Renowned gardener Monty Don has returned to television with his latest series, Monty Don's British Gardens, captivating viewers with stunning landscapes and engaging stories about the gardens of the UK. Don, who became a household name through his work on This Morning and Gardeners' World, is known for his passion for horticulture and his ability to connect with audiences through his love for gardening.
The series, which airs on BBC Two, features Don exploring beautiful gardens throughout Britain, including the scenic Breezy Knees Gardens located near York. This family-run garden has been praised for its extensive collection of over 10,000 different varieties of flowers, shrubs, and trees. Colin and Marylen Parker, the founders of Breezy Knees, expressed their excitement about their garden being featured on the show, stating on social media: "We had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Monty Don to our garden recently as part of the filming for his upcoming show. It's been delightful!"
Tonight, for those tuning in, the episode is set to air at 8 PM, offering viewers the chance to experience Monty's visits to these breathtaking landscapes and his thoughtful insights on gardening.
Monty Don's love for gardening extends beyond mere aesthetics; he often speaks about how it has served as therapy for him. Throughout the series, he shares his battle with mental health, particularly with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which he discussed openly during various interviews. Monty shared his thoughts on gardening’s therapeutic effects, stating, "It enables you to deal with loss and hopelessness and fear and anxiety and you know depression, and it gives you hope. It connects you to the rhythm of seasons."
His reflections on the subject are timely, as more individuals are recognizing the mental health benefits of connecting with nature. Gardening has helped Monty make sense of his struggles, especially after experiencing bankruptcy during the Wall Street crash of 1987, which significantly impacted his mental well-being. He expressed how gardening became integral to his recovery, helping him combat feelings of sadness and depression, and remarked, "Gardening connects you to something bigger than yourself."
Another notable feature of the series has been its exploration of historical gardens. Earlier episodes showcased iconic locations, including the estate once owned by celebrated author Beatrix Potter. Her former garden, now part of the National Trust, plays with themes of organic and slightly unkempt beauty, echoing her literary works. Monty remarked on the garden’s state, saying, "What's particularly interesting is it recreates what Beatrix Potter would have done, with honesty without trying to be perfect." This admirable trait of imperfection seems to resonate with viewers, many of whom have shared how much they appreciate such authenticity.
One fan on social media praised the episode featuring Potter's garden, stating, "Coming up 17 months postpartum and will still cry over sentimental things, currently Monty Don touring Beatrix Potter's garden." Numerous viewers have echoed sentiments like these, proving Monty's ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and connection transcends generations.
Monty Don remains committed to showcasing the natural beauty found across the UK. Each episode aims to highlight different gardens, not just as physical spaces but as narratives rich with history and emotional significance. Scampston Walled Garden, also featured this series, has offered discounts on admissions, encouraging people to explore these beloved horticultural venues. By connecting audiences with the mental health benefits of gardening, Monty fosters both appreciation and awareness for the art of horticulture.
His efforts extend beyond personal struggles to embrace broader discussions surrounding mental health, emphasizing gardening's ability to create community bonds. Monty reflected, "It’s to be aware there are cycles—as there are seasons—and things, and this is very empowering and reassuring." His words have struck a chord, as more people turn to activities like gardening for solace and connection during challenging times.
With his gentle demeanor and insightful tips, Monty Don continues to inspire gardeners of all levels. He believes, "What's particularly fascinating about gardens is they beautifully represent—through their existence or through their decay—the cyclical nature of life itself." His empathetic approach invites viewers to appreciate gardening not simply as labor but as an artistic expression grounded deeply in the human experience.
For avid followers and newcomers to his work, Monty Don's British Gardens serves as both entertainment and empowerment, merging floral beauty with heartfelt storytelling and mental health advocacy. Each episode, including those featuring Breezy Knees and historic sites like Beatrix Potter's gardens, invites viewers to recognize the therapeutic impact of the natural world, encouraging them to cultivate not only plants but also their own well-being.