Gerald Stratford: The Man Behind the Giant Vegetables

Five years after rising to internet fame for sharing his extraordinary vegetables, Gerald Stratford continues to cultivate joy and large crops in his garden.

In the quiet village of Milton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire, Gerald Stratford remains a beacon of positivity and gardening enthusiasm. He first gained fame during the lockdown in May 2020 when he shared two images on Twitter: one featuring a massive bundle of arugula, affectionately called "rocket" in Britain, and the other of himself perched on a bucket with a bowl of potatoes. “My first early rocket very pleased,” he wrote, sparking a wave of admiration online.

This initial glimpse into his gardening triumphs swiftly catapulted Mr. Stratford into a new lifestyle, marked by book deals and various media appearances. Known as the “Twitter king of ‘big veg’ gardening,” his contributions have been celebrated on platforms like Eater and Newsweek, where he even penned a column.

Fast forward five years, and Stratford has embraced his internet celebrity with open arms. Initially overwhelmed by the attention, he has grown more comfortable over time. “I think I am enjoying it more now than at the beginning,” he shared during a phone interview, reflecting on how the process of fame has evolved for him.

Gardening continues to be a source of happiness, bringing light into a world still reeling from the pandemic's aftermath. "The world, it’s not a very nice place still since the pandemic," Mr. Stratford observed, emphasizing the value of health and growth. With his greenhouse overflowing with carrots, parsnips, and zucchini, he is eagerly preparing to add a giant melon to his collection.

Mr. Stratford has no intentions of leaving his garden anytime soon. "Long may I continue," he stated, revealing his unwavering commitment to gardening and to sharing the joy it brings him. As he battles the uncertainties of the world through his love for plants, he remains an inspiration for budding gardeners and fans alike.