The BBC must prepare for a change on Gardeners' World after Monty Don confirmed he will leave the presenting role at the end of the current series. The presenter, 71, framed his decision in a statement calling his time on the show "a deeply rewarding experience" and saying "now is the right time for a change."
Don joined Gardeners' World in 2003 and, over more than 700 programmes, became the series' most enduring head gardener. He began filming on a rented plot in Stratford-upon-Avon known as Berryfields, then moved production to his own Herefordshire garden, Longmeadow, in 2011. That relocation anchored the series around Don's seasonal, hands-on approach to plants and gardening.
Reflecting on his tenure, Don said, "Throughout that time - and around 700 programmes - I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience." He paid tribute to the BBC production teams he worked with and said he expected to pursue other projects while continuing to tend Longmeadow, "dog by side."
Don's broadcasting career began in 1989 with a gardening slot on ITV's This Morning, a role that led to further television work, a long-running newspaper column, and more than 20 books on gardening. He took over Gardeners' World from Alan Titchmarsh in 2003 and stepped away briefly in 2008 while recovering from a stroke. His other television projects include Around the World in 80 Gardens, My Dream Farm, Mastercrafts, Monty Don's Rhineland Gardens, and coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show.
Kate Phillips, the BBC's chief content officer, described Don as "unique" and "a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many." She thanked him for his openness about personal struggles and for championing the mental-health benefits of time spent in nature, saying his practical tips have helped build a nation of budding gardeners.
Don will leave the main presenting role when the current series concludes but has indicated he will remain involved with the BBC on other projects. The programme will now enter a period of transition as the corporation prepares for life without the presenter who fronted the show for more than 20 years.
