Monty Don, the cherished face of Gardeners’ World, candidly discusses a parenting and gardening “classic” misstep he made while raising his children at his Longmeadow estate in Herefordshire.
Monty and his wife Sarah purchased their farmhouse and two-acre plot back in 1991, transforming the once barren land into a nurturing garden haven for their three children: Tom, Adam, and Freya. Despite his horticultural expertise, Monty admits he initially designed a play area for the kids roughly 50 yards from the back door, assuming it would be perfect for them.
Reflecting in Gardens Illustrated, he explains, “I thought it was brilliant with all kinds of play features, but the children never touched it. They preferred playing much closer to the house, within five yards or so. Kids want to run in and out, see and be seen by their parents. I eventually modified the area, realizing this was a classic mistake.”
READ MORE: UKHSA Issues Warning on Deadly Fungus Candidozyma auris Posing Significant Health Threat
READ MORE: Oak Processionary Moth Poses Health and Environmental Risks as Infestation Spreads in England
Monty also acknowledges planting too many trees and hedges too close together in the garden’s early days. The open, wind-swept site initially beckoned for swift planting, but over time, the overgrown vegetation contributed to poor ventilation and fungal issues. He notes that seasoned gardeners anticipate such growth well into the future, sometimes planning 10 to 30 years ahead.
Monty’s passion for gardening sprouted in his Hampshire childhood, where tasks like mowing the lawn and tending strawberries fueled his early love for outdoor work. By his teens, he was skillful with vegetables and even contributed to family chores like plucking chickens and chopping wood. Yet, it took about ten years for him to fully recognize his deep passion for gardening.
In the 1980s, it was rare for young couples like Monty and Sarah to devote themselves to gardening, especially in London where they lived. Their shared enthusiasm eventually caught the attention of a photographer, leading Monty into a media career.
Since taking over as presenter of Gardeners’ World in 2002 from Alan Titchmarsh, Monty Don has become synonymous with thoughtful, inspiring gardening. Tonight at 8pm on BBC Two, viewers can catch him enlivening his Jewel Garden with bold, colorful bedding and rejuvenating his pond plants, continuing to share his wealth of knowledge and passion with audiences nationwide.