Gardeners’ World host Monty Don opened up about his future at Longmeadow and an end-of-life plan he would be “happy” with, following the recent death of his dog Peggy
Gardeners’ World presenter Monty Don has made a touching end-of-life revelation while reflecting on the future of his cherished garden, Longmeadow. Discussing the renowned outdoor space – instantly recognisable to BBC viewers – the 70-year-old said that while he and wife Sarah have no intention of moving, he understands it “won’t last forever”.
During a conversation with Jo Whiley on the Royal Horticultural Society YouTube channel, Monty covered numerous topics including his wellbeing, career and his future plans.
Contemplating the remarkable transformation he’s achieved at Longmeadow throughout the decades, he revealed he’d be content to be laid to rest beside several of his late dogs in the garden, including Nigel, Nell, and more recently, Peggy, who died in January.
“Either I’ll die with my boots on here and be buried with the dogs, which I’m half serious about,” he stated, prompting Jo to question whether this prospect would bring him happiness.
“I wouldn’t care at all, I’d be fine,” he responded. “Stick me in a hole in the copse with the dogs and I’d be happy.”
Monty continued by revealing that should he and his production team cease filming at Longmeadow, he’d probably sell up and relocate somewhere warmer during winter, especially given his battle with SAD – seasonal affective disorder.
The BBC presenter and Sarah purchased their Herefordshire property in 1991. Back then, the garden comprised a two-acre derelict field and a considerably smaller front section strewn with builders’ rubble. “There was one tree – the hazel in what is now the Spring Garden – and everything else was rough grass, nettles and brambles,” he wrote on his website.
From that point onwards, Monty revealed he dedicated months to cutting back overgrown grass, removing debris and familiarising himself with the land’s contours.
“All the time I was planning, dreaming and drawing,” he shared. Looking back on Longmeadow’s evolution through the decades, he added: “The garden is integral, there’s not one bit of it that I don’t like or don’t want. You know, I always like the latest project.”
He added: “If I was doing it all again, I’d do it all very differently. For instance, I now know where it floods, so I would adapt for that.
“I’m more at ease with myself now, I’m looser, so the garden would be looser.”
Monty forms part of this year’s presenting line-up at the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where his responsibilities will include examining fresh plant introductions, including the RHS Plant of the Year.
On Saturday, he and Rachel de Thame will also look back on the standout moments from their week at the prestigious annual showcase.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 airs this week from 8pm on BBC Two.
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