Winter is a great time to read the classics of horticultural literature. Gardeners from decades or even centuries ago still have many lessons to share with us. One I recommend is “The Wild Garden” by William Robinson (1838-1935).
Born in Ireland, Robinson moved to England in his early 20s and stayed, eventually owning Gravetye Manor in Sussex where he practice his craft of gardening for nearly 50 years. He was a prolific writer, publishing several books, and founding an influential journal simply titled “The Garden.” He established many friendships with noted plants people in both Europe and North America.
“The Wild Garden” was first published in 1870. The Miller Library has a copy and unlike many other old books, it is not impressive. It is small, without illustrations, but the writing is inspired, taking direct aim opposing the practice of using large expanses of annuals in formal plantings, a practice that began earlier in that century.
Instead, Robinson extols the virtues of a garden filled with perennial plants, both woody and herbaceous. Planting in grass, or in other informal areas was encouraged. While this is widely accepted today, this book caused considerable controversy when first published.
“My object in the Wild Garden is now to show how we may have more of the varied beauty of hardy flowers than the most ardent admirer of the old style of garden ever dreams of, by naturalizing many beautiful plants of many regions of the earth.”
Beginning with the second edition, “The Wild Garden” was illustrated by the noted garden painter and designer Alfred Parsons (1847-1920), who was also a friend of Robinson and may have influenced the garden designs at Gravetye. New editions continued well into the 20th century.
“The Wild Garden: Expanded Edition” (2009) reproduces the sumptuous 1895 fifth edition, with extra features, including an appendix updating plant nomenclature. Additional chapters are written by Rick Darke, a noted author and advocate for the conservation of old landscapes. His writing, and photographs of the revived Gravetye, are an excellent addition to this classic book.
Reviewed by Brian Thompson for Garden Notes: Northwest Horticultural Society, Winter 2023