BBC presenter Monty Don, best known for his work on ‘Gardeners’ World,' has candidly shared a major career insight: he would never exhibit at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show again.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast on Monday, 23 March, Don discussed the upcoming Chelsea Flower Show alongside hosts Jon Kay and Sally Nugent. When the conversation turned to this year’s lifting of the ban on garden gnomes, Monty expressed an open-minded approach to gardening, emphasizing that it’s a “broad church” with room for all tastes.
Jon Kay jokingly hinted that David Beckham might challenge Monty this year with his own garden display. Monty welcomed the idea but warned of the enormous commitment required. “It’s a hell of a thing, it’s a major operation. It’s very full on, really full on and a wonderful experience, but I’d never do it again,” he confessed.
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Monty advised Beckham, should he decide to participate, to be ready to devote himself fully: “Forget your family, forget the rest of your life, you’re going to spend 24 hours a day working on it.”
Last year marked Monty Don’s debut as an exhibitor at Chelsea, where he showcased a dog-friendly garden inspired by his own dogs and Longmeadow. Despite years of hosting RHS Chelsea coverage, 2025 was the first time he took on the challenge of designing and presenting his own garden.
Reflecting on the experience, he said, “This is an irresistible opportunity to join with the RHS and BBC Radio 2 to share my love of gardens and dogs at the world’s greatest horticultural event.” He praised his team led by Jamie Butterworth for their work on the project—a celebration of gardens shared with canine companions.
Monty will be attending this year’s Chelsea Flower Show to see the new displays and is looking forward to the event, though he remains certain he won’t undertake an exhibitor role again.