Monty Don is stepping down as the longest-serving Head Gardener of BBC's Gardeners' World after 23 years at the helm. The 71-year-old presenter confirmed that the current series, filmed at his home garden, Longmeadow in Herefordshire, will be his last.
Don, who joined the show in 2003 and began welcoming viewers into his garden in 2011, announced his decision via an Instagram video. He stated that while new adventures may lie ahead, this marks the end of a significant chapter. "I have decided that the current series of Gardeners' World is to be my last," Don said. "I began hosting the programme 23 years ago... and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow."
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share his passion for gardening with a dedicated audience and emphasized the value of that connection. Don also noted his enjoyment of the program-making craft and his rewarding experience working with the BBC team. "But now is the right time for a change," he added.
Don indicated plans to continue working with the BBC on other projects, including writing more books and making further programs. He also affirmed his intention to continue gardening at Longmeadow with his dogs.
The departure comes after Don revealed in March that he had undergone significant knee surgery, describing it as "horribly painful" and stating it had left him struggling to walk. He explained that the surgery, performed after his 70th birthday, was necessary due to the limitation it placed on his ability to work and his noticeable limp.
"However you do it, a knee replacement is horribly painful, but three months on I’m gardening again and haven’t walked with a stick for a month," Don commented at the time, though he noted that his recovery had some unpredictable pain. His doctor has advised further surgery on his other knee, which he plans to schedule for late 2027.
Despite these health challenges, Don had previously indicated no immediate plans for retirement. In March, he mentioned ongoing negotiations to extend his contract with Gardeners' World until 2028. He stated that while he always considered his future with the show at contract renewals, he had consistently wished to continue. "But there will come a time when either they’ll say, 'No, thanks' or I’ll say, 'It's time for a change', but neither of us, as far as I know, has reached that point yet," he had said.
Kate Phillips, BBC's Chief Content Officer, expressed respect for Don's decision while conveying sadness at his departure. She described him as a "wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening." Phillips thanked Don for his honesty regarding personal struggles and the positive impact of the natural world on mental health. She confirmed he would present from Longmeadow until the end of the year and that the BBC looked forward to future collaborations.
Sharon Fisher, BBC Studios Series Editor for Gardeners' World, who has worked with Don for two decades, called his contribution "extraordinary." She highlighted how his "warmth, wisdom and deep love of gardening" inspired millions and acknowledged his care and integrity. Fisher noted that his departure marks the end of a significant era for the program, and the team will miss him while celebrating his contributions.