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.
Plant profile
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
It is important that your garden offers reassuring continuity but surprises are often welcome
Garden history
A little-known Flemish painter produced one of the masterpieces of Italian Renaissance garden art
Plant profile
There's more to snowdrops than meets the eye
Inspirational gardens
Woodland plants, both large and small, add a special new dimension to any garden.
Garden history
John and Jane Loudon revolutionised gardening in Britain in the 19th century
Winter
Your garden shows you how winter is an essential part of human and natural life
Inspirational gardens
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 title of a 2021 children's book captures all that is best about our garden and countryside icon.
Autobiography
The famous story of the Women's Institute, with its tales of feminine inventiveness and thriftiness, could have been made for my mother.
Through the Garden Gates
If you live in the middle of a city a room with a view is a bonus; if it is a view into a garden it is a blessing.
Through the Garden Gates
A few days before writing this article I told everyone that I would be retiring as Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme at the end of summer 2025 when I will have done 15 years. Time for some happy reflection