The English Gardening School

How does a reflective pool transform a garden?

For Ben Pope, the starting point was the view beyond the garden. Inspired by the owners’ love of the framed field and a visit to Jardin Plume, the design evolved into a generous reflective pool that draws the landscape and sky back into the space.

From setting out the proportions with canes and string to refining the detailing so the grass meets the water cleanly, every decision was made to create a sense of calm, atmosphere and simplicity.

Swipe through to hear Ben explain the thinking behind the design.

Thinking about learning with The English Gardening School?

From our internationally renowned Good Gardening Diploma to inspiring short courses in practical gardening and garden design, our upcoming programme offers something for every stage of your gardening journey.

Explore the courses and book your Information Session via the link in our bio.

Geranium or pelargonium?

It is one of the questions EGS alumni Paul Vowles is asked most often while volunteering in the historic glasshouses at Chelsea Physic Garden.

In our latest Substack, Paul explains how to tell the two apart, explores the extraordinary variety of pelargoniums, and shares his advice for keeping them healthy and in bloom.
Read the full article via the link in our bio.

Gardening is a seasonal practice, and understanding what to do and when is one of the foundations of good horticulture.

In this month’s guide, we’ve selected the essential gardening jobs for August to help your garden thrive through the height of summer while laying the foundations for the months ahead.

What’s happening at EGS this August?

From seasonal gardening advice and new Substack articles to upcoming courses and the latest news from across The English Gardening School, there is plenty to discover this month.

For a closer look and to stay up to date, sign up to our newsletter via the link in our bio.

Summer is often the hardest time to leave a garden. After months of sowing, planting and nurturing, stepping away can feel like a risk, especially if the weather turns hot and dry.

In our latest Journal article, EGS tutor and RHS Master of Horticulture Ben Pope shares his practical approach to preparing a garden before you go away, from watering more deeply and pruning strategically, to using your time away as a chance to understand which plants are truly resilient in your garden.

Perhaps the most valuable lesson is that a summer holiday isn’t just a break for you; it’s an opportunity to observe, learn and create a garden that is better adapted to a changing climate.

Read the full article via the link in our bio.

Is yellow the garden’s most misunderstood colour?

Long dismissed by many gardeners, yellow is quietly making a comeback. From this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show to some of Britain’s most celebrated gardens, designers are embracing its warmth, versatility and ability to bring planting schemes to life.

In our latest Substack we explore why it’s time to embrace the sunshine shade.

Read the full article via the link in our bio.