King Charles’ ‘secret obsession’ in the fight against cancer
The comments echo those of veteran British broadcaster and gardener Alan Titchmarsh, 77, who has known Charles for 40 years and has often toured the king’s gardens with him.
Reflecting on Charles’s accession to the throne following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, he said: ‘I have walked with him through his gardens many times, but when he came to the throne I was prepared for horticulture not to have quite the same place in his heart and daily life. But nothing could have been further from the truth.’
Titchmarsh also praised the King’s contribution to environmental issues.
He added: “The King has done more for horticulture, gardening, natural history and the environment than anyone except David Attenborough.”
According to Titchmarsh, Charles continues to show remarkable energy despite the demands of both the Crown and his treatment.
He said: “His energy is astonishing. He is enthusiastic, but also pragmatic. The King is stuck in it – he’s not just saying something needs to be done, he’s pushing for it.”
The benefits of gardening have long been recognized by mental health experts, who say it is an excellent distraction from anxiety and negative thoughts.
Charles has been committed to environmental causes for decades and remains a patron of the Royal Horticultural Society.
He also supports the 2026 Curious garden project through The King’s Foundationalongside ambassadors David Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh, with the exhibition showing at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026.
