers 🌸 And the five categories I use to select them: herbs and edibles, nitrogen fixers, dynamic accumulators, natives, and pure joy📖 Book mentioned: The Ultimate Food Garden (Fourth NZ & Australian Edition) by Selby Goldstone📸 Let’s connect: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌍 In this episode, I’ve just returned from WWOOFing — and I have a lot of feedback to share!What exactly is WWOOFing? Is it for you? And how can you make sure you find the right host before you pack your bags and head off to dig, plant, and learn?I’ll chat about: 🌾 What WWOOFing really is 💬 The questions to ask before joining a host 🧭 How to filter out good hosts 🪴 Why getting clear on your expectations before you go makes all the difference 💪 What my experience was actually like — including how much I needed to workYou’ll also hear what I loved, what I’d do differently next time, and how to decide if this kind of travel and learning is a fit for you.Have you WWOOFed before? I’d love to hear your experience!📸 Let’s connect: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🐓 In this episode, I share my lived experience with chicken tractors and the mandala garden system — the joys, the frustrations, and the lessons five years in.We explore: 🪴 How chickens save you work with composting, weeding, and pest control 🛠️ Design considerations: circular vs. rectangular tractors, PVC vs. wood, mites and materials 👩‍🌾 What it’s really like moving a dome once your Zone One (Garden Bed) fills with fruit trees and hedges  🌬️ Why wind (and tarps!) can make or break your chicken dome setupThis is part personal story, part design reflection. From dry dust bath floors to chickens marching like a parade when the tarp comes off, it’s all here. If you’ve ever thought about building (or rethinking) your own chicken system, this episode gives you the inside scoop on what works — and what doesn’t — in real-life gardens.📚 Recommended for: permaculture experimenters, chicken keepers, mandala garden nerds, and anyone curious about closing the loop with feathered friends.💡 Resources & References:Linda Woodrow, The Permaculture Home GardenMilkwood Permaculture (free downloads + Nick’s dome pic)🎧 Connect with me: Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentWe’re talking chickens—those fluffy butt, soil-turning, pest eating wonders that can be put to work in your garden. 🐔 Whether you're dreaming of adding chickens to your permaculture setup or wondering if they're right for your orchard, this episode is packed with practical, real-world insight. I'm joined by Sez the Vet, an experienced life-style vet and educator.This is a conversation I was looking for 10 years ago! I get to have it now and share it with you. Are we OK to feed our hens oats in the morning? Can we let a mama hen eat the chick starter?What breeds should a gardener have? By the end, you’ll know whether chickens are right for your land—and your lifestyle. 🎧 Tune in to learn how pigs can become not just garden helpers, but cherished companions (just don’t let them get away with any nonsense!).Links & Resources:🎓 Find Sez's animal care courses at: lifestyleblock.co.nz📺 Watch her YouTube channel: SeztheVet🐷 Connect with Sez on Facebook and instagram SeztheVet🌱 White Strawberries is where we try and get Little Fluffy Butts to do our work ;)About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 In this episode, I sit down with Steve Fawcett to explore Troppo — an urban tropical food forest in Te Puke. Yes, tropical plants… outdoors… in a place that gets frost and hail!We dive into: 🍌 Bananas as mineral accumulators (and why banana lollies taste the way they do) 🌴 Air layering and how it can trigger early flowering in plants ❄️ Frost protection strategies and mulching like crazy 🌳 Why food forests build deeper community resilience than veggie beds aloneSteve’s casual style hides just how much knowledge he’s built through hands-on experimenting. From Papua New Guinea childhood memories of climbing fruit trees, to creating a lush, diverse, small-space forest garden in New Zealand, this conversation is a reminder of how much joy and abundance plants bring.📚 Recommended for: food forest dreamers, experimental gardeners, permaculture enthusiasts, anyone curious about growing the “impossible” plants in their climate.💡 Resources & References:Troppo Victor Group Charitable Trust Kai Resilience ProjectAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 In this episode, I dive into The Home-Scale Forest Garden by Dani Baker (2022), How to Plan, Plant and Tend a Resilient Edible Landscape.I share why this book captured my attention, what makes it such a treasure for anyone wanting to create a forest garden, and how I’ve been inspired to rethink my own food forest. From mapping your space with to-scale circles to understanding the roles of nitrogen fixers, mineral accumulators, and even fungi, Dani’s approach is full of practical, joyful ideas.I highlight:The eight layers of a forest garden Clever plant grouping ideas and mapping techniques that make planning efficient and visualPlant functions like mineral accumulators nitrogen fixers, cut flowers, and edible flowers to enrich your garden.Plus, I share a couple of things to keep in mind, before purchasing the book.📚 Recommended for: gardeners with space, permaculture enthusiasts, anyone curious about forest gardens or edible landscapes.💡 Resources & References:The Home-Scale Forest Garden by Dani BakerNZ alternatives: Kay Baxter’s Design Your Own Orchard & NZ Tree Crops Association for local cultivars🎧 Connect with me on Instagram and Facebook: @whitestrawberriespodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentSome fruits and vegetables are heavily sprayed with pesticides—and it’s not just a chemical issue. These plants may also produce fewer natural compounds that make them nutritious, and conventional growing methods can harm the environment. 🌱Welcome to White Strawberries,  In this episode, we unpack the Dirty Dozen—the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues—and explore the Clean 15, foods that are generally safer. I’ll share advice on which ones to grow at home, which to buy spray-free, and which can be safely peeled or washed.🏵️We’ll dig into:Why pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides are used, and how monocropping affects plant health.How home gardens and local market gardens naturally protect plants using biodiversity, companion planting, and soil care.Practical tips for growing grapes, strawberries, nectarines, spinach, celery, brassicas, lemons, apples, and potatoes.Understanding the Clean 15 and how peelable or resilient produce can reduce pesticide exposure.How natural plant stress produces phytonutrients that support both plant and human health.Whether you’re a home gardener, conscious consumer, or just curious, this episode will give you practical ways to make smarter choices for your family and your garden—without judgment.Resources & Links:Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 (NZ): Soil and Health  Latest Dirty DozenDirty Dozen & Clean 15 (USA): Environmental Working Group – Dirty Dozen & Clean 15Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 (UK): Pesticide Action NetworkFollow White Strawberries Podcast on Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcastJoin us on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastWhite Strawberries is a small, independent podcast. If you enjoy what you hear, following, sharing, or leaving a review helps us reach more listeners and keep these conversations growing. 🌿May your garden be abundant, your strawberries white, and your curiosity never-ending!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn this episode, Sam puts on her educator’s hat, drawing from over 20 years of experience working in schools across New Zealand, Hong Kong, China, and the USA — including roles as Dean, Head of Business Department, sustainable living and outdoor education specialist, and working with at-risk youth.Sam sits down with Robin Mann, founder of Grow Wild Education, an inspiring nature-based learning initiative. Grow Wild Education runs weekly nature school programs and summer holiday sessions that encourage curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection with the natural world.Together, they explore practical ways to support children’s mental health, reduce anxiety, and nurture resilience by embracing the outdoors, fostering free play, and modeling healthy behaviors.Useful Links from This Episode:Grow Wild Education — Robin Mann’s nature school and holiday programs website and her Facebook site.White Strawberries Podcast Instagram — Follow Sam’s journey in gardening, nature, and wellbeingJonathan Haidt’s Anxious Generation Supplement with graphs discussed in this episode: https://jonathanhaidt.com/anxious-generation/supplement/Academic source on social media and adolescent mental health: Kelly Y, Zilanawala A, Booker C, Sacker A. (2019). Social Media Use and Adolescent Mental Health: Findings From the UK Millennium Cohort Study. EClinicalMedicine, 6, 59-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2018.12.005Josephine Livinn on Instagram — advocate for wholesome living and body positivity: https://www.instagram.com/josephinelivinn/If you enjoyed this episode: Please take a screenshot and share it with a friend — it’s one of the best ways to bridge the generation gap and live more harmoniously with nature.For more on gardening, outdoor play, and raising resilient kids, follow along at White Strawberries Podcast.Happy gardening, beaching, and bush whacking!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn this episode of White Strawberries, I dig into the unsung heroes of the vegetable garden: perennials! You’ll learn about my three favourite edible roots — yacón, Jerusalem artichokes, and oca (NZ yams) — and the leafy perennials I would grow even if I only had 1m2 of garden bed:  Sorrel, perpetual spinach, Welsh onions, and chives.These plants are weedy in the best way, nutrient-dense, and perfect for gardeners who want to reduce the time and effort they spend in their garden, so they can do other things (probably more gardening! ;) )... 🌱 In this episode:Why yacón, oca, and Jerusalem artichokes are great for your belly and your garden How to plant, harvest, and eat these unusual root cropsThe leafy greens that survive — and even thrive — through cold seasons with minimal effort. Why we don't see these perennials in super market chains.🧺 Giveaway!Want to try growing yacón, oca, or Jerusalem artichokes yourself?I'm giving some away! If you're in Aotearoa, check out  @whitestrawberriespodcast on Instagram or Facebook for giveaway details.🏵️🌿💗 What do you think?  Let me know what perennial you’re excited to grow! Tag me on Instagram @whitestrawberriespodcast or join the chat on Facebook: White Strawberries Podcast.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🌱 What is nitrogen actually and when we know what it is why does it matter? In this solo episode of White Strawberries, I ditch the edits (full disclosure I took the "um's" out) and go full conversation mode to unpack something that is made overly complicated sometimes: nitrogen. 🧪 We explore: • What nitrogen really is  • How to tell if a plant is nitrogen-rich—or ready to mulch • Composting ratios made simple • "Humanure" • Why fresh arborist mulch is awesome for paths and terrible for your garden bed • Why I'm growing a wisteria tree in the middle of my central garden bed🌸 Whether you're into hot composting, lazy mulching, or dreaming up a nitrogen-fixing forest floor—this one’s a musing that won’t get too sciency. Just soil-loving honesty from one curious gardener to another.📸 See the wisteria-in-the-garden  @whitestrawberriespodcast on Instagram and FacebookAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment💧 🌦️ If you’ve ever looked at a garden hose like it was made of gold—this one’s for you.In this episode of White Strawberries, I have a conversation with Sophie, a Zero Waste Educator, about the messy magic of water in the garden. From buckets of bathwater to rainwater you wish you could store, we share what it’s really like managing water—whether you live in a tiny house on a large amount of land, or a suburban backyard, this ones for you.🚿 We explore: • Why water is your biggest limiting factor—and how to work with it • What happens when you skip the septic and start bucketing bathwater • Real-life greywater setups (that actually work for food forests!) • Why winter rain can be too much—and how to trap moisture for summer • The water–BRIX–soil connection: better watering, better nutrients • Small-scale systems that suit urban and rural gardeners alike🏡 Tiny homes, suburban gardens, and big garden dreams all welcome in this splashy, honest water chat.📸 See how we do it @whitestrawberriespodcast About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn this Spark Joy episode, we dive into the wonderful world of hydrangeas — one of New Zealand’s most beloved perennial shrubs, known for their stunning blooms and versatility.As I recorded this in the height of summer, hydrangeas were truly sparking joy in my garden. Now, as winter sets in, it’s the perfect time to prune your hydrangeas, take cuttings to propagate, plant new hydrangeas, and feed your existing plants. Plus, if you’re looking to adjust your soil’s pH for the best color and health, now’s the moment to get to work!Hydrangeas also have a special place in permaculture gardens, helping create microclimates and supporting beneficial insects.Let’s celebrate this beautiful shrub and share tips to keep your hydrangeas thriving year-round.🌿 Connect and find images of my hydrangeas 📷 Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastMay your garden be abundant, your strawberries white, and your curiosity never-ending!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentIn today’s Q&A-style episode, I chat with Becks, who’s growing food on a small urban section packed with subtropical and Mediterranean microclimates. We talk through her real-life garden dilemmas—from a wayward apple tree branch and overachieving feijoas, to pruning grapevines and getting citrus trees back on track.We cover: 🍏 How to prune an espaliered apple tree 🍇 When and how to cut back grapevines 🌱 How to take a cutting and get it growing 🍋 What to do when your lemon tree looks sad and wobbly 🪴 Why feijoas fruit like mad—and how to prune them to suit your spaceIf you’ve ever wondered how to shape your trees, take a cutting, or diagnose citrus struggles, this one’s for you.✨ Bonus: I've shared a visual demo of nodes, cuttings, and branches over on socials. 📸 Follow @whitestrawberriespodcast on Instagram and Facebook to see more!Until next time—may your strawberries be white and your worms happy.About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment♻️ Ever wondered if your compost pile is killing weed seeds—or just giving them a warm nap?In this episode of White Strawberries, I dive into my very first proper hot composting adventure. Spoiler: it involves bamboo stakes, cow poo tea, temperature obsessions, and a whole lot of bindweed I didn’t trust in a cold pile.🌱 We’ll explore: • Why not all weed seeds die in regular compost • How to build a hot compost heap step by step—no fancy bins required • What materials (and simple amendments) boost your compost and your veggies • The connection between compost, BRIX testing, and truly nutrient-dense foodPlus: tips I wish I’d known at the start—like why summer might be the worst time to start, and how to check if your compost really did the job.📸 Check out images of the heap on Instagram or Facebook: @whitestrawberriespodcast🧪 Want better veggies and fewer weeds? Hot composting might be your next garden glow-up.Check out where else to find me here: https://linktr.ee/whitestrawberries About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentElderberry: Grow it because it’s delicious, beautiful — and scientifically proven to shorten the duration of the flu.This episode dives into the magic, science, and mischief of elderberries — a plant that blurs the line between medicine and myth.Learn why it’s a favourite of permaculturists, herbalists, and birds alike — and why it might just belong in your garden too.We explore: – How and why to grow elderberry (even if it's a bit "weedy") – What science says about its immune-supporting compounds – Its rich folklore, from Irish legend to village healer – How to safely harvest and prepare it – Syrups, teas, wines, and wild foraging tipsWhether you're planting your first bush or rediscovering an old favourite, this episode invites you to explore both the light and dark sides of a plant full of magic — and medicine.🖤 May your elderberries be dark and your curiosity never-ending.Follow us:https://www.instagram.com/whitestrawberriespodcast/About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentWe’re talking pigs—those chubby, soil-turning wonders that can transform your paddock and garden into a thriving ecosystem.🐖 Whether you're dreaming of adding pigs to your permaculture setup or wondering if they're right for your orchard, this episode is packed with practical, real-world insight. I'm joined by Sez the Vet, an experienced life-style vet and educator, who breaks down the real benefits of pigs—from tilling the soil and fertilizing as they go, to controlling pests like guava moth by eating fallen fruit.We also dive into the important stuff:How to rotate pigs to protect parts of your paddockSetting up a “pig tractor” systemWhat zoonotic diseases you should be aware of (without freaking out)The simple hygiene steps that keep your family safeDeworming schedules and resistance awarenessAnd yes, a hilariously gross story about a baby and a piglet's poo 🍽️😳By the end, you’ll know whether pigs are right for your land—and your lifestyle.🎧 Tune in to learn how pigs can become not just garden helpers, but cherished companions (just don’t let them get away with any nonsense!).Links & Resources:🎓 Find Sez's animal care courses at: lifestyleblock.co.nz📺 Watch her YouTube channel: SeztheVet🐷 Connect with Sez on Facebook and instagram SeztheVet🌱 White Strawberries is where we try and get Little Fat Rounds to do our work ;)About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentWhat do olives, grapes, figs, and lavender all have in common? They're part of the sun-loving, drought-tolerant crew that thrive in Mediterranean climates—and today we’re designing a whole guild around them.In this episode, I explore what it means to plant perennials where they want to grow and why matching plants to their ancestral homes creates a thriving, low-input ecosystem. From nitrogen-fixers like tagasaste and Spanish broom to groundcovers like clover and nasturtium, we’ll break down each guild member's role and how they support each other.You'll also hear how I mapped my own land, identified the only full-sun spot, and turned it into a haven for these heat-loving plants. Whether you’re growing on rocky slopes or urban backyards, this episode will help you make the most of what you’ve got—by working with nature, not against it.🌿 Highlights:The anatomy of a Mediterranean plant guildWhy guild design means less work, better fruit, and healthier plantsHow to map your own land to figure out where these plants want to liveA geeky side note on soil pH, drainage checks, and frost-mappingLet's include; nitrogen fixes, ground covers, pest repellents, fruits, vines, leaves you want to eat, herbs and soil enhancers. 📸 Let’s connect: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries PodcastAbout Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment🎙️ Why White Strawberries? 🍓Welcome to White Strawberries, the podcast where we explore the lost art of living with nature—from a tiny house tucked into New Zealand bushland, surrounded by chickens, weeds, and yes... white strawberries.In this episode, I (Sam!) unpack the five quirky, nerdy, and joy-filled reasons behind the name White Strawberries. We dive into:✨ What white strawberries actually are (spoiler: not unripe fruit) 🌿 Why growing a variety of plants matters—for your gut, your soil, and your sanity 🥬 How supermarket food falls short—and what we can do instead 🧪 Nutrient density, refractometers, and lazy gardening wins 🗺️ Plus: strawberries, hiking trails, edible weeds, and the simple magic of finding food outsideThis episode is for anyone who's ever wanted to grow their own food, feel more connected to the land, or just taste a strawberry that doesn’t come shrink-wrapped.Let’s dig in.🌱 — 📸 Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast 💬 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries Podcast ✉️ Contact me if you’re a graphic designer with logo redemption skills!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentNew to gardening and wondering when to plant things like tomatoes, spinach, or broccoli? This episode is for you! We’re diving into the basics of plant life cycles and how to know what to grow and when—without having to constantly check a list. By understanding what part of a plant you’re eating (leaf, flower, fruit, or seed), and how plants behave through the seasons, you’ll be able to plan your garden with more confidence and without the need of a generic plant list. Whether you’re in New Zealand, North America, Europe or beyond, you’ll come away with simple, practical advice to grow what you love—when it actually wants to grow. Let’s garden smarter—not harder—and keep it joyful. ——— 📸 Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Join the convo on Facebook: White Strawberries Podcast About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.

Ask a Question or Leave a CommentThink gardening is the only way to live sustainably? Think again. In this episode of White Strawberries, Sam offers a joyful permission slip to not garden—and still feel good about it.🌸 Why shoulding yourself into sustainability doesn’t work 🌿 How to find joy in other ways of living well 🌎 Why personal choice matters just as much as planet care📸 Instagram: @whitestrawberriespodcast 📘 Facebook: White Strawberries Podcast 🎧 Love what you hear? Follow + review—help others find the joy too!About Sam – Learn more about the host of White Strawberries.Support the Podcast – Buy Sam a Cuppa to help keep new episodes coming.Join Grounded – Be first to hear when the course opens.Ask a Question – Submit a gardening question for a future episode.