Plant and Garden Reference Information

Brief history of gardening

Gardening dates back as far as civilization itself. The original farming techniques were developed for subsistence farming in small communes. Individuals and communities contributed to the food resources of their population. The first decorative gardening was not recorded until Ancient Egypt around 1500BC. From there gardening spread to Greece and Rome, the Middle East, the Far East, Europe, and then to modern day America.

By the time that gardening had reached the Far East the concept of small landscapes and pond gardening had evolved. This arose around the 4th century AD. This method of gardening had evolved over the years and was expanded upon in Europe in the 13th to 16th centuries. By the 18th century landscape gardening had flourished across Europe and saw major advances and contributions to grand efforts.

The concept of small decorative gardens took hold around the 19th century. From this point forward home gardening became fashionable for individuals. Additionally, around the 20th century gardening became included in the strategic planning of towns and cities.