Flower shows
The Flower Show Bandwagon
The future of the big flower shows has caused much speculation and controversy recently. George Plumptre has been asking the big questions about how (and where) they can go next.
George Plumptre
Since my first garden article in 1979, I've been gardening correspondent of The Times, written for Country Life and other magazines, authored 11 books, and been awarded the EMH in 2024.
Garden history
Lancelot 'Businessman' Brown
The busiest man in the business? Capability Brown was one of the first people to make his fortune through landscape design. George Plumptre explores how he did it.
Plant profiles
Are you a 'Pelly'?
So ubiquitous we are in danger of taking them for granted, the pelargonium has a long, aristocratic history. George Plumptre explores this posh plant's rise to fame and makes the case for declaring the pelargonium a feminist icon.
Through the Garden Gates
A garden full of surprises
It is important that your garden offers reassuring continuity but surprises are often welcome
Garden history
The Utens Lunettes
A little-known Flemish painter produced one of the masterpieces of Italian Renaissance garden art
Plant profiles
What is it about snowdrops?
There's more to snowdrops than meets the eye
Inspirational gardens
The Woodlanders
Woodland plants, both large and small, add a special new dimension to any garden.
Garden history
Gardening's First Couple
John and Jane Loudon revolutionised gardening in Britain in the 19th century
Winter
The Garden in Winter
Your garden shows you how winter is an essential part of human and natural life
Inspirational gardens
Where it all Began - My Gardens Inspiration
The garden of my family home has always been the inspiration for my career as a garden writer. A succession of my predecessors were responsible for its creation through three centuries, with ups and downs along the way.
Wildlife
The Happy Hedgerow
The title of a 2021 children's book captures all that is best about our garden and countryside icon.
Autumn
The Turn of the Seasons
Autumn is time for nostalgic contemplation.