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The Gardener Ben Podcast

S4E2 Plants & Minds

May 4, 2026 · 32 min · Ep 2

This week on the Gardener Ben Podcast, I’m joined by Andy and Richard, team members from Chestnut Nurseries, along with their sister site, Cherry Tree Nurseries, based in Bournemouth, and Paul. They are run and operated by the charity Plants and Minds.


Through horticulture, they offer meaningful occupation and employment to people who have suffered long-term mental health problems, using the therapeutic benefits of gardening in a safe and encouraging environment.


Set up years before its time, it’s a really interesting and inspiring story behind two nurseries in Dorset that both offer good-quality, value-for-money plants, pots, and even compost. I hope that you enjoy the conversation I had with Andy and Richard.


The Gardener Ben Podcast is proudly brought to you in association with Peter Beales Roses, winner of 30 Chelsea gold medals and creators of timeless roses since 1968. Go online and shop at www.atpeterbealsroses.com, and make sure that you’re following along on Instagram and TikTok.


Next week, I have the absolute pleasure of sharing with you a conversation with @neilduncan40roseking, a rose-growing and exhibiting champion, racking up dozens of medals and awards up and down the UK. So, if you’re interested in growing flowers to exhibit in your garden, make sure that you tune into our conversation next week. Until then, happy gardening.


The Gardener Ben Podcast is edited by @my_home_is_my_altar


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