A Walk Through an English Garden

There are many different styles of gardening, and each has its own distinctive look. Types of plant species, the shape of the landscape, statues, and other elements all come together to signify the differences between gardens. The English garden has its own very unique style, which first became a part of British gardening in the early 18^th century. This gardening style swept Europe, and quickly replaced its predecessor, the French-style garden. Whether it was part of the legend of castles and kings, or just a beautiful addition to a private citizen's home, the English garden has captured the hearts of people all over the world. From window boxes in a small suburb apartment, to large rolling estates, the English garden has become a beautiful symbol of the influence of England's rule and it's presence throughout the world. Lush greenery and colorful flowers along with fascinating statues and architecture make this gardening style so special and delightful for gardening enthusiasts. With time, the English garden has become one of the most widely recognized garden types, regardless of what part of the world the garden is in. The influence of Kent and Bridgeman, along with countless other gardeners of the day, has reached beyond the 18^th century and into modern times, where the English garden still stands as a beautiful homage to Great Britain.

Origins of the English Garden

The English garden was a fusion of old Italian and British classical distinction. Unlike traditional gardens, these marvels often incorporate small or large sculptures and even complete structures, such as Chinese pagodas or Roman columns. The incorporation of ancient Italian ruins and sculptures, combined with beautiful indigenous plants made the English garden an interesting and beloved new sensation. This style was unique because it used old elements, and combined it with new, trim and neatly pruned plants. Cottage gardens also became popular and incorporated beautiful flower beds and potted plants, along with topiary and neatly trimmed hedges.

• A Short History – A brief introduction to the English garden and its origins.

• A History of British Gardening – This interactive timeline allows you to view how the gardening styles began and changed over time.

• English Garden Design – This very comprehensive site lists gardening styles by time period and each link features more history and photos.

• From Classical to Natural – A history of the English garden and how it has adapted over the years.

• Garden Photos – Some good examples of English gardens in color photographs.

William Kent and Charles Bridgeman

Two landscapers in the 18^th century, William Kent and Charles Bridgeman, were deeply inspired by the architecture and beauty they experienced while traveling to Italy and Rome and wished to incorporate their newly found appreciation for Italian art into their style of gardening. Throughout their careers, the two landscapers provided services to many wealth patrons in England, and after returning from their trip decided to experiment with some new looks. Kent was a furniture designer and architect, while Bridgeman was proficient in gardening and landscaping. Combined, the two had a great deal of talent and bright ideas to make the garden in English homes more than just a hobby, but instead make it a status symbol within English culture, as well. The pair designed large, sprawling gardens for many well-known houses, the Chiswick, Rousham, and Stowe houses included.

• Kent & Bridgeman _ A brief article about the pair and their development of landscape gardens.

• William Kent – Biography about William Kent, the talented designer and part originator of the English garden style.

• Eighteenth Century Garden History- Photo examples of the English garden style and the influences of Kent and Bridgeman.

• Stowe Gardens History – One of England's most prized gardens, it had help from William Kent in its final architectural design.

The Spread of the English Garden to the Colonies

The English garden soon spread to other parts of the world, reaching as far as Russia. It also became a popular choice among the American colonists. Since many residents of the colonies were English, they had been familiar with various planting styles, and even brought over some indigenous plants when they arrived to the New World. Seeds and cuttings were brought over, and those who visited England returned with a new excitement and fervor that inspired the colonists to create their own gardens in the English style. As American developed and more people had large private estates, the English garden then became a new staple for many of the wealthier class.

• English Gardening- A slideshow presentation about the influences of the English Garden.

• Colonial Gardens – The gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia are a classic example of integrating the English gardening system into every day life.

• English Gardens in America – This historical book details the influence of England and how the gardens played a role in America; you can view the pages of the book in its original format here.

• New American Gardening- An overview of many influential factors on the American garden, including the English garden style and it's presence in the New World.

• The Appeal of the English Garden – What brought the English garden into the US, and why it was so attractive.

Types of Plants & Flowers Common to the English Garden

There are many distinctive plants and flowers that are often a part of a classic English garden. Ivy, weeping willows, and other "creeping" plants are very common and help to create depth and layers to the garden. Flowers, such as lilac and wisteria, are commonly associated with the English Garden style. Purples and lighter pink colored flowers are seen much more often than yellows. Daylilies are other flowers that are seen quite often. Hedges of almost all types, sizes, and colors can be used and are often trimmed nicely and neatly so they have a uniformed, clean look. Perennials and floral borders make the garden stand out and give it a pop of color. Lavendar, marigold, foxglove, and honeysuckle are all other very commonly planted flowers for this garden style.

• Designing An English Garden – Very basic instructions on how to make your own garden have an English appeal.

• Plant Choices – This article lists several different options for choosing flowers and plants in an English garden.

• Seasonal Selections – This page lists out each season and which flowers and plants to use in the garden during that time.

• Planting a basic English Cottage Garden – Some more helpful instructions on planting a very basic English cottage garden.

• Famous English Garden Photos – A beautiful virtual tour of some of England's most beloved gardens.

• More Famous Gardens  - A list of famous English gardens, along with photos and more information.