Gardeners’ World presenter Monty Don opened up about the “huge stick” he received just days before announcing his exit from the BBC show
Monty Don said he received ‘huge stick’ after sharing lawn advice (Image: PA)
Monty Don revealed he is stepping down from Gardeners’ World after 23 years presenting the BBC programme on Tuesday morning (September 8). Just days prior to sharing the unexpected announcement with followers, the 71-year-old reflected on how certain guidance he offered on the show had previously provoked criticism.
The horticulturist disclosed that he once faced “huge stick” following his recommendation to viewers regarding lawn maintenance.
Speaking on the most recent episode of BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine podcast, he said: “What’s interesting or interested me was, when I would say, you know, ‘Let your lawn grow long, just cut a path through it’.
“I got huge stick from the green keepers, lawn people, mower manufacturers, I mean someone accosted me this morning. Golf people, the world of cut grass, [said] how I wasn’t a representation of the people. ‘Everyone wanted a lawn’.
“Okay, fine, fair enough and then when I made a lawn, I got huge stick from all the organic people who wanted lawn grass and rewilding one, you can’t please [everybody] and I support both parties.”
To announce his exit from the programme via his Instagram page, the BBC presenter shared a video of himself seated with his dog, Ned.
He said: “I began hosting Gardeners’ World 23 years ago, and for the last 16 years we’ve been here at Longmeadow, and it’s been fantastic. I’ve loved every minute, I’ve worked with some amazing people, and it’s been a joy to share my gardening life and my dogs with you.”
He went on to declare it was “time for a change” and that there were some “new adventures in the future”.
Monty also revealed that he will continue to collaborate with the BBC on various other projects, while also pursuing fresh opportunities.
Offering a glimpse of what lies ahead, he added: “There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow.”
Scores of Monty’s 1.4 million followers rushed to the comments section to voice their sadness at the announcement.
Presenter Kate Thornton wrote: “Nooooo! This is a horticultural tragedy. Thank you for sharing so much passion, knowledge and wisdom. You will be hugely missed.”
A fan added: “You will be so missed in Gardeners world,” while a third typed: “Awww, you will be missed, thank you for your beautiful, thoughtful presenting, wishing you fab times ahead.”
The official Gardeners’ World account also posted: “Thank you for everything.” According to the BBC, viewers will still be able to watch Monty broadcasting from Longmeadow until later this year.
Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, said in a statement: “Monty’s decision to leave Gardeners World is one I respect, but I’m still very sad he’s leaving.
“Monty is utterly unique, a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening,” adding he will be “hugely” missed by the team.
