Monty Don leaves Gardeners’ World fan mortified as he shoots down request with ‘deadly’ warning

MONTY Don left a Gardeners' World fan mortified after he shot down their request with a 'deadly' warning.

Monty, 68, discussed 'meadow cutting' on the latest episode of the BBC gardening programme.

He also wrote about it on X - formerly Twitter - in a post that read: "Gardeners World tonight (BBC2 8pm) celebrates the many faces of growing your own as well as rose pruning, bargain plants, meadow cutting and much more from Longmeadow."

One Gardeners' World fan replied: "Morning. Can you ask people not to cut hedges too soon.

"RHS advocates April and October to cut hedges. Please remind viewers of this. Thanks."

But Monty wasn't happy with the request and warned: "April the very worst time to cut hedges - just when young are in the nest.

"Best times for birds are winter months and late summer when all are fully fledged and left nests."

In line with Monty's reply, the RSPB's website states: "Avoiding hedge cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds."

"This period usually runs from March to August each year. This can be weather dependent and some birds may nest outside this period.

"It is an offence under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built, or to intentionally kill, injure or take chicks or adults, or intentionally take or destroy any eggs.

"It is an intentional act, for example, if you or your neighbour know there is an active nest in the hedge and still cut the hedge, damaging or destroying the nest or contents in the process.

"If someone is cutting a hedge during this period, speak to them and politely mention the risk to birds’ nests, and the laws protecting nests.

"If they proceed, and you know there is an active nest at risk, contact the police on 101, and ask for a reference number."

Gardeners' World airs Fridays at 8pm on BBC Two.