In a refreshingly honest moment that has endeared him even more to Britain's gardening community, national treasure Alan Titchmarsh has issued a public apology for what he calls his "cheeky" planting habits. The beloved horticulturist and television presenter made the surprising confession during a recent appearance, leaving gardening enthusiasts both amused and enlightened.
The Gardener's Guilty Secret
The 74-year-old gardening guru revealed that he often plants flowering specimens much closer together than conventional wisdom suggests. "I have to apologise for being a bit cheeky," Titchmarsh admitted with characteristic charm. "When you see my borders, everything is planted much too close."
This approach flies in the face of traditional gardening advice, which typically recommends generous spacing between plants to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Yet Titchmarsh's stunning garden displays prove that sometimes rules are meant to be broken.
Why Close Planting Works
Titchmarsh explained the method behind his apparent madness: "I do it because I can't bear to see gaps. I want colour and I want it now." This instant gratification approach creates the lush, abundant borders that have become his trademark.
The gardening expert did acknowledge one significant drawback to his technique: "The trouble is, after three years, everything is choking the life out of everything else." This means more frequent dividing and replanting is necessary to maintain plant health.
Expert Advice for Home Gardeners
For those inspired by Titchmarsh's approach but wary of the maintenance, he offers this compromise: "If you want to do it properly, plant things the distance apart it says on the label."
However, for gardeners willing to put in the extra work, his close-planting method can deliver spectacular results. The key is understanding that this approach requires:
- More frequent division of perennials
- Regular monitoring for disease and pests
- Additional feeding and watering
- Willingness to edit and rearrange plants regularly
A Legacy of Gardening Wisdom
Alan Titchmarsh's career has spanned decades, from his early days on programmes like Gardeners' World to his current status as Britain's most trusted gardening voice. His willingness to share both successes and mistakes has made him particularly beloved among gardening enthusiasts of all skill levels.
This latest confession reinforces his reputation for practical, real-world gardening advice that acknowledges both the aspirations and limitations of home gardeners. As always, Titchmarsh balances his personal preferences with sound horticultural principles, giving his audience both inspiration and reliable guidance.
