Is it worth tuning in to gardening transformation series on TV? Some argue they've overstayed their welcome.
Dishing the Tea on Gardening Makeover Shows: Pros, Cons, and Everything in Between
It's no secret that gardening makeover shows have taken the world by storm, but do they truly live up to the hype? Last week on our podcast, Talking Dirt, TV gardener Carol Klein spilled the beans about her dislike for these fast-paced shows. "Let's be real, I hate gardening makeover shows. They've got nothing to do with gardening, it's all about the spectacle," Carol admitted.
But what do our readers think? We asked for opinions, and boy, did we get a mix! While some agreed with Carol's critique, wondering if the newly transformed gardens are sustainable in the long run, others defended the shows claiming they spark an interest in gardening.
Take for instance, one of our respondents, who argued, "If these shows get people engaged in gardening, they've achieved something! Gardening should be accessible and fun, not just for horticultural experts."
Professional gardeners, on the other hand, notice the pressure these quick makeovers put on them to create show-stopping gardens quickly.
Yet, garden designer and TV personality Lee Burkhill, also known as the "Garden Ninja," praises these shows for bringing more garden design and horticulture knowledge to a wider audience. Lee acknowledges the criticism regarding the sustainability and long-term maintenance of these garden makeovers but emphasizes the time and effort that goes into creating them. "Designing gardens for TV is no different from working with private clients... albeit more condensed," Lee explained.
Opening the Horticultural World
Critics question whether non-gardeners will be able to maintain their new gardens after crews have left, but Lee argues that he tailors his designs to participant's ability levels by incorporating skill-stretch plants to help them develop after filming. "One of my goals is to help educate as many people as possible on both design principles and horticulture," Lee shared.
Given the barriers to entering the garden design world, such as accessibility and cost, imparting knowledge wherever possible is essential. Lee, who runs a gardening advice blog, believes these shows open the door to more information for those who might otherwise never be exposed to horticulture.
On Garden Rescue, participants invest £3,000 in plants and materials, but they receive designs, labor, and personalized advice for free, making it an accessible option for many.
The Sustainability Question
While horticultural knowledge and resources are undeniably valuable, questions lingered regarding the sustainability of many garden makeovers flaunted on TV. Critics pointed out the substantial costs associated with purchasing large plants already in bloom for instant effect and the reliance on passing garden trends.
One of our readers complained, "Many of the garden makeovers include paving and structures like pergolas and water features—there's hardly any grass or plants! Is this really sustainable or low maintenance?"
In the face of the criticisms, Lee maintained, "We prioritize sustainability where we can, using locally sourced plants and materials when possible."
Ultimately, garden makeover shows continue to divide opinions, but there's no denying that they provide a platform for gardening knowledge and inspiration for many eager garden enthusiasts. With the right planning and commitment, they might even be a gateway to a greener future!
- Garden trends are often featured prominently in gardening makeover shows, with designers incorporating the latest horticulture knowledge to create stunning garden designs.
- There's an ongoing debate about the sustainability of these quickly transformed gardens, with some questioning whether they'll be manageable in the long run for novice gardeners.
- A gardening advice blog run by a TV personality known as the "Garden Ninja" aims to educate as many people as possible on both garden design principles and horticulture, tailoring designs to individuals' skill levels.
- Critics argue that garden makeovers on TV may not be the most sustainable options, often relying on large, already blooming plants and non-native ornon-climate-appropriate species, as well as structures like pergolas and water features.
- In response to these concerns, some garden designers emphasize the importance of using locally sourced plants and materials where possible, in an effort to promote sustainability in garden design.
