Reflections, learning & inspiration from the past. Historical people and places.
Garden history
This piece reflects on finding inspiration in nature, people, and place - spring walks, bluebell woods, and memories that shaped my Chelsea 2012 garden. Inspired by poet John Clare, it’s a reminder to slow down and let the landscape guide creativity.
Fruit
Discover how Stalin’s unexpected passion for plants became a political power play at the Yalta Conference.
Garden history
John and Jane Loudon revolutionised gardening in Britain in the 19th century
Garden history
Some of garden history's most intriguing stories are about its quietest heroes
Garden history
The glamorous, unconventional world of Norah Lindsay, the garden designer whose wit, vision, and bold planting transformed the gardens of society—saving herself from near destitution
Garden history
I pursue my journey through the last 50-odd years of British garden history looking at how we loosened up through a range of planting styles - and discuss some surprising comparisons.
Garden history
From dramatic declarations of war to dangerously suggestive orchids, the alluring history of flower symbolism and why most meanings have been lost over time. Is there a desire to bring them back?
Garden history
Women are all over garden history, so how come they're so hard to find?
Through the Garden Gates
Our Suffolk coastal village is packed with celebrities but a chance conversation with a neighbour revealed a true superstar - the father of modern gardening - John Tradescant the Elder - created a garden up the road from me. I went to take a look.
Garden design
Even a 'blank canvas' is not a blank canvas.
Through the Garden Gates
The best kept horticultural secret in London? In Hyde Park? surely not? From ruffians to rhododendrons, come and see for yourself.
Garden design
Nothing goes with wildflowers like wild-towers. Here's some folly for the averaged-sized space