Adam Frost jokes wife is 'a control freak' over garden tidiness
Adam Frost jokes wife is a control freak over garden tidiness

Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost has revealed that his wife is "a bit of a control freak" when it comes to the garden, admitting the couple still disagree on how tidy it should be.

Speaking to Round & About magazine, the BBC gardening expert explained that while he champions a relaxed approach to gardening, his wife has a different view on how things should be done at home.

A balancing act at home

Adam said: "Gardens don't need to be perfect to be beautiful… I mean, having said that, it's still an ongoing conversation in this house because, unlike me, Mrs Frost is a bit of a control freak, you know. So we just work our way to find a balance as every couple does."

His philosophy is reflected in his book, For the Love of Plants, which celebrates the enjoyment of growing plants without the pressure to keep everything looking immaculate.

Backing off for nature

Adam believes a more natural approach can also benefit wildlife, with gardeners increasingly recognising the importance of leaving seed heads in place rather than clearing everything away.

"I really think so. I don't like talking about 'trends', but what's gaining traction is the idea of backing off a bit. Leaving seed heads, not tidying everything away – it's better for nature," he said.

A new addition to the family

Away from gardening, Adam offered a glimpse into family life, revealing that another dog has joined the household.

"We've added another dog! My daughter got another Labrador, Buster, so we now have Raven and Buster… plus cats. Ash the cat is still very much in charge, though. He keeps the others in line with the occasional whack, to remind them who owns the place."

Despite his affection for the family's animals, Adam suggested that Ash remains the undisputed star of the household.

"I love them all, honestly. Animals bring so much joy and grounding, don't they? Ash the cat especially has impeccable timing – if there's a camera around, he knows exactly how to find it."

Monty Don's departure

His comments come amid a major change at Gardeners' World, with long-serving presenter Monty Don announcing that the current series will be his last after 23 years hosting the programme.

Adam, who first appeared as a stand-in for Monty in 2016, has previously spoken about whether he would consider taking over the presenting role. When The Sunday Times asked him in 2025 whether he would consider replacing Monty, he gave a six-word response: "I'm comfortable being the supply teacher."

He also suggested the BBC might opt for a different format when Monty eventually steps down, adding: "Besides, my gut says that when his lordship hangs up his trowel, it won't be any one person. There will be a small group of co-presenters."

Monty confirmed his departure in a statement, saying: "I have decided that the current series of Gardeners' World is to be my last. I began hosting the programme 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow." He added that the connection with viewers who share his passion for plants and the natural world was something he had always treasured.

Adam Frost will return to present Gardeners' World on BBC Two at 8pm on Friday, October 30.