How Many Gardeners Work at Longmeadow?

How Many Gardeners Work at Longmeadow?

Monty Don’s Longmeadow garden in Herefordshire has become one of the most beloved green spaces in Britain. Since purchasing the property in the early 1990s, Monty and his wife Sarah have transformed what was once a neglected patch of land into a stunning, multi-faceted garden that is now famously featured on Gardeners’ World. Given its size and variety, many people wonder how many gardeners it takes to keep Longmeadow looking so immaculate throughout the year.

A Garden of Many Faces

Longmeadow is more than a single garden; it is a collection of distinct areas, each with its own unique character. The Cottage Garden, originally a vegetable plot, is now filled with over fifty varieties of classic roses. Nearby, the Jewel Garden bursts with vibrant tulips, dahlias and sunflowers, while the Paradise Garden reflects a more formal, symmetrical design inspired by Islamic gardens, complete with a central water feature. The vegetable garden continues to provide fresh, seasonal produce and the Mound offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by fragrant flowers. These varied spaces require detailed care and attention to keep them thriving through the changing seasons.

The Gardening Team Behind Longmeadow

Despite the garden’s size and complexity, Monty Don has revealed that only two full-time gardeners assist in the upkeep of Longmeadow. These gardeners work closely alongside Monty, particularly during filming for Gardeners’ World, ensuring that the garden is always in pristine condition. Their work covers all the essentials from planting and pruning to maintaining the lawns and borders. While the gardeners take care of many tasks, Monty remains deeply involved with the garden himself, often rolling up his sleeves to sow seeds, prune and harvest. His hands-on approach is part of what makes Longmeadow so personal and unique.

Adapting to the British Climate

Monty also speaks openly about the challenges of gardening in the modern British climate. He has observed how the garden has responded to warmer summers and milder winters, adapting its planting choices and maintenance accordingly. This real-life adaptability adds an extra layer of inspiration for gardeners watching the show, demonstrating how a garden can evolve with the environment.

Inspiration for Gardeners Nationwide

Longmeadow is not just a beautiful backdrop; it is an educational and inspirational space for viewers of Gardeners’ World. It shows how a garden can be both practical and imaginative, blending vegetable growing with ornamental planting. Monty’s honest reflections on the successes and setbacks he experiences in Longmeadow make the garden feel accessible and achievable to gardeners of all levels.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the care and upkeep of Longmeadow rely on a small but skilled team of two full-time gardeners, supported by Monty Don’s own dedication and passion. This modest team’s work enables the garden to flourish and remain a source of joy and inspiration to many. It reminds us all that a great garden is not about how many hands tend it, but about the love and care that go into every corner.