Monty Don bids farewell after 23 years on ‘Gardener’s World’
Lead presenter Monty Don delivered his final episode of Gardeners’ World tonight, marking the end of a 23-year tenure on the programme that has captivated audiences for nearly six decades, reports BritPanorama.
The beloved gardening show concluded with Don strolling through his Herefordshire garden alongside his golden retriever, Ned. His approach has made him a familiar face to millions, whether they maintain sprawling gardens or modest window boxes. The episode served as a nostalgic farewell to a host who has become synonymous with gardening in the UK.
Don’s influence extends beyond his gardening skills; he has become an iconic figure in British culture. His signature look, characterized by a faded French bleu de travail workman’s jacket and high-waisted corduroy trousers, has been described as reminiscent of a “human Peter Rabbit.” As he noted, “Good trousers only start to feel right after a year or so,” emphasizing his utilitarian yet stylish approach.
Having transitioned from a high-end jewelry business that fell victim to the 1987 stock market crash, Don has openly discussed his mental health challenges and the therapeutic benefits of gardening. His authenticity has resonated with viewers, highlighting a shared belief in the restorative power of nature. Although he experienced a minor stroke in 2008 that momentarily sidelined him from the programme, his passion for gardening and ability to communicate its joys outweighed the setbacks.
Interestingly, Don has never received formal training as a gardener. He describes himself as “an amateur gardener and a professional writer,” claiming that his authority stems from a lifetime of personal experience and a deep engagement with his garden at Longmeadow, a formerly neglected plot that he transformed into a thriving green space.
While gardening is a patient endeavor that requires embracing trial and error, Don’s willingness to admit mistakes has endeared him to many. However, he faces criticism, with detractors claiming that his portrayal of Longmeadow oversimplifies the labour involved. Critics argue that Don’s extensive support team complicates the narrative of individual achievement, but many fans appreciate his contributions as a source of inspiration rather than comparison.
Despite the changes ahead, with successor presenters like Francis Tophill and Adam Frost likely to step in, Don’s departure is felt among his audience. His blend of practical advice, humour, and engaging storytelling has left a significant mark on British television gardening, one that will not soon be forgotten.
Monty Don’s final episode of ‘Gardeners’ World’ is on tonight at 8pm on BBC Two.
