Culture & Society · 7 Advanced · September 9, 2026
Popular TV Gardener Monty Don Steps Down After Two Decades
Photo: Anna Zhilina via Pexels
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Vocabulary
tenure/ˈtɛn.jər/noun
the period of time someone holds a position or job
Her tenure as director lasted eight successful years.
accessible/əkˈsɛs.ə.bəl/adjective
easy to understand or reach; available to a wide range of people
The museum's new website makes exhibits accessible to international audiences.
knowledgeable/ˈnɑl.ə.dʒə.bəl/adjective
having or showing lots of information and understanding about a subject
The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about local history.
fixture/ˈfɪks.tʃər/noun
something that has been part of a particular place or situation for a long time
The coffee shop has been a fixture in our neighborhood for decades.
disclosure/dɪsˈkloʊ.ʒər/noun
the act of revealing or making information public
The company made a full disclosure of its financial problems to investors.
tenure/ˈtɛn.jər/noun
the period of time someone holds a position or job
His tenure as president ended after two terms.
Article
Monty Don, the well-known television presenter of Gardeners' World, has announced his decision to leave the show after more than twenty years. Don, who became famous for his knowledgeable and relaxed approach to gardening, stated that although the experience has been deeply rewarding, he believes now is the appropriate moment to pursue a new direction in his career.
A Long Relationship with the Program
Don's tenure on Gardeners' World has made him one of the most recognizable figures in British television. During his time with the program, he helped millions of viewers develop their gardening skills and learn about plant care. His calm manner and genuine enthusiasm for nature made the show accessible to both experienced gardeners and complete beginners.
Moving Forward
While Don has not yet disclosed specific details about his future plans, he has emphasized that his choice to leave comes from a place of personal reflection. He expressed gratitude to the production team, viewers, and his colleagues who have supported him throughout his time on the program. This decision represents a significant moment for the long-running BBC series.
Impact on the Show
Gardeners' World will need to find a replacement presenter who can connect with the established audience. The show has been a fixture of British television since the 1960s, and Don's departure marks the end of an important chapter. The BBC will likely take time to identify someone who shares Don's commitment to making gardening enjoyable and educational for all skill levels.
Legacy and Reflection
Don's career has extended far beyond television, including published books and other media projects. His influence on how people view gardening and their relationship with nature has been substantial. As he moves toward this new phase, his contributions to popular gardening culture will certainly remain memorable to those who have followed his work over the years.
Discussion Questions
Monty Don said leaving Gardeners' World feels like 'the right time for a change.' What do you think motivates people to leave jobs they have enjoyed for many years?
How might a television presenter's long presence on a program influence viewers' connection to the show? Can you think of examples from your own culture?
What qualities do you think made Monty Don successful at teaching gardening to people with different levels of experience?
The article mentions that Don's influence extends beyond television through books and other media. How do you think his work in different formats might reach different audiences?
If you were choosing someone to replace Monty Don, what characteristics and skills would be most important for them to have?