
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
5 trailing flowers to fill your retaining walls, garden fences, and hanging baskets with joyful color
Easily cover walls, fences and planters with these vibrant trailing species
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
How to grow cardinal creeper – the fast-growing vine that will fill your yard with a profusion of red flowers this summer
Grow this vigorous vine in pots and borders this year for masses of blooms
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
I have grown lavender in Tuscany, and can vouch for this 1 simple soil tweak that will help your homegrown herbs grow bigger and better blooms
Adequate drainage is essential when growing Mediterranean herbs
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
How to get rid of pokeweed in your yard – expert advice on controlling this vigorous American weed
This fast-growing weed can cause problems in backyards
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
As a professional gardener, these are the 5 flowers I'm planting in pots this May for bold, exuberant and non-stop summer color
Jazz up your plot this year, whatever its size, with these vibrant blooms for pots
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Gardeners with Japanese maples urged to use this simple 2-ingredient solution that will stop pests fast if you act now
How to quickly clear honeydew and aphids from your Japanese maples
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Best dwarf sunflowers for pots and small spaces – transform even tiny yards this summer with these bold, colorful blooms
These container-friendly dwarf sunflowers are sure to put on a summer show in your garden, whatever the size
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Is it necessary to deadhead lilac flowers? Here's what I've learned after a decade working as a professional gardener
Deadheading spent lilac blooms can help to improve the appearance of your plants, but it won't encourage any more blooms
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Best climbers to attract hummingbirds – 5 nectar-rich vines with vibrant, colorful flowers to fill pots and borders
Hummingbirds, butterflies and bees will not be able to stay away from these easy-to-grow flowering climbers
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
5 plants with thorns and spines to avoid in family gardens – plus the safer alternatives to grow instead
While these plants are good for intruder-proofing your yard, they might not be ideal in homes with young children or pets
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
This common vegetable is the best natural defence against slugs and snails – and you probably already have one in your fridge
Here's how to pest-proof your flower beds and veg garden this year
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Native alternatives to invasive wisteria – 5 North American climbing plants with spectacular foliage and flowers to grow instead
These native vines will fill garden walls, fences and pergolas with greenery
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
How to grow passion flowers in pots – the ultimate flowering vine that will transform any garden, whatever the size
Learning how to grow passion flowers in pots is a great option for gardeners with compact yards
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
How to fertilize star jasmine – experts reveal the secrets for healthy climbing plants with masses of scented blooms
Feeding your vines at the right time can give them a boost during the growing season
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
How to grow wild geranium – for a hardy flowering perennial that will thrive in shady gardens
This tough perennial is a good option for adding color to darker borders
By Thomas Rutter Published
-
Best native perennials to stop weeds – 5 resilient North American species to keep problem plants under control in your yard
Plant experts reveal the best native perennials to stop weeds from taking over your borders
By Thomas Rutter Published