Carol Klein, star of Gardeners’ World, dished out an essential gardening tip whilst chatting with Zoe Ball on her Radio 2 show regarding the often problematic plant ivy.
During the radio segment yesterday morning (Wednesday), a listener enquired about tackling ivy encroaching from their fence into flower beds and lawns.
Carol’s guidance was unequivocal: “Chop it off where it’s invading the flower beds but leave it on your fence because ivy is such a wonderful plant. Its flowers, late butterflies feed on them, its berries, birds love to eat them all through the winter, it’s a smashing plant.”
Dispelling a common myth, she added, “All this nonsense about it pulling off your mortar, if you leave it alone, it actually protects buildings and fences. So get rid of it from the flower bed but leave it on the fence.”
In a more personal revelation, Carol also touched upon her recent battle with cancer and the double mastectomy she underwent, taking the moment to raise awareness and urge women to vigilantly check for early indications of breast cancer.
Earlier in the year, the beloved botanical expert took to social media to extend heartfelt thanks to the healthcare team that has provided immense support during these trying times.
Posting to her followers, Carol gratefully said: “Hello everyone, isn’t it marvellous to see the sun out at last! I just wanted to get in touch with you and keep you up to date with what has been happening to me recently.”
Carol detailed her recent health battle, revealing: “A few weeks ago I was referred to the breast care clinic at my local hospital and after tests I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Having consulted with my family and all the doctors, it was decided that I’d have a double mastectomy and that was carried out on April 3.”
Discussing her recovery journey, Carol remarked: “Since then I’ve been recovering at home and recuperating. I’ve sown any amount of seeds, and I’ve been finessing my upcoming book, so it’s given me lots of opportunity to do that.”
In a touching tribute, she concluded: “Well I just want to thank Dr. Anna Conway and all the staff of the breast care clinic at North Devon District Hospital for their care and kindness and also their incredible efficiency. They’ve been brilliant, a real tribute to the NHS.”
Acclaimed presenter and gardening expert Carol Klein first burst onto our screens in Gardeners’ World in 1989 and quickly became renowned for her unparalleled plant knowledge. She has enriched television with her green expertise on shows such as Real Gardens and Open Gardens, and also welcomed viewers into her own slice of paradise in Life in a Cottage Garden with Carol Klein, chronicling a year in her cherished Glebe Cottage garden in North Devon.
Since joining the Gardeners’ World team permanently in 2005, Carol has established herself as a beloved figure amongst the programme’s devoted followers and continues to inspire with her passion for plants and gardening from her Devon home.
