Alan Titchmarsh has revealed the real reason behind his and his wife Alison's decision to make a major move after 23 years. The couple recently left their Georgian Grade II-listed home in Holybourne, Hampshire for a smaller, more modern property in Surrey.
Family Influence Behind the Move
Speaking about the move, Alan said it wasn't originally part of their plans, but they were persuaded by their children to go ahead with it. The couple are parents to daughters Camilla and Polly, who each have two children.
"We were both happy staying where we were," the 76-year-old told Yours Magazine. "We had no plans to move and then they showed us the house. It's in the same village as our daughters and it's literally a two-minute walk from them and the grandchildren. It was their instigation, not ours."
The gardener said that once they saw the property, it made "enormous sense", particularly given its close proximity to their family.
"It's totally different from the old house," he added. "It's long, low and modern. It's only about four years old and has air source pumps."
Being closer to his family has also created more quality moments, as he gushed: "I love spending time with the grandchildren. I love that they make a big fuss when you go in and give you a big hug, 'Grandpa!'"
A New Garden Challenge
With the move comes a whole new garden project, which he is currently developing. He said he is taking time over the spring and summer to assess what can be kept and what needs changing, describing the process as "a challenge", but one he is approaching patiently.
Alan regularly shares gardening insights with fans through his YouTube channel Gardening with Alan Titchmarsh. In one of his recent videos, he warned viewers against a common watering mistake.
While many gardeners use sprinkler hoses for convenience, he said they are often used incorrectly. Demonstrating the issue, he showed how spraying water over leaves and flowers allows it to evaporate before reaching the roots.
"This is how not to water," he explained. "You're just putting water on the leaves and flowers, and it's going to evaporate before it goes where it's needed."
Instead, he advised directing water to the base of the plant, adding: "Get it down there."
How to Deter Rats from Gardens
The TV star has also shared advice on how to deter rats from invading gardens this spring. While he is a keen supporter of feeding garden birds, he warned that bird feeders can unintentionally attract unwanted visitors.
"Most gardeners, myself included, love encouraging garden birds, so bird feeders are everywhere in this garden. But they can also be a magnet for rats," he explained.
Alan said the key is careful placement. He advises positioning feeders in open spaces, ideally in the middle of a lawn, as rats are less likely to cross exposed ground.
"If you put your bird feeder alongside a hedge or wall, that's great for rats because they have shelter and can rush out, grab food and disappear again," he continued.
Instead, he recommends placing feeders well away from bushes, hedges and walls. As an added benefit, he notes this also gives a clearer view of visiting birds while they feed.
