Speakers
Speakers & Time
09:30 - 09:45
10:30 - 10:45
Michael Perry 'Mr Plant Geek'
Michael Perry, widely known as "Mr. Plant Geek," is arguably one of gardening’s first true digital influencers. We are delighted that he has agreed to share insights about his journey and his perspective on the future of influencers and content creators.
11:30 - 11:45
12:00 - 12:15
12:30 - 12:45
13:30 - 13:45
14:30 - 14:45
16:00
Speakers
Welcome
Hosted By Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive Officer and Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director
A conversation with British Garden Centres
Hosted By Amy Stubbs (Woodthorpe Garden Centre)
British Garden Centres is growing! Amy Stubbs will be discussing all things business growth and opportunities for this year as they are now the UK’s largest garden centre group.
David Austin Roses – The News
Hosted By Liam Beddal
At this year’s Garden Press Event, Liam Beddall, Senior Rose Consultant at David Austin Roses, will explore the profound connection between gardening and wellbeing.
He will speak on the vital role the horticultural industry plays in encouraging a slower, more mindful way of living—one that fosters deeper engagement with nature, enhances mental health, and nurtures a sense of calm in an increasingly fast-paced world.
Liam will also champion the resurgence of bare root roses, emphasising their environmental and practical benefits, and why they remain the gold standard for establishing strong, healthy plants.
Finally, he will introduce the latest variety to join the David Austin collection in 2024, Emma Bridgewater(R) (Ausb44a16), a rose that embodies beauty, resilience, and the timeless romance of English roses
BBC Gardeners' World events - what's new for 2025
Hosted by Nick Bailey
Join BBC Two Gardeners’ World presenter Nick Bailey as he shares exclusive insights into his Headline Show Garden for BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2025. Hosted by Gardeners’ World Magazine editor Kevin Smith, the session also features the team from Young People in Horticulture who will unveil their new Begonia that'll debut at the Show. Plus updates on the new Hillier Experience Garden at the Spring Fair.
14:00 - 14:15
Bronte Heritage Collection: Professional Products for Professional Results
Hosted By Martin Donnely
Bronte Heritage collection will be presenting six new professional grade products which have been tried and tested commercially and are now available to the gardening public. All six products are designed to be used in conjunction with peat free growing mediums.
New opportunities and new platforms: the future of gardening content
Hosted By Matt Young
How will changes in TV viewership affect gardening content in the future? Matt Young, Executive Producer at Middlechild TV is launching a new channel with Alan Titchmarsh in 2025 on all 4 main social media platforms. After 16 years making gardening for TV he discusses the reasons for shifting into the digital landscape.
Introducing Hota. A fresh approach to plant design on your smartphone
Hosted By Toby and Hannah Gale
Co-founders Hannah and Toby walk through the inspiration and evolution of the new plant recommendation and design app Hota. From Soil ID, plant recommendations and design to their recent partnership with Proctors Nursery.
New Product Award and Best Stand Announcement
Hosted by Fran Barnes, HTA President and Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director
15:00 - 15:15
The Power of Children’s Gardening
Hosted by Lee Connelly, The Skinny Jean Gardener
Lee will explore how gardening boosts children’s education, well-being, and environmental awareness, while sharing updates on Parliament discussions about adding horticulture to the curriculum. He’ll also spotlight National Children’s Gardening Week, aiming to get 10,000 kids growing in one week.