Upton Grey book review

                                       Gertrude Jekyll; Her Art Restored at Upton Grey. 

The author describes this book as a visual record of a restored Gertrude Jekyll garden. What the author does not say is that the book and for that matter the garden is a true labour of love and devotion. The book is full of superb photographs that support the text which in turn has been carefully and painstakingly researched to give an insightful and accurate history and record of Jekyll’s work and planting. I particularly enjoyed seeing the water colour of the bougainvillea by Jekyll reproduced on page 138.

Jekyll’s design ideas and use of plants make compelling reading. She was able to interplay the ‘formal’ and the ‘free’ style of design as the author describes it. Jekyll made use of plants that had fallen from fashion and used them to create a unified effect. When a visitor showed surprise at ‘’those horrid old bedding plants’’ Gertrude replied by saying that they were, ‘’passive agents in their own misuse’’. We should remember this when some of us get a little sniffy about bedding! The chapters cover the different sections of the garden and each section is discussed in detail, supported by excellent photographs.

This book and the garden at Upton Grey are important historical documents, a visual record for present day designers to study and learn from. Some people will say that a garden should not be a copy of the past but should progress and move forward, be prepared to change. But then how do we learn from the past, see what was seen in 1908, study the craft of the great designers? At Upton Grey we have the way to see just how Jekyll worked and planted. I  enjoyed reading this book and I always enjoy a visit to Upton Grey to see the garden. Rosamund always make you very welcome.

Gertrude Jekyll; Her Art Restored at Upton Grey. Published by Garden Art Press

ISBN 978 1 87067 377 8