Gardeners' World

Watching Gardeners’ World has been a perfect escape from pandemic worries and political blather.  Gardeners’ World is hosted by Monty Don who is affectionately known as “Britain’s favorite gardener.” Rain or shine, each week the series begins in Longmeadow, Monty’s expansive garden.  Monty, flanked by his two faithful dogs Patti and Nellie, demonstrates the projects he is tackling in his varied garden.  He might be planting tulips in the Jewel Garden, cleaning out the wildlife pond, tending to vegetables, or planting seeds.  The scenery is bucolic and calming, and Monty is an engaging and informative presenter.  After Monty’s introduction, one of his expert staffers visits a specialist grower, a humble allotment, or a British garden.  In a time when travel is impossible, it is a treat to be able to virtually visit small, simple gardens and large manicured estates. 

Gardeners’ World motivates me to get out into the garden and to try new things.  I have learned how to propagate clematis, how to properly stake a delphinium and how to make a cold frame. This spring I am planning to follow the advice of Monty and his crew for starting sweet pea seeds. The series has encouraged me to dream about future trips to Britain to see gardens and the Chelsea Flower Show. 

At the end of the hour Monty always leaves the viewer with garden chores for the weekend.  His reminders are a good motivator to get outside and tend to garden projects that might otherwise be forgotten. I hope you enjoy Gardeners' World as much as I do. You can watch on Britbox (I think older episodes are available on You Tube or Daily Motion).  If you prefer listen to Gardeners’ World while gardening or walking there is now a new podcast.