A show garden that reflects the changes in gardening styles and trends over the past 50 years will be a major attraction at the BBC Gardeners’ World Live show later this month (15-18 June, NEC Birmingham).
The show is themed around the 50th anniversary of the BBC Gardeners’ World TV programme – and will also mark 25 years since the launch of its annual sister event.
The Anniversary Garden: A Brief History of Modern Gardens, designed by Professor David Stevens (who, with Geoff Hamilton, opened the first show) with Peter Dowlewill feature fascinating vignettes for each decade.
TV, radio and printed media have had an enormous influence over the past half-century; Gardeners’ World has been integral throughout, reporting and commenting on the day-to-day development of the gardening world with an ever-changing band of enthusiastic and knowledgeable presenters.
The 1960's were still years of relative austerity, with domestic garden design in its infancy. Vegetables were widely grown while colour and vibrancy was the preserve of bedding plants. Patios and paved areas were built from materials to hand and the ever-present small lawn would fill the gaps.
During the 1970's, hard landscaping was available at the burgeoning number of garden centres. Planting became more sophisticated while fashion raised its head and many a garden sported a collection of heathers and conifers. Sweeping borders and geometric shapes became order of the day.
The 'Outdoor Room' came into its own in the 1980's as home owners sought a place to enjoy with barbecues, sitting areas and easy-to-tend planting. The lawn was often replaced by paving; design had become central to a new garden and was much reflected in the press and on television.
Throughout the 1990's there was a greater awareness in the environment and the wild flower meadow was popularised. The birth of the TV 'makeover' saw decking and gravel take centre stage and gardens were softer in style, as well as being easy to maintain.
During the 2000's the 'Room Outside' is being taken to new levels. New and elegant materials are readily available while growing vegetables returns to the fore. Planting styles embrace hardy perennials and grasses plus fruit trained on walls and fences, harking back to gardens 100 years ago. The wheel has almost turned full circle!
