Monty Don, the beloved presenter of BBC’s Gardeners’ World, has candidly shared a recurring and frustrating challenge in his Longmeadow garden: plants suddenly disappearing shortly after they emerge. During a recent BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine podcast, Don explained how unpredictable weather patterns, particularly excess rainfall, have intensified wildlife activity that disrupts gardening efforts.
He highlighted how flooding around his property drives local rabbits from submerged fields into his garden, creating a significant rabbit population seeking food. “One of the really annoying aspects of flood around us is that the rabbits all come in out of the flooded fields into our garden,” Monty said. “This is especially a problem in spring when they’re forced to find new food sources after the harsh winter.”
These conditions become acute at the start of the growing season. “If we have a cold and wet March, rabbits come in and eat everything in sight,” he added. Don explained the damage can be rapid and severe, though temporary: once the weather dries and warmer temperatures encourage grass growth, the rabbits tend to leave in favor of fresh grass, which they prefer over garden plants.
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“This cycle is linked closely to water — either too much or too little,” Don observed, underlining the delicate balance gardeners must navigate amidst changing climate patterns.
In addition to these practical insights, Monty reflected on the early days of his public journey as a gardener. Speaking on the Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner? podcast, he recalled how a lifestyle magazine feature in the 1980s unexpectedly launched his horticultural profile. A fashion and lifestyle magazine, Elle, showcased his home and garden, which captivated readers with its natural charm.
“They looked out the window and said, ‘Wow! Look at your garden, who did you get to do that?’ I was proud to say, ‘We did it, every single plant,’” he recounted. Monty also shared a surprising detail — the magazine included photos of him topless, an image that still catches him off guard today.
Back then, being an enthusiastic gardener in his twenties was less common, and the magazine’s exposure eventually opened doors to writing and presenting roles that helped shape his successful career in horticulture.
Gardeners’ World continues to inspire viewers with its practical advice and heartfelt connection to gardens like Longmeadow.