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, London, he was able to gain experience at many of the UK's 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 variety of publications in the UK, including The English Garden, Gardens Illustrated, Hortus, The London Gardener 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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When is it too late to cut hedges to protect nesting birds? Expert advice on legal regulations and keeping songbirds safe in your yard
Hedge-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 rainforest
With 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 spaces
Follow 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 them
Adding 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 yard
From 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 instead
Arborists 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 root
Growing 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 borders
Edimental plants prove that borders can be both decorative and delicious
By Thomas Rutter Published
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February is the ideal time to prune red twig dogwood – to maximize its bold, fiery display next winter
Our 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 shade
With crimson spider-like blooms, this native shrub can elevate darker borders
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best low-maintenance evergreen shrubs for a front yard – 5 easy-to-grow plants that will instantly boost curb appeal
These evergreens will maintain impact and interest all year long
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 yards
Rain gardens are a natural way to control surface water runoff and reduce flooding
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best native plants to stop weeds – 5 ground covers, shrubs and perennials to keep unwelcome weeds out of your yard
We reveal the best native plants to stop weeds from germinating and taking over your borders
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 yard
These 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 instead
Some 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 vines
Learning 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 dinosaurs
This 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 escape
Discover 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 borders
With 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 lotus
This 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 protection
Protect your tulips and crocus bulbs with this sustainable gardening trick
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Want to enjoy romantic, heart-shaped blooms this spring? Here's how to plant bare-root bleeding heart in February
Planting 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 paradise
Add 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 harvest
These evergreens will add a sensory element to your plot at all times of the year
By Thomas Rutter Published