Moths, Hydrangeas & Chelsea Highlights
5/7/202629 min
We’re diving into the fascinating lives of moths with RHS Principal Entomologist Dr Hayley Jones. She tells us what sets them apart from butterflies, and how to set up nighttime nectar bars to give them a helping hand. We’re also turning our attention to a firm favorite in the garden: Hydrangeas. RHS horticulturist Jack Aldridge is a woody plant expert, and he joins us to share some of his favorite cultivars and everything you need to know about caring for your hydrangeas at home - from pruning tips to the secrets behind the brightest blue blooms. And finally, with RHS Chelsea Flower Show just around the corner, RHS Head of Libraries and Exhibitions Fiona Davison joins us to reveal more about the unveiling of a striking new botanical painting, known as a ‘Royal Signature’. It marks the occasion of His Majesty King Charles III becoming the charity’s Royal Patron, and celebrates his long-standing commitment to inspiring more people to experience the joy of gardening. Host: Guy Barter Contributors: Dr Hayley Jones, Jack Aldridge, Fiona Davison Links: Wild about gardens: magical moths RHS plant guide - hydrangeas RHS Chelsea flower show
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First 90 secondsSpeaker 10:00
Longwood Gardens is committed to developing tomorrow's leaders in public gardens. The Longwood Fellows Program is a tuition-free residential experience at the renowned Longwood Gardens located just outside Philadelphia. During the program, build your leadership skills and grow your professional network, engage in project-based learning, enjoy a two-month field placement, and learn from leaders across a spectrum of professions. Sound like an opportunity for you? Learn more and apply at longwoodgardens.org/fellows.
Hayley Jones· Guest0:27
There's a few species that actually do really long distance migration. So the silver Y moth, for example, it mostly overwinters in Northern Africa, and then when spring comes, it flies over the Mediterranean. They fly up and they detect when they've reached a level in the air where the wind is going the direction they want to go and let themselves be carried those thousands of miles. When the next generation emerges in the autumn, they actually fly all the way back to Northern Africa in one go, which is amazing.
Guy Barter· Host1:07
Amazing indeed. These fascinating creatures are important pollinators and a vital source for other wildlife, and not to mention an excellent indicator of the health of your garden. When moths are thriving, it's a good sign that the ecosystem around you is in balance. When they disappear, it's often a warning worth paying attention to.