ITV gardener Alan Titchmarsh revealed what inspired him to take on a new career venture, following a recent change to his working schedule
Alan Titchmarsh has embarked on a fresh chapter in his extensive career – though it comes with a touch of apprehension. Best recognised for his horticultural knowledge, the 76-year-old is also a seasoned writer with multiple books under his belt. For his 13th fiction work, the gardener is venturing into a different genre – murder mystery.
Inspired by a transatlantic voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, the novel is scheduled for publication next year.
Describing how the concept emerged, he said: “There were about 30 of us, writers and journalists, on board for a literature festival and one of the authors said to me, ‘Alan, you’ve never written crime, come on, it’s time you did’. The seed was sown then.”
Despite his excitement, Alan confessed he does harbour some worries about how the book will be received. Speaking to Yours Magazine, he said: “I have no doubt holes will be picked in my plot, but I have thoroughly enjoyed writing it. The characters are interesting and there’s a bit of humour. I never write things terribly, terribly serious.”
The fresh project follows his announcement of plans to reduce his working commitments in order to achieve a better balance between professional duties and family time.
According to Woman’s Weekly, he now avoids working on Fridays and occasionally Mondays, allowing for a more flexible schedule on his own terms.
As part of this transition, he has set up a YouTube channel, where he offers gardening guidance, advice and demonstrations from his own home. “It’s had millions of views,” he told Yours.
“It’s amazing. I think YouTube’s great strength is that it’s an intimate medium. One person has got you in their hand rather than a screen with a room and a country full of people watching it.”
Welcoming viewers to his channel, he said: “I’ve been a gardener for over 60 years and I can safely say that gardening is one of life’s greatest joys, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
“Whether you have green fingers or just starting out with your very first window box, join me in my garden for practical tips, step-by-step guides, and plenty of friendly advice to help you make the most of your garden – large or small.
“So pop the kettle on, pull up a chair (or a trowel!), and join me each week as we celebrate the wonderful world of gardening together,” he added.
In a recent episode, Alan offered timely guidance on spring gardening tasks, emphasising it as the perfect opportunity to address lawns that have been damaged by winter moss.
He further noted that gardeners ought to turn their attention to pricking out seedlings, sowing vegetable seeds, planting hardy perennials, and introducing cherry trees into their outdoor spaces.
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh airs Sundays at 9.30am on ITV and ITVX
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