The classic garden

by Graham Rose

British writer Rose here evokes the classic gardens and gardeners of yesterday and tells how to adapt modern gardens to old ways in many genres: the herbaceous border, rose garden, herb garden, fruits and vegetables, lawns, walled garden topiary, arbors and retreats, conservatories and greenhouses, terraces and steps and decorative features. A human as well as botanical survey, this takes in gardening royalty and the more anonymous labors of gardening monks during the Dark Ages, surrendering choice facts: in 1344, a mole-catcher was paid four shillings to capture moles that were undermining a lawn. (Modern methods pale in human interest by comparison.) Each section features a concise planting plan and a list of recommended plants (at book's end is a compilation of plants suggested for use in specific period gardens). Full-color photographs of contemporary gardens and vintage photos, printed in sepia tones, of gardeners, tools and gardens of the past, are augmented by fastidiously executed illustrations and diagrams. This nostalgic look at the dynamism of past gardens will appeal to those with or without active green thumbs.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Graham John Rose was a British gardener and influential gardening writer best known for his long association with the Sunday Times. Renowned for his outspoken style and irreverent wit, he brought originality and curiosity to horticultural journalism, often challenging orthodox views. Trained as an entomologist, he worked internationally before turning to writing, where his wide expertise ranged from agriculture to garden design. A prolific author and editor, he produced acclaimed books that blended practical knowledge with personality. His writing celebrated independence, experimentation, and a deep enjoyment of both gardens and people.

Reviews

[Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Toby Musgrave's COTTAGE GARDENS when I opened this book. Graham Rose extends this topic but also includes features that are in black and white or sepia colors. This book is aimed at the northern half of the United States or those who live in the United Kingdom. Still, I enjoyed learning what gardeners did during Victorian times.

Mr. Rose includes lots of detail. There are pictures of traditional garden spades, unusual tools for transplanting, and an explanation of old roses. The art of pruning, different kinds of hand or wheel barrows and unusual bell jars are found among the pages. Pruners and gatherers, planted seats and the revolution of mowing is discussed.

Unusual garden themes such as a 'Wilderness Garden' is included. Who knew there were so many tools that were developed solely for taming nature? The pages are packed with information about gardening in the past. Horticultural students, lovers of P. Allen Smith's style and people who collect exceptional gardening books are just a few of those that will treasure this reference. If you cannot buy a copy, check your local library. You will be glad you did.

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 5 out of 5]

A completely entrancing, detailed look at historical gardening practices in the West, with a glut of resources. As a hopeful future gardener, I appreciated the look at gardens of the past, with historical methods, philosophies, plans, and more included. There are many wonderful illustrations, and photos both contemporary and historical. The end has a section on period planting, including traditional plants used for medieval medicine, in the Elizabethan and Victorian eras, and more. While I doubt I'll ever have a walled garden, a summerhouse, or a treillage, ideas from these sections are tantalizing. The wilderness, rose, and herb gardens are more accessible for the average planter. If nothing else, it is a deep springtime pleasure to peruse this book.

Purchased at an antique mall in Pennsylvania.