
Thomas Rutter
Thomas is a Content Editor within the Gardens Team at Homes and Gardens. He has been working as a gardener and garden writer for several years. Whilst completing his Horticultural Traineeship at the Garden Museum, he was able to gain experience at many world famous gardens, including Sissinghurst, Lowther Castle and Iford Manor. Following this, he worked for two private estates in Tuscany, Italy. During this time, he developed expertise regarding practical gardening and growing in dry and hot climates. He has managed kitchen gardens and cut flower gardens.
When not gardening, Thomas writes on gardens and garden history. His work ranges from 'how to' guides, book reviews, and longer form copy on the history of gardening and garden design. He has written for a ariety of publications, including The English Garden, Gardens Illustrated, Hortus and Bloom. He has co-authored a Lonely Planet travel book, The Tree Atlas, due out in 2024.
Latest articles by Thomas Rutter
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Where to grow catmint – experts reveal the best locations to maximize fragrant, colorful blooms in your yard
Catmint is a spectacular perennial, but planting it in the wrong place can limit its floral display
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Evergreen shrubs that thrive on neglect – 5 expert plant picks that give year-round impact even when ignored
These fuss-free evergreen shrubs will provide greenery in all seasons
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow foamflower – for a resilient and pretty flowering perennial that will illuminate shady gardens
Foamflowers can bring color to the dark corners of the yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow periwinkle – for a shade-tolerant and sprawling ground cover plant
Shade-loving periwinkle plants are perfect for filling troublesome spots under trees and shrubs
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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5 shrubs that thrive on neglect – expert recommendations for low-maintenance, fuss-free plants
These easy-going shrubs are perfect for both beginner and master gardeners
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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How to grow eastern redbuds – the cherished native tree with striking spring blooms
Adaptable and reliable, eastern redbuds are tough trees that will not disappoint
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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When and where to spot hummingbirds in May – these miniature birds are once again on the move across North America
From the Gulf Coast to the Great Lakes, here's when and where to expect hummingbirds in your region
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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Skyseed is a vigorous invasive weed that is becoming a problem in backyards – here's how to identify and control it
Gardeners in North America should keep an eye out for this vigorous perennial weed
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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How to grow wisteria in pots – for an easy-to-grow climber that will produce masses of fragrant, colorful blooms
Growing climbers in pots is a great option if you have a compact outside space
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best ground cover plants for wet soil – experts recommend these 5 options for soggy, damp yards
Cover challenging borders in your yard with these spectacular low-growing species
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow swamp azalea – for an easy-going flowering shrub that thrives in shady and damp yards
This North American shrub produces masses of fragrant blooms and will add impact to any yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best fragrant privacy plants – 5 scented perennials and shrubs to transform your yard into a perfumed sanctuary
These fragrant privacy plants will add scent and seclusion to any space
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Is it necessary to deadhead viburnum flowers? Here's everything I know after a decade working as a professional gardener
Deadheading faded flowers might improve the appearance of your shrubs but it won't encourage any more blooms
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow buttonbush – for a fragrant North American native shrub with unusual, pincushion flowers
Growing buttonbush in your yard will elevate your borders for years to come
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Gardeners advise against planting hydrangeas this year – here's why, and what climate-resilient shrubs you should be planting instead
During hot and dry summers, many hydrangea varieties can struggle to survive
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow butterfly bush in pots – for a fast-growing shrub that will fill containers with joyful color this summer
Growing butterfly bush in pots will fill your yard with bees and butterflies
By Thomas Rutter Published
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5 ground cover plants that thrive on neglect – tough, low-maintenance options to cover bare soil with foliage and flowers
From dry shade to damp clay, these versatile and resilient plants will prove useful in any yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Plant these 5 climbers in May for a foliage-covered privacy fence in weeks – best fast-growing vine varieties from a professional gardener
Low-effort but high-impact, these fast-growing vines can be relied on to bring joyful color to any yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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This quietly radical garden tells a story of homelessness, healing and hope – I think it's the most important design at this year's Chelsea Flower Show
The Pathway Garden showcases the healing power of horticulture
By Thomas Rutter Published
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5 perennials that thrive on neglect – expert recommendations for low-maintenance plants that are incredibly easy to grow
These fuss-free perennials are perfect for adding brilliant color to any yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow star jasmine in pots – the fast-growing flowering vine that will cover walls and fences with fragrant, starry blooms
Growing climbers in pots is a space-saving solution for gardeners with smaller yards
By Thomas Rutter Published
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5 of the best North American native trees – for resilient and beautiful plants to grow in pots and borders
These North American native trees will add color and impact to any yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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What is a blobbery? Transform your garden with evergreen domes and curves – plus expert recommendations on the best topiary plants to use
Organic topiary shapes can elevate any space, regardless of the size
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Be alert ahead of May pruning – here's how to spot hummingbird nests in your yard, and keep them safe during breeding season
Keep an eye out for nesting female hummingbirds during spring to avoid causing damage
By Thomas Rutter Published