Cottage gardens have long been celebrated for their picturesque charm, but my true understanding of what it means to be a “cottage gardener” didn’t come until I read a phrase that resonated deeply with me: “Cottage gardeners spend little, propagate lots, and share compulsively.” This simple idea helped me see that I, too, was a cottage gardener, despite my initial reservations. I had always imagined the English cottage garden as a perfect, carefully planned spectacle of lush blooms and pastel colors—a labor-intensive paradise that I simply wasn’t prepared for. But, in reality, cottage gardening is far more flexible and down-to-earth than I’d ever thought.
The Origins of Cottage Gardening
Cottage gardens weren’t always about flowers. In fact, the first cottage gardeners, during the Middle Ages, were primarily concerned with growing food. Poor English laborers used their small plots to cultivate vegetables like kale, cabbage, onions, turnips, peas, and beans—many of which were dried to make pottage, a thick, hearty stew that sustained families through harsh times. Fruits such as apples, pears, and cherries, along with wild strawberries, were grown alongside medicinal herbs, which were highly valued for their healing properties.
Chickens and pigs were also part of this garden ecosystem, providing eggs, meat, and even fertilizer. Although these gardens were born out of necessity, it’s likely that, even in such challenging times, some gardeners found comfort in small touches of beauty—perhaps a self-seeded violet or a wildflower like honeysuckle or dog rose. Over time, these humble additions would have gradually turned cottage gardens into a more eclectic mix of edible plants and beauty.
Repurposing and Resourcefulness
Resourcefulness was key. Materials for garden structures—such as bean poles, chicken hurdles, and even fences—were often sourced from nearby woodlands or repurposed household items. The idea of purchasing anything specifically for the garden was practically unheard of. Instead, the garden grew from what was available, reflecting a deep sense of practicality and ingenuity.
A Blooming Transformation
As time passed, and England prospered, cottage gardens evolved. With more time and disposable income, the garden gradually became a space not just for food but for flowers as well. Wealthier gardeners began incorporating plants from continental gardens—delphiniums, roses, peonies, and hollyhocks—into their landscapes. The boundaries between food production and decorative gardening blurred, and flowers became a status symbol, a way to demonstrate that one had the luxury to grow plants for their beauty, not just for sustenance.
The Spirit of Cottage Gardening Today
Today’s cottage gardens often reflect a mix of these historical roots. While the modern interpretation of the style—greatly influenced by Gertrude Jekyll’s designs—may lean toward an idyllic rural aesthetic, the true spirit of cottage gardening lies in practicality, creativity, and individuality. Cottage gardens are not designed but rather evolve over time to reflect the gardener’s personality. One gardener might favor vibrant sunflowers and vegetables like beans and cabbages, while another may prefer the elegance of lavender and hollyhocks lining a garden path. The only real rule is that the garden should be something you enjoy and find useful.
Practical Tips for the Modern Cottage Gardener
One of the benefits of a cottage garden is that dense planting naturally suppresses weeds, though occasional intervention is needed. Whether you’re cutting back overgrown plants or transplanting self-seeded annuals, the key is maintaining a balance between growth and control.
While modern cottage gardens are often used for ornamental purposes, they still offer substantial ecological value. Flowering plants provide crucial habitats for pollinators, insects, and birds, supporting local ecosystems. Whether you focus on blooms, food, or both, you can still embody the spirit of the original cottage gardener—someone who thrives on resourcefulness, creativity, and a love for nature.
So, if you find yourself growing plants with passion and sharing your bounty with others, regardless of your budget, you are most definitely a cottage gardener at heart.