Departing BBC Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don has shared a poignant reflection on life, discussing the lessons gardening has taught him about loss and the secret to living a fulfilling existence.
Monty, 71, is set to feature in his final episode of the long-running BBC series on November 6, having confirmed his departure on September 8. He first joined the programme in 2003, 23 years ago.
Gardening and Accepting Change
Speaking on Gyles Brandreth's Rosebud Podcast, Monty reflected on his life and the lessons gardening had taught him about its meaning. He suggested that gardens teach people to accept change, something he believes is fundamental to living well.
He told Brandreth: "The secret of being a good gardener and living a good life is accepting change, and with gardens you have no choice... It means loss as well as gain."
Monty also spoke about personal losses, saying: "I've had people I've loved who have died. I've had dogs I love that have died. My nephew was killed at the age of 21. Friends of mine have just lost a son at 20. It's cruel and deeply sad."
Struggles with Depression
Monty went on to discuss his childhood and his struggles with depression, which he has spoken candidly about in the past. He continued: "I look back on my childhood; there were bad things in it. I'm sorry for that child. But I've had huge joy as well, and I accept that. I think the roots of my depression are a kind of grief. I don't feel sad. I feel really deeply, deeply grieving, and I don't know where that comes from."
He described how he tries to manage his depression: "So, I try to avoid it. I try and be positive. And I'm sure that my rather sort of obsessive work is to hold things away, you know, to keep moving. Don't stand still, keep moving."
Accepting Life's Lessons
Monty reflected on reaching his age: "But I think by the time you reach my age you have to accept who you are. You have to accept your lot and enjoy it. And you know the joy of grandchildren, the joy of seeing your children do well."
He added: "The joy also of seeing your children do not so well but come through. I think that coming through is one of the great successes of life."
Gyles' closing question, which appeared to move both men, centred on the lessons life had taught Monty. He responded: "Two things. One, don't give up. Even if it seems hopeless, keep going. It may well not turn out like you meant it to or wanted it to, but it will turn out. And two, try and be kind."
Monty is back on UK television this evening at 9pm on BBC Two, featuring in BBC Gardeners' World at 8pm and in a repeat of Who Do You Think You Are? at 9pm.
For emotional support, the Samaritans 24-hour helpline is available on 116 123, by email at jo@samaritans.org, in person at a Samaritans branch, or via the Samaritans website.
