HortWeek editor Matthew Appleby answers the horticulture questions in interview with industry influencer Michael Perry and Ellen Mary

This week the tables are turned on Matt Appleby as he guests on The Plant Based Podcast where he fields probing questions from HortWeek columnist and horticulture influencer Michael Perry (aka Mr Plant Geek) and horticulturist, floral designer, broadcaster and author Ellen Mary.

Topics up for discussion

Has RHS Chelsea Flower Show become too much about spectacle and not enough about gardening? Peat-free transition: Has the horticulture industry been set up to fall by unrealistic timelines, or has it been too slow to innovate? Is peat-free growing being successfully communicated to consumers? How is the horticulture trade on the continent reacting to the moves towards peat-free? Every year hundreds of exciting new plants are introduced and win awards, but why do so few hit the market? Are there any plants on the market that shouldn't be? How can we attract and support young people into the horticulture industry? Can the horticulture industry continue to rely on passion over pay? Are moves towards sustainble and ecological gardening making gardening too difficult, complicated and expensive? Should domestic horticultural production be supported more and will the SPS agreement help?

AND FINALLY...

What practice might horticulture look back on in 10 years' time and wonder how it was ever normal?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.