Alan Titchmarsh Names Two Plants He Could Happily Do Without.
Veteran gardener and Gardeners’ World presenter Alan Titchmarsh recently shared his least favorite plants on the Talking Gardens podcast with Stephanie Mahon. When asked at 75 which plants he finds most frustrating, Titchmarsh immediately named one he could live without: pampas grass.
Describing pampas grass, known for its tall, feathery plumes, Titchmarsh likened it to “a collection of feathered dusters sticking out of a mountain of grass.” He also noted its stubborn resilience, cautioning listeners: “If you ever want to get rid of it, you’ve got a real task ahead of you.”
The second plant Titchmarsh would gladly see removed from gardens is the oversized gladiolus. While he acknowledged gladioli can add beauty in religious spaces, saying, “they can be very good in church,” Titchmarsh admitted he’s no fan of the larger varieties. However, he does admire the more delicate gladiolus Byzantine, often found in Cornish hedgerows, for its understated charm.
The gardener fondly remembered his friend, the late Beth Chatto, who appreciated pampas grass. He recalled joking with her: “You keep it in your garden, Beth, and I’ll be happy.”
In a recent interview with BBC Gardeners’ World magazine, Titchmarsh also opened up about the challenges within his own garden, mentioning tricky areas such as a dry, shady bed beneath an ancient yew tree, a sun-scorched border, and a shaded path under dense branches. For gardeners dealing with difficult spots, he advised careful plant selection suited to specific environments. “Bright-flowered plants need sunlight to encourage pollinating insects,” he explained. “Don’t try growing brilliant summer bedding plants in deep shade.”
With this advice, Titchmarsh reminds green-fingered fans that gardening success often depends on planting in the right place.
Related topics: