Gerald Stratford: The British Gardener Still Cultivating Giant Vegetables

Over five years since his rise to fame for showcasing giant vegetables online, Gerald Stratford remains dedicated to gardening, embracing his celebrity status while cherishing the simple joys of life.

Gerald Stratford is still diligently nurturing his garden, filled with extraordinarily large vegetables that continue to impress those around him. Mr. Stratford shot into the limelight in May 2020 when he posted two charming images on Twitter: one showed him proudly brandishing an enormous bundle of arugula, while the other depicted him sitting on an upside-down bucket with a generous bowl of freshly harvested potatoes. In his accompanying caption, he expressed his delight over his “first early rocket.”

The onset of Covid-19 lockdowns saw Mr. Stratford, residing in the quaint village of Milton-under-Wychwood in Oxfordshire, England, become an unexpected internet celebrity. Almost overnight, he garnered a following that led to a book deal, numerous television and radio appearances, and accolades from food outlets like Eater, which dubbed him the “Twitter king of 'big veg' gardening.” Newsweek even offered him a regular column.

Now, five years later, Mr. Stratford has adjusted to his newfound popularity. Initially, the recognition was somewhat overwhelming for him, but he has learned how to navigate the public's gaze and is relishing it more than ever. “I think I am enjoying it more now than at the beginning,” he remarked in a recent phone interview. “It’s a lot easier to take now.”

Stratford still finds immense satisfaction in gardening. “My greenhouse is full and overflowing,” he shared. His crop includes not only carrots and parsnips but also zucchini, with ambitions to grow an enormous melon next. While acknowledging the world has been challenging since the onset of the pandemic, he finds solace in his garden, appreciating the health of himself and his loved ones.

“Long may I continue,” he declared, clearly indicating that his passion for gardening and growing his impressive vegetables is just as strong as ever.