
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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Is burning bush invasive? Expert advice to control this vigorous shrub, plus native alternatives to grow insteadDiscover how to control burning bush with our expert guide
By Thomas Rutter Published
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When is it too late to cut hedges to protect nesting birds? Expert advice on legal regulations and keeping songbirds safe in your yardHedge-cutting at the right time is important to safeguard breeding birds
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow mandevilla – expert advice for cultivating this tropical flowering vine, a gem of the Brazilian rainforestWith lush evergreen foliage and colorful blooms, mandevilla can transform a patio and elevate your pot displays
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow flowering cherry trees in pots – expert advice for masses of blossom that will transform even the smallest spacesFollow our expert-approved guide so that your pot-grown flowering cherry tree thrives this year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best plants for early spring pollinators – 5 nectar-rich species to support bees and butterflies, plus expert advice on how to grow themAdding one or more of the best plants for early spring pollinators is a must for any budding wildlife gardeners
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Are weeds really the enemy? Why so-called problem plants deserve a rebrand and maybe even a place in your yardFrom wildflowers to soil fixers, is it time we looked at weeds in a new light?
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Beware these common but toxic tree species – how to identify 5 poisonous trees that might be growing in your yard, and what to plant insteadArborists reveal the pretty but perilous tree species to watch out for
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow ginger indoors – and enjoy a fresh, year-round harvest of this nutritious rootGrowing this root vegetable indoors is sure to elevate your culinary creations
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Are edimentals the new bedding plants? Why you should ditch petunias for parsnips – and enjoy beautiful, edible bordersEdimental plants prove that borders can be both decorative and delicious
By Thomas Rutter Published
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When and how to prune red twig dogwood – to maximize its bold, fiery display next winterOur expert-approved guide has all the information you need to know on when and how to prune red twig dogwood
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow Florida anise – for a native evergreen shrub that thrives in shadeWith crimson spider-like blooms, this native shrub can elevate darker borders
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to create a rain garden in 4 simple steps – for a sustainable and cost-effective solution to waterlogged yardsRain gardens are a natural way to control surface water runoff and reduce flooding
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Easiest ground cover plants to grow – 5 expert-approved species that will quickly fill challenging areas of your yardThese ground cover plants are low-maintenance options for any border
By Thomas Rutter Published
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They're beautiful but deadly – 5 poisonous perennials that every gardener should know about, and the safer alternatives to grow insteadSome of the prettiest plants can pack a dangerous punch
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Can you grow passion flowers indoors? A plant breeder reveals how to add a touch of the tropics to your home with exotic, flowering vinesLearning how to grow passion flowers indoors will elevate your houseplant collection
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow sweetshrub – an unusual flowering plant that dates back to the time of the dinosaursThis native shrub will add flowers and fragrance to your yard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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What is a paradise garden? How to use ancient design ideas to create a tranquil backyard escapeDiscover the key design principles of timeless paradise gardens
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow California roses – and transform your yard with native, bee-friendly bordersWith striking pink blooms, this shrub will look impressive in any backyard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Transform your pond with plate-sized golden blooms – expert advice on how to grow American lotusThis native aquatic plant would make a stunning focal point in any water garden
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Are squirrels and rodents attacking your bulbs? Try this simple and natural garden hack for instant protectionProtect your tulips and crocus bulbs with this sustainable gardening trick
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to plant bare-root bleeding heart – for romantic, heart-shaped bloomsPlanting bare-root stock is a cost-effective way to enhance your perennial collection
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow waterlilies for stunning summer blooms – and transform your pond into a floral paradiseAdd a touch of drama to your water garden by learning how to grow waterlilies
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best edible evergreens – 5 beautiful plants for a sustainable, year-round harvestThese evergreens will add a sensory element to your plot at all times of the year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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15 garden trends that will transform your garden – ideas and styles to replicate this yearThese garden trends will help you get the most from your outside space
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
