Monty Don has revealed he had to stage scenes for BBC’s Gardeners’ World, admitting to re-scattering already cleaned leaves to capture the perfect autumn raking sequence.
The 69-year-old broadcaster, who has been hosting the show since 2003, shared the behind-the-scenes secret in Gardeners’ World magazine.
He offered viewers a rare glimpse into the production process of the beloved gardening programme.
The show follows a carefully orchestrated schedule, with filming taking place 10 days ahead of broadcast to allow time for editing.
Each week begins with a Monday morning pre-production meeting held via Zoom so the team can discuss what they have planned for the next couple of episodes.
Filming at Don’s garden, Longmeadow occurs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for the following week’s episode.
Monty Don admitted to recreating some scenes for the show
BBC
Explaining the process, Don said: “When I go round the garden prior to the meeting I am weighing up what will be relevant in three weeks’ time, as well as what is looking at its best right now.”
In a candid revelation about the show’s production techniques, he shared a specific example from last autumn’s filming.
“Last October, the leaves on the Long Walk were immaculately raked and taken to the Leafmould Bay, but we wanted to film the process.
“So I had to scatter them over the grass again, ready for filming!” he disclosed.
The star admitted he will continue the show as long as he can
PA
The admission gives an insight into how gardening programmes sometimes need to recreate natural processes for filming purposes – and not everything always goes to plan with nature.
Despite the revelations Don has confirmed his commitment to Gardeners’ World, agreeing to continue hosting for another two years from January 2025.
“I never make plans beyond two years, but I’ve agreed to do another two,” he previously told Radio Times.
The veteran presenter expressed his enthusiasm for the programme, and added: “Every time I think, ‘Am I really going to do this?’ But the truth is that I do enjoy it.
“I’m lucky because it’s in my own garden.”
While Don has recently launched his new show – Monty Don’s British Gardens which debuted last month – fans of Gardeners’ World need not worry about his departure.
Monty Don has fronted the show since 2003
PA
He added: “If the programme is made well, I’ll continue.”
His dual role across both programmes demonstrates his dedication to bringing British gardening expertise to audiences.
