Some English Gardens

"Some English Gardens" by Gertrude Jekyll is a celebration of English gardens shaped by Italian Renaissance designs. The book is a collection of notes and drawings that acts as a guide to formal gardens from the early 1900s. It reveals the design and principles of gardening, highlighting specific cultivated areas, their creators, and the plants that flourish within these structured spaces. The book begins by looking at the history behind English gardens, especially those inspired by Italy, and shows how gardens evolved from practical areas around castles into beautiful, artistic landscapes. Brockenhurst is the first garden discussed, with special attention to its classical design and how statues and plants are thoughtfully combined to create a balanced space, but also looking at the importance of maintaining these elements.