Monty Don warns he may have to let go of Longmeadow gardeners after leaving BBC

Television presenter Monty Don has said he may be forced to let go of the gardeners who help maintain his Herefordshire garden, Longmeadow, after announcing his departure from the BBC show Gardeners' World.

Don revealed that the corporation has for years been paying part of the salaries of the gardening team that keeps Longmeadow looking pristine and ready for filming. For 15 years, the garden has served as the backdrop for the long-running programme, offering viewers a close-up look at its seasonal transformations.

Earlier this month, Don announced he was stepping down from hosting duties on Gardeners' World, a role he has held for over a decade and which made Longmeadow one of the most recognisable gardens on British television.

With the BBC's financial support for the garden's upkeep now expected to end alongside his exit from the show, Don indicated that maintaining the same level of staffing may no longer be feasible. The gardeners in question have been responsible for the day-to-day work of keeping Longmeadow in the condition required for broadcast, from seasonal planting to general upkeep of its various themed areas.

Don has not detailed a timeline for any changes to the garden's staffing, and it remains unclear how the transition away from BBC involvement will affect Longmeadow's future upkeep and public profile.