Monthly Archives: May 2023

Queen Elizabeth and the Flower Markets of Paris

Posted on 27/05/2023 by The Gardens Trust

Although lots of things have been named in honour of Queen Elizabeth you might be surprised to know that one of them is the main flower market in Paris. This occupies a small square and the adjacent riverside on the … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged art history, France, paris, Queen Elizabeth II | Leave a comment

Aquilegia and other Greek flower myths

Posted on 20/05/2023 by The Gardens Trust

My aquilegias are looking amazing at the moment. I’ve encouraged them to seed everywhere they want, and the more I grow them the more I like them. But why are they called aquilegia and why do my French friends and … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged anemones, asters, botanical art, George London, greek myth, Henry Wise, peonies, plant breeding, taxonomy | Leave a comment

Acorns from the King: the rest of the story of Coronation Gardens

Posted on 13/05/2023 by The Gardens Trust

I know the excitement is over but…here’s the rest of the not-so-short history of Coronation Gardens which will bring it right up to date. For the coronation of Edward VIII things were planned to be more organised horticulturally. In August 1936 … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged public parks, Twentieth Century | Leave a comment

Crowning Glory: A short history of Coronation Gardens

Posted on 06/05/2023 by The Gardens Trust

I obviously can’t compete with the other events happening today but thought I could add a few thoughts about past coronations and how they have been celebrated in horticultural form. In fact, until the 20thc, apart from occasional tree planting … Continue reading →