The Royal Horticultural Society has launched a new twice monthly video podcast, offering a sneak peak into the gardens of, or those important to, some of the nation’s best loved actors, comedians, chefs and horticulturists.

Roots will explore how gardens can tell our life stories; the highs and the lows, the plants people love and the plants they’re not so keen on.

Hosted by the charity’s ambassador, radio DJ, and keen gardener Jo Whiley the half hour podcasts provide unfettered access to contributor’s gardens who explain how their tended spaces reflect their careers, passions and family life or a potted history of their gardening experience and skills in their favourite public space.

The first in the ongoing series features Richard E Grant from his South West London home.

A keen perfumer Richard introduces his evergreen garden inspired by a childhood in Eswatini and set around old set props from multiple blockbuster films and an unmissable sculpture of his childhood idol. Serving as a space for multiple generations of the family to relax and play the garden has hosted weddings and all-night A-list parties.

Podcast contributors also get to ask their burning gardening questions of an RHS advisor. In Richard’s case box tree caterpillar controls and alternative plantings options.

Jo Whiley said: “As a keen gardener, I’m beyond thrilled to take a closer look at the gardens that have been shaped by some of the country’s most inspiring and creative people. No two are the same and it’s been a privilege to get under the skin of the fascinating installations, exuberant displays and convivial spaces that help tell the story of a person and provide a glimpse at who they are away from the spotlight.”

Hayley Monckton, RHS Roots Executive Producer, said: “RHS Roots with its roster of inspirational contributors showcases plants and gardens as vital, if not integral, to all of our lives. With Jo’s empathetic but inquisitive approach and problem solving from the RHS’ own experts there’s plenty of inspiration and advice for viewers to take away.”

RHS Roots is available now on Apple Podcasts, RHS YouTube, Amazon Music and Spotify. Future editions will feature Dame Judi Dench, Dame Mary Berry, Jason Williams, Alan Titchmarsh and Nigel Slater.