From Childhood Passion to Chelsea Success: The Sweet Pea Story

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this heartwarming and insightful episode, we’re joined by Phil Johnson, sweet pea expert and the grower behind English Sweet Peas. Phil shares his lifelong connection to these delicate, nostalgic blooms—starting from age nine—and how that early passion grew into a celebrated career.

We explore:

• His journey from hobbyist to head of English Sweet Peas
• The release of his new book, A World of Sweet Peas
• Receiving the Henry Eckford Memorial Medal—a high honour in the sweet pea world
• The real challenges climate change poses to growing and breeding sweet peas today
• His ongoing work to create new varieties, including the dream of a yellow sweet pea
• Why moisture matters and how successional sowing can keep blooms coming
• How sweet peas carry deep emotional ties and memories for so many

Plus, Phil reflects on his Chelsea Flower Show milestone and offers practical advice for anyone wanting to grow sweet peas successfully.

Whether you’re a seasoned flower grower or just discovering the magic of sweet peas, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, heart, and horticultural passion.

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