Sir David Attenborough's new documentary series 'Secret Garden' launched on Sunday night, narrated by the 99-year-old broadcaster, who has been presenting natural history shows with the BBC since 1954. The five-part series focuses on how gardeners can help save struggling species, according to the producers. The series emphasizes the potential of gardeners to aid in conservation efforts, set against the backdrop of an estimated 25 million gardens in the UK that cover more land than all national nature reserves combined. According to series producer Bill Markham, these gardens can play a powerful role in supporting biodiversity and reversing wildlife declines. The exact species targeted for rescue through gardening practices have not been specified, but the broader context underscores the importance of these private green areas.
The first episode was set in Oxfordshire at a thousand-year-old mill, where owners Henry and Sara let most of their land run wild to protect wildlife on a tributary of the River Thames. This garden faces regular flooding threats and features wildlife including kingfishers, mallards, and otters, showcasing how managed wildness can foster local ecosystems.
As Sir David Attenborough approaches his 100th birthday, having him narrate the series feels both momentous and deeply fitting. The first question anyone asks when you’re making a wildlife programme is whether he’s involved - and for good reason. Over the past seventy years, he has come to define the genre. For many of us, his films were the spark that set us on this path, so working on Secret Garden at this moment feels particularly special.
Episode two featured Louise Vergette's garden in Bristol, which she cultivated to encourage wildlife. Producers discovered Vergette's garden after her partner, a wildlife filmmaker, released a video made during the first lockdown in spring. Vergette did not meet Attenborough during filming, as reported by sources.
Filming at Vergette's home involved camera crews, cables, and masses of equipment over several months, capturing footage that revealed animals like birds and foxes interacting daily in her garden.
Lou has created a haven for wildlife, but even she doesn't know the half of what goes on here.
Producer Bill Markham commented on the significance of Attenborough's involvement, stating that as Sir David Attenborough approaches his 100th birthday, having him narrate the series feels both momentous and deeply fitting. Markham added that gardens can play a powerful role in supporting biodiversity and reversing wildlife declines, echoing the series' core message.
Fans praised the first episode of 'Secret Garden' on social media, calling it spellbinding and perfect for family viewing over Easter.
It's extraordinary, it was a real thrill to see things. With the quality of filming these days, you feel like you're there with them.
Rather than being isolated patches, they form a vast, interconnected network of green spaces.