Monty Don announces he will be leaving Gardeners' World after more than 20 years

After presenting the popular gardening show Gardeners' World for more than two decades, Monty Don is stepping down. The TV presenter, who started presenting the show back in 2003, taking over from Alan Titchmarsh, has shared the news in a video.

Taking to social media, Monty told his 1.4 million followers on Instagram that it was "time for a change". He started: "I have a big piece of news for you, because I have decided that this is to be my last series of Gardeners' World. I began hosting Gardeners' World 23 years ago, and for the last 16 years we've been here in the garden of Longmeadow, and it's been fantastic."

He goes on to say it's been fantastic, but there are "no doubt new adventures in the future", however he doesn't expand on what they might be.

Since breaking the news to his followers, fans of the horticulturist have been leaving thousands of messages with Greatest Hits Radio presenter Zoe Ball writing: 'oh Monty. our Fridays will not be the same without you but heartfelt thanks love and respect for all the magic & knowledge you have shared with us. enjoy your next adventures. our absolute favourite xx'. (sic)

Greatest Hits' Kate Thornton also added: 'Nooooo! This is a horticultural tragedy. Thank you for sharing so much passion, knowledge and wisdom. You will be hugely missed ❤️'. (sic)

Another fan commented: 'Thank you, Monty. ❤️ If it wasn’t for you, I don’t think I’d be gardening today. I can’t thank you enough for all the inspiration over the years. Enjoy your next chapter — you’ve more than earned it. 🌿'.

Speaking about his decision 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."

In response to Monty's decision, Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer said: "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!"

When is Gardeners' World on TV?

It is currently airing on BBC Two on Thursdays at 8am, Fridays at 9pm and Saturdays at 8.50am, as well as being available to stream on iPlayer.

Author: Anna Sky Magliola

Anna Sky Magliola is a Digital Content Editor at Rayo, creating content for brands including Hits Radio, Greatest Hits Radio, KISS, Cool FM and Magic Radio. She began her career at Bauer Media in 2007 and has spent almost two decades creating engaging digital content for millions of readers, specialising in music news, celebrity interviews and TV features. A passionate dance music fan, Anna Sky has travelled the world to experience some of the biggest festivals and is always looking for the next great music story.