Monty Don, beloved host of Gardeners' World, has candidly shared that December is a difficult “low time of year” for him due to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a condition affecting roughly two million people across the UK. Speaking in Gardeners' World magazine, Monty explained how he manages this annual struggle by immersing himself in gardening tasks at his famous Longmeadow garden.
“December can be a low time of year for me psychologically, as I am prone to seasonal affective disorder,” Monty admitted. “But my spirits always lift by Boxing Day.” He described how, regardless of bleak weather, he finds comfort in potting shed activities such as sowing tomatoes, chillies, and onions—a hopeful sign of the approaching spring. When conditions are favorable, Monty begins pruning apple trees, a week-long task he genuinely enjoys during the crisp, dry days between Christmas and New Year.
Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes, often darkest and most severe during winter months due to reduced sunlight. Symptoms can include persistent low mood, irritability, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, carbohydrate cravings, weight changes, and difficulty concentrating. While the exact causes remain unclear, limited sunlight exposure is a major factor. The NHS advises anyone struggling with ongoing SAD symptoms to consult their GP for support.
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Beyond his personal battle with SAD, Monty reflected on a significant challenge his Longmeadow garden faced—a severe outbreak of box blight, a fungal disease that attacks box plants. Although many gardens in his area were affected, Monty sees this experience as an invaluable lesson. “I don’t try to grow anything that doesn’t want to be there,” he shared on the BBC Gardeners' World podcast. “Sarah and I always say, we don’t want anything in our garden that doesn’t want to be in our garden.” This philosophy guides their gardening choices, emphasizing harmony with nature.
For fans of Gardeners' World, the second Winter Special will air on BBC Two Friday, December 5, from 9 pm to 10 pm, offering more inspiration through the winter months.