BBC Gardeners' World

Gardeners' World Magazine is the authoritative voice in gardening, the clear market-leader since it launched in 1991. The award-winning editorial includes topical, practical advice in the readers' favourite 'what to do now' section, and regular contributions and features from the top names in BBC gardening. Packed with fresh ideas and clear advice - the innovative approach offers creative, practical and problem-solving solutions to all keen gardeners.

Welcome to May

BBC Gardeners' World

We love May • May is a gift for writers of low-quality poetry. There are many things that rhyme with May, so putting together a passionate poem, an overwhelming ode or a sentimental sonnet is so much easier; for example, “A roll in the hay, in May”. Too raunchy? How about “In May I swim, the fjords of Norway”. Not bad. “To me, in May, you are as good as cabaret or a corps de ballet.” Now we’re getting there. Have a good month: if not writing bad poetry, then at least there’s loads to keep you going in the garden.

YOU MAY SPOT… • Grass snake, Natrix helvetica

A POT FOR MAY • Colour confidence

America’s Golden West & Las Vegas

The Full Monty • Despite increasing prices, growing from seed is still the most cost-effective way of raising a garden, says Monty – even better if you produce your own seeds

FREE * 24 English lavender plants for every reader

Expert’s choice Wisteria • With cascades of scented flowers in purples, whites and pinks, this vigorous climber brings drama to the garden, says Graham Rice

Subscribe and receive a set of Niwaki secateurs • Subscribe to BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine today and pay £26 every 6 issues, saving 38% on the shop price

Mix & Match on Baskets • Three different hanging basket sizes, three different prices, and pots of savings FROM JUST £12

10 veg seed packs for ONLY £10

2 for 1 Gardens Across the seasons • As a new year of 2 for 1 Gardens begins, here are some of the many seasonal delights awaiting you. You can use your 2 for 1 Gardens entry card to save money on garden visits until 2 April 2026, so make the most of every season

Make the most of your 2 for 1 Gardens card and app

Some like it hot • Monty shares how he uses succulents, miniature bulbs and alpines at Longmeadow – planting them out in containers to bring a touch of the exotic to the garden

Focus on succulent care

6 easy-to-grow alpines and succulents

Cultivating joy Part 1 Bountiful borders • In a new three-part guide, Sue Kent shows how to create a low-maintenance, uplifting summer garden packed with colour, scent and joy. This month she focuses on a feel-good flower border

Personal checklist

When more is more

Master your mix Nick’s guide to edible companion planting • Good plant combinations can help edible plants to crop better and avoid pest infestations. Nick Bailey shows how to get it right

Reliable vegetable companions

Beyond the herb bed • Grow and enjoy more herbs in your garden by interplanting them in beds, borders, pots, and the veg patch. Adam Frost shares how he mixes things up

Favourite herbs to mix and match

Make a Metre Matter Create a wildlife pond

Root of the matter • ‘Which garden design trends are here to stay, and which are passing fads?’

Get ready to shop!

WHAT TO DO NOW • 50 things to do this month from the Gardeners’ World team

AROUND THE GARDEN

A trio of Peruvian lilies

PRUNING • Ashley Edwards shows you what to prune in the garden this month

Enjoy a luxury gardens and gourmet stay in Yorkshire • Unwind in historic surroundings with wonderful horticultural displays

TEST YOUR SKILLS

Sow your FREE...