The midsummer magic captured in the July 2025 issue of The English Garden is a vivid celebration of gardens at their peak, awash with color, life, and thoughtful design. This issue invites readers into a world where nature’s vibrancy blends seamlessly with the art of gardening, showcasing spaces that not only bloom with beauty but also nurture wildlife and inspire gardeners of all levels. It is a treasure trove of ideas, stories, and expert guidance that captures the very essence of summer in the garden. 🌼🌿
One of the highlights in this issue is a masterclass in color by designer Nic Howard, whose expertise shines through as he guides readers on combining different flower shapes to create borders that are both visually dynamic and harmonious. His approach goes beyond mere aesthetics, teaching how to layer textures and forms to evoke mood and rhythm in the garden. The effect is a border that feels alive, inviting exploration and evoking emotions ranging from tranquility to exuberance. For many gardeners, Nic’s insights provide a fresh perspective that encourages creativity and confidence in planting design.
The issue also features a remarkable transformation in Berkshire, where designer Sue Townsend has breathed new life into an overgrown garden bed, turning it into a stunning Apothecary Garden. This project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful garden design, where neglected spaces become sanctuaries not only for people but also for wildlife. The owners and their family now enjoy a garden that nourishes the senses and the soul, while the local ecosystem thrives with pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects finding refuge among the carefully selected herbs and flowers. It’s a living example of how gardens can foster biodiversity while providing beauty and utility. 🌸🦋
For readers who understand that gardens are ever-evolving living works, the July issue offers inspiration for midsummer maintenance and planting strategies. The guidance on creating gorgeous borders emphasizes the importance of combining plants with varying flower shapes and bloom times, ensuring a continuous show of color and texture throughout the season. This approach is invaluable for gardeners looking to maintain interest and vitality in their outdoor spaces as summer unfolds.
Beyond the practical advice, the issue is rich with stories that resonate on a personal level. Readers encounter narratives of gardeners who found solace and joy in nurturing their plots during challenging times, or who rediscovered connections with nature through the simple act of planting. One contributor’s reflection on how a midsummer garden became a refuge during a period of stress highlights the therapeutic power of gardening, reinforcing that these spaces are more than just collections of plants—they are havens for emotional well-being.
The July issue also captures the sensory experience of midsummer gardens—the fragrance of blooming flowers, the hum of bees, the interplay of light and shadow under leafy canopies. It reminds readers that gardening is a multisensory art, where the visual delight is enhanced by sounds, scents, and textures that together create a holistic experience. For example, a gardener shared how planting a mix of scented herbs near a seating area transformed her garden into a place where she could relax and reflect, surrounded by calming aromas and the gentle buzz of pollinators.
Moreover, the issue’s celebration of the Apothecary Garden in Berkshire underscores a growing trend in gardening: the integration of plants with medicinal and culinary uses. Such gardens reconnect people with the historical and cultural significance of plants, offering both practical benefits and a deeper appreciation of the garden’s role in daily life. The story of this garden’s revival illustrates how spaces can be designed to nurture health, sustainability, and beauty all at once, making them truly multifunctional outdoor rooms.
Incorporating wildlife-friendly practices is another thread woven through the July issue. Readers learn how planting choices and garden management can support biodiversity, from encouraging pollinators to creating habitats for birds and insects. These lessons reflect a broader awareness among gardeners of their role in fostering ecological balance, especially important in a time when natural habitats face increasing pressures.
The English Garden’s July edition also offers insights into how garden design adapts to changing climate conditions. From selecting drought-tolerant species to implementing water-wise practices, the issue addresses the practical challenges many gardeners face while maintaining aesthetic standards. This balance of beauty and resilience is a core theme, guiding readers toward gardens that can thrive sustainably amid environmental uncertainties.
The issue’s blend of expert advice, inspiring transformations, and heartfelt stories creates a rich tapestry that speaks to the universal joys and challenges of gardening. Whether readers are seasoned horticulturists or new enthusiasts, they find in its pages a companion for their summer gardening journey—one that nurtures creativity, patience, and a deep connection to the natural world. 🌻🌿