Monty Don has reflected on his decision to leave Gardeners' World. Revealing that he just "knew" it was time to go, the presenter told Gardeners' World magazine, "The commute is delightfully short, but when I go home I take the job with me seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Then, one day this summer, I woke up and knew it was time to stop. Simple as that. They say of sportspeople wondering when to retire, 'You just know.' Well, I just knew."
"There are programmes I want to make, books I want to write, family I want to spend more time with," Monty continued. "My enthusiasm for visiting gardens of all kinds all over the world remains as keen as ever. But the time for these things is growing limited."
The TV star, who confirmed his departure in September, hasn't given a specific reason for his exit, noting instead that now is the "right time for a change".
"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," Monty said in a statement.
"Throughout that time - and around seven hundred programmes - I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience.
"That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.
Monty concluded: "I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues. There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow."
Sharing an update on Instagram on October 7, Monty revealed that he had completed his final shoot at his Herefordshire home, Longmeadow. Responding in the comments, fans reflected on the bittersweet occasion. "So sad. Thank you for sharing Longmeadow with us and for igniting the joy of gardening," wrote one.
"I'm bereaved already; it will not be the same on Gardeners' World," remarked a second. "Going to miss that opening 'Hello' Thank you for years of inspiration," responded a third.