BBC announces Monty Don is leaving Gardeners’ World after more than 20 years

Monty Don will step down from Gardeners’ World at the end of the current series after more than 20 years, the BBC has announced.

The 71-year-old joined Gardeners’ World in 2003 and, from 2011, has welcomed TV audiences weekly into his own garden, Longmeadow, in Herefordshire.

He said in a video announcement with the news: ‘I have decided that the current series of Gardeners’ World is to be my last.

‘I began hosting the programme 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow.

‘Throughout that time – and around seven hundred 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.

‘That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.’

He added: ‘I have also always relished the craft of programme making and to do so, week in, week out, as part of a superlative BBC team has been a deeply rewarding experience. But now is the right time for a change.

‘I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues. There are more books to write, more programmes to make.

‘And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by my side, here at Longmeadow.’

BBC’s chief content officer Kate Phillips has said she respects his decision to leave the show, but added: ‘I’m still very sad he’s leaving.’

She did not comment on who might replace Don to front the BBC show.

Phillips continued: ‘Monty is utterly unique, a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening.

‘We are a nation full of budding gardeners, and his tips and advice have been invaluable to viewers for more than 20 years and have certainly helped me increase my knowledge as well as my plant survival rate!

‘I would like to thank Monty personally for his honesty and kindness, which has seen him open up about his own personal struggles and the power of the natural world to improve mental health.

‘We will miss him on the show hugely. Monty will be presenting BBC Gardeners’ World from his beautiful Longmeadow gardens until the end of the year, and I look forward to working with him on the BBC on future projects.’