Shows
The Plant Based PodcastWhat does the EU reset mean for the horticultural industry in the UK, with The Horticultural Trades AssociationWelcome to today's episode, where we'll be diving into a topic that's been a hot topic for the UK horticultural industry—the EU Reset, announced in 2025. In this episode, we're joined by Sally Cullimore and Jennifer Pheasey from the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA). Both have been at the forefront of lobbying for change and advocating for the horticulture industry's needs. They'll talk with co-host Michael Perry, through the details of the reset, what it means for businesses, and how the HTA has worked tirelessly to ensure that the sector's voice is heard. Find out more: www.hta.or...
2025-10-2638 minThe Plant Based PodcastThere's a tree for everyone with Steph Dunn-James from Frank P Matthews.This episode is all about trees, with the ultimate tree experts in UK - Frank P Matthews. Fresh from their first exhibit at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, we have Steph Dunn-James, director of the company to talk us through why there could be a tree for everyone, wherever you live. Check out Frank P Matthews trees: www.frankpmatthews.com Series 19 is sponsored by Queen & Fine, the new floral design studio created byt co-host Ellen Mary! From fabulous one off bouquets to weddings, events, offices and installations. Check out the website: ...
2025-10-1953 minThe Plant Based PodcastThe Art of Floral Design with Sarah Campbell of Intrigue DesignsSarah Campbell isn't just known for magnificent floral designs and installations but also for always smiling! After appearing on the Netflix show 'The Big Flower Fight', Sarah has grown her event design business along with teaching the art of creating flower filled weddings all over the world. We can definitely say that Sarah is OBSESSED with flowers! Ellen Mary asks all the floral questions in this episode from top design tips, to must use flowers and behind the scenes gossip from show. Check out Intrigue Designs and Intrigue Teaches: Instagram: @intrigue_designs ...
2025-10-1241 minThe Plant Based PodcastMayfield Lavender with lavender growing tips, the history of lavender and what the future holds.This episode is all about the much loved plant - Lavender! Lorna Maye from Mayfield Lavender guides us through the history of the plant and the organic, family run lavender farm on two sites in Surrey, UK. Learn about the many varieties of lavender, how to grow the fragrant herb and whats coming up next for Mayfield. Check out the fields: www.mayfieldlavender.com Follow on Instagram: @mayfieldlavender Series 19 is sponsored by Queen & Fine, the new floral design studio created by co-host Ellen Mary! From fabulous one off bouquets to weddings, events, offices a...
2025-10-0553 minThe Plant Based PodcastHydrangea breeding with Leo Slingerland from the Living Creations breeding program.In this episode, Michael steps behind the scenes of hydrangea breeding with Leo, the plant breeder behind the renowned Living Creations Hydrangea series. Discover what it really takes to create new hydrangea varieties— from selecting parent plants to years of patient trials. You'll hear a live demo of the breeding process, as Leo walks us through the delicate steps of pollination and explains how breeders decide which traits to keep or discard. We'll also explore what makes the Living Creations hydrangeas stand out, and why they're such resilient performers in gardens today. Whether you're a passionate gardener, a plant collector, or j...
2025-09-2834 minThe Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S19 - Pelargoniums or Geraniums? Growing Crazy has the answer.In this episode Michael and Ellen Mary are joined by Steven from Growing Crazy, a UK nursery that specialises in the wonderful world of Pelargoniums. Find out the history, different varieties, how to grow them at home plus their edible and fragrant uses...and even a tricky to grow rare Pelargonium! Find Growing Crazy at: www.growingcrazy.co.uk Series 19 of the podcast is sponsored by Queen & Fine, the new floral design studio created by co-host Ellen Mary! From fabulous one off bouquets to weddings, events, offices and installations. Check out the website: www.queenandfine...
2025-09-2134 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S16 E05 - Winter garden colour and containers with professional gardener Benjamin Pope.If you need some winter garden inspiration, this is the episode for you. @ellenmarygardening and @mr_plantgeek chat with Benjamin Pope @theworkinggarden all about how to add plenty of winter interest to your garden. Not just in larger gardens, but even in containers. Ben provides some really exciting combinations to brighten up any patio pot for the colder months of the year. Plus hear all about Ben's career and exciting 'retirement' project. Afterwards Michael chats with Julie Parker @parkers_patch for the gossip, filling in for Ellen who was otherwise engaged! Series 16 is sponsored by Grow This, Not That - th...
2024-11-101h 06
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S16 E04 - Where is the houseplant trend going to next with The Plant Rescuer Sarah Gerrard-Jones and Urban TropicanaHouseplants have always been 'trendy' in our eyes but over recent years the boom hasn't slowed up. Or has it? @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening chat with the experts Sarah Gerrard Jone and Urban Jungle to find out what they think about the future of houseplants. From upcoming trends to favourite plants, it's a plant packed podcast episode. Afterwards, Michael and Ellen gossip about whatever comes to mind in the moment from Michael's birthday (that he doesn't want to be mentioned) to bulb lasagnes. Series 16 is sponsored by Grow This, Not That - the Substack about new plants, horticulture news, botanical trave...
2024-10-271h 37
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S15 - Signing off for a summer podcast breakIn this episode @mr_plantgeek acts suspiciously in a parked car while @ellenmarygardening does the domestic chores. It's the end of series 15 and the podcast will be on summer break - back with a brand new refresh in September 2024. Ellen Mary tries to get Michael to talk about plants but he had too much coffee. Thank you to everyone who has downloaded the podcast and to all of our guests who are equally inspiring. Also thank you to series sponsors Hydria Fountain, go check them out. Proud to announce Hydria as the series 15 sponsors! Hydria™ is...
2024-07-1428 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S15 - What it's really like to design a show garden at BBC Gardeners World Live with Kim O'BrienKim O'Brien also known as @dahliafarmarama designed a showcase garden at BBC Gardeners World Live 2024. So straight after returning home with a Silver Merit @ellenmarygardening chats with Kim about her experience. What was the design inspiration? How was the build process? And what's coming up in the future? Ellen Mary asks the questions in this episode of the podcast. Proud to have Hydria as the series 15 sponsors! Hydria™ is the world's first all-in-one water fountain kit that fits any planter or pot. Perfect for patios, balconies and even indoors as a water feature with a difference. Not only can the...
2024-06-2330 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S15 E03 - Opening a garden to the public with Tamsin Westhorpe from Stockton Bury GardensHave you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of a garden open to the public? Do visitors get caught taking cuttings? What other aspects of the business are there to consider other than the plants looking great? Gardener, author, lecturer Tamsin Westhorpe chats with @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening about behind the scenes at Stockton Bury Gardens. Afterwards, Michael and Ellen chat about pacing yourself, RHS Chelsea Flower show and anything else that springs to mind! Proud to announce Hydria as the series 15 sponsors! Hydria™ is the world's first all-in-one water fountain kit that fits any planter or pot. Perfec...
2024-06-021h 14
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S15 - Ellen's Favourite: Wellbeing with the wonderful Liz EarleBack in 2020, Ellen and Michael took a trip to South London to visit TV presenter and entrepreneur Liz Earle in her wellbeing studio. With over 25 years of experience in the beauty, health and wellbeing industry, Liz now heads up one of the most progressive and successful magazines on the subject, not to mention a popular podcast and YouTube channel. This is a listener favourite so it's a re release to get your wellness fix again! They discussed the whole concept of wellbeing and how it relates to plants, with a focus on fermented foods, the right way t...
2024-04-2852 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S15 - Michael's Favourite: Welcome to the Mush RoomIn this weeks episode, Michael chooses one of his most memorable episodes, as he and Ellen spoke to the Caley Brothers, who are actually sisters… these wonderful ladies are mushroom farmers, and are really going places, fresh from their amazing display at Chelsea Flower Show, they are at the urban show this weekend, and causing quite a stir. We think you'll love this episode, and hope it inspires you to grow a few fungi! Proud to announce Hydria as the series 15 sponsors! Hydria™ is the world's first all-in-one water fountain kit that fits any planter or po...
2024-04-2042 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S14 E05 - Making Terrariums with Worcester Terrariums, Ben NewellFrom postman to worldwide known Terrarium expert, Ben Newell otherwise known as @WorcesterTerrariums started his journey only a few years ago as a content creator. Now his content has had millions of views, he has worked with Marvel, LadBible and some of the most well known faces on social media. Ben joins @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening on the podcast for this episode about content creation and making terrariums. Afterwards Michael and Ellen chat let lag, upcoming horticultural work, doing things at the last minute and being sea sick! Yes...this is a plant based podcast ;-)
2024-03-031h 06
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S14 E04 - Chatting Gardening with Award Winning Garden Designer and New Author Manoj MaldeManoj Malde joins @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening in this weeks episode to talk about the joys of gardening, designing for RHS Chelsea Flower Show and getting married there along with his brand new book called Your Outdoor Room: How to design a garden you can live in which is due to be released soon. Afterwards, Michael and Ellen gossip from opposite sides of the Atlantic, being sleepless in Seattle and Valentines Roses. Proud to announce Hydria as the new series 14 sponsors! Hydria™ is the world's first all-in-one water fountain kit that fits any plan...
2024-02-181h 15
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S14 - Behind the scenes with RHS Malvern Show Lead Kate DuftonEver wondered what it's like to pull together an RHS show? In this weeks episode Ellen Mary chats with Show Lead Kate Dufton about the behind the scenes work to make sure everything comes together and what's coming up for the 2024 show. Find out more about the show and get your tickets including a new type of ticket which Kate tells us all about on the podcast. https://www.rhsmalvern.co.uk Proud to announce Hydria as the new series 14 sponsors! Hydria™ is the world's first all-in-one water fountain kit that fits any pla...
2024-01-1433 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S13 - Christmas Plants Episode With Some Very Special GuestsThe final episode in this series falls just before Christmas so we've put together a compilation of interviews all about Christmas plants! @mr_plantgeek brings tips for keeping your Poinsettia happy in your home from the Italian breeder of some of Europes leading varieties plus the story behind the Cyclamen and ho wit can be used indoors and outside over the festive period. @ellenmarygardening brings the Christmas tree care tips along with @theplantrescuer helping you to keep your Christmas Cactus alive! Afterwards, Michael and Ellen have an end of series gossip that often goes off on tangents, with numerous inappropriate to...
2023-12-101h 22
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S13 E04 - The Future of Horticulture and the RHS with Director General Clare Matterson CBEPart I: This episode is with the Director General of the Royal Horticultural Society Clare Matterson CBE. Clare took on this big role over a year ago bringing a wealth of experience having been the Director of Engagement at the Natural History Museum, spent 18 years at the Wellcome Trust and has led many initiatives linking planet and health. @ellenmarygardening and @mr_plantgeek chat with Clare not only about the RHS plans for the future but the future of horticulture altogether. Perhaps it needs a rebrand? Part II of this episode is released on Monday 6th November 2023. ...
2023-11-051h 08
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S12 E03 - Japanese Gardening with Jake Hobson Founder of NiwakiEver wandered around a Japanese garden and felt calm, peace and tranquil? If you wonder why that is, Jake Hobson Founder of Niwaki chats with @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening about the art of Japanese gardening and the benefits of using Japanese gardening tools in your garden. Check them out at www.niwaki.com Afterwards Michael and Ellen catch up about RHS Tatton and other fun gardening things! Don't forget to listen out for contributors of the podcast Lee Connolly aka @skinnyjeangardener with his gardening tips for children and Max McMurdo @maxreestore with some DIY tips for your garden. Series 12 of...
2023-07-2357 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S12 E01 - Meet Marta Lowcewicz the Head Gardener at the Barbican Conservatory in LondonThink brutalist architecture meets plants and thats what the Barbican Conservatory is all about! We chat with the head gardeners Marta in this first episode of series 12 of the podcast. Marta explains to @mr_plantgeek and @ellenmarygardening about how she got into gardening, what it's like to garden at the Barbican and some of the amazing plants softening the striking architecture. Afterwards Michael and Ellen gossip about BBC Gardeners World Live from a bench at Warwick Castle. In this episode also hear from two new contributors for series 12 - Lee Connelly @skinnyjeangardener with some fantastic tips to get your kids g...
2023-06-2554 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S11 E01 - The voice behind the RHS Advice Line. Meet Rebekah Mealey who has the answers to your gardening questions.New series! To kick off series 11, meet Rebekah from The Royal Horticultural Society advice line. If you have gardening questions and are a member of the RHS Rebekah has got the answers. In this chat with @mrplantgeek and @ellenmarygardening Rebekah talks about the advice line and some funny gardening stories. And new for this series, Michael and Ellen set some homework for listeners, gossip about introspection plus give a shout out to The Songbird Charity - bringing back the sound of garden birds. New sponsor for series 11 of the podcast is Stoneleigh Wines. Premium wines made from 100% sustainably sourced grapes and...
2023-03-261h 05
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S9 - News and gossip 11th December 2022It's the news and gossip again this week as @mrplantgeek and @ellenmarygardening report on giant sunflowers, endangered birds and much more, keeping you up to date with the horticultural news. As ever Michael decides he's hungry devouring some hazelnut butter as he talks about his trip to the South of France to admire Cyclamen. Ellen Mary tries to contain her excitement about her new wellbeing retreats with People Plants Wellbeing, there's some travel chat and plants in there somewhere too. Sponsor of series 9 is @lavaliteuk - a range of products that offer the horticultural world ecological solutions, including moisture management, fro...
2022-12-1128 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S7 Episode Five - The goodness of gardening with BBC Gardeners World presenter Arit AndersonThis weeks episode is filled with the joy of gardening as @ellenmarygardening and @mrplantgeek chat with TV presenter and award winning garden designer Arit Anderson. Hear about Arit's route into horticulture, her passion for spreading the wellbeing benefits of gardening and what a 'wolliday' is! Plus Michael and Ellen gossip about flower trials, houseplants and hotel bookings. Also hear from our contributors @anya_thegarden_fairy and @unwrappedandrefill This series is sponsored by Hillier Garden Centres The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook
2022-06-191h 21The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S7 - News and gossip 29th May 2022In this week's horticultural news @mrplantgeek and @ellenmarygardening report on the food of the future, excavations of a Glasgow flower show plus much more and in the gossip, it's all about RHS Chelsea Flower Show as Michael and Ellen chat through their favourite finds at the show. This series is sponsored by Hillier Garden Centres The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook
2022-05-2925 minThe Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S7 Episode Two - Living off foraged food for a year with Monica WildeIn this weeks episode @mrplantgeek and @ellenmarygardening chat with foraging expert Monica Wilde who took the pledge to eat only foraged food for a whole year. Intrigued to find out how the experiment went, Michael and Ellen delve into cravings, the winter months and changing bowl habits! Monica's book 'The Wilderness Cure' is being released in June 2022. Contributors this week are Dr Radha talking about mental health and Vivara UK with tips for wildlife. And after all of that the gossip this week includes some familiar instgrammers including @dahliabeach @greenfingeredcityboy and @vegepoduk after a day at the R...
2022-05-081h 06
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S6 - News and gossip 27th February 2022Another news and gossip episode covering the peat ban and expensive snowdrops to gifting terrariums. This is also the second part of a double careers in horticulture chat where Michael and Ellen delve deeper into their careers and the vast array of career paths in the industry. The first part can be found in the podcast library dated 13th February. This series is sponsored by Vivara, suppliers of wildlife accessories, food and plants, helping you to create a biodiverse garden. Find them at www.vivara.co.uk The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram
2022-02-2733 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast S6 - News and gossip 13th February 2022This episode is packed full of plant based news including potato milk and bamboo homes for tarantulas. Plus after a successful Young People in Horticulture event, Michael and Ellen were inspired to talk about careers in horticulture to promote the vast array of jobs involving plants. This is the first of a two part episode, with the second due to be released on 27th February. This series is sponsored by Vivara, suppliers of wildlife accessories, food and plants, helping you to create a biodiverse garden. Find them at www.vivara.co.uk The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Inst...
2022-02-1333 minThe Plant Based PodcastS6 E1 - A new vegetable bonanza to start the new series with Pro VegKicking off series 6 of the podcast, this episode is packed full of new and exciting vegetable varieties you will definitely want to grow! Michael and Ellen visit Pro Veg for a tour of the trial gardens and get to taste some along the way. From huge tomatoes to vibrant radish, incredible peas and all shapes and sizes of squash, indulge in the world of vegetable trials. * please note we were out in the field, so sound quality varies. Also we are excited to announce our first two new contributors for series 6 - Lorna Ko @Lornasnaps will be giving you the ga...
2022-02-061h 09The Plant Based PodcastS6 - News and gossip 30th January 2022It's been sometime since Michael and Ellen have been together in person, so in this excitable catch up that not only includes a news round up including plant friendly milk and the energy crisis impact on the horticulture industry...there's admiration for David Attenborough, love for Nandina and a beach that looked like the moon. This series is sponsored by Vivara, suppliers of wildlife accessories, food and plants, helping you to create a biodiverse garden. Find them at www.vivara.co.uk The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook
2022-01-3025 min
The Plant Based PodcastAllotments 2022New year, new gardening plans! In this episode hear from some of Instagrams top allotmenteers with their plans for gardening and growing their own food this year. Get some inspiration from your favourite growers and check them out online: @mitch_grows @rachels.allotment @allotment.fight.club @bnbkitchengarden @allotment4life @lisamaries_kitchengarden And as ever, Michael and Ellen have a gossip about just about everything from new years resolutions to gardening against the theory. Happy new year! The Plant...
2022-01-091h 21
The Plant Based PodcastBest of episode. Snippets from S1 to S5To round off the end of series 5, Michael and Ellen look back through some of their favourite episodes from all the series so far, giving you snippets of each to enjoy. It's a mash up of the best! From wildlife hero Chris Packham to plant hunting with Ambra Edwards, all guests have been so interesting and exciting. Series 6 coming soon… The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook
2022-01-0248 min
The Plant Based PodcastS5 E8 The plants you see on TVHave you ever wondered where the flowers come from on TV sets? Or perhaps you've noticed a Rose blooming at the wrong time of year on your favourite TV show! Michael and Ellen speak with Phillip Corps an award winning floral stylist to find out how it's all done! Plus hear from regular contributors, Natalie from @homeofhappyplants with nursery gossip plus Jo @diyjobehari with some handy garden DIY tips! In association with our friends Three Spirit Drinks the trio of non alcoholic botanical drinks. Grab your 10% discount with code PLANTEDPODCAST to use at www...
2021-12-191h 06
The Plant Based PodcastS5 - News and Gossip 12 December 2021In this news and gossip episode, find out where a new woodland is being planted for Captain Sir Tom Moore, how many steps it takes to import plants and who won the lifetime achievement award at the garden media guild awards in this week's horticultural news. Plus Michael and Ellen gossip about Christmas decorations and the anti Christmas party live on Instagram Monday 13th December. There's also fail of the week and the most beautiful new plant of the week. In association with our friends Three Spirit Drinks the trio of non alcoholic botanical...
2021-12-1236 min
The Plant Based PodcastS5 - News and Gossip: 28 November 2021In this news and gossip episode, find out how plants will save the world, protecting precious plants at holiday resort beaches and lots more on this week's horticultural news. Plus Michael and Ellen gossip about award ceremonies, winter watering and garden hangovers. Plus there's fail of the week and shout outs for top fans. In association with our friends Three Spirit Drinks the trio of non alcoholic botanical drinks. Grab your 10% discount with code PLANTEDPODCAST to use at www.threespiritdrinks.com The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram
2021-11-2837 min
The Plant Based PodcastS5 E6 Wildlife watch with Hamza YassinMichael and Ellen go wild in this episode with Hamza Yassin, wildlife cameraman and TV presenter. From the most glorious landscape in Scotland Hamza shares what it takes to get the best shots, bringing the world of wildlife to your screen. Tetchy Michael and calm Ellen later gossip about random musings including plants of course, and hear from regular contributors, Natalie from @homeofhappyplants with nursery gossip plus Jo @diyjobehari with some handy garden DIY tips! In association with our friends Three Spirit Drinks the trio of non alcoholic botanical drinks. Grab your 10% discount...
2021-11-211h 47
The Plant Based PodcastS5 E5 From Bladerunner to the Million Gardens Movement with Frank GiustraThis episode is about the power of gardening and food, as Michael and Ellen chat with Frank Giustra from the Million Gardens Movement. Frank has turned to gardening after spending years in film producing working with many celebrities and being the executive producer for Bladerunner 2049, along with much more. Frank is a philanthropist and along with Kimbal Musk, the Million Gardens Movement has been set up to encourage as many people - a million in fact - to get gardening. Find out all about it in this episode plus which celebrities are supporting it! Also in this episode hear from the...
2021-11-071h 30
The Plant Based PodcastS5 - News and Gossip: 31 October 2021In this inbetweeny episode, get the lowdown on this week's horticultural news plus Michael and Ellen gossip about birthdays, chrysanthemums, plant spreadsheets and fall colour. Plus there's fail of the week and shout outs for top fan of the podcast and generally wonderful plant lovers who support the podcast. In association with Always Kalanchoe, the colourful, easy to grow houseplant perfect for any home. Find out more; Insta: @alwayskalanchoe www.kalanchoe.nl The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter
2021-10-3139 min
The Plant Based PodcastS5 E04 What it takes to manage a Manor House gardenIn this weeks episode Michael and Ellen visit award winning garden design Xa Tollemache at her home, Helmingham Hall in Suffolk. Xa talks through her career as a designer and how much work keeping a moated home and gardens take. Plus hear from our regular contributors, Natalie from @homeofhappyplants with nursery gossip plus Jo @diyjobehari with some handy garden DIY tips! There's a gossip as always and all in association with @alwayskalanchoe the easiest flowering succulent for your home and garden. www.kalanchoe.nl The Plant Based Podcast:
2021-10-241h 04
The Plant Based PodcastS5 Inbetweeny 01 - Getting young people into horticulture with Josh from kiln farmIn this episode Michael and Ellen visit Kiln Farm Nursery in Suffolk to chat with apprentice Josh about his love of plants, what the horticultural apprenticeship involves and what the future holds for him. In association with Always Kalanchoe, the colourful, easy to grow houseplant perfect for any home. Find out more; Insta: @alwayskalanchoe www.kalanchoe.nl The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook
2021-10-0344 min
The Plant Based PodcastS5 E02 Learn about flower breeding with Laura MasorIn this episode we chat with Laura Masor, flower breeder from Ball Floraplant. Have you ever wondered how new plant varieties are grown? Have you ever wondered how YOU could create new varieties yourself? Laura gives us some insider news and tips about the world of breeding for colour, vigor and disease resistance. Find Laura on Instagram @laura.makes.flowers Welcome also to two new contributors to series 5! Nat from @homeofhappyplants has all the nursery gossip plus Jo from @diyjobehari with some garden DIY tips that might just come in very handy! Michael and Ellen...
2021-09-261h 03
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast - Wellbeing special: Dr Amir Khan talks social prescribing and wildlife gardeningIn the last of the wellbeing special episodes before series 5 starts, Ellen Mary chats with Dr Amir Khan, celebrity GP, bestselling author and wildlife trust ambassador (and thats just a few of his roles) - about his love of gardening and wellbeing. Find out about social prescribing, the importance of green spaces and the enjoyment found in wildlife gardening. This is a feel good episode about creating a garden good for people and the planet no matter what size space you have. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Fa...
2021-09-1249 min
The Plant Based PodcastWellbeing Special: How forest gardening improves wellbeing with Trees for the FutureDid you know that sand from the Sahara makes its way to the Amazon Basin to help it flourish? Did you know that forest gardening in Africa helps the environment across the world? Everything is connected. In this episode of the podcast Ellen Mary talks with Lindsay Cobb from Trees for the Future about the importance of trees and educating farmers in Africa to farm using the forest gardening technique, ultimately improving wellbeing. With a target of planting 1billion trees by 2030, they are on track to improve peoples lives, the world and everyones wellbeing. It's an inspirational organisation and a r...
2021-08-2943 min
The Plant Based PodcastWellbeing Special: Get your dose of wellbeing in the garden with Dr. Lauriane Chalmin-PuiIn this special wellbeing episode, Ellen Mary chats with the RHS wellbeing fellow, Dr Lauriane Chalmin-Pui who leads a research programme on the influence of gardens and gardening on health and wellbeing. During this episode Lauriane explains what 'dose gardening' is, what the key findings were in the recent research and what the future holds for gardening and wellbeing. You'll also get some tips of how to get the most out of your time in your garden for your own mental and physical health wellbeing. But can you overdose..? The Plant Based Podcast: w...
2021-08-1546 min
The Plant Based PodcastWellbeing special: Ashley Edwards from Horatios GardenIn the second of eight special episodes of the podcast between series 4 and 5, Ellen Mary chats with Ashley Edwards, Head Gardener at Horatios Garden, a charity that creates and cares for therapeutic gardens in NHS spinal injury centres. With gardens based around the UK, Ashley tells us why they are so important and about the difference plants make throughout recovery from traumatic, life changing injuries. Ashley has an extensive background in horticulture and this episode has a true feel good factor. Plants really do make people happy! The Plant Based Podcast: w...
2021-08-0138 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E14 The series four finale! What are your plant memories?The fourth series of the Plant Based Podcast is coming to an end (boo!), so for the final episode, Michael and Ellen are joined by author and illustrator, Katie Vaz, to reflect on their best and worst plant memories! Katie talks about her upbringing, from growing up surrounded by nature to her long-lasting love of plants and gardening. She also reveals some of her earliest gardening memories and why she chooses to make a note of her plants that have died. Katie also shares how her new illustrated memoir, 'My Life in Plants', was inspired by plants...
2021-07-1856 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 Inbetweeny - For the love of lawns!With a 250-year heritage, Erddig Hall offers a beautiful 1,200 acres of garden, lawns and greenery – all of which is looked after by one man, Glynn Smith! With such a rich history and stunning surroundings, Michael and Ellen sit down with Glynn, the Head Gardener at Erddig, to talk all things lawns! In part one, Glynn shares some insight into his horticultural career – from starting out as an apprentice at just 16, to his 35-year (and counting) career at one of the National Trust's biggest estates. He also shares some of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic as w...
2021-07-1641 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E13 Buildings built from plants with the help of Hempitecture!What first began as a growing mountain of landfill, that could be seen from Matthew Mead's classroom, has since transformed into a passion to change the construction industry. Matthew Mead, founder and CEO of Hempitecture, sits down with Michael and Ellen - all the way from Sun Valley, Idaho - to discuss how plants have created the next best building materials. In part one, he talks about how Hempitecture came about and shares some staggering statistics surrounding building material waste, and how this spurred him to make a change. He also talks through Hempitecture's plant-based alternatives to...
2021-07-111h 02
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival News 06/07/21In this bonus podcast episode, Michael and Ellen talk through a photo tour of their day at the Royal Horticultural Society's hotly anticipated Hampton Court Garden Festival! The show is open from 6th to 11th July but your podcast hosts got exclusive access on press day. From stunning Orchids to a house of Hostas, beautiful to the controversial show gardens and allotments for inspiration at home. It's all here on the Plant Based Podcast. Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.thep...
2021-07-0627 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 04/07/21In this weeks plant based podcast episode it's the news round up with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary. Find out what the latest horticultural news is from winners of the plant awards, new species, to the joy of flower shows plus mushrooms and microgreens in Chiswick. There's a news extra as well where Michael and Ellen discuss the news amongst many other plant related gossip including the dreary weather. Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram
2021-07-0433 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E12 Gardening in the American heat with Lynn Ferguson!Lynn Ferguson brings some LA sunshine to the Plant Based Podcast this week as she sits down with Michael and Ellen to chat all things hay bales, chickens and the challenges of growing vegetables in the American climate. In part one, Lynn - a performer, comedy writer and actress – reflects on the highlights of her career, including her well-known role as Mac in Chicken Run. She also talks about how a spontaneous stand-up comedy gig with her brother landed her a job in LA, where she now lives – attributing her 'go with the flow' mentality to all of h...
2021-06-271h 09
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 20/06/21In this weeks plant based podcast episode it's the news round up with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary. Find out what the latest horticultural news is from rare orchids thought extinct, to garden shows, royal roses and gardening for wellbeing. There's a news extra as well where Michael and Ellen discuss the news amongst many other plant related gossip! Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook This episod...
2021-06-2019 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E11 The reality of a plant-based diet with Chris Bavin!Join Michael and Ellen for another episode of the Plant Based Podcast where they talk to TV presenter and fresh produce importer, Chris Bavin! In part one, Chris talks about his journey with fresh produce, from importing and selling flowers and plants at 16 to growing up with his gardening enthusiast Dad. He also talks about his past project, The Naked Grocer, and shares how his passion for sustainability inspired the idea – urging everyone to stand together to live a more sustainable life. Chris also reveals how the success of the Naked Grocer introduced him to the world of...
2021-06-131h 10
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 06/06/21In this weeks news round up Michael and Ellen have pulled together all the horticultural happenings to keep you updated. From a bra fitting shed to a whole lot of caterpillars and awards for Howard Nurseries and a discussion about brown lawns. Would you let yours burn? Not forgetting the news extra when Ellen tries to keep Michael on track but he's much more concerned about the state of his Tulip foliage. Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Tw...
2021-06-0627 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E10 Tomato talk with Sterling Suffolk!With enough tomato trees to cover the length of over 11 football pitches, the team at Sterling Suffolk are putting Suffolk on the map as being a major producer of tomatoes. After experiencing so much success in just a few short years, Michael and Ellen sit down with Horticultural Director, Richard Lewis, to discuss Sterling Suffolk's approach to tomato growing and so much more! In part one, Richard shares how the company first began and talks through the growing process of their tomato trees. He also reveals how the company were able to achieve 95% self-sufficiency last year, allowing...
2021-05-301h 20
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 23/05/21It's the news round up on this weeks plant based podcast with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary as hosts. Find out what has been happening in the world of horticulture from new gardening books to growing plants on Mars, plus a news 'extra' where Michael and Ellen discuss and give their own opinions about the news and a whole lot of other chat. In his episode, hear about Ellens new book 'The Joy of Gardening' and Michaels love for his new garden. Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! T...
2021-05-2329 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E9 From Spice Girls to the Chelsea Flower Show – all the gossip from Nicki Chapman!In this week's episode of the Plant Based Podcast Michael and Ellen sit down with television presenter, Nicki Chapman, to discuss her career all the way up to presenting the Chelsea Flower Show! In part one, Nicki reflects on her incredibly successful career in the music industry, from landing her first job on Pop Stars to travelling the world with the likes of The Spice Girls and Take That. She also describes how her urban garden has been a welcome relief over the past couple of years - helping her to recuperate during a period of ill...
2021-05-161h 04
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 09/05/21It's the news round up on this weeks plant based podcast with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary as hosts. Find out what has been happening in the world of horticulture from Cherry Trees to plants stealing genes, plus a news 'extra' where Michael and Ellen discuss and give their own opinions about the news. In his episode, hear about Hydrangea tea and snobbish gardeners! Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Fac...
2021-05-0930 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 25/04/21It's the news round up on this weeks plant based podcast with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary as hosts. Find out what has been happening in the world of horticulture from Plymouth to Rome plus a news 'extra' where Michael and Ellen discuss and give their own opinions about the news. In his episode, hear about sea grass meadows, door mice and plant based podcast topping the charts! Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram ...
2021-04-2525 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E7 Plant trafficking and investigative journalism with Nelufar HadayatFrom the wild depths of Nigeria to the freezing cold temperatures of the arctic, and now to the Plant Based Podcast! Nelufar Hadayat – an award-winning journalist and presenter - sits down with Michael and Ellen to discuss everything from the reality of investigative journalism to her personal houseplant collection. In part one, Nelufar reflects on her childhood in Afghanistan and how her experiences growing up helped to shape her career as a journalist highlighting environmental issues and cultural upheaval. Whilst talking about her series, The Traffickers, Nelufar shares her experience of discovering the black market of endangered tree...
2021-04-181h 32
The Plant Based PodcastS4 - News 11/04/21In this weeks episode you can hear the first plant based podcast horticultural news round with Michael Perry and Ellen Mary as hosts. Every other week find out what has been happening in the world of horticulture plus a news 'extra' where Michael and Ellen discuss and give their own opinions about the news. In his episode, hear about bamboo with a warning, RHS closures due to the sad death of Prince Philip and the cancellation of some garden shows across the UK. Visit www.theplantbasedpodcast.net for more info and to win prizes! ...
2021-04-1116 min
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E6 The power of plantsJoin Michael and Ellen for another episode of the Plant Based Podcast where they chat to organic gardener, Tanya Anderson, who is also known as Lovely Greens! In part one, Tanya shares the story of how her gardening journey began, reflecting on how her upbringing in the capital of America fuelled her love for plants today. After working as a graphic designer, that landed her in different countries around the world, Tanya reveals how she built a business from her love of all things green - from sharing tips and tricks on her social media channels, to c...
2021-04-041h 11
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E5 The beauty of Japanese gardening!Surprise! Michael and Ellen are here with another episode of The Plant Based Podcast this week, taking a deep dive into all things Japanese gardening with garden designer, Makiko. In this episode, Makiko shares her journey, from working in the hotel industry in Japan, to studying horticulture in the UK – where she now spends half her time. She reflects on her time working at The Chelsea Flower show and a number of Japanese orchid festivals over the past couple of years – sharing her appreciation for the plant with fellow orchid lover, Michael! She also talks abou...
2021-03-281h 16
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E4 Social media and meIn this episode of the Plant Based Podcast, Michael and Ellen sit down with not one, but two special guests to delve into the worlds of horticulture and social media! In part one, Lucy from @SheGrowsVeg talks all about her personal journey – from leaving the hustle and bustle of the fashion industry and immersing herself into nature, growing different types of edible goodness and cultivating a social media following of more than 100,000 people! She also talks through her thoughts on social media, sharing how she gained her impressive following, how she deals with the pressure that comes fr...
2021-03-211h 35
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E3 All about orchids Join plant fanatics Michael and Ellen as they chat all things orchids with Dan Pass, the Account Manager at the UK's largest orchid nursery, Double H Nurseries. In this fact-filled episode, Dan gives us a glimpse into what it takes to grow their exceptional orchids, and what it's like to be supplying them to the likes of Marks and Spencer's and Waitrose. He also shares tips and tricks to help you care for your orchids at home, and even gives his recommendations for those starting their own orchid growing journey! Dan also opens up about...
2021-03-071h 22
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E2 The secret behind Perrywood's success!In this episode, Michael and Ellen visit Perrywood Garden Centre in Colchester, to chat to owner and director, Alan Bourne. Perrywood has been running since the 1950s. What first began as a way for Alan's parents to sell their home-grown goods, has since flourished into an extremely successful business, turning their pennies into millions – picking up a string of awards along the way! Alan shares anecdotes of the business' early years and reflects on how his passion for growing plants made it possible to face any obstacles head-on. With COVID-19 being their most recent challenge, Al...
2021-02-281h 22
The Plant Based PodcastS4 E1 Celebrating independent nurseriesJoin us as we kick off series 4 of the Plant Based Podcast by championing small growers and celebrating independent nurseries. Michael and Ellen meet Ruth Goudy from Kiln Farm Nursery in Suffolk. Kiln Farn is a true family business. It's been in the family since 1932, and Ruth even grew up there! The nursery business started when she and her husband, Paul (who she met when he worked for her dad) rented a field, built a shed and started selling plants! Recorded in Summer 2020, Ruth reflects on how being an independent nursery without the constraints of big chain growers, allowed Kiln Fa...
2021-02-211h 04
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast Bonus - Michael Perry interviews Ellen Mary and delves into her plant based past and futureIn the second of two special bonus episodes where Michael and Ellen interview each other, it's Ellen's turn to get the third degree! Michael delved deep to find out a surprising fact about Ellen's past, what she would tell her younger self all of these years later plus a quick fire question round and plenty of laughs! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net
2021-01-3130 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast Bonus - Ellen Mary interviews Michael Perry and delves into his plant based past and futureFind two bonus episodes in the lead up to series 4 of the podcast which are about the hosts themselves! In this first episode, Michael Perry is interviewed by Ellen Mary who gives some secrets away and delves into Michael's plant based past, future & everything inbetween...including what irritates him, what his plant star sign is & why he doesn't like his cooking critiqued! All here on the plant based podcast. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net
2021-01-2435 min
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast Bonus - Down the allotment with Richard Chivers, Sharpen your spadesIn this bonus episode Michael and Ellen chat with the Adonis of the allotment, Richard Chivers about lockdown mental health, growing your own food and allotment communities. Richard is also a great cook so find out how he would cook all of your favourite homegrown vegetables. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net
2021-01-101h 13
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast Bonus - Christmas plants, puns and PoinsettiasThis Christmas episode is full of mistletoe, new years resolutions and christmas trees! Plus, hear James Cornish from J&A Japonicas talking about the most popular christmas plant - The Poinsettia. Learn how to look after your christmas tree, hear listeners new year resolutions and enjoy some high jinks with Michael and Ellen. Merry Christmas everyone. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Additional articles for this podcast Poinsettia Care Tips and Why chose a real Christmas tree
2020-12-201h 14
The Plant Based PodcastThe Plant Based Podcast Bonus - Getting the dirt with Kirsty Ward aka My Little AllotmentDo you lift or mulch your Dahlias? In this bonus gossip episode, Michael and Ellen chat with friend of the podcast - Kirsty Ward (My Little Allotment) about what's going on down her plot. Plus there's other random gardening chat to keep you amused from bathtub Tulips to Michaels no lawn garden. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net
2020-12-1331 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E13 Part 1 - Chatting with wildlife hero Chris PackhamConservation hero of the year, Honorary Doctor of Science, CBE for services to wildlife and nature conservation, host of The Really Wild Show and Spring and Autumnwatch. The very special guest in this episode is, of course, Chris Packham! Michael and Ellen chat to Chris in his garden, surrounded by birds and butterflies and Chris's dogs, Sid and Nancy. They discuss biophilia and the importance of the connection between humans and nature as well as in relation to coronavirus and how things need to change in the future. Chris talks about The Really Wild Show...
2020-08-3047 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 Inbetweeny Episode 10 Fifty reasons to love plantsThere are so many reasons to love plants, from enjoying the fragrance of a sweet pea to watching a busy bee collecting pollen from an Echinacea. In this episode Michael and Ellen read through 50 reasons why we all love plants with suggestions from the podcast listeners to some of Michael and Ellens favourite reasons why they love plants. The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Twitter Facebook This episode of The Plant Based Podcast is brought to you by our friends at Natu...
2020-08-1623 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E11 Getting kids into gardening In this episode, Michael and Ellen chat to Lee, AKA the Skinny Jean Gardener, about his love of sharing gardening with kids. Lee used to be an electrician but discovered a love of plants, becoming the 'cool kid' on the gardening scene! He has set up a vegetable garden at Jimmy Doherty's farm, worked with Jamie Oliver and Alan Titchmarsh and appeared on Blue Peter! He combines kids' entertainment and education together at his shows which he tours round schools and festival - all while sporting his glittery jacket! Over lockdown, he released his book 'How to...
2020-08-091h 04
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E10 The world of plants down underEvery wondered what a Plant Geek's plant collection is like?! This episode of The Plant Based Podcast kicks off with Michael showing Ellen around his new home, giving a tour of his extensive houseplant collection. They then interview Greg Bourke, the Curator and Manager of the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Australia. Greg started his working life as an electrician but has worked in horticulture and conservation at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden for nine years now. Greg explains why the Blue Mountains are blue, and they talk about the incredible variety of plants at the Botanic...
2020-07-261h 00
The Plant Based PodcastS3 Inbetweeny Episode 7: Your gardening confessionsDo you need to confess? Seems us plant lovers have quite a lot of plant confessions hidden in the shed! In this episode Michael and Ellen confess to their plant sins and discuss listeners who answered a call to arms about what they really get up to when no one is looking. It's an episode that will make you giggle...but will you admit to yours after you hear these? Pinching plants & cuttings...it's all here on the plant based podcast! The Plant Based Podcast: www.theplantbasedpodcast.net Instagram Tw...
2020-07-0540 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E7 Making freezers a tasty treasure trove of plantsPlants AND food – what could be a better combo? allplants unites both of these and brings them together in delicious, easy and convenient plant-based meals that can be delivered frozen to your door. In this mouth-watering episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael and Ellen meet Alex Petrides, one of the founders of allplants, and Joey O'Hare, the senior development chef who is responsible for creating all the tasty recipes for allplants' meals. In just three years, allplants has grown from two brothers delivering its meals using London buses for transport to having a...
2020-06-1455 min
The Plant Based PodcastInbetweeny Episode 5: Gardening Tips and Best Plants for BeginnersThis episode is for beginner gardeners and the more experienced to talk through common gardening terms that can seem confusing to begin with plus some easy and cool plants that anyone can grow! Do you think 'thinning out' belongs in the hairdressers? Ellen Mary chats through her top gardening terms that may need some explanation to newbies, then Michael picks his top plants for you to get growing with ease. There's some great info to get anyone started in gardening plus a good reminder for everyone to help encourage more gardeners. The Plant B...
2020-06-0752 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 - Inbetweeny Episode 3A very special inside out episode, where Michael looks at indoor windowsills, and Ellen looks at balcony planting. Gardening has become the highlight of our lockdown days. It's exciting to see during the pandemic, so many people enjoying gardening and growing their own food. But what if you don't have much space? How do you enjoy the natural world from a balcony or patio or perhaps a windowsill? First up, Michael chats through what's growing on his windowsill at the moment. He has been experimenting with some outdoor patio plants, and the results have been...
2020-05-1033 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 - A virtual celebration of gardeningIn this episode hear all about Garden Day - the nationwide community benefit movement that takes place on Sunday 10th May 2020. During the current lockdown, more and more people around the world are enjoying their outside space. So this year's call is for gardening enthusiasts to consider a virtual celebration with family and friends. In this episode Ellen Mary discusses the wellbeing benefits of plants and gardening while Michael provides some great ideas to celebrate the day virtually. Plus hear from Ann-Marie Powell, Jonathan Moseley, Camila Klich & Marianne Mogendorff. Get your flower crowns...
2020-05-0330 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E4 Gardening in times of conflict and isolation"Plants are a great equaliser. A geranium is a geranium, no matter where in the world you are, or what you are experiencing" Lalage Snow is an award-winning freelance photojournalist, writer and filmmaker who has experienced life in some of the most hostile and war-torn places on the planet. Her book, "War Gardens" explores gardens tended to by those caught up in conflict around the world and shows how gardening can bring peace in times of conflict and in the most extreme places. Lalage, Michael and Ellen chat about how gardening takes you out of...
2020-04-1944 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 - Inbetweeny Episode 2In the second 'in betweeny' episode for series three, we pack in a lot of fun so get ready to listen and be entertained with plants and gossip! Michael chats about houseplants and discusses your tips for looking after them before Ellen Mary shares some of your lockdown activities including seed watch and crafts. That's all before our special guest, that guy off the telly, Jez Rose, talks to us about honey bees and horticulture plus he gives us the gossip about his podcast partner BBC Gardeners World host Adam Frost! ...
2020-04-1243 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E3 Meet the pioneer of indoor garden designYour favourite plant lovers, Michael and Ellen meet Ian Drummond, director of the fabulous company, Indoor Garden Design. They are specialists in interior landscaping, from design to installation through to maintenance. Alongside installations in offices, Indoor Garden Design's speciality is events and creating living backgrounds and sculptures for parties. The team of green-fingered experts has styled high profile events such as the BAFTAs, London Fashion Week and, most spectacularly, Sir Elton John's Summer Ball at his house in Windsor. Ian chats about how the company started and has celebrated houseplants way before they became Instagram...
2020-04-0548 min
The Plant Based PodcastS3 E2 Gardening as a wheelchair userGardeners' World presenter and gardening writer, Mark Lane, meets Michael and Ellen to discuss how he got into gardening, and how it all started with a career in medical and architectural publishing. His love of gardening was sparked by his architectural work and learning how outside landscaping relates to building and design. Life changed for Mark following a car crash in 2001 which means he is now a wheelchair user. Throughout his rehabilitation, Mark studied garden design and went on to be the UK's first garden designer in a wheelchair, as well as the first BBC gardening presenter...
2020-03-2155 min
The Plant Based PodcastNorth Carolina plants and eclectic tastesIn this episode, Ellen Mary is at the University of North Carolina Botanical Gardens in Charlotte with Jeff Gillman, the Director. The garden is an eclectic mix of a diverse orchid collection, lots of carnivorous plants, native plants and rhododendrons too. Their conversation is eclectic too, ranging from Fleetwood Mac to cookies made with cricket flour and silkworm soup! In the second half, Ellen Mary tries some very unusual candy flavours, before the conversation turns to hallucinogenic honey. Jeff shares his passion to connect plants with people, which is also the motto of the Botanical Gardens. He...
2020-02-1658 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E12 - Social Alchemy with Three SpiritIn this episode, Michael and Ellen enjoy sampling the range of botanical drinks from Three Spirit with Dash and Tatiana, the couple behind the brand. Three Spirit are all about 'bringing plants to the party' with their drinks, which contain medicinal, functional, active ingredients found in botanics. They chat about lots of unusual plants and roots from around the world and their benefits and effects. Three Spirit drinks utilise the treats and treasures of the plant kingdom to give people a buzz, without alcohol or hangovers. Many people are choosing to drink less alcohol and Three Spirit o...
2019-12-1552 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E10 Grow Your Food with VegepodIn this episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael and Ellen meet Neil Urry and Alex Allen, owners of Vegepod UK. They moved from Australia to England in 2018 to launch Vegepod in the UK. This is their story as to how they came to be part of the Vegepod family. Then in part two, Ellen meets Simon Holloway from Vegepod Australia on the beautiful shores of Manly beach. Over a beer, they have a chat about the origins of Vegepod, how Vegepod encourages people to Grow Your Food and some of the communities Vegepod is helping along...
2019-11-1747 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E9 Demystifying the most controversial plant of our timesIn this episode of The Plant Based Podcast we explore the fascinating and misunderstood world of CBD oils. Leon and Michael from Honest Hemp, a pioneering grower of organic hemp and producer of superior cannabidiol CBD products, talk to Michael and Ellen. They unpack the misconceptions about the legalities, and the confusion between CBD and cannabis, making the distinction clear about how it is perfectly legal! Honest Hemp, based in Surrey, produces 130,000 bottles of CBD oil a day, so these guys really know their stuff! They explore what the future holds for CBD and what...
2019-11-0343 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E7 Inside "one of the Meccas of horticulture": Exploring RHS WisleyRHS gardens are one of the most stunning displays and are a true dream for any horticultrual fan to explore. But just what does it take to look after one? With such variety and high standards expected it's no mean feat. The star of this episode of The Plant Based Podcast is Peter Goodchild, leader of the Alpine team at RHS Wisley. Peter talks to Michael and Ellen about his journey from gardener at Legoland to being responsible for a stunning display of Alpines which attracts visitors from far and wide. He discusses how the diversity of p...
2019-10-0659 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E6 The Beauty Of Cut FlowersGabriel Reid fell in love with flowers as a child. Over the years she evolved that passion into a cut flower business, and Gabriel's Garden was soon formed. Michael and Ellen visit the stunning gardens to meet Gabriel and find out how she started selling salads and edibles at farmer's markets, and how that grew into selling cut flowers. As an artisan florist and grower of fine flowers, Gabriel now sows, grows and delivers seasonal flowers fresh from her Norfolk gardens. Gabriel discusses the emotional connection that people can have with a specific type of...
2019-09-2247 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E4 Creating Underwater GardensJoin the Plant Based Podcast to explore the world of aquascaping and creating stunning landscapes underwater. Ray McCune and George Farmer from Scaped Nature in Norwich speak to Michael and Ellen to discuss how creativity needn't be limited to houseplants and how unusual spaces and scenery can be created within landscaped tanks and aquariums – without needing a snorkel! From moss art to terrariums and complete aquascaping kits, for novices and experts alike, Scaped Nature has it covered! This episode of The Plant Based Podcast also explores the therapeutic benefits of aquascaping, and the calming effect th...
2019-08-251h 07
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E3 Welcome to the world of functional drinks, all powered by plants!Plant based drinks are a huge growth area and one company specialising in this is Botanic Lab. Michael and Ellen meet Rebekah, founder of the company, who explains how, with eating and drinking becoming about so much more than just stopping thirst and hunger, Botanic Lab is expanding its range to create drinking experiences. Plant milks, juices, teas, cold presses and even CBD based soft drinks are the drinks that are getting people talking. They also dissect the CBD taboo and delve in to the taboo to find out what CBD is and how it is good...
2019-08-1142 min
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E2 Reconnecting with nature to conquer depression and anxietyEmbracing plants and nature can brighten the darkest of days, and taking time out of a busy day to step outside for a moment's peace can have a huge impact on your wellbeing. Someone who knows this exceptionally well is Emma Mitchell, author of "The Wild Remedy: How Nature Mends Us". In this episode of the Plant Based Podcast, Emma chats to Michael and Ellen to discuss gardening, wellbeing and her passion for nature and how she shares this with her 100,000+ Instagram followers. They explore how nature can boost your mood and help fend off depression as...
2019-07-281h 05
The Plant Based PodcastS2 E1 How 50,000 seedlings create the perfect roseWe're back! The Plant Based Podcast is back for series 2 and in this first episode, Michael and Ellen head to Peter Beales Roses to find out how the perfect rose is selected. Nursery manager, Ian Limmer, reveals how breeding roses is a numbers game. Did you know that a single rose that you might see on the Peter Beales' stand at the Chelsea Flower Show has been selected from 50,000 seedlings which have then been whittled down over 10 years to create perfection? Ian reveals that and much more about the world of roses. He then offers h...
2019-07-281h 05
The Plant Based PodcastS1 Special 4 Behind The Scenes At The Chelsea Flower Show 2019!Ever wondered what goes into being an exhibitor at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show? It's the most prestigious gardening show in the world and unites plant lovers from every corner but just what goes into producing a Chelsea exhibit? In this special episode of the Plant Based Podcast recorded at the show, Michael Perry and Ellen Mary meet some of the people behind these show stopping displays, who are true plant experts dedicated to producing the very best plants in the world. They chat to the fantastic Medwyn Williams from Medwyn's of Anglesey...
2019-05-2144 min
The Plant Based PodcastS1 Special 3 Chelsea Flower Show special: Introducing THE PLANT OF THE YEAR!Chelsea Flower Show special: Introducing THE PLANT OF THE YEAR! It's Chelsea time! One of the most exciting weeks in any gardeners' diary where horticultural experts and plant lovers from all over the world unite to celebrate gardening! Each year, the RHS crowns one new plant its Plant of the Year and, at this year's Chelsea Flower Show, the Plant Based Podcast got to meet the team behind this year's winning plant. It just so happens it has been created by our sponsor Suttons! Michael and Ellen go behind the scenes...
2019-05-2122 min
The Plant Based PodcastS1 E10 Grow Your Own Tea With Hackney HerbalPut your feet up, put the kettle on and find out how to brew up a plant based tea in the latest episode of The Plant Based Podcast. Hackney Herbal is a social enterprise promoting health and wellbeing through herbs. Business has been booming since the recent increase in interest for health and wellbeing, and Michael and Ellen meet Nat from Hackney Herbal to discuss how herbal teas can help! Not just for the Hackney hipsters wanting an alternative brew, Hackney Herbal focuses on educating people as well as selling tea to bring awareness about...
2019-05-1950 min
The Plant Based PodcastS1 Special 2 National Gardening Week Special: Fruit Breeding Get fruity!! Markus Kobelt is a true plant fanatic. He is the founder of Lubera, a company that specialises in the breeding of unique and wonderful fruit plants. In this special National Gardening Week episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael and Ellen chat to Markus about how the only way to truly get the best, brightest colours in fruit is to grow them yourself. Markus talks about the seedless fruits he has developed, how he is changing the world of apples and the difference between breeding plants for home use vs. commercial.
2019-04-2847 min
The Plant Based PodcastS1 E8 The Current Trend Of HouseplantsHouseplants are one of the biggest trends in gardening at the moment - they're taking over! One place that is certainly true is The Plant Den in Norwich. In this episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael Perry and Ellen Mary meet Roscoe Gibson-Denney a true ambassador for plants. Roscoe, and his partner Michelle, started The Plant Den, as a tiny treasure chest of a shop in Norwich that is the same size as a garden shed but packed to the ceiling with a huge variety of plants. Since recording the podcast, The Plant Den has become...
2019-04-2138 min
The Plant Based PodcastS1 E7 Medicinal Plants And Remedies You Can Make At HomeSitting on the banks of the River Thames is a four acre site that is home to more than 5,000 species of plants from around the world. The Chelsea Physic Garden in London is a secret garden originally established by the Apothecaries in order to grow medicinal plants. Nowadays, it's bursting with edible and useful medicinal plants, and the gardens are open to the public to explore. In this episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael Perry and Ellen Mary meet Michael Holland, head of education at the garden, to find out more about the history...
2019-04-0745 min