The Plant Based Podcast

Michael Perry & Ellen Mary

More people than ever are appreciating the importance of plants in our day to day lives. Whether it's a plant-based diet, clothes made from plants, the wellbeing qualities of plants, or simply a fun shelf of cacti and succulents!

The Plant Based Podcast is about anything that can be traced back to plants… with subjects ranging from foraging for medicinal plants and baking with edible flowers, to plant-based body builders and clothes made from bamboo...

This is not just another gardening podcast.. this is The Plant Based Podcast!

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20 episodes
Updated June 7

Episodes20

Newest first

June 7 · 1 hr 26 min
All the hot horticultural topics with Matthew Appleby from Hort Week
In this episode Ellen Mary and Michael turn the tables on someone who is usually the one asking the questions! For many years, Matt Appleby has been one of the most influential voices in UK horticulture, steering the editorial direction of Horticulture Week and covering everything from commercial growing and retail trends to environmental policy, plant innovation, labour challenges and the future of the industry itself. Matt has interviewed countless growers, breeders, garden designers, retailers and industry leaders. But for a change, he's in the hot seat. During this chat we explore some of the biggest debates facing horticulture right now: the future of Chelsea Flower Show, whether the peat-free transition is delivering on its promises, the economics of growing in Britain, labour shortages and wages, the search for genuine new plants and the uncomfortable truths the industry doesn't always like to discuss. It's juicy! Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
May 31 · 40 min
Planting by numbers with Antony Henn, owner of Garden on a Roll
Antony Henn has a long history in horticulture. His family started The Dutch Nursery, one of the UK's first garden centers, in Hertfordshire in 1959. Antony along with his siblings helped to develop the business through the 80s and 90s, and it is still run by the family today. More recently Antony leads the innovative company, Garden on a Roll which is a little like planting by numbers - but for adults who need an easy and cheaper way to design a garden border. Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
May 24 · 32 min
Horticulture and Social Media with Adam Marshall and Michael Perry
In this episode, Michael is joined by Adam Marshall, known as Green Fingered City Boy on social media. Adam has taken social media by storm over the past few years with his honest, fun and educational content. He's grown a huge audience and designed award winning show gardens. Hear Michael and Adam chatting about gardens and social media in horticulture to help you grow your own (pun intended). Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
May 17 · 1 hr 27 min
Planting design with renowned designer Andrew Fisher-Tomlin.
In this episode Ellen Mary and Michael Perry are stepping into the world of garden design with guest, garden designer Andrew Fisher Tomlin. In this episode hear about Andrew's approach to design, how he thinks about space, planting and sustainability, plus what it really takes to transform an idea into a living, evolving landscape. We'll also talk about inspiration, trends and practical insights for anyone looking to create their own garden - no matter the size. Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
May 10 · 1 hr 15 min
RHS Chelsea Special 2026
This episode is all about the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026. With four designers covering three of the show gardens, hear all about the gardens and charities involved. First is Patrick Clarke designer of The Children's Society Garden who is on a mission to restore optimism and hope in young people. Next it's The Plant Heritage Garden from Will Murray and Sally Anne Rees who are two of the three designers for the garden and lastly hear from Darren Hawkes designer of The Lady Garden highlighting gynaecological cancers. Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
May 3 · 1 hr 7 min
Nick Cutsumpas aka Farmer Nick on gardening, sustainability and plant based living.
Nick Cutsumpas, also known as Farmer Nick, joins Ellen Mary and Michael for this episode. Nick is a passionate grower, educator, environmentalist and advicate for plant based living. With practical gardening advice blending in a deeper message about sustainability, resilience and positive climate action, Nick has taken horticulture and social media by storm. This episode is full of tips, advice and lots of plant based chat. Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
April 26 · 48 min
Right Plant Right Place with the owner of Creake Abbey and Plant Lovers Day
In this episode, Ellen Mary chats with Diana Brocklebank Scott, owner of Creake Abbey in Norfolk which is holding a Plant Lovers Day for the 19th year on 16th May 2026. Hear more about it having the opportunity to chat with the experts at the plant filled day and get plenty of tips from Diana about the importance of planting the right plant in the right place. Find out more: www.creakeabbey.co.uk Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
April 19 · 1 hr 35 min
Hear from plant collector, educator and enthusiast Jonny Balchandani, The Bearded Plantaholic.
Today's guest is someone many of you will already know from Instagram — a passionate plant collector, educator, and all-around plant enthusiast who has built a thriving community around a love for houseplanys. With a feed full of lush houseplants, practical tips, and honest moments from life as a self-confessed plant addict, Jonny Balchandani has inspired thousands to bring more plants into their homes and lives. You might know him better as The Bearded Plantaholic. In this episode, we're talking about how his plant journey began, how social media helped grow his community, the realities of caring for a serious plant collection, and of course a few favourite plants along the way. Michael and Ellen then proceed to gossip as usual, from feeling defeated during a drought and taking up drawing. There might be some chat about plants but who knows! Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
April 11 · 41 min
A chat with the editor of the worlds oldest gardening magazine
In this lively episode of The Plant Based Podcast, Michael sits down with the wonderfully candid Kim Stoddart, editor of Amateur Gardening magazine, for a chat that's equal parts insightful and delightfully gossipy. They dig into Kim's journey through the horticultural world, her passion for resilient, climate-friendly gardening, and what really goes on behind the scenes of one of the UK's most beloved gardening publications. Along the way, Kim shares her thoughts on the trends shaping modern gardening, from sustainable practices to the renewed love for growing your own food. But it wouldn't be a proper catch-up without a bit of juicy industry chatter! Expect plenty of laughs, honest reflections, and a warm, down-to-earth conversation that feels like a good natter over a cup of tea—perfect for anyone who loves plants, people and the stories that connect them. Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life. www.gardenonaroll.com
April 5 · 56 min
AI Talking Plants Exhibition with Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Have you ever heard a plant talking? To kick off series 20 of the podcast Ellen Mary and Michael Perry visited Cambridge Univeristy Botanic Garden to chat with Raffy and Kathryn about the Talking Plants Exhibition. Imagine a Jade Vine chatting or an Ant Plant explaining how it grows! Running until 12th April 2026, this exhibition is about using AI for education and engagement at the garden. Find out more: https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/talking-plants/ As always, Ellen and Michael have a gossip about anything and everything but there is always plants involved...at some point! Series 20 of the podcast is sponsored by Garden on a Roll - the perfect solution for beautiful, ready-made garden borders. If you love the look of professionally designed planting but don't have the time, knowledge, or patience to plan it yourself, Garden on a Roll has you covered. Each border is expertly designed by Award Winning Garden Designer Antony Henn and delivered with a simple, pre-planned biodegradable template you can roll out and plant in one go. No guesswork. No stress. Just follow the instructions and enjoy the results. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or starting from scratch, you'll get a cohesive, seasonal design that works with plants chosen to thrive together and look great all year round. Choose your style and size and everything you need is delivered to your door. It's planting by numbers! Visit Garden on a Roll today and bring your outdoor space to life.
Dec 14, 2025 · 51 min
End of Series Christmas Gossip
Believe it or not, but this does include Christmas plants - you'll just have to wait until Michael has released his anger about the festive season first! Joking aside, Ellen and Michael are finishing off series 19 gossiping about all the things they've been up to, giving Christmas plant care advice, predicting what's to come in the plant world for 2026 plus theres some weight lifting involved... Happy Christmas plant lovers! Thanks for downloading The Plant Based Podcast. Series 19 has been sponsored by Queen and Fine - the new floral design studio by Ellen Mary. www.queenandfine.com
Dec 7, 2025 · 36 min
Growing Innovation – A Conversation with Mattias Redlefsen of Benary GmbH
In this episode, Michael sits down with Mattias Redlefsen, an industry leader at Benary GmbH, one of the world's most respected companies in ornamental plant breeding. With more than 175 years of history, Benary has shaped the global horticulture industry- and Mattias offers a rare inside look at how the company continues to thrive through innovation, research, and a deep commitment to quality. Mattias shares his perspective on the evolution of modern seed breeding, how Benary balances tradition with cutting-edge technology, and sustainability and the future of the horticulture sector. ******** Series 19 is sponsored by Queen and Fine Floral Design - the new floral design studio by co-host of the podcast, Ellen Mary. Find out more: www.queenandfine.com Instagram: @queenandfine
Nov 30, 2025 · 56 min
Hear from one of the UK's top horticultural experts Martin Fish with some top gardening tips
Today's guest is Martin Fish, a horticultural expert with over 45 years of experience as a gardener, writer, broadcaster, RHS judge and educator. Known for his practical advice and warm, approachable style, Martin has shared his passion through radio, television, magazines and live events across the UK with The Potting Shed, which he runs with his wife Jill. In this episode, Ellen and Michael dive into Martin's lifelong journey in horticulture, what continues to inspire his work and how gardening can bring joy, connection, and creativity into everyday life. ******************* 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 and installations. Check out the website: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine.
Nov 23, 2025 · 17 min
Unwrap the magic of the National Garden Gift Card for Christmas
Looking for a Christmas present that's thoughtful, versatile, and guaranteed to delight? In this episode, we unwrap the magic of the National Garden Gift Card—the ideal festive gift for anyone who loves plants, gardening, or simply spending time outdoors. Run by the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), these vouchers are accepted at thousands of garden centres, nurseries, and retailers across the UK, making them one of the most flexible and well-loved gardening gifts available. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned gardener, a houseplant newbie, or someone who enjoys home and outdoor living, the HTA Garden Gift Voucher gives them the freedom to choose exactly what they love—from tools and décor to plants, pots, and everything in between. You can buy them online for instant gifting or pick up a beautifully presented gift card in store, perfect for popping under the Christmas tree. Tune in as we explore why this simple gift brings joy long after the decorations come down—and how it can spark creativity in gardens of all sizes! ******************* 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 and installations. Check out the website: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Nov 16, 2025 · 30 min
Keep your houseplants thriving with Happy Plant Collector
In this epsiode Ellen Mary is joined by Lisa Bauer, known online as @happy_plant_collector - a rising star on social media and founder of Another Plant Swap. For this weeks episode get some down-to-earth advice on keeping your indoor jungles thriving, how the houseplant community has evolved and learn more about the plant swap events. https://www.anotherplantswap.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: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Nov 9, 2025 · 42 min
Floral industry trends and education with Kays Flower School, Deirdre and Janette.
Ellen Mary is joined by two of Ireland's most inspiring and creative floristry educators — Deirdre and Janette from Kay's Flower School who help budding florists blossom into pros. In this episode learn about their journey, the changing floristry industry, their favourite flowers, new trends and their recent exquisite collaboration with former podcast guest Sarah Campbell of Intrigue Designs. Are 80's flowers back? Download to find out. Find Kays Flower School on social media and via the website: www.kaysflowerschool.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: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Nov 2, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Find out how you can be a national plant collection holder with Plant Heritage.
In this episode Ellen and Michael are joined by Gwen Hines, CEO of Plant Heritage — a charity dedicated to saving the UK's garden plants from being lost forever. From rare roses to forgotten fuchsias, they're on a mission to protect the incredible diversity found in our gardens and to support the passionate individuals keeping these plants alive for future generations. You can even find out how to be a national collection holder yourself, even if you have little garden space! Also hear about Michaels trip to visit Ellen in the USA plus the usual nonsense gossip. Find out more about Plant Heritage: www.plantheritage.org.uk 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: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Oct 26, 2025 · 38 min
What does the EU reset mean for the horticultural industry in the UK, with The Horticultural Trades Association
Welcome 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.org.uk 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: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Oct 19, 2025 · 53 min
There'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: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Oct 12, 2025 · 41 min
The Art of Floral Design with Sarah Campbell of Intrigue Designs
Sarah 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 @intrigueteaches Website: www.intrigueteaches.com 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 and installations. Check out the website: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine