The Best Gardening Magazine In the World

  "It sounds odd, but I don't think we are perceived as a garden. We are more about history, atmosphere, ambience, even life and death." This quote from Peter Stafford, in the December issue of Gardens Illustrated is about the Lost Gardens of Heligan, which he manages.

The quote is illustrative of what is so special, and these days unique, about Gardens Illustrated. It's long been the most beautiful gardening magazine in the world, and I love it for its always artful photography. I most appreciate that it hasn't become as formulaic and how-to as most other gardening mags have in these difficult publishing times.

The profile of Peter Stafford captures both the fascination of the Lost Gardens, and Stafford's unique management style that preserves the garden's ancient rhododendrons during their decline, "leaving them to die gracefully." Every issue contains such a profile (I've been lucky enough to write a couple of them over the years), as well as explorations of gardens around the world, and plant profiles by leading experts.

It's not that the editors ignore the practicalities of gardening. The December issue offers a master's class on tree planting and advice on winter gardening, from which grasses to choose (Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah') to the perfect paving (sandstone). Rarely is a plant mentioned without a photo given, and design stories are filled with photos large enough so you can actually see the various elements the author is describing.

This magazine is pure pleasure, with an international perspective that brings the larger garden world to life.

 

Comments

[Lynn Coulter]

that looks like a lovely magazine. i've been sorry to see so many gardening magazines disappear over the years.

[Chris]

Oh nooo, you're enabling one of my addictions...Gardening Magazines (I can't resist them...even bad ones!) This one looks divine!! :)

[Hometipster.com]

Personally I like a good magazine that provides really nice photograph - I guess it's true that a picture says far more than words.

Many magazines now are struggling due to the printing costs. It simply more cost-effective to publish online and you don't have the restrictions in page sizes to worry about.

[dave]

Thanks for the information on this great gardening magazine. I Will be checking it out and maybe adding this to may collection of monthly subscriptions

[Lauren Hall-Behrens]

Gardens Illustrated is the most wonderful experience!

[Elizabeth]

Great Magazine! there is an app called Zino. You can buy a single copy or a year on your iPad! You can take all your magazines with you and never feel guilty for tossing them out or having them clutter your home

[Jodi]

This is a great article, and a great topic to explore. Thanks for sharing.

[valentines day flowers]

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I thank you for taking your time and sharing your thoughts and ideas to a lot of readers out there