Toby Buckland faces controversy as BBC gardening star

Toby Buckland, a well-known horticulturist and television presenter, has been a prominent figure in gardening on British television for many years. He began his television career in 1996 as a horticultural researcher before becoming a regular contributor on the BBC's gardening show, Gardeners' World. Born in Exeter, he trained as a nurseryman and studied horticulture at prestigious colleges. His breakthrough in television came when he replaced Monty Don as the lead presenter in 2008 while Don was recovering from a stroke. However, two years later, in 2010, Buckland was unexpectedly dropped from the show as Monty Don returned to his role. This decision sparked public outcry and support for Buckland, who expressed his disappointment in being overlooked despite his dedication to ordinary gardeners and the gardening community at large. Following his departure from the show, Toby Buckland voiced his frustrations with the BBC, emphasizing how much he valued the support he received from fans throughout this ordeal. He noted that being dropped from a television program was not the end of the world, stating, "At the end of the day, as a good friend said, it's only telly." This statement reflects his resilient attitude toward the challenges faced in his career, as well as his commitment to continue advocating for ethical gardening practices outside of the TV spotlight. Despite the setback, he continued to garden and spend quality time with his wife, Lucy Buckland, and their three children, while also running his own plant nursery, Toby Buckland's Plant Centre, and writing several gardening books. Buckland also found success in gardening competitions, having won multiple awards, including RHS Gold and Best in Show for his Ethical Garden at Gardeners' World Live in 2008. While the controversy surrounding his dismissal from the BBC has certainly impacted his public persona, it has not overshadowed his achievements and contributions to the gardening world. Buckland’s passion for gardening and the environment remains strong, and he openly shares his views about ecological gardening practices despite facing challenges in his television career. In summary, Toby Buckland's story illustrates the struggles that can arise in the competitive world of television while highlighting the importance of resilience and the support from the community. His dedication to gardening and his ability to adapt to changes reflect the broader challenges faced by professionals in various fields. Although he no longer serves as the main presenter of Gardeners' World, his career and contributions to gardening continue to inspire both enthusiasts and fellow horticulturists.