Monty Don, the longest-serving head gardener of Gardeners’ World, is set to leave the programme at the conclusion of the current series. The 71-year-old broadcaster, who has fronted the show for over two decades, described his tenure as a “deeply rewarding experience” while noting that “now is the right time for a change.”
Since joining the series in 2003 as the successor to Alan Titchmarsh, Don has become a fixture of British television. His early years on the programme were filmed at Berryfields, a rented garden in Stratford-upon-Avon, before the production shifted in 2011 to his private residence, Longmeadow, located in Herefordshire.
Reflecting on his time with the show, Don noted he has fronted approximately 700 episodes. He expressed gratitude for the privilege of sharing his passion for horticulture with a knowledgeable global audience, stating that this connection to the natural world is central to a life well-lived. He also commended the “superlative team” he has collaborated with throughout his tenure.
While he is stepping away from his regular hosting duties, Don confirmed he intends to continue working with on future projects and will pursue new professional avenues. He added that he plans to remain active in gardening at his home, accompanied by his dog.
Don’s career in broadcasting began in 1989 with a segment on ITV’s This Morning. Beyond Gardeners’ World, he has presented numerous series, including Mastercrafts, My Dream Farm, and Around the World in 80 Gardens, alongside his regular coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show. He has also authored more than 20 books on gardening and maintains a newspaper column.
His career has not been without challenges; he famously took a hiatus from the programme in 2008 to recover from a stroke. Furthermore, he has been candid about his personal history with depression, a topic for which chief content officer, Kate Phillips, specifically thanked him, citing his “honesty and kindness” in discussing how nature can support mental health.
Phillips praised Don as a “unique” and “wonderfully engaging” broadcaster whose calm presence has inspired millions. She acknowledged that while she respects his decision to move on, his departure is a significant loss for the show. She noted that his advice has been invaluable to the nation’s gardeners for over 20 years, even crediting him with improving her own plant survival rates.
Credited Don with guiding a vast audience through his warmth and expertise since 2003. As he prepares to exit the series, his legacy remains defined by his ability to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world among viewers both in Britain and internationally. The report also notes that has announced, monty Don is to step down as the host of Gardeners’ World after more than 20 years. The report also notes that don added he had “always relished the craft of programme making” and paid tribute to the “superlative team” he worked with over the years. The report also notes that as well as following new avenues,” he concluded, i look forward to continuing to work with and for on other projects.
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