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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Is it necessary to deadhead hibiscus flowers? Gardening experts share hibiscus growing secrets
Deadheading spent blooms can help to improve the appearance of shrubs and extend flowering, but it might not be necessary for every hibiscus species
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to combat lavender pests and problems – to keep these aromatic plants thriving
Lavender plants are regarded as low-maintenance herbs, but there are some pests and problems to look out for
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How and when to fertilize dogwoods – for healthy trees and shrubs
Recently planted dogwoods can benefit from an occasional feed, and will reward you with lush green growth and striking blooms
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to deadhead and care for hyacinths after flowering – for brilliant blooms year after year
With a little love and care, hyacinth bulbs will return and rebloom next year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Can slugs and snails ever be good for the backyard? This gardener says 'it's time for a rebrand'
Gastropods play a vital role in the garden ecosystem. So, is it time for gardeners to rethink the relationship with these supposed pests?
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow bearded irises – for elegant, artistic and colorful blooms
Bearded irises are an English cottage garden favorite that require plenty of sunshine to thrive
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to keep snapdragons flowering for longer – advice from a professional gardener
By following these simple steps you can prolong the snapdragon floral show this year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Peony pests and problems – expert advice for trouble-free blooms
Peonies are the favorite flower of many gardeners, yet this spring flower is susceptible to pests and diseases
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best evergreen ground cover plants – low maintenance options for year-round interest
Evergreen ground cover plants will add texture, foliage and flowers to the tricky areas of the backyard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow jasmine in pots – the fragrant flowering climber that every space needs
Cover garden walls, trellises and structures with perfumed flowers this year by growing jasmine in pots
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Best ways to combat mealybugs in your yard – expert advice for identifying and killing mealybugs outdoors
Mealybugs are a troublesome pest that will cause damage to your prized plants if left untreated
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Should you fertilize lavender? Garden experts offer advice for this aromatic favorite
Fertilizing herbs is not always necessary and gardeners can sometimes do more harm than good when feeding their plants
By Thomas Rutter Published
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When and how to fertilize tulips – professionals reveal the best methods to encourage future flowering
Providing the right care for your tulips is crucial for blooms to return next year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Spices to deter common garden pests – 3 natural repellents for the backyard
Using spices from the kitchen cupboard is a quick and easy way to prevent pest infestations in your garden borders
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Job for the weekend: How to make your own plant fertilizer using these two common weeds
Give your plants a natural boost this year by applying these nutrient-rich fertilizers made from weeds
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How and when to deadhead tulips – expert advice for better blooms next year
Discover how and when to deadhead tulips, a simple but vital task that will improve future flowering
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow wisteria from cuttings – advice for patient gardeners
While propagation is an easy way of growing more plants, wisteria can take decades to flower from cuttings
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to propagate mint – 2 quick and easy methods to grow your herb collection
Garden experts share simple and speedy ways to propagate mint, for a bounty of aromatic herb plants this year
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow cockscomb – the show-off flowering annual to plant for vibrant color
Try something unusual in your flower beds this year by planting cockscomb, for brash and brilliant floral displays
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to grow a ginkgo tree – the ancient tree that survived the dinosaurs
Ginkgo trees are long-living, drought-tolerant and pest-resistant. This low-maintenance tree might be the perfect addition to your backyard
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Can you revive woody lavender plants? Pruning advice from a professional gardener to save your plants this spring
With the right care and pruning approach, gardeners can save old and woody lavender plants
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to create a modern cottage garden – for a quintessentially English look with a contemporary twist
Experts share clever landscape design tricks that can help cottage gardens work in a modern space
By Thomas Rutter Published
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How to garden in a rental property – top tips for renter-gardeners
Renters can grow a vibrant and verdant plot by maximizing container and vertical displays
By Thomas Rutter Published
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Plants for privacy on a balcony – grasses, shrubs and climbers to create an urban oasis
Discover the best plants for privacy on a balcony to create a green and secluded haven on your balcony
By Thomas Rutter Published