Renowned horticulturist and broadcaster Monty Don, who has been the face of BBC’s Gardeners’ World since 2003, with a brief hiatus from 2008 to 2011 during which Toby Buckland stepped in, remains a cornerstone of the show.
After two decades of leading the beloved gardening programme, speculation about Don’s potential departure had naturally arisen. However, he has now reassured fans and viewers alike that he has no plans to step away.
In a significant announcement, Don confirmed that he will continue as the lead presenter of Gardeners’ World for at least two more years, securing his presence on the show through to the end of 2026.
In an interview with Radio Times magazine, Monty Don confirmed his commitment to continue hosting Gardeners’ Worldfor another two years, extending his tenure as lead presenter through the end of 2026.
When asked about his plans for the future of the show, Don shared,
“I never make plans beyond two years, but I’ve agreed to do another two [from January 2025]. Every time I think, ‘Am I really going to do this?’ But the truth is that I do enjoy it. I’m lucky because it’s in my own garden. If the programme is made well, I’ll continue.”
Don also spoke with Radio Times about his upcoming BBC Two series, Monty Don’s British Gardens, set to premiere on Friday, 10th January, at 8 p.m.
The new programme will take viewers on a journey across the United Kingdom, exploring gardens in some of the most challenging environments, as well as private royal gardens and other unique spaces.
When asked why he chose to focus on British gardens at this point in his career, Don explained,
“I’ve been traveling the world visiting gardens since Around the World in 80 Gardens in 2008.”
This latest series marks a return to the rich gardening heritage of Britain, highlighting the diversity and resilience of gardens across the country.
“While Gardeners’ World focuses on the practical aspects of gardening, providing hands-on guidance and techniques, the travel programmes take a broader cultural perspective—exploring why people garden in specific places and what it means to them.
It occurred to us, why not turn that same cultural and anthropological lens toward our own backyard?”