Gardeners’ World: An emotional farewell to Longmeadow in tonight’s episode

BBC Two, 8pm

It’s a poignant evening in the Gardeners’ World calendar as Monty Don prepares to present his final programme from the much-loved Longmeadow, bringing an end to a remarkable 16-year chapter in which he has invited viewers into his garden and shared his passion for the great outdoors.

With Ned alongside him, Monty looks back on the simple pleasures that make gardening so rewarding, while offering one final helping of his much-loved bulb lasagne. There’s still plenty to be getting on with as autumn takes hold, from sowing vegetables and planting perennials to making the most of fallen apples.

Elsewhere, Carol Klein explores the fascinating science behind plants, turning her attention to the remarkable properties of their shoots. Joe Swift catches up with close friend and garden designer Ann-Marie Powell, who opens the gates to her own garden – a special place that has provided comfort and sanctuary following the heartbreaking loss of her husband last year.

The programme also heads to North Yorkshire to meet an inspiring woman with an ambitious mission to raise thousands of trees from seed, while in East Grinstead, a couple reveal the garden they have lovingly created together, celebrating their shared enthusiasm for growing.

Speaking about his decision to leave the show, Monty said: “I have decided that the current series of Gardeners’ World is to be my last. I began hosting the programme 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow.

“Throughout that time – and around seven hundred programmes – I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience.

“That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.

“I have also always relished the craft of programme making and to do so, week in week out, as part of a superlative BBC team has been a deeply rewarding experience. But now is the right time for a change.

“I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues. There are more books to write, more programmes to make.

“And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow.”

Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer says: “Monty’s decision to leave Gardeners’ World is one I respect, but I’m still very sad he’s leaving. Monty is utterly unique, a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening.

“We are a nation full of budding gardeners, and his tips and advice have been invaluable to viewers for more than 20 years and have certainly helped me increase my knowledge as well as my plant survival rate!

“I would like to thank Monty personally for his honesty and kindness which has seen him open-up about his own personal struggles and the power of the natural world to improve mental health. We will miss him on the show hugely. Monty will be presenting BBC Gardeners’ World from his beautiful Longmeadow gardens until the end of the year, and I look forward to working with him on the BBC on future projects.”

Sharon Fisher, BBC Studios Series Editor, Gardeners’ World, who has worked with Monty for the past twenty years said: “Monty’s contribution to Gardeners’ World has been extraordinary. Through his warmth, wisdom and deep love of gardening, he has inspired millions to discover the pleasure and purpose that getting your hands into the soil can bring. I have seen first-hand the care, integrity and generosity he brings to everything he does. His departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the programme’s history. All of us on the Gardeners’ World team, will miss him enormously, but we celebrate everything he has given to the programme, the gardening community and the audience who have welcomed him into their homes every week for over two decades.”

With gardening inspiration, fascinating discoveries and some deeply personal stories, tonight’s Gardeners’ World promises to be an especially memorable episode as Monty’s time at Longmeadow draws towards its close.

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