In this episode, Kate and Phil sit down with Beth Anderson, a passionate plant health inspector and dedicated advocate for Young People in Horticulture. Beth shares her journey through the YPHA’s pilot Launch Success Challenge, a year-long initiative designed to equip under-35s with real-world marketing and branding skills for the horticultural industry.
From giving the humble Begonia an image makeover to pitching to industry leaders, and masterminding giant crepe paper flowers for Gardeners World Live, Beth talks candidly about teamwork, creativity, and why she believes the warmth and openness of horticulture makes it a truly unique place to build a career. Expect plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and a dose of infectious enthusiasm that might just make you see begonias (and compost!) in a whole new light.
YPHA: https://www.ypha.org.uk/
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In the opening episode of Season 4, Phil and Kate discover the rich personal and professional journey of Will Armitage: agricultural and horticultural consultant, entrepreneur, and current President of the HTA (Horticultural Trades Association). From rebellious beginnings to helming his family’s sixth-generation business and ultimately championing the sector on a national stage, Will shares an absorbing story of tradition, adaptation and advocacy.
This episode explores the soul of horticulture, the people who make it thrive, the quiet power of collaboration in a competitive world, and the urgent need for government recognition. Will also lifts the lid on the HTA’s vital work: from policy lobbying and business benchmarking to the power of regional networking. Plus, a surprising tale involving Victorian oil paintings, greenhouse glass, and a tree that makes Will smile every time. It’s a conversation not to be missed.
In this first episode of a two-part special from The Underground Podcast, hosts Kate and Phil dig into the root of the industry’s biggest environmental pivot—going peat free. With decades of dependency on this “gold standard” of growing media, why is it now so crucial to leave peat behind? And why is it proving so hard to replace?From the carbon cost of extraction to the slow regeneration of peatlands, this episode explores the environmental urgency driving the move away from peat. But this is no simple switch. Through conversations with leading scientists, manufacturers, campaigners, and trade leaders, we uncover what made peat so effective—and why sustainable alternatives must work harder to match its performance.Whether you’re a professional grower, a home gardener, or simply peat-curious, this episode lays the groundwork for understanding what’s at stake and what’s next in this growing media revolution. Episode 2 will pick up the trail, delving into the practical realities of making peat-free work.Featuring:Elaine Gotts – Research & Development Scientist, Levington / Evergreen Garden CareSimon Blackhurst – Horticulture ConsultantWill Scott – Team Leader, Heart of Eden (AHS Limited)Jane Hartley – Brand Portfolio Manager, Evergreen Garden CareSteve Harper – Chair, Responsible Sourcing Scheme & Managing Director, Southern TridentSally Nex – Environmental Gardener & Campaigner, Peat-Free PartnershipFran Barnes – Chief Executive, Horticultural Trades AssociationJane Lawler – Marketing Consultant & HTA Board MemberDan Durston – National Sales Director, Durston’sToby Thomas – Managing Director, RocketGro
In this special episode of The Underground Podcast, Kate and Phil take you behind the scenes at the Garden Press Event 2025, held at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. A key date in the gardening industry calendar, this event brings together brands, innovators, and industry experts to showcase the latest trends, products, and sustainability initiatives shaping the future of gardening.
As they weave through the bustling exhibition hall, Kate and Phil catch up with a diverse mix of exhibitors, from household names like Gardena, Evergreen Garden Care, and Westland to passionate independents driving innovation in the sector. From the latest in peat-free compost and eco-friendly packaging to high-tech gardening tools and educational initiatives for future generations, this episode is packed with fascinating conversations and exclusive insights. Whether you're a green-fingered enthusiast or work in the industry, this is your chance to get the inside scoop on what’s next for gardens and green spaces.
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground Podcast, Phil and Kate sit down with internationally acclaimed garden designer, TV presenter, and horticulturalist Peter Donegan. Known for his visionary approach to garden design, Peter shares his journey from growing plants under his bed as a child to designing breathtaking landscapes around the world. His passion for storytelling through gardens shines through as he discusses transformative projects, including a poignant garden in Melbourne honouring veterans and a hidden courtyard garden in a 13th-century French castle (links to view below)
Peter also delves into the importance of biodiversity, how small urban gardens can make a big impact, and why gardens should evoke emotion rather than just tick design boxes. With his signature blend of insight, humour, and deep expertise, Peter offers a fresh perspective on what it really means to create meaningful green spaces.
Don't miss Peter Donegan as he presents the APL (Association of Professional Landscapers) Awards on Friday 14th March at The Brewery, London.
Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with passion, creativity, and a little bit of rock and roll in garden design!
Peter Donegan: https://doneganlandscaping.com
Melbourne Garden: https://doneganlandscaping.com/blog/2024/03/24/peoples-choice-award-melbourne-international-flower-and-garden-show-2024/
French Garden: https://doneganlandscaping.com/blog/2022/06/28/inauguration-chateau-de-peronne-jardin-philophrosyne/
Laburnocytisus 'Adamii': https://www.suttons.co.uk/laburnocytisus-adamii_MH12152
Your hosts:Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.comKate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground, Phil & Kate continue their deep dive into the role of green spaces in our built environment. They sit down with Neil Beamsley, Group Head of Biodiversity at Bellway Homes, to uncover how one of the UK’s major housebuilders is tackling biodiversity net gain. Neil shares insights on the legal requirements for developers to improve biodiversity, the challenges of balancing nature with new homes, and why small changes—like hedgehog highways and native planting—can make a huge impact.
Later in the episode, garden writer and wildlife champion Debi Holland joins the conversation to discuss how homeowners can transform new build gardens into biodiversity hotspots. From embracing No Mow May to creating habitat-rich hedges, Debi shares practical advice for making green spaces work for both people and wildlife.
If you’ve ever wondered whether new housing estates can be a force for good in the natural world, this episode will challenge your perspective and offer inspiring ways to make a difference—one garden at a time.
Bellway Homes: www.bellway.co.uk
Plantlife: www.plantlife.org.uk
Debi Holland: debihollandgardening.com
Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground Podcast, Phil and Kate dive into the often-overlooked green spaces that weave through our urban environments—verges, car park borders, roundabouts, and other ‘in-between’ spaces. These utilitarian landscapes may seem insignificant, but as horticultural consultant and garden designer Tom Angel explains, they have an enormous role to play in biodiversity, social wellbeing, and urban resilience.Tom brings his unique perspective, shaped by his background in geography, landscape contracting, and garden design, to highlight how these neglected areas could be transformed into thriving green assets. He shares fascinating insights into the challenges faced by the grounds maintenance industry, the missed opportunities in urban green infrastructure, and the urgent need to bridge the gap between landscape architects, property managers, and contractors. From mulching and maintenance to the power of perception and policy, this conversation will change the way you look at the spaces around you.Tune in to discover why the green patches outside your local supermarket might just be the most important landscapes of all.
Tom Angel: https://www.tomangel.co.uk/
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground Podcast, Phil and Kate are joined by Peter Burks, CEO of the Garden Centre Association (GCA), to dig into the evolving landscape of garden centres. With over 40 years in the industry, Peter shares his fascinating journey from growing up on a farm to leading the GCA, offering insights into how garden centres have adapted to challenges and consumer trends.
They explore the shift to peat-free compost, the rise of garden centre cafés and farm shops, and the crucial role of education and industry collaboration in keeping garden retail thriving. Plus, Peter reveals his favourite plants, gardening habits, and the best garden centre treats (spoiler: he’s a mince pie connoisseur!). This episode is packed with knowledge, inspiration, insight and character, a must listen for anyone working with garden centres.
Garden Centre Association: https://gca.org.uk
Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground Podcast, Phil and Kate sit down with Ed Hill, founder of Horti House, a groundbreaking collective of British houseplant nurseries. From his unconventional journey—from professional sailing to working in tech start-ups—Ed shares how his diverse background equipped him to champion British growers and reshape the houseplant industry.
Discover how Horti House is bridging the gap between nurseries and retailers, solving logistical challenges, and advocating for sustainability with initiatives like peat-free growing and biomass heating. Ed explains the importance of collaboration in an industry often seen as traditional and highlights how innovation can enhance the value of British-grown houseplants. Whether you're an avid gardener or simply plant-curious, this conversation offers unique insights into the future of horticulture and the role of green spaces in our lives.
The Horti House: https://www.thehortihouse.co.uk
Double H Nurseries: http://Doubleh.co.uk/
Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this captivating episode of The Underground Podcast, Phil and Kate sit down with Samantha Cook, head gardener at the historic Bardney Manor. But there’s more to Sam than meets the eye—she’s not only the visionary behind the garden’s restoration but also the custodian of an extraordinary legacy.
Sam shares her journey from a childhood immersed in horticulture to becoming a Lady of the Manor and a champion of seed preservation. Discover the fascinating history of Bardney Manor, once home to renowned 18th-century seedsman John Sharp, and how Sam has woven his pioneering spirit into her modern-day restoration efforts. From transforming a neglected garden into a public treasure to championing educational initiatives for future generations, Sam’s story is one of passion, heritage, and inspiration.
Tune in for a delightful virtual tour of the garden, tips on seed saving, and Sam’s reflections on the deep connections between horticulture, history, and community. This is an episode that celebrates the magic of gardens and the people who bring them to life.
https://www.bardneymanorwalledgarden.com
https://www.instagram.com/ladyb_gardening_tales/
https://hardy-plant.org.uk
https://www.gardenmediaguild.co.uk
Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground, Phil and Kate sit down with Tony Clare, the Commercial Director of Henry Bell, a premium manufacturer of wild bird food and care products. With over 200 years of history, Henry Bell is leveraging its legacy and expertise to bring innovation and sustainability to a rapidly evolving market. Tony shares the company’s journey from manufacturing for other brands to launching its own. He discusses the growing importance of bird feeding for biodiversity, how garden centres can maximise their offerings with dedicated spaces and education, and why sustainable practices, like 100% recyclable packaging and environmentally friendly feed options, are key to the company’s ethos. From insights on seasonal feeding trends to the surprising role of Calciworms in bird nutrition, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for garden centres looking to grow their customer base and support wildlife. Henry Bell: https://www.henrybell.co.uk/ Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode, Kate and Phil chat with Dan Durston, National Sales Director of Durston Garden Products, and Simon Blackhurst, a consultant working on Durston’s groundbreaking peat-free compost range. Join the conversation as Dan delves into the rich history of this Somerset-based family business, from humble beginnings to its modern, innovative approach to sustainable horticulture. Simon shares his expertise on the challenges and triumphs of creating high-performing, peat-free growing media, shedding light on the science behind the transformation. The duo discusses the importance of education, the myths surrounding peat-free compost, and what it takes for the industry—and gardeners—to embrace sustainability. Durston Garden Products: https://durstongardenproducts.co.uk/Simon Blackhurst: https://www.sjbqc.com/ Your hosts: Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this episode of The Underground, Phil and Kate sit down with Nigel Thompson, Sales and Marketing Director at Sipcam, to uncover the story behind this innovative and agile challenger brand in the garden industry. From its agricultural roots to the development of standout consumer gardening products, Sipcam is proving that being smaller doesn’t mean thinking small.
Nigel shares insights into the brand’s unique culture, which fosters creativity and collaboration, and discusses how Sipcam’s eco-friendly innovations, like the award-winning Slug Stoppa, are setting new standards. Discover Nigel's thoughts on being a disruptor, winning the GIMA Sword of Excellence for a second consecutive year, and why Sipcam is a company to watch in 2025 and beyond.
Sipcam: http://sipcamhg.co.uk
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this inspiring episode of The Underground, Phil and Kate are joined by Ross Dyke from The Plant Pod and Lee Connelly, aka The Skinny Jean Gardener, to discuss the power of horticulture in early years education. Ross shares the journey behind his “Get Children Growing” initiative, a creative programme designed to introduce primary school children to gardening with sustainable sunflower grow kits. From engaging hands-on activities to educational materials, the initiative aims to spark a lifelong love of gardening while teaching vital lessons in sustainability and responsibility.
Lee adds his perspective on the importance of building connections between children, parents, and nature. As a long-time advocate for incorporating gardening into schools, Lee highlights the need to make gardening accessible, affordable, and part of everyday life. Together, they explore how gardening can bridge gaps in education, foster creativity, and even address global challenges like food security. Don’t miss this passionate conversation that sows the seeds for the future of horticulture!
Get Children Growing Campaign: https://theplantpod.co.uk/get-children-growing
Ross Dyke: www.theplantpod.co.uk
Lee Connelly (The Skinny Jean Gardener): www.skinnyjeangardener.co.uk
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In the first episode of Season 3 of The Underground Podcast, hosts Kate and Phil return with a focus on the thriving Grow Your Own movement. Kicking off with Ade Sellers, known as The Good Life Gardener, the conversation explores how sustainable gardening is empowering communities, particularly in urban areas. Ade shares practical tips and insights on how garden care businesses can cater to beginner gardeners, highlighting the importance of accessibility and education. With his passion for sustainability and community, Ade paints a compelling picture of how gardening can improve mental health, foster connections, and promote a greener future.
The episode also features David Hinckley, founder of Grow Mad, who dives into the role of technology and innovation in making gardening more inclusive. From modular garden kits to digital platforms fostering community engagement, David illustrates how garden care businesses can leverage these tools to meet the rising demand for small-space gardening solutions. With a shared emphasis on accessibility and storytelling, both guests offer actionable insights for professionals looking to adapt to this growing market. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the garden care sector seeking to stay ahead of trends and connect with a new generation of gardeners.
Ade Sellers, The Good Life Gardener:
https://uk.linkedin.com/in/ade-sellars-7429ba42
https://www.instagram.com/adesellars/
David Hinckley, Grow Mad:
https://www.instagram.com/grow_mad/
Your hosts:
Phil Wright: http://wrightobara.com
Kate Turner: http://www.gardenerguru.co.uk
In this final episode of The Underground at Glee 2024 interview series, we welcome Alan Down, former President of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), and Terri Jones, co-founder of Joy of Plants. Down shares stories from his long career, his commitment to peat-free growing, and his efforts to highlight horticulture’s role in environmental solutions. Jones, with a background in technology, explains how she combines her passion for plants with digital tools, creating plant guides and services that cater to both garden centres and novice gardeners.
The episode covers the potential for innovation in horticulture, the importance of nurturing new gardeners, and the industry’s shift towards digital transformation. Both guests explore how horticulture can adapt to meet consumer needs while remaining rooted in sustainability and tradition.
HTA: https://hta.org.uk/
Joy of Plants: https://joyofplants.com/
Discover more about our hosts:
Kate Turner: www.gardenerguru.co.uk
Phil Wright: www.wrightobara.com
In this episode Kate and Phil sit down with Steve Harper from Southern Trident and Matt Bryant from Harvest Pet Products. Harper discusses the benefits of coir, a sustainable alternative to peat, and shares updates on Southern Trident’s award-winning products. Bryant talks about Harvest’s journey from a family pet shop to a major wild bird food supplier and their focus on supporting biodiversity in British gardens.
Both guests delve into the environmental challenges and opportunities within their industries. Harper offers insights into sourcing coir responsibly and reducing carbon footprints, while Bryant highlights Harvest’s commitment to wild bird welfare and their recent initiatives to engage consumers with eco-friendly bird care.
Southern Trident: https://southerntrident.com/
Harvest Pet Products: https://www.harvestpetproducts.com/https://www.harvestpetproducts.com/
Discover more about our hosts:
Kate Turner: www.gardenerguru.co.uk
Phil Wright: www.wrightobara.com
Data analytics isn't always the first thing that springs to mind when you're considering the Garden Sector, but getting your head around the numbers can give your business a significant advantage. Continuing our special episodes recorded live at Glee, we talk with two people who are all about the numbers: Anthony Creaby, Customer Success Manager from GfK and David Denny, Director of Research & Insights from the HTA.
GfK: https://nielseniq.com/global/en/
HTA: https://hta.org.uk/
Discover more about our hosts:
Kate Turner: www.gardenerguru.co.uk
Phil Wright: www.wrightobara.com
Continuing the conversations we recorded live at Glee 2024, this episode highlights among other things the fantastic work of the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA). Nat Boynton is one of the founders of the YPHA as well as being the Sales Director of Happy Plants, while Jess Dabell is the Brand Manager for Meadow View Stone, she's also a member of the YPHA and an ambassador for the Greenfingers Charity.
YPHA: https://www.ypha.org.uk/
Happy Plants: https://happyplants.co.uk/
Meadow View Stone: https://meadowviewstone.co.uk/
Discover more about our hosts:
Kate Turner: www.gardenerguru.co.uk
Phil Wright: www.wrightobara.com
In this bumper episode we chat with representatives from three very different manufacturing businesses, but all of whom play a pivotal role within the garden sector. Edd Cantle is a Channel Sales Manager at Gardena, suppliers of watering equipment and other garden tools. Jenny Douthwaite is the Managing Director of Primeur, a company that uses recycled rubber to create a multitude of garden products. And Scott Gammon is the General Manager at Pelsis, specialists in pest control.
Gardena: https://www.gardena.com/uk
Primeur: https://www.primeur.co.uk/
Pelsis: https://www.pelsis.com/
Discover more about our hosts:
Kate Turner: www.gardenerguru.co.uk
Phil Wright: www.wrightobara.com
