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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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 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
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15 garden trends that will transform your garden in 2025 – ideas and styles to replicate this year
These garden trends will help you get the most from your outside space
By Thomas Rutter Last updated
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Easiest indoor bonsai trees for beginners – 5 low-maintenance species to transform your houseplant collection
The art of bonsai can be tricky, but growing fool-proof indoor species can help
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How and when to fertilize witch hazel – experts reveal the secrets for vibrant and healthy flowering plants
Applying a small amount of fertilizer at the right time will give your shrubs a boost
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow almond trees in pots – and transform small spaces with this unusual spring bloomer
Follow this expert-approved guide so that your pot-grown almond trees thrive
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to master the art of growing dwarf jade bonsai trees – the low-maintenance houseplant believed to bring good luck
Growing dwarf jade plants will elevate your indoor jungle
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Bird feeder alternatives – wildlife experts reveal creative and safe ways to feed birds during the avian flu outbreak
With rising cases of bird flu across North America, some states are recommending taking traditional bird feeders down
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Elevate your houseplant game with the ultimate desert cactus – how to grow prickly pears indoors in 3 simple steps
By following a few simple steps, you can easily learn how to grow prickly pears indoors
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Invasive hedge plants to avoid – 5 vigorous species to keep our of your yard and what you should grow instead
Invasive hedge plants can quickly get out of control and cause damage to your home
By Thomas Rutter Published
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This hummingbird magnet will transform any garden in a single season – how to grow the vibrant trumpet vine
Growing trumpet vine is an easy way to fill your outside space with colorful blooms
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best dwarf evergreens for small spaces – 5 compact shrubs for year-round greenery
These dwarf evergreens will maintain impact and interest in every season
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Should I take my bird feeder down during the avian flu outbreak? Experts reveal how to keep garden birds safe
Protect backyard birds by stopping the spread of avian influenza
By Thomas Rutter Published