Monty Don, the beloved presenter of BBC’s Gardeners' World, has revealed a deeply touching plan for his legacy. During BBC Gardeners' World Live, Monty opened up about his profound love for gardening, describing it as a source of genuine happiness and connection with nature’s slow, deliberate rhythms.
Asked if he considers himself patient—a common trait among gardeners who work with nature’s slow cycles—Monty explained that it’s not so much patience as it is acceptance of the natural world’s timing. He marvels at how an oak tree takes around 400 years to mature, a process far beyond any human lifespan.
Reflecting this timeless perspective, Monty shared that several years ago, he planted a small wood dedicated to his grandchildren. While he will not live to see the forest reach full maturity, he cherishes the idea that his descendants will nurture and enjoy it—and hopefully pass down the tradition to their own grandchildren.
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Monty said, “I like the rhythms of the season and of the natural world. I sow seeds in March but won’t be harvesting tomatoes until August. I planted a wood for my grandchildren and will be long gone before it’s great, but they’ll be my age when the trees mature, and I hope they plant for their grandchildren. That’s the rhythm I love.”
Monty and his wife, Sarah, have three children—Tom, Adam, and Freya—as well as two grandsons and one granddaughter named Daisy. His thoughtful gesture reflects both his love for his family and his devotion to the natural world.
In other news, Monty has achieved unexpected international admiration. Pamela Anderson, famed for her role in Baywatch, praised his writing about gardening as “beautiful and poetic.” Additionally, rapper LL Cool J is a fan, having requested a selfie with Monty at the BBC’s Salford offices during an encounter reported by BBC presenter Nina Warhurst.
Gardeners and nature lovers can catch Monty’s latest insights and inspiration on BBC Gardeners’ World, airing Thursday, June 26, from 8 pm to 9 pm.