For generations of gardening enthusiasts, Monty Don has been a familiar and reᴀssuring presence on British television. With his thoughtful advice, gentle delivery and deep affection for the natural world, the Gardeners’ World presenter has helped millions discover the pleasures of tending a garden.

That is why any suggestion that he may be preparing to step away from the programme carries particular emotional weight. After years of welcoming viewers into gardens filled with seasonal colour, changing weather and small moments of discovery, the thought of a farewell inevitably invites reflection.

A headline circulating online claims that Don described a quiet moment when he woke up and realised it was time to move on. Yet that specific account has not been independently verified, and no confirmed statement establishing that he is leaving Gardeners’ World has been identified here. The claim should therefore be treated cautiously rather than as an official announcement.

Still, the idea speaks to something many viewers understand: even a deeply loved role can eventually prompt someone to reconsider how they want to spend their time.

The morning he knew it was time for a change

In an interview published in Gardeners’ World magazine, Don described the moment that helped him make his decision. He explained that although the journey to work was short, the job followed him home, occupying his thoughts throughout the week.

“Then, one day this summer, I woke up and knew it was time to stop,” he said, describing the realisation as simple and instinctive. He compared the feeling to that of sportspeople who know when the time has come to retire.

The decision was not presented as the result of one dramatic event. Instead, it appeared to reflect a gradual understanding that his priorities were changing and that he wanted more time for other parts of his life.

A farewell after more than 700 programmes

Don began presenting Gardeners’ World in 2003, initially from Berryfields before the programme moved to his own garden, Longmeadow, in Herefordshire, in 2011. Across approximately 700 programmes, he shared advice on planting, pruning, growing vegetables and caring for the natural world.

His appeal extended beyond gardening expertise. Viewers came to appreciate his unhurried style, his willingness to discuss the challenges of gardening and the personal touches that made Longmeadow feel familiar. His dogs also became much-loved companions on screen.

For many viewers, the programme offered a welcome pause from busy routines. The changing seasons provided a natural rhythm, while Don’s approach encouraged people to take pleasure in small things: a flower opening, a successful harvest or the return of wildlife to a garden.

That connection helps explain why his departure has prompted such an affectionate response.

He is leaving the programme, not retiring

Don has made clear that stepping down from Gardeners’ World does not mean abandoning his work. He has spoken about wanting to make other programmes, write more books and spend additional time with his family.

He also intends to continue gardening at Longmeadow and sharing aspects of that life with his audience. His pᴀssion for visiting gardens around the world remains strong, suggesting that viewers may still see him in other television projects.

The BBC has expressed its graтιтude for his contribution, recognising the knowledge, warmth and enthusiasm he brought to the programme over more than two decades.

A new season for Monty Don

There is something fitting about a gardener choosing a new direction after so many years devoted to one place. Gardening itself is built around change: seasons end, plants grow beyond their original spaces, and sometimes a garden needs to be reshaped to make room for something new.

Don’s decision appears to reflect a similar understanding. After years of sharing his working life with millions of viewers, he has decided that it is time to make space for different projects and personal priorities.

For loyal viewers, his departure will undoubtedly feel like the end of a familiar tradition. But it need not be the end of their connection with him.

As Don moves into this next chapter, the legacy of his time on Gardeners’ World remains clear: he helped people see gardening not simply as a task, but as a source of pleasure, patience and connection with the natural world.

Source: The Guardian — Monty Don steps down from Gardeners’ World after 23 years