The Secret History of the British Garden Season 1 Episode 4 The 20th Century

In the fourth episode of The Secret History of the British Garden, titled The 20th Century, viewers are taken on a remarkable journey that unfolds the profound transformation of British gardens amidst a remarkably turbulent century. As the world grappled with upheaval through two world wars, social change, and the onset of modernism, the British garden evolved, reflecting the shifting values, styles, and horticultural practices of the time.

The episode opens with a vibrant tableau of English gardens, basking in the nostalgia of the early 1900s. It examines how the Edwardian era, with its embrace of grand estates and structured gardens, set the stage for changes that were both aesthetic and functional. Viewers gain insights into how the broader cultural movements of the period influenced the design of gardens. From the influence of the Arts and Crafts Movement, which prioritized craftsmanship and nature, to the nascent whispers of modernist ideals, the breadth of inspiration is showcased.

As the narrative unfolds, the tumult of World War I emerges as a pivotal moment in garden history. The episode artfully intertwines personal stories with historical accounts, illustrating how the war disrupted traditional practices and propelled communities to adapt. It discusses how the garden became a refuge for soldiers returning from battle and a means to cope with grief, illustrating the human side of horticulture during this challenging time. The impact of wartime rationing on garden cultivation is also explored, highlighting how people turned to home gardening as a source of sustenance and comfort.

Transitioning into the 1920s and 1930s, the episode brings to light the ways in which gardens became a canvas for social expression and an outlet for creativity. The emergence of new garden styles, like the cottage garden, is evaluated, emphasizing how these designs fostered a sense of community and embraced a democratic approach to nature. Gardeners of all social classes began to realize their potential to create beauty in personal, intimate spaces, transforming backyards into private paradises.

With the backdrop of the interwar period, viewers learn about influential figures in garden design, including designers like Gertrude Jekyll and Edwin Lutyens, who redefined landscaping practices. Their partnerships and collaborations in creating iconic gardens at homes and estates became emblematic of the period’s ethos—a blend of artistry and accessibility. The episode reflects on how these design principles adapted to meet the tastes and sensibilities of a changing society, engaging with how the landscapes themselves told stories of resilience and renewal.

As World War II looms, the program dives into the profound impact of conflict on garden design and use. This era saw the emergence of “Victory Gardens,” where civilians turned patches of land into productive plots to support war efforts and combat food scarcity. The episode illustrates how these gardens bridged the gap between utility and aesthetics, showcasing ingenuity in urban spaces largely overshadowed by destruction.

Post-war Britain witnesses a gardening renaissance as the nation begins to rebuild. The episode examines the explosion of interest in gardening fueled by prosperity, with suburban developments spurring an outburst of new gardening trends. Within this context, popular gardening broadcasts and magazines emerge, democratizing gardening knowledge and inspiring millions to engage with the soil. The camera navigates through pastel-colored flowerbeds and manicured lawns, reflecting the sensibilities of the 1950s and 1960s, when the ideal of the garden became intertwined with suburban life.

The final segments of the episode delve into the cultural shifts of the late 20th century, particularly as environmental awareness began to rise. The influence of the organic movement and the psychological benefits of nature are dissected, shedding light on a growing appreciation for biodiversity and sustainable practices. Gardeners increasingly sought to reconnect with wild landscapes, veering away from strictly manicured spaces to embrace a more naturalistic approach. The episode also touches on how gardening became a form of resistance, with community gardens and guerrilla gardening movements reclaiming neglected urban spaces.

The 20th Century episode concludes by reflecting on the legacies that emerged from this transformative era, setting the stage for contemporary gardening practices. It does not shy away from confronting the challenges posed by the modern world, such as climate change and loss of biodiversity, inviting viewers to consider the role that gardening can play in addressing these issues today. Throughout the hour, a tapestry of history, emotion, and vibrant visuals bring the British garden to life, revealing its deep-seated connection to cultural identity and social change over an extraordinary century of transformation.