Here today, gone tomorrow

Abstract

Although the British regard themselves as a nation of gardeners, with a great history, it is a history that resembles an iceberg. Rather an odd analogy, given that ice fields are horticultural deserts, but studies have concentrated on the magnificent, whether landscapes or resplendent plantings, and on owners, the rich and the famous. The gardens of 'ordinary gardeners' are submerged below the water line. This paper looks at the records that can shine a light on the unsung horticultural heroes over the centuries, but also shows how ephemeral these records can be.