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0:00:17 > 0:00:20- Bleddyn and Sue Wynn-Jones - are plant hunters.
0:00:21 > 0:00:25- They're never happier than when - looking for plants, out in the wild.
0:00:25 > 0:00:30- They travel the world looking for - the seeds of rare exotic plants...
0:00:30 > 0:00:32- ..to grow, and sell in Wales.
0:00:33 > 0:00:35- He's like a pig.
0:00:35 > 0:00:38- He finds things no-one else does.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42- I don't know how he does it - but he does.
0:00:43 > 0:00:45- We have to do everything.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49- We have to go out into the wild, - find these plants...
0:00:50 > 0:00:52- ..gather them, bring them back.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56- We have to learn how to grow them, - as no-one has before.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01- Now, Bleddyn is famous - not only for the nursery...
0:01:03 > 0:01:08- ..but also for collecting these - plants from all over the world.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11- It's exciting. - It's contemporary plant hunters.
0:01:11 > 0:01:12- You don't find too many of them.
0:01:13 > 0:01:15- It's great to think he's Welsh.
0:01:26 > 0:01:29- Bleddyn and Sue's home - is Crug Farm, near Caernarfon.
0:01:30 > 0:01:32- When not abroad plant hunting...
0:01:32 > 0:01:35- ..they're here, growing - and caring for their plants...
0:01:35 > 0:01:37- ..until they're ready to sell.
0:01:39 > 0:01:41- There are ten huge polytunnels...
0:01:41 > 0:01:43- ..ten staff members...
0:01:43 > 0:01:45- ..and over 2,000 different - plant varieties here.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51- It's one of Britain's largest - specialist nurseries.
0:01:51 > 0:01:55- Its growth has been amazing when one - considers that only 13 years ago...
0:01:55 > 0:01:59- ..Bleddyn and Sue were beef farmers - thinking of diversifying.
0:02:00 > 0:02:03- I remember Bleddyn asking me - how I'd feel...
0:02:04 > 0:02:07- ..about opening the gardens - to the public.
0:02:07 > 0:02:11- I didn't want to do that at all. - I didn't want people coming here.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15- But now, thousands - of people come here!
0:02:15 > 0:02:16- I enjoy...
0:02:17 > 0:02:18- ..meeting people.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- ..meeting people.- - Yes, I like talking to people.
0:02:23 > 0:02:27- Today, only Crug Farm - and Kew Gardens, near London...
0:02:27 > 0:02:30- ..have a special licence - to import seeds and plants...
0:02:31 > 0:02:34- ..to Britain from abroad. They have - both learnt from experience.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38- We went on holiday back in 1991.
0:02:40 > 0:02:41- All the family.
0:02:43 > 0:02:44- We collected seeds.
0:02:47 > 0:02:51- Nothing came of them, - except for one plant.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55- They survived for a short while - but there's only one here now.
0:02:56 > 0:03:00- Ten years later, - they grow a variety of plants...
0:03:00 > 0:03:04- ..that can't be found - in any other nursery.
0:03:05 > 0:03:08- Before releasing them - to the public...
0:03:08 > 0:03:10- ..every plant is grown at Crug...
0:03:10 > 0:03:13- ..to ensure they're suitable - for Britain's environment.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16- Sometimes, Bleddyn - and Sue discover new plants...
0:03:17 > 0:03:20- ..that have never been - described in scientific works.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23- Geranium Crug Strain.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- This is the first plant - we put our name to.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31- Right, we'll do these two now.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37- Crug has 150 different - varieties of Geraniums.
0:03:37 > 0:03:41- Many have been named - by Bleddyn and Sue.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45- Because it's small, I named it after - my mother. She isn't very tall.
0:03:46 > 0:03:49- So the name we use is 'Menna Bach'.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55- But it doesn't like a lot of heat, - unlike my mother!
0:03:58 > 0:04:02- They don't sell plants by mail, - so every customer must come to Crug.
0:04:09 > 0:04:13- Some very important people order - plants from us. Look at this.
0:04:14 > 0:04:18- This came from the Queen, - from Buckingham Palace.
0:04:18 > 0:04:22- This is the second time - they've ordered from us.
0:04:22 > 0:04:24- It's a very good order too.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29- Their gardener will come here - to get the plants.
0:04:47 > 0:04:51- It's spring, and there are - special visitors at the farm.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55- The cameras and crew of America's - most famous daily show...
0:04:55 > 0:04:57- ..Martha Stewart's show, are here.
0:04:58 > 0:05:01- With them is the US's most - important plant hunter...
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- ..a great friend of Bleddyn - and Sue, Dan Hinkley.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11- Over the last decade, Dan, - Bleddyn and Sue have travelled...
0:05:11 > 0:05:13- ..and discovered a lot together.
0:05:13 > 0:05:17- This is my, gosh, seventh, - eighth time to visit.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21- It feels like home away from home.
0:05:22 > 0:05:27- I will say point blank that - I've not ever been with anybody...
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- ..in the field that has - a better eye than he does.
0:05:32 > 0:05:37- It is uncanny, quite frankly, how - he can find things that I walk by.
0:05:38 > 0:05:42- His talent as a plant explorer, - a plant hunter...
0:05:43 > 0:05:46- ..I think it's just amazing, - it truly is.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52- Although Bleddyn and Sue are more - famous in the US than in Britain...
0:05:52 > 0:05:54- ..Bleddyn remains modest.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01- I'm rather shy, really. - I'm a farmer, a country man.
0:06:06 > 0:06:08- It's nice to have a spot of rain.
0:06:09 > 0:06:11- After the film crew leaves...
0:06:11 > 0:06:15- ..it's back to everyday work, - dealing with the public.
0:06:15 > 0:06:16- It must have moisture.
0:06:16 > 0:06:17- It must have moisture.- - That's alright.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21- It doesn't like - somewhere too dry or too hot.
0:06:23 > 0:06:25- Is semi-shade alright?
0:06:25 > 0:06:27- Is semi-shade alright?- - Yes, that should work.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29- Right, OK. Thank you.
0:06:29 > 0:06:33- This is Smilacina, a new plant - we found in Guatemala.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37- It probably doesn't like - the weather here.
0:06:38 > 0:06:39- It does!
0:06:40 > 0:06:42- No charge for the umbrellas!
0:06:48 > 0:06:50- Crug opens its gates once a year...
0:06:51 > 0:06:54- ..to members of - the Royal Horticultural Society.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- It's a chance to buy plants - and to hear stories...
0:06:58 > 0:07:00- ..about collecting those plants.
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- Bleddyn lectures - and shows his slides.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05- This time, it's about Nepal.
0:07:07 > 0:07:11- We came across good stands of this, - Tricyrtis macropoda. Lovely plant.
0:07:13 > 0:07:17- The best places to find seeds are - often remote and hard to reach.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21- In Nepal, they also had to cope - with riots, bombs and bad weather.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24- It gets really hard work here.
0:07:25 > 0:07:27- You set one foot - in front of the other...
0:07:27 > 0:07:28- ..and you're absolutely exhausted.
0:07:29 > 0:07:34- As he collects the seeds, Bleddyn - sees the plants' natural habitat.
0:07:35 > 0:07:38- We've learnt a lot.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42- If you go out to the wild - and see plants growing naturally...
0:07:42 > 0:07:46- ..you learn things you could - never learn at school.
0:07:47 > 0:07:51- You see how it grows in the wild - and you learn from that.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53- No-one can teach you that.
0:07:54 > 0:07:58- After the lecture, Bleddyn and Sue - show people around the garden.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02- People see the plants - at their best...
0:08:02 > 0:08:06- ..see what they'd like to buy - and hear more stories.
0:08:07 > 0:08:12- As the saying goes, - Bleddyn does have green fingers.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17- Almost every seed he plants grows.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24- It's surprising - how much he knows about them.
0:08:25 > 0:08:30- Not many people across the country - know that much about these plants.
0:08:51 > 0:08:56- After seeing and hearing about them, - now there's a chance to buy plants.
0:08:56 > 0:08:58- Sue takes the money.
0:09:10 > 0:09:14- It's July, time for the Tatton Show, - a very important occasion for Crug.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18- The show is known - as the Chelsea of the North.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- Smilacina salvinii.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26- We only do one show - every year, Tatton.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30- We're not set up like other people.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36- The weather this year - has been very difficult.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40- We had a very hot spring, - no rain for six weeks.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43- Recently, it's been windy...
0:09:45 > 0:09:47- ..and a temperature of thirty.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50- So it's very difficult!
0:09:52 > 0:09:53- Twenty, one tray.
0:09:56 > 0:10:00- This is one of the busiest times - for Bleddyn and Sue.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05- It's quite important to remind - people we're still here...
0:10:06 > 0:10:09- ..and to show the new things - we've got for sale.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14- We bring in many - new plants every year.
0:10:14 > 0:10:17- Between 200 and 300 new additions.
0:10:19 > 0:10:21- No-one else does it on that scale.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07- That's it. - We'll be off first thing.
0:11:25 > 0:11:27- In typically British weather...
0:11:27 > 0:11:31- ..Bleddyn and Sue are - busy at work at the Tatton Show.
0:11:32 > 0:11:34- As well as running the stall...
0:11:34 > 0:11:38- ..they also show - their plants for the RHS.
0:11:42 > 0:11:44- We have the blue one here as well.
0:11:44 > 0:11:46- I don't know if you've seen that.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50- Today's the first day, Members Day.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54- It's quite busy. We get the keen - people here the first day.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- They're looking for unusual plants.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01- As well as the public...
0:12:01 > 0:12:05- ..another group of people are - very interested in the Crug plants.
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- The competitors!
0:12:09 > 0:12:13- When we arrive, they're all - here to see what we've got.
0:12:14 > 0:12:18- Everyone wants to buy, - before we open in the morning.
0:12:19 > 0:12:20- That's a good thing.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25- They buy the plants from us, - go home and propagate them.
0:12:25 > 0:12:29- Next year, we'll see our plants - on the other stalls!
0:12:32 > 0:12:36- Other nurseries are Crug's biggest - customers in Tatton.
0:12:38 > 0:12:42- So it's important to have a crop of - new plants every year to keep ahead.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49- One of the people who appreciate - Bleddyn and Sue's stall in Tatton...
0:12:50 > 0:12:52- ..is the popular gardening - presenter, Diarmuid Gavin.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- Here in the Plant Society marquee...
0:12:55 > 0:12:56- ..there are people - who go to extremes...
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- ..to find us new - and exciting plants.
0:12:59 > 0:13:04- He's looking for unusual, - striking plants for his garden...
0:13:04 > 0:13:06- ..at next year's Chelsea Show.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12- 888
0:13:14 > 0:13:18- Crug arrange special days - during the year.
0:13:18 > 0:13:20- This is the Spring Fair.
0:13:21 > 0:13:23- 1.50 for boxes of six.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27- It's the busiest day of the year.
0:13:28 > 0:13:33- We get more people through the gates - on this day than any other.
0:13:34 > 0:13:38- We invite other nurseries - from all over...
0:13:38 > 0:13:42- ..especially North Wales, - to sell plants here.
0:13:42 > 0:13:44- We call it a fair.
0:13:45 > 0:13:49- We come from Glan Conwy, but all the - plants are grown in Betws-y-coed.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53- We meet a lot of friends - here every year.
0:13:53 > 0:13:58- It's mostly the same people who - come. I think everyone's ready now.
0:13:59 > 0:14:03- We're just waiting for people - to come in once the gate opens.
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- I'm sorry, we're not open until ten.
0:14:07 > 0:14:09- Before opening, the yard - must be cleared.
0:14:09 > 0:14:10- Hello!
0:14:11 > 0:14:14- We have to be very strict - about this, I'm very sorry.
0:14:14 > 0:14:15- Oh, we'll go home, then.
0:14:15 > 0:14:17- Oh, we'll go home, then.- - I'm sorry...
0:14:17 > 0:14:18- We've come quite a long way.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- This is ludicrous, hanging - around until ten o'clock.
0:14:23 > 0:14:27- Unbelievable how rude - some people can be, isn't it?
0:14:29 > 0:14:31- Welcome to the Plant Fair.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- I'm supposed to be taking - money as well.
0:14:34 > 0:14:35- 'Morning.
0:14:36 > 0:14:40- A lot of people pay to come in. - But who will be the first to buy?
0:14:42 > 0:14:47- For once, Bleddyn doesn't have to - travel far to discover new plants.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50- I can't go everywhere!
0:14:52 > 0:14:54- It's a chance to do some shopping.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- I never go to nurseries - in this country.
0:15:05 > 0:15:08- This is my favourite nursery.
0:15:10 > 0:15:16- And when more people come here - to sell too, it's even better.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24- These days are vital - for Crug's business.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29- They're only open for seven months - but staff must be paid all year.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35- It's very busy. - People are buying a lot of plants.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38- The day's going very well.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49- It's autumn, and Diarmuid - has come personally to Crug...
0:15:49 > 0:15:51- ..with his own film crew.
0:15:55 > 0:15:59- He's accepted the big challenge - of competing in Chelsea next year.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- He's very keen - to impress the judges.
0:16:02 > 0:16:04- He's going belly up!
0:16:06 > 0:16:08- I want to do something - that's a bit of fun.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10- I haven't a clue - about some of the gardens.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12- I just know about plants, - I'm afraid.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- Well, one doesn't really - exist without the other.
0:16:17 > 0:16:19- Diarmuid loves the new plants...
0:16:19 > 0:16:22- ..that Crug will be releasing - to the public next year.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24- That is amazing!
0:16:24 > 0:16:26- This is a Tetrapanax.
0:16:27 > 0:16:29- It's very exciting for you, - as you're about to release it.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30- Yes.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- That's going to be - one of our best introductions.
0:16:34 > 0:16:36- With the light coming - through the leaves.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39- Diarmuid wants Crug's plants...
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- ..as they can't be found - anywhere else.
0:16:42 > 0:16:46- He'll be back in spring - to collect the plants.
0:16:53 > 0:16:55- It's gone all misty, hasn't it?
0:16:57 > 0:17:00- I needed to clean - the lens at some point.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09- After Diarmuid leaves, - Crug begins to prepare for winter.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- The nursery closes - at the end of September.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16- Some of the staff - will work all winter.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20- But this is the time Bleddyn - and Sue prepare to go hunting.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25- This year, to Taiwan and Vietnam.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- This is the most interesting part - of all Bleddyn and Sue's work...
0:17:31 > 0:17:32- ..and the most important.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58- Taiwan is an island - off the coast of China.
0:17:59 > 0:18:01- It's Bleddyn and Sue's favourite - hunting destination.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06- Eleven years ago, they were the - first plant and seed hunters here...
0:18:06 > 0:18:09- ..since the first collectors - a century ago.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12- Up the Taroko Gorge.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17- It's one of the best places - for us to find plants...
0:18:18 > 0:18:20- ..right at the top end.
0:18:21 > 0:18:25- This road has changed a lot over - the years we've been coming here.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28- It was just a narrow lane.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- Soon, they're in the mountains.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37- Bleddyn doesn't want - to lose any hunting time.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41- He begins even before - getting to the hotel.
0:18:47 > 0:18:49- Autumn's the time to collect seeds.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52- It can be difficult - to recognize some plants.
0:18:52 > 0:18:54- But it's no problem for the expert.
0:18:56 > 0:19:00- You see that dark bit? - Those are the seeds.
0:19:01 > 0:19:03- Monkshood.
0:19:04 > 0:19:08- I have to watch how I pick it, - or all the seeds will spring out.
0:19:10 > 0:19:11- That's it.
0:19:12 > 0:19:13- Aconitum.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16- Those dark ones are seeds.
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- Each seed is labelled with its name - and the altitude where it was found.
0:19:24 > 0:19:25- Altitude...
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- ..3,060 metres.
0:19:32 > 0:19:35- Must be three times - the height of Snowdon.
0:19:37 > 0:19:38- Oops!
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- Even the keenest hunters must eat.
0:19:43 > 0:19:47- Before going to the hotel, - they visit the local supermarket.
0:19:47 > 0:19:49- 3 for that.
0:20:07 > 0:20:08- Biscuits.
0:20:23 > 0:20:24- Oh!
0:20:24 > 0:20:26- Oh!- - The next day, back to work.
0:20:36 > 0:20:41- Over the years, Bleddyn has - discovered that the climate...
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- ..on mountains in warm countries - can be similar to Wales's climate.
0:20:46 > 0:20:50- It's an evergreen tree, which - we try to find in every country.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- Many have never been - grown in our country.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58- They're very valuable trees...
0:20:59 > 0:21:02- ..for a gardener, - as they're evergreen.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08- Although they're right by the road, - it isn't easy to collect the seeds.
0:21:09 > 0:21:13- But Bleddyn and Sue - are a natural team.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16- You don't want to get - that bloomin' powder over you.
0:21:17 > 0:21:21- Bleddyn and I have been - together now for 29 years.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24- We're used to being - together every day.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30- So for us, it isn't a problem - to travel together.
0:21:32 > 0:21:37- We know how the other one thinks, - so it isn't a problem for us.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44- Tetrapanax papyrifer, - rice paper plant.
0:21:46 > 0:21:50- They make rice paper out of the pith - in the middle of the tree.
0:21:50 > 0:21:51- Paper?
0:21:52 > 0:21:56- You see this powder? - It's called indumentum.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00- It's like small hairs, - but star shaped.
0:22:02 > 0:22:07- If you breathe them, they're very - itchy, a real irritant.
0:22:08 > 0:22:09- For the eyes too.
0:22:09 > 0:22:13- Yes. That's why we gave - a woman's name to the plant we have.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- Don't hold the leaves, - or you'll get powder over you.
0:22:22 > 0:22:23- Hold this.
0:22:25 > 0:22:29- Both of us are completely different - when we're out hunting.
0:22:31 > 0:22:33- It's the same with our work at home.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- Sue looks more - at the design of things.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- I look more at the practicalities - of growing plants.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44- I'll hold the tree, you just cut it.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50- I look for the plant, and Sue maybe - looks at the plant's appearance.
0:22:52 > 0:22:56- So we'll collect something - that looks better...
0:22:56 > 0:23:00- ..than another collector, - who might just want the plant.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03- Everyone back now, in case...
0:23:03 > 0:23:07- Move out of the way, - or you'll get this stuff over you.
0:23:08 > 0:23:10- Right, it'll go like a catapult.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17- Another advantage - of collecting in the wild...
0:23:17 > 0:23:21- ..is that Bleddyn and Sue see - the plants in their natural habitat.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24- This means that they succeed - in growing the plants back home...
0:23:25 > 0:23:27- ..where others have failed.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30- It is a good plant in the garden.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33- Very dramatic.
0:23:34 > 0:23:35- Architectural, as they say.
0:23:35 > 0:23:36- Architectural, as they say.- - Architectural!
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- What's that in Welsh?
0:23:43 > 0:23:43- Mm?
0:23:43 > 0:23:44- Mm?- - Don't know.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51- 888
0:24:07 > 0:24:11- For the next month, Bleddyn - and Sue travel throughout Taiwan.
0:24:12 > 0:24:14- Sometimes they pick plants - by the roadside...
0:24:15 > 0:24:17- ..other times at high altitudes.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34- Whatever the weather, - they must go out to hunt.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38- It can take days - to find a certain seed.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42- People think that travelling - for three months...
0:24:42 > 0:24:44- ..is a nice, glamorous holiday.
0:24:45 > 0:24:49- But they don't see the other side - of travelling, as we do.
0:24:54 > 0:24:55- Ouch!
0:24:56 > 0:24:57- Brambles.
0:24:59 > 0:25:01- Don't complain! Come on.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06- We're looking for Acer, maple seeds.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11- This only grows in Taiwan. - It grows very slowly.
0:25:12 > 0:25:16- A tree like this - is hundreds of years old.
0:25:18 > 0:25:22- That's all we've found so far. - I hope we'll find more.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- A hundred.
0:25:58 > 0:25:59- A hundred.- - OK.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02- A hundred and twenty.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- Even after getting back - to the hotel, the work isn't over.
0:26:12 > 0:26:17- I'm trying to work out the names - of the plants we've collected.
0:26:18 > 0:26:20- I've got this clump of seeds.
0:26:20 > 0:26:21- And a few leaves.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25- I'm trying to work out - what its name is...
0:26:25 > 0:26:30- ..from these books we borrowed - in Teroko, headquarters.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34- I know it's a clematis.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39- But there are more - than fourteen varieties.
0:26:40 > 0:26:41- Eighteen in Taiwan.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45- It's quite a job to work out - which one it is.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48- I think I've got it now, - with Sue's help.
0:26:51 > 0:26:54- I'm cleaning the seeds - we collected today.
0:26:55 > 0:26:57- We must do this tonight.
0:26:58 > 0:27:02- There's a load of things - we must do before going to bed.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07- You need a lot of patience - to clean the seeds.
0:27:08 > 0:27:10- Especially when you're tired...
0:27:10 > 0:27:13- ..and have been walking - in cold rain all day!
0:27:14 > 0:27:16- This is one aspect I don't enjoy.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22- Nearing the end - of their visit to Taiwan...
0:27:22 > 0:27:26- ..Bleddyn and Sue look for the seeds - of a very special plant.
0:27:28 > 0:27:32- The seeds of this plant were first - collected ten years ago.
0:27:32 > 0:27:35- It's taken this long - to get the seed...
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- ..to grow into a plant in Wales.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42- They're keen now - to get a fresh stock of seeds.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44- This is Schefflera taiwaniana.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48- We're going to release - this plant next year.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51- It's going to be an excellent - plant for us.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55- We've grown it in the garden - for ten years.
0:27:55 > 0:28:00- We're going to release it during - the Chelsea Show week next year.
0:28:01 > 0:28:03- It's our Number One plant, I think.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08- I hope it will bring us - a bit of money!
0:28:08 > 0:28:13- This is the hardest species - we've grown so far...
0:28:15 > 0:28:17- ..of these Scheffleras.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20- People are used to seeing - Scheffleras in houses.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24- This is hardy enough - to grow outside.
0:28:24 > 0:28:29- We're quite high here, - just under 3,000 metres altitude.
0:28:29 > 0:28:33- That's quite hardy enough to grow - throughout most of Britain.
0:28:34 > 0:28:36- Scheffleras are very fashionable.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40- This is the plant gardener Diarmuid - Gavin wants for the Chelsea Show.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45- I'll throw more of the fruit down.
0:28:46 > 0:28:46- Right?
0:28:46 > 0:28:47- Right?- - Right.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50- There's three of them. Catch!
0:29:01 > 0:29:03- The hunting is over - for another year.
0:29:04 > 0:29:08- Before leaving, they visit Taiwan's - Museum of Natural Science...
0:29:08 > 0:29:12- ..in Taichung, to discuss - their work with the experts.
0:29:13 > 0:29:17- Bleddyn has examples - of dried plants to show them.
0:29:18 > 0:29:20- You can put the specimens here.
0:29:23 > 0:29:24- Right.
0:29:25 > 0:29:29- We can also return plants - that originally came from Taiwan.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34- We came here to collect - seeds years ago.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39- After disasters like earthquakes...
0:29:40 > 0:29:44- ..they almost lost some plants. - So we can return plants to them.
0:29:50 > 0:29:53- Bleddyn's field work - enables the museum...
0:29:53 > 0:29:57- ..to reintroduce some rare - plants to the wild.
0:29:57 > 0:30:01- This is an important - personal incentive for him.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22- Back in Wales, winter beckons.
0:30:25 > 0:30:27- It's time to get things in order.
0:30:31 > 0:30:35- Right, we've got some - pressed specimens here.
0:30:36 > 0:30:41- It's a record in a way, - like pressed flowers.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47- I dry them here, - after returning home.
0:30:47 > 0:30:51- Then we keep them - as a reference.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55- Things like this will last - for hundreds of years.
0:30:56 > 0:31:00- I've got another very important - plant this year.
0:31:00 > 0:31:02- I was looking for this.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05- It's called Sarcococcus, - or Christmas Box.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- I collected this twig - with fruit on it...
0:31:09 > 0:31:14- ..another twig with flowers - and another with buds.
0:31:15 > 0:31:19- Bleddyn has collected dried - specimens like these from the start.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- I found these in India last year.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27- A complete, correct - record is essential.
0:31:28 > 0:31:33- A number of the plants haven't been - described in scientific books.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37- Poring through the books, - Bleddyn often discovers mistakes...
0:31:38 > 0:31:39- ..and corrects them.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42- That's the Latin name.
0:31:50 > 0:31:53- A few days after returning - from Taiwan...
0:31:54 > 0:31:56- ..the plants arrive in the post.
0:31:57 > 0:32:00- Our second parcel - from Vietnam has arrived.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02- It's come quickly too, in 3 days.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06- The only thing is, - the wrapping has torn a little.
0:32:06 > 0:32:10- I'm in rather a hurry to see - if everything's still here.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15- I'm not allowed to open it - without taking it to our quarantine.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20- It's under lock and key.
0:32:22 > 0:32:24- They're very strict about this.
0:32:26 > 0:32:28- I'll just open this.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33- I must wear a white coat here - and disinfect my shoes.
0:32:36 > 0:32:37- It's got an awful smell.
0:32:42 > 0:32:43- Right, the plants.
0:32:45 > 0:32:46- That looks very fresh.
0:32:46 > 0:32:47- Lovely.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51- Each plant and seed - must be carefully unpacked.
0:32:51 > 0:32:55- The whole collection must stay - in the quarantine room...
0:32:55 > 0:32:59- ..until the official from the Plant - Health Authority releases them.
0:32:59 > 0:33:03- Bleddyn has one particular plant - he wants to develop...
0:33:04 > 0:33:08- ..for this year's market, - Sarcococcus, the Christmas Box.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11- This is top of the list.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- That's why I've gone - to so much trouble.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18- I've got cuttings - and seeds too.
0:33:21 > 0:33:23- I did get some seeds eventually.
0:33:24 > 0:33:27- But we had to search for four days.
0:33:28 > 0:33:32- It costs thousands of pounds - to maintain the quarantine room.
0:33:32 > 0:33:35- It's very important to comply - with the strict regulations...
0:33:35 > 0:33:39- ..so they can keep - their valuable importing licence.
0:33:40 > 0:33:43- Any spare old leaves - which we remove from things...
0:33:43 > 0:33:45- ..must be put in these bags.
0:33:45 > 0:33:49- They're frozen - for a week, then burnt.
0:33:49 > 0:33:51- Not even water goes out of here.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56- Quarantine is necessary to protect - plants in Britain from disease.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02- But conditions in the quarantine - room aren't ideal for plants.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- Our main problem - is keeping them cold.
0:34:06 > 0:34:10- We try to collect plants from - mountain tops, where it is cold...
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- ..so they can grow outdoors here.
0:34:13 > 0:34:18- Trying to get them used to - the outdoors is the next hurdle...
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- ..after six months in here.
0:34:22 > 0:34:23- I'll just lock it.
0:34:24 > 0:34:25- That's it.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33- A few weeks after - returning from Taiwan...
0:34:33 > 0:34:37- ..the official from the Plant Health - Authority, David Warren, calls.
0:34:38 > 0:34:39- Hello, David, how are you today?
0:34:39 > 0:34:40- Hello, David, how are you today?- - Not bad.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44- He's here to check if there - are any diseases or insects...
0:34:44 > 0:34:47- ..on the plants - from Vietnam and Taiwan.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50- It's an anxious time for Bleddyn.
0:34:50 > 0:34:54- He can't release the plants - without David's permission.
0:34:57 > 0:34:58- Thank you.
0:35:03 > 0:35:08- If he found something wrong, - we'd have to burn the plant...
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- ..and everything with it, - pot and soil.
0:35:12 > 0:35:16- Then we'd have - to start quarantine again.
0:35:17 > 0:35:18- Or burn them all!
0:35:21 > 0:35:24- Bleddyn can't do anything - now but wait...
0:35:25 > 0:35:26- ..and hope.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30- David comes out - - there is a problem.
0:35:31 > 0:35:33- He's found an insect...
0:35:33 > 0:35:36- ..on the leaf of Bleddyn's most - important find...
0:35:36 > 0:35:37- ..the Christmas Box.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39- This is disastrous news.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- These plants are from the other - side of the world...
0:35:44 > 0:35:48- ..in similar climatic - conditions to the United Kingdom.
0:35:48 > 0:35:50- And so therefore - there's a strong possibility...
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- ..that any pests and diseases they - may be carrying could survive...
0:35:55 > 0:35:57- ..in this climate.
0:35:57 > 0:36:00- Our worst fear is alien insects...
0:36:01 > 0:36:04- ..very similarly or closely related - to our own native species...
0:36:04 > 0:36:06- ..because these are quickly spread.
0:36:09 > 0:36:13- All that Bleddyn can do now is wait - while the Plant Health Authority...
0:36:14 > 0:36:16- ..carry out their experiments.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19- If there's an insect, or traces - of insects, on the plants...
0:36:19 > 0:36:21- ..they'll all have to be destroyed.
0:36:22 > 0:36:25- They'd lose years of sales - of the Christmas Box.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29- A great personal - and financial loss.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32- At last, the call comes.
0:36:33 > 0:36:34- It's bad news.
0:36:38 > 0:36:40- 888
0:36:42 > 0:36:47- The worst possible news came - from the Plant Health Authority.
0:36:47 > 0:36:50- There's a problem - with Bleddyn's most important find.
0:36:51 > 0:36:55- They've found a new insect - they've never seen before.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58- So we've got to burn everything now.
0:36:58 > 0:37:02- Bleddyn doesn't only discover - new plants for science.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04- He's discovered a new insect too.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08- Unfortunately, - it's on his favourite plant.
0:37:09 > 0:37:11- They all have to be burnt.
0:37:11 > 0:37:14- Luckily, we collected seeds - from this plant...
0:37:15 > 0:37:17- ..Christmas Box, Sarcococcus.
0:37:17 > 0:37:21- That was the main plant - we looked for in Taiwan.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25- The plants have gone now.
0:37:26 > 0:37:30- But we've got a few seeds. - I hope we'll be lucky with those.
0:37:36 > 0:37:41- We lose two or three years - until we have enough plants...
0:37:42 > 0:37:45- ..to produce more of them.
0:38:01 > 0:38:03- But the work must go on.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06- With winter approaching, - Bleddyn must be watchful.
0:38:07 > 0:38:10- He must get up early - every day to do the rounds.
0:38:12 > 0:38:14- That was yesterday at nightfall.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18- Temperature is important. - Frost can kill young plants.
0:38:22 > 0:38:24- Bleddyn isn't the only busy person.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27- Everyone has important work - this time of year.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32- It's January now and it's cold.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37- We're preparing for the new season.
0:38:39 > 0:38:43- Today, we're repotting - a lot of the stock plants.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47- We try to do that once a year.
0:38:50 > 0:38:54- Most of these plants have never - been grown in a nursery before.
0:38:55 > 0:38:59- So it's essential to get - the conditions right.
0:38:59 > 0:39:04- Only Bleddyn can do this, - as he's seen the plants in the wild.
0:39:09 > 0:39:11- They must have plenty of air.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15- This time of year, - that's the main thing they need.
0:39:17 > 0:39:21- That's why we redid this tunnel, - to raise it.
0:39:21 > 0:39:25- Now air can circulate - around these young plants.
0:39:26 > 0:39:28- It seems to be working well.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32- Everything looks - healthier this year.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37- There are thousands of plants here, - each with its own needs.
0:39:45 > 0:39:49- There are only three weeks before - Crug reopens to the public.
0:39:50 > 0:39:55- By then, this sales corner - has to be full of new plants.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07- But winter isn't quite over.
0:40:08 > 0:40:11- In February, - there's an unexpected snowfall.
0:40:11 > 0:40:14- Great for the dogs, - but not for the plants.
0:40:15 > 0:40:19- Only a week before opening, - it's impossible to work.
0:40:20 > 0:40:23- Only one staff member - could get to work.
0:40:36 > 0:40:41- It's important that the roots - of young plants don't freeze.
0:40:43 > 0:40:45- That's what we look out for most.
0:40:48 > 0:40:49- We'll use the brushes.
0:41:13 > 0:41:16- In early spring, - the effects of winter can be seen.
0:41:17 > 0:41:19- We've had a very mild winter.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23- Everything was beginning - to come out very early.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28- The new growth was very early - and was hit by frost.
0:41:30 > 0:41:32- Some of these have frozen.
0:41:32 > 0:41:35- All these Hydrangea - buds have frozen.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39- It's quite possible that things - like this won't bloom this year.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- Pity, but there we are. - We have to learn to live with it.
0:41:57 > 0:41:59- It's April, and a big day at Crug.
0:42:00 > 0:42:04- It's the launch - of Schefflera taiwaniana.
0:42:05 > 0:42:09- People swarm to buy it - - and at a price of 50 each.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16- Bleddyn and Sue first collected - its seeds ten years ago.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19- It's taken since then - to grow enough plants to sell.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22- Now, there's great - anticipation to see the plant.
0:42:23 > 0:42:26- And the Schefflera - can only be bought at Crug.
0:42:29 > 0:42:32- If they found something - like this in Holland...
0:42:33 > 0:42:37- ..they'd start producing - thousands of them.
0:42:37 > 0:42:40- They can grow plants - from test tubes.
0:42:41 > 0:42:43- It's called micropropagation.
0:42:43 > 0:42:45- We can't do that.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48- We have to grow things - like this from cuttings.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- You can't get a lot of cuttings - from a plant like this.
0:42:52 > 0:42:54- Or you can grow it from seed.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57- So we have to wait until - the plant grows big enough...
0:42:57 > 0:43:01- ..to produce its own seeds. - It's done that.
0:43:01 > 0:43:05- You can see that people - will like this very much.
0:43:05 > 0:43:07- The way the leaves fall.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11- It's one of the best plants - we've brought to this country.
0:43:12 > 0:43:15- I've been looking forward - to this one for a while.
0:43:18 > 0:43:22- The launch attracts - people from near and far.
0:43:22 > 0:43:27- Plants are Bleddyn's life, - but one has to earn a living.
0:43:41 > 0:43:44- It's been a very successful day.
0:43:53 > 0:43:57- A week later, and Diarmuid's back - to collect his plants.
0:43:58 > 0:44:01- He knows exactly what he wants to - see first - the Schefflera.
0:44:01 > 0:44:03- That is very beautiful.
0:44:03 > 0:44:06- That is very beautiful.- - It's the whole mood of the time.
0:44:07 > 0:44:08- Yes.
0:44:08 > 0:44:12- Can we dig this one up - and show it in Chelsea?
0:44:12 > 0:44:14- It's amazing, absolutely amazing.
0:44:15 > 0:44:16- I love them.
0:44:16 > 0:44:17- I love them.- - Should be hardy to minus fifteen.
0:44:17 > 0:44:21- Wow. OK, well, - London town's no problem.
0:44:22 > 0:44:24- You're used to this one, Mellifera.
0:44:24 > 0:44:25- Everywhere.
0:44:26 > 0:44:29- The Chelsea Show - is only six weeks away.
0:44:29 > 0:44:32- So, down to the plastic tunnels - to choose plants.
0:44:33 > 0:44:34- You've got the foliage on these.
0:44:34 > 0:44:35- You've got the foliage on these.- - Absolutely, yes.
0:44:37 > 0:44:42- By next week I would hope - they'd be coming down to us.
0:44:47 > 0:44:52- It's nice for us that Diarmuid sees - plants here for the first time.
0:44:53 > 0:44:55- Plants he's never seen before.
0:44:55 > 0:44:58- He hasn't got an idea what they are.
0:44:59 > 0:45:01- He's very excited about them.
0:45:02 > 0:45:06- That's Tilifolia. It's from a little - island off the coast of Korea.
0:45:06 > 0:45:07- They're fantastic!
0:45:07 > 0:45:08- They're fantastic!- - Yes.
0:45:08 > 0:45:10- Would you have ten of them?
0:45:10 > 0:45:12- Probably more than that.
0:45:12 > 0:45:14- They're very passionate - about their plants...
0:45:14 > 0:45:16- ..and they have very unusual plants.
0:45:17 > 0:45:21- It's not like going to an ordinary - nursery. It's very, very different.
0:45:23 > 0:45:24- It's exciting.
0:45:25 > 0:45:29- It's contemporary plant hunters, - and you don't find too many of them.
0:45:30 > 0:45:32- Gardening style is changing.
0:45:33 > 0:45:35- People want the plants we grow.
0:45:37 > 0:45:39- People are looking for leaves now.
0:45:41 > 0:45:43- Flowers aren't as important.
0:45:44 > 0:45:48- People look at the shape of the - leaves. They want structure now.
0:45:50 > 0:45:52- It's quite good really, - isn't it, to get from here...
0:45:52 > 0:45:55- ..a little place like this, - to Chelsea.
0:45:55 > 0:45:57- Don't you think so?
0:45:57 > 0:45:58- How's that?
0:46:01 > 0:46:05- After Diarmuid leaves, the staff - sort out the plants he chose...
0:46:06 > 0:46:09- ..for his garden at the show - in Chelsea.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- We have to look after the leaves - as if they were flowers.
0:46:22 > 0:46:25- It's a relief as well - to get them out of the way...
0:46:25 > 0:46:28- ..so that somebody else - can look after them for us.
0:46:36 > 0:46:39- While loading, - Sue gets some good news.
0:46:39 > 0:46:43- We've been invited by the president - of the RHS for drinks at Chelsea.
0:46:43 > 0:46:44- Good lord!
0:46:45 > 0:46:46- Have we? What for?
0:46:48 > 0:46:50- I'm very excited!
0:46:51 > 0:46:52- Brilliant, isn't it?
0:46:54 > 0:46:55- Well, it is.
0:46:56 > 0:46:57- Fabulous.
0:46:58 > 0:46:59- When's that?
0:46:59 > 0:47:00- When's that?- - The 25th.
0:47:01 > 0:47:03- I'll have to get a new frock now!
0:47:11 > 0:47:13- He's taking a dozen of these.
0:47:16 > 0:47:18- At 75 for a large Schefflera...
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- ..a lot of money - is going out of the doors.
0:47:44 > 0:47:48- It's very special to receive - an invitation like this...
0:47:48 > 0:47:50- ..to meet the president at Chelsea.
0:47:52 > 0:47:54- It's something you can't buy.
0:48:16 > 0:48:20- The big day has arrived. - We're going to Chelsea tomorrow.
0:48:21 > 0:48:26- I've decided to take - the white linen skirt...
0:48:29 > 0:48:31- ..and a small white top.
0:48:32 > 0:48:35- And this, if it's cold.
0:48:38 > 0:48:42- But I've bought one new thing, - a handbag.
0:48:44 > 0:48:48- I thought it was a bit of fun, to go - to Chelsea with a handbag like this.
0:48:49 > 0:48:51- I've got shoes to match.
0:48:52 > 0:48:55- A bit of fun, for Chelsea.
0:48:56 > 0:48:58- Down at the big show...
0:48:58 > 0:49:02- ..Diarmuid is working on his garden - until the last minute.
0:49:02 > 0:49:04- But he's glad of one thing.
0:49:04 > 0:49:06- Do you see the new plants?
0:49:07 > 0:49:10- We only know them as house plants - in this country, the Scheffleras.
0:49:10 > 0:49:12- This is a Schefflera Taiwanese. - Come here, have a look at it.
0:49:12 > 0:49:15- You have to see this. - It's never been seen.
0:49:16 > 0:49:20- They're the bees knees, - the big kahuna.
0:49:20 > 0:49:24- Diarmuid gets a lot of attention - at the Chelsea Show...
0:49:24 > 0:49:28- ..as much for the colourful balls - as for the plants.
0:49:28 > 0:49:29- Finally, the adjudication.
0:49:30 > 0:49:32- The trees are exceptionally good.
0:49:33 > 0:49:35- He wins the Silver-Gilt Medal.
0:49:35 > 0:49:38- Sue and Bleddyn - visit Diarmuid in his garden.
0:49:39 > 0:49:40- We enjoyed Chelsea, didn't we?
0:49:40 > 0:49:41- We enjoyed Chelsea, didn't we?- - Yes.
0:49:43 > 0:49:44- A day out.
0:49:47 > 0:49:49- We saw how the other half live!
0:49:50 > 0:49:54- It's been a very busy - and important year...
0:49:55 > 0:49:57- ..for Bleddyn and Sue Wynn-Jones.
0:49:57 > 0:49:59- The launch of the Schefflera - was successful...
0:50:00 > 0:50:02- ..and the gardens look superb.
0:50:02 > 0:50:06- Bleddyn and Sue have spent 13 years - travelling around the world...
0:50:06 > 0:50:08- ..collecting plants.
0:50:08 > 0:50:12- Now, people from all over the world - travel to Wales to buy them.
0:50:13 > 0:50:15- I'm sure we'll just carry on.
0:50:16 > 0:50:19- Travel as much as we can, - for as long as we can.
0:50:19 > 0:50:22- For twenty more years, I hope. - We'll see.
0:50:24 > 0:50:25- If we have our health.
0:50:25 > 0:50:26- If we have our health.- - Let's hope so.
0:50:27 > 0:50:31- Or I'll go in a chair one day, - to look for things!
0:50:31 > 0:50:33- And send you to get them.
0:50:33 > 0:50:34- And send you to get them.- - LAUGHTER
0:50:34 > 0:50:35- We're very lucky.
0:50:35 > 0:50:36- We're very lucky.- - Yes.
0:50:37 > 0:50:37- We enjoy what we do.
0:50:37 > 0:50:38- We enjoy what we do.- - Yes.
0:50:38 > 0:50:42- It would be good to make more money. - But we earn a living.
0:50:43 > 0:50:47- Better than when we farmed, - which is most important.
0:50:49 > 0:50:50- We're happy.
0:50:50 > 0:50:51- We're happy.- - Yes.
0:51:11 > 0:51:13- S4C Subtitles by:- GWEAD
0:51:13 > 0:51:15