Great British Gardeners: From the Early Plantsmen to Chelsea Medal Winners

The British have a long history of gardening, dating back to before the Romans. In the 16th century, gardening grew in popularity, and a distinct British style became a major export in the 18th century. Today, the annual Chelsea Flower Show is an international festival, and British garden designers are in demand worldwide. This book traces the history of British gardening over 450 years through the stories of twenty-six key figures, showcasing changes in taste and society over the centuries. Familiar names such as 'Capability Brown, Humphry Repton, Gertrude Jekyll, Vita Sackville-West, and Christopher Lloyd are featured, as well as less generally known figures such as John Gerard and the Tradescants. The book also includes modern-day advocates such as Beth Chatto and John Brookes, who have made significant contributions to the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2021
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The British have a rich and enduring tradition of gardening, dating back to ancient times before the arrival of the Romans. The Romans introduced Mediterranean plants that have thrived in Britain for centuries. During the sixteenth century, gardening experienced a significant growth, and a distinctive British style emerged as a major export in the eighteenth century. Today, the annual Chelsea Flower Show is a world-renowned international festival, showcasing the talent of British garden designers. This book delves into the history of British gardening over 450 years, featuring the stories of twenty-six key figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the country's gardens. It explores the motivations and contributions of these individuals, highlighting their impact on changing tastes and society throughout the centuries. Familiar names like "Capability Brown, Humphry Repton, Gertrude Jekyll, Vita Sackville-West, and Christopher Lloyd" are featured, along with lesser-known figures such as John Gerard, whose "Herball of 1597" inspired generations of plantsmen. The Tradescants, pioneer plant hunters, and J. C. Loudon, who championed smaller gardens in the nineteenth century, are also recognized. In the present day, we encounter Beth Chatto, an advocate for choosing the right plants for the right places, and John Brookes, who revolutionized gardening like Elizabeth David did for cooking. Their achievements offer a vibrant and inspiring history for gardening enthusiasts of all levels.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398103313