Hello there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a fascinating conversation I had with Evie, a veritable font of knowledge when it comes to the history of UK gardens and gardening styles. I’ve always been captivated by how our green spaces have evolved, and Evie’s insights were truly enlightening.
We settled down in my (somewhat chaotic) potting shed, mugs of tea in hand, ready to delve into centuries of horticultural heritage. I started by asking Evie what first sparked her interest in garden history. She chuckled, “It began with my grandmother’s rose garden, actually. I was always curious about why she grew those particular varieties, and it led me down a rabbit hole of historical research!”
Our discussion started with the formal gardens of stately homes. Evie explained how these gardens, heavily influenced by Italian and French styles, were initially all about demonstrating wealth and control over nature. “Think meticulously manicured hedges, geometric patterns, and impressive water features,” she described. “These were symbols of power and status, not necessarily places for relaxation or personal enjoyment in the way we think of gardens today.”
I mentioned how different that sounds from the cottage gardens I so admire. Evie agreed. “The cottage garden is a beautiful rebellion against that formality! It emerged as ordinary people began to cultivate small plots for food and medicine. Gradually, flowers crept in, reflecting a desire for beauty even amidst hardship.”
Evie pointed out that the English Landscape Garden, popularized by figures like Capability Brown, also played a crucial role in shaping our modern sensibilities. “Brown rejected the rigid formality of earlier designs, opting instead for natural-looking landscapes with rolling hills, serpentine lakes, and strategically placed clumps of trees. It was about creating an idealized version of the countryside.”
“So, how did these grand designs influence the everyday garden?” I asked.
Evie explained that elements of all these styles trickled down. “Even a small back garden might incorporate a touch of formality with a neatly edged border, or a nod to the landscape garden with a winding path. And, of course, the cottage garden aesthetic remains incredibly popular, with its emphasis on informality, abundance, and a mix of flowers, herbs, and vegetables.”
We then moved onto specific plant choices throughout history. Evie recounted how the Victorians, influenced by plant hunters bringing back exotic species from around the world, embraced the ‘bedding out’ system, filling their gardens with brightly coloured annuals. This then evolved into the more sophisticated planting schemes of Gertrude Jekyll, who emphasized colour harmonies and the use of hardy perennials.
I asked about how to incorporate some of these historical styles into our own gardens. Evie suggested researching the period that resonates most with you. “Look at images of gardens from that era. What plants were popular? What materials were used for paving and structures? Don’t be afraid to borrow elements and adapt them to your own space and preferences.”
Evie also stressed the importance of understanding the underlying principles behind each style. “The formal garden is about order and control, the cottage garden is about abundance and informality, and the landscape garden is about creating a sense of spaciousness and natural beauty. By understanding these principles, you can create a garden that feels authentic and harmonious.”
Finally, we spoke about resources for further exploration. Evie recommended visiting historic gardens, reading books on garden history, and joining gardening societies. “There’s so much to discover!” she exclaimed. “The more you learn about the past, the more you’ll appreciate the beauty and complexity of our gardening heritage.”
Our chat with Evie offered a brilliant look into the past, allowing us to better understand the garden we have today. From the structured designs of stately homes to the charming chaos of cottage gardens, and the natural elegance of landscape gardens, each era has left its mark. By appreciating the history of UK gardens, we can better inform and enhance our own gardening practices, whether it’s choosing specific plants or adopting a certain style. And remember, the best garden is one that reflects your own personality and preferences, drawing inspiration from the past while embracing the present. Happy gardening!
