Michael Perry: ‘Calling Myself A Plant Geek Is A Tribute To What I Was Afraid To Be’

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Michael Perry, better known online as ‘Mr Plant Geek’, has been passionate about plants for as long as he can remember.

As a Garden Blogger & Podcaster, he has worked hard to transform this passion into an incredible career.

You might recognise Michael from his appearances on some of Britain’s most loved TV Shows, including This Morning and The One Show.

I spoke with Michael about his work with Thompson & Morgan, starting out as ‘The Plant Geek’ and co-hosting his own podcast, which is now up to its eleventh series.

Imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Michael Perry.

When Did You First Start Gardening?

“I learnt about gardening from my grandparents when I was young,” shares Michael.

“They were really keen on gardening and were always growing lots of chrysanthemums and dahlias. They were exhibiting and judging at local flower shows, as well as selling plants at local markets.

“This clearly rubbed off on me and gave me that thirst and passion for plants from a young age. I soon took over my parents’ garden. My dad was doing the typical stuff, growing fruits and veg and tending to a lovely lawn. I had a little patch that soon became half of the garden!

“I was quite entrepreneurial from a young age as well. I obviously saw my grandparents selling plants and making money from their plants, so I used to do it at the end of my driveway. I also joined a market as soon as I could and began selling plants that I had propagated.

“Throughout my school years, I had my refuge: plants. My life was based on what needed to be propagated and when – it really was ingrained in me from a young age. I have no idea what type of work I would even be doing now if I didn’t have the background I do.”

From That, What Led You To A Career In Horticulture?

“I had a bit of a taste for a job in horticulture from selling plants myself, but I didn’t really know what options there were for me. I went to a horticultural college that I was happy at.

“Still, I got to the end of school with little confidence, but luckily, I happened to see a competition in the local newspaper to design a garden by Thompson & Morgan. I entered the competition and put together a basic design filled with plants local to Sulfolk (where I’m from) and I won!

“Afterwards, I wrote to Thompson & Morgan and asked them for a job. They took me on as an apprentice and I stayed there for 18 years. It seemed like fate.”

Can You Tell Us More About ‘Mr Plant Geek’ & Where That Name Came From?

“It all comes from those years at school & being bullied for my interests because it wasn’t the cool thing to be into,” he explains.

“Now, 30 years later, I feel like calling myself a plant geek is a tribute to what I was afraid to be.

“In addition to this, my social media is a portfolio for me to show what I do and Mr Plant Geek sums it up. It definitely isn’t an alter ego though!”

You Have A Podcast! What Is The Plant-Based Podcast About?

“In the podcast, everything comes back to plants, whether it’s about growing them, enjoying them or even wearing them!

“I met my co-host Ellen Mary around 6-7 years ago and we are now on our 11th series of the podcast. It is really fun and informative, which is what I’m all about.

“It’s about showing people what is possible with plants and also highlighting how fun and creative a career in horticulture can be.”

What Is Your Favourite Time Of Year To Be In The Garden?

“I’m a fan of spring because there is so much promise and colour that is just starting to come out,” shares Michael.

“I also love daffodils and tulips. I wish it could be spring forever!”

What Does Gardening Mean To You?

“In recent years, I’ve realised that it’s a really great way to connect with other people,” shares Michael.

“When you look at the friendships that have been able to develop over social media, it’s incredible.

“It’s something that I didn’t have access to when I was younger. I was the only person I knew who was interested in plants and there was no way of finding anyone else who had the same interests.

It’s so much more open now and I feel like plants connect people, break down boundaries and cross over languages. That’s not even touching on the proven well-being properties of being around plants as well.

“People are realising more and more that most things come back to plants, which is amazing.”

Do You Have Any Particular Career Highlights?

“My first TV appearance was on Alan Titchmarsh’s show talking about black hyacinths and yellow snowdrops. That was a pivotal moment for me and even though I was really nervous, it sparked something for me.

“We won an award with Steph’s Packed Lunch up in Leeds for the broadcast of the year when I worked on that, which was also special.

“Just last week I hosted on the main stage at Tatton Park, which was a great opportunity. Doing industry speaking and being involved in various things at different levels is a real honour.”

What’s Next For You?

“Next week I will be in the US at the Garden Comm convention, which is very exciting,” he says.

“Seeing how horticulture works in the US will be super interesting too! I always want to go to garden centres when I’m abroad to see how they do things.”

What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Gardeners?

“Don’t be scared of social media, because it is something that I wish that I had when I felt lonely at a younger age. You can connect with like-minded people no matter how niche your plant interests might be.

“Embrace that in order to connect with others who you can learn from and also help.”