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Gardeners’ World’s Adam Frost Unveils Parents’ “Swinging” Lifestyle
Celebrated Gardeners’ World personality, Adam Frost, recently shared a surprising revelation about his upbringing, stating he was unaware of his parents’ involvement in couple swapping because their Devon home lacked pampas grass. The popular television horticulturist confessed to fans in a recent podcast interview that he left his family residence at the age of 16 after discovering his mother and father were engaged in an unconventional lifestyle.
The Pampas Grass Myth and Partner Swapping
Despite initially finding the situation upsetting, Frost now approaches the subject with humor. During a recent live theatre appearance, he jokingly remarked, “It was quite a shock, I must admit, but perhaps less so if there had been pampas grass in our front garden!” This comment alludes to a persistent urban legend from the 1970s associating the planting of the feathery Cortaderia selloana with a coded message indicating that residents were “swingers” β individuals who exchange sexual partners.
Adam Frost’s Account of His Parents’ Lifestyle
Addressing the audience, Adam Frost, 55, recounted, “My mother and father had become deeply involved in village life and decided to explore partner swapping with another couple. Consequently, my father moved in with another woman, and her husband moved in with my mother. As a 16-year-old, this revelation was profoundly unsettling and disruptive.”
Family Matters and Eventual Acceptance
He further added, “Ultimately, things resolved positively for them; they remained married for many years and maintained amicable relationships. However, at the time, my reaction was one of complete rejection. I decided to leave home and found a small studio apartment.”
From Family Upheaval to Horticultural Success
Following this period of family upheaval, Adam Frost pursued a successful career as a garden designer. After appearances on programs like The One Show and at prestigious events such as The Chelsea Flower Show, he secured a prominent position on BBC Two’s Gardeners’ World in 2016. This marked a significant milestone in his career as a respected figure in the world of horticulture and garden design.