Gertrude Jekyll (November 29, 1843 – December 8, 1932) was a trailblazing figure in the world of horticulture and garden design, renowned for her influential work during the Arts and Crafts Movement in Britain. Her innovative approach to landscape architecture, coupled with her prolific writing, left an enduring mark on the art of gardening.
Early Life & Career
Gertrude Jekyll was born on November 29, 1843, in London, the daughter of Edward Joseph Hill Jekyll, a retired military officer. Growing up with a cultivated sensibility, she developed a profound love for nature and its aesthetics. This early passion laid the groundwork for her future contributions to the world of horticulture. Gertrude embarked on her formal education at the Kensington School of Art, where she honed her artistic skills. Her interest in botany and gardening blossomed during this period, setting her on a unique path that would merge artistry with the natural world.
Gertrude Jekyll’s career as a garden designer began in the late 19th century. She collaborated with the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens on numerous projects, forming a partnership that would redefine garden design. Jekyll’s gardens were characterized by vibrant color schemes, carefully planned borders, and a seamless integration of architecture with the natural surroundings. Jekyll’s influence on garden design extended beyond the United Kingdom. Her designs reached across the Atlantic, inspiring landscapes in the United States. Her belief in the importance of unity between the house and its surroundings revolutionized the field, earning her a place among the most influential designers of her time.
Gertrude Jekyll’s impact on gardening was not limited to her designs. She was an avid writer, contributing numerous articles and books on horticulture and garden design. Her works, such as “Wood and Garden” and “Home and Garden: Notes and Thoughts, Practical and Critical, of a Worker in Both,” became essential reading for aspiring gardeners and enthusiasts.
Gertrude Jekyll continued her work well into her later years, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape architecture of the early 20th century. She passed away on December 8, 1932, at her home in Munstead Wood, Surrey, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the way we perceive and design gardens today
Awards and Legacy
Although formal awards were limited during her time, Gertrude Jekyll’s contributions were widely recognized. Her impact on horticulture was acknowledged by her inclusion in the newly established Victoria Medal of Honour, awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society in 1897. Gertrude Jekyll’s legacy endures not only in the physical spaces she designed but also in the principles she advocated. Her emphasis on the harmony between nature and design, as well as her prolific writings, ensures that her influence continues to bloom in gardens worldwide.
On 29 November 2017, a Google Doodle was created to celebrate Gertrude Jekyll’s 174th Birthday.