Connecting with the Past: 7 Decades, 7 Gardens
Ever find yourself daydreaming about bygone eras, captivated by the fashion, music, and overall vibe of a particular decade? The beauty of gardens lies in their ability to reflect the times, and creating landscapes inspired by different decades offers a truly unique way to connect with the past – and add a layer of intriguing character to your outdoor space. It’s more than just planting flowers; it’s about evoking a feeling, a memory, or a historical moment. At Monrovia, a leading grower of premium plants, has beautifully illustrated this concept with their “Shades of Beautiful” collection, showcasing 10 planting palettes inspired by decades past. This article explores seven decades of garden design, offering specific plant suggestions and insights to help you cultivate your own dream garden, echoing the style and spirit of each era.
The 1920s Garden: The Gilded Age
The 1920s, often dubbed the “Années Folles” (Crazy Years) in France and the “Roaring Twenties” in the United States, represented a period of unprecedented social and cultural change. Following the devastation of World War I, there was a surge in optimism, a desire for luxury, and a celebration of newfound freedoms. This exuberance found its way into garden design, resulting in a style often referred to as the “Gilded Garden.” It was a time of opulent displays, dramatic flourishes, and a fascination with exotic plants. Think lavish rose gardens, shimmering silver foliage, and bold, saturated colors. Monrovia’s ‘Eau de Parfum Bubbly’ rose perfectly embodies this aesthetic – a champagne-colored beauty that adds a touch of extravagance. To truly capture the spirit of the era, consider incorporating silver-leafed plants like Senecio (stonecrop) for a reflective surface, deep purple ninebark shrubs for dramatic texture, and delicate pink hydrangeas for a touch of romanticism. The use of geometric patterns and hardscaping, such as clipped hedges and stone pathways, further enhanced the sense of grandeur. Interestingly, the rise of Art Deco architecture heavily influenced garden design during this period, with repeating patterns and stylized forms becoming increasingly popular. The 1920s garden wasn’t just about beauty; it was about making a statement – a bold declaration of prosperity and joie de vivre. The average cost of a well-designed garden of this scale at the time was around $5,000 – a significant investment reflecting the era’s economic boom.
The 1930s Garden: Off to See the Wizard
The 1930s were a profoundly challenging decade, dominated by the Great Depression. Yet, even amidst economic hardship, there was a yearning for escapism and a desire to find beauty in the everyday. This period was powerfully shaped by the release of The Wizard of Oz in 1939, a film that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and offered a magical escape from the realities of the Depression. The film’s vibrant colors and fantastical landscape inspired a garden style characterized by lush foliage, a sense of adventure, and a touch of whimsy. Monrovia’s ‘Sombrero Salsa Red’ coneflower is a perfect embodiment of this aesthetic – a bold, cheerful bloom reminiscent of Dorothy’s ruby slippers. To recreate this garden, focus on plants that evoke the feeling of a journey – golden feather reed grass to represent the Kansas prairie, sweet bay and dwarf olives with emerald green foliage for the emerald city, and a variety of colorful perennials and annuals to mimic the vibrant landscapes of Oz. Consider incorporating winding pathways and whimsical sculptures to further enhance the sense of adventure. The film’s success also led to a surge in interest in gardening as a means of providing fresh produce, mirroring Dorothy’s journey from a struggling farm girl to a resourceful adventurer. A truly authentic 1930s garden would likely incorporate elements of practicality alongside beauty, reflecting the resourcefulness of the era.
The 1940s Garden: Victory Garden
World War II fundamentally reshaped the world, and its impact was profoundly felt in gardens across the United States and beyond. The decade was marked by rationing, shortages, and a collective effort to support the war effort. “Victory Gardens” became incredibly popular, encouraging citizens to grow their own food to supplement national supplies. Initially termed “Liberty Gardens,” the name was changed to “Victory Gardens” as the Allied forces pressed forward in the war. These gardens were not about lavish displays; they were about practicality, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose. Monrovia’s ‘Knock Out’ red rose bush exemplifies the patriotic spirit of this era – a vibrant symbol of American strength and determination. A 1940s-inspired garden would feature hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs, and flowering shrubs that provided both food and beauty. Blueberry shrubs, fig trees, and evergreen herbs like rosemary were all staples of Victory Gardens, offering sustenance and ornamental value. Incorporating elements of wartime symbolism, such as the Stars and Stripes, can further enhance the historical connection. The impact of Victory Gardens extended far beyond the immediate war years, fostering a greater appreciation for homegrown food and sustainable gardening practices. During the war, approximately 40% of the nation’s fresh fruits and vegetables came from home gardens – a testament to the vital role that gardening played in supporting the war effort.
The 1950s Garden: Poodle Skirts & Palm Trees
The 1950s, often associated with poodle skirts, sock hops, and the rise of suburban America, presented a distinctly different aesthetic than the preceding decades. Following the austerity of World War II, there was a widespread desire for comfort, leisure, and a touch of glamour. California cool became a defining trend, with palm trees, pastel colors, and a relaxed, informal style dominating the landscape. Monrovia’s ‘Peace’ rose, a classic hybrid tea rose, perfectly captures the elegance and optimism of the era. To create a 1950s garden, incorporate pastel-colored flowers, such as pink petunias, lavender hydrangeas, and yellow marigolds. Palm trees, ferns, and other tropical plants would add a touch of California sunshine. A simple, well-maintained lawn, often adorned with decorative furniture and outdoor lighting, was also a key element of the 1950s garden. The rise of television and mass media further influenced garden design, with homeowners striving to create visually appealing landscapes that would be admired by their neighbors. The average home in the 1950s had a significantly larger yard than in previous decades, reflecting the emphasis on outdoor living and family recreation. Around 70% of American homes now had lawns, largely due to the advances in lawn care technology of the time.
You may also enjoy reading: 7 Ways to Grow Brandywine Tomatoes This April.
The 1960s Garden: Peace, Love, and Pollinators
The 1960s were a decade of profound social and political upheaval, marked by the rise of the counterculture movement, the anti-war protests, and a growing awareness of environmental issues. This era saw a shift away from the formal, manicured gardens of the previous decades, embracing a more natural, organic approach. There was a renewed interest in native plants, wildflowers, and creating habitats for pollinators – bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Monrovia’s ‘Radiant Red’ zinnias exemplify the vibrant colors and natural beauty of the 1960s garden. To capture the spirit of the era, incorporate a diverse range of native wildflowers, such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and milkweed. A wildflower meadow, a butterfly garden, or a rock garden would all be fitting additions to a 1960s-inspired landscape. The rise of organic gardening practices and a growing concern for environmental sustainability further shaped garden design during this period. The 1960s also witnessed a significant increase in the popularity of xeriscaping – landscaping that requires minimal irrigation – reflecting a growing awareness of water conservation. Approximately 30% of the U.S. population lived in urban areas during the 1960s, leading to a burgeoning interest in creating green spaces within cities.
The 1970s Garden: Earthy Tones and Natural Forms
The 1970s marked a reaction against the synthetic materials and bold colors of the 1960s, embracing a more earthy, natural aesthetic. Inspired by the rise of environmentalism and a renewed interest in ancient civilizations, the decade favored muted tones, organic forms, and a connection to the earth. Think terracotta pots, gravel pathways, and plants with textural foliage. Monrovia’s ‘Red Glitter’ rose, with its velvety petals and rich color, captures the understated elegance of this era. To create a 1970s garden, incorporate plants with interesting textures, such as ornamental grasses, ferns, and succulents. Terracotta pots, stone pathways, and gravel mulch would add to the rustic charm. A focus on creating a sense of tranquility and connection to nature was paramount. The influence of the hippie movement and the counterculture contributed to a rejection of traditional garden styles and a desire to create spaces that were both beautiful and sustainable. The decade also saw a resurgence of interest in Mediterranean-inspired gardens, with drought-tolerant plants and informal layouts. Around 60% of American homes had a garden during the 1970s, reflecting a growing trend towards outdoor living and a desire to connect with nature.
By incorporating these elements, you can create a garden that truly reflects the spirit of each decade, adding a touch of nostalgia and a unique personal touch to your outdoor space. Monrovia’s “Shades of Beautiful” collection provides a wonderful starting point for your own decade-inspired garden adventure.
