Monty Don: I'll never do Chelsea Flower Show again

Monty Don, a prominent horticulturist and broadcaster, has stated that he will not participate in the RHS Chelsea Flower Show again. He described the demanding event as a "hell of a thing" that requires "very full on" commitment, necessitating forgetting family and personal life to work around the clock.

Don, who appeared on BBC Breakfast, made these remarks following reports of David Beckham's potential participation in Chelsea. He will, however, still attend the show as a visitor. He also touched upon his ongoing health concerns, specifically his knees.

Regarding his role on Gardeners' World, which he has hosted since 2003, Don mentioned that negotiations are in progress for him to continue presenting the series until at least 2028. He expressed his desire to keep working, stating he "likes work" and doesn't envision retirement involving activities like golf or tennis.

Don underwent knee replacement surgery in November 2025, replacing his "worst" knee with titanium and cobalt chrome. He had suffered from knee pain for over a decade due to decades of kneeling in gardens. The recovery was described as "pretty painful and slow," but he is now able to garden again, although he anticipates needing surgery on his other knee by late 2027.