Garden Centres, Growing Media, and Getting it Right: A Conversation with Andy Bunker
Welcome back to The More People Podcast, where we explore career stories, industry insights, and expert perspectives in the world of recruitment and beyond. In this episode, our host Andrew Fitzmaurice sits down with Andy Bunker, Sales Director at Alton Garden Centre, for a fascinating chat about his journey in the horticulture industry and the evolving challenges and opportunities facing garden centres today.
A Career Rooted in Garden Retail
Andy’s entry into the industry was hands-on from the very start. Earning cash as a teenager selling strawberries and cream, and later helping establish a garden machinery department with his father. That early experience turned into a career grounded in deep product knowledge, a passion for service, and a dedication to supporting customers at every stage of their garden journey.
“I take pride in helping customers, especially those who might be unsure, find the right product and walk away with confidence,” says Andy.
Beyond retail, Andy is also heavily involved in the wider horticulture community, from serving as an RHS trials judge to giving educational talks (free of charge) to help promote plant knowledge and share seasonal specials. His passion for the industry clearly extends far beyond the garden centre walls.
The Peat-Free Debate: Where Are We Now?
One of the most pressing issues in horticulture right now is the shift towards peat-free compost. While the environmental intentions are clear, Andy shares some critical on-the-ground realities from both a retail and growing perspective.
“The problem is that the jury has been out for two years and it’s probably going to be out for another 20.”
Andy highlights that while peat-free media has seen major investment and development, consistency remains a significant problem. He’s visited numerous growers and trials and seen first-hand the mixed results. Some plants thrive, others falter and often with no clear reason why.
He’s also concerned about carbon impact when products like coir are shipped halfway across the globe, only to be heavily processed and watered before use. Even promising alternatives may bring their own ecological and practical challenges.
What Customers See (and Don’t)
For the average consumer picking up a bag of compost or a Christmas poinsettia, many of these behind-the-scenes complexities go unnoticed. But that’s part of the risk. If the compost underperforms and the plant dies, the customer often blames themselves, or worse, the retailer.
“If it fails, they don’t say the compost was inconsistent - they just don’t come back,” Andy warns.
He stresses the importance of education and trial-and-error, encouraging gardeners to test different products before buying in bulk. As the industry faces a more segmented approach to growing media, different blends for different plants, consumers will need clearer guidance to avoid costly disappointment.
The Future is in People
Despite the challenges, Andy is optimistic. The transition to peat-free is ongoing, but it presents opportunities for the right people to make a real impact.
“We need good people to help fix this and the need is only going to grow,” he notes.
From plant specialists and growers to customer advisors and supply chain innovators, the industry needs passionate individuals who understand the nuances and can help navigate this shift effectively.
Final Thoughts
Andy’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of the human expertise that underpins every plant on the shelf. As sustainability drives more change in the sector, it’s clear that knowledge, care, and genuine passion will continue to be vital.
Thanks again to Andy Bunker for joining us, and to all of you for listening in.
