In the past half-year, Zoe Ball and Jo Whiley’s podcast has provided them, as established BBC Radio hosts, with opportunities to meet more of their admired figures. Meeting TV gardening expert Monty Don at his renowned garden in Longmeadow was a memorable experience for Jo Whiley, although the visit brought some surprises.
Located at Monty’s residence in Ivington, near Leominster, Herefordshire, Longmeadow may seem expansive on television, especially with its distinct sections – The Cottage Garden, The Jewel Garden, The Paradise Garden, and The Vegetable Garden – each capable of standing out as an individual garden.
Jo remarked that visiting Longmeadow in person presented a different perspective compared to its on-screen portrayal.
During her Dig It podcast, Jo shared her experience: “I had the chance to see Monty’s garden up close and personal.”
She added, “The garden appears smaller in reality than it appears on TV, as is often the case.”
Describing the garden, Jo mentioned, “It’s undeniably beautiful. It has a wild, rugged charm, and Monty was an exceptional host.”
Monty explained that the Cottage Garden at Longmeadow initially served as a traditional kitchen garden, providing fresh produce for his family. However, it gradually transformed into a more floral cottage garden over time.
He detailed, “During summer, it showcases over 50 varieties of vintage shrub roses. In winter, the structure is defined by box hedging and 8 large Irish Yews, all of which fit in a car boot when planted in 1994.”
Zoe was particularly impressed that Jo had the opportunity to see Monty’s famed Jewel Garden, which Monty considers the heart of the entire garden, around which everything revolves.
According to Monty, the plant colors in the Jewel Garden are chosen for their jewel-like or metallic attributes, resulting in what he describes as a bold, extravagant, and high-maintenance 1980s aesthetic.
The Paradise Garden at Longmeadow reflects Monty’s scholarly approach to garden design, centered on a “Koranic” principle with four symmetrical beds encircling a central bubbling water feature.
Monty elaborated, “The planting features modern elements like soft grass stipa tenuissima paired with tulip acuminata in spring and tulbaghia and verbena bonariensis in summer. Roses and Lilies contribute fragrance, transforming this homage into a beloved garden feature.”
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