A History of Gardening in England by Alicia Amherst is a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of English gardening from Roman times through the 19th century. Published in 1895 after four years of meticulous research, Amherst’s work is both scholarly and accessible, offering readers a detailed account of how gardening practices and aesthetics have transformed over the centuries. The book is notable for its inclusion of early gardening literature, such as the fifteenth-century treatise “The Feate of Gardening,” and for its extensive annotated bibliography of printed works on gardening since 1516. ​

Amherst begins by examining monastic gardening, highlighting how medieval monasteries cultivated gardens for both sustenance and medicinal purposes. She then traces the development of gardening through the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, noting the increasing complexity and ornamentation of gardens during this period. The Renaissance brought about a renewed interest in classical ideals, which influenced the design and function of gardens in the Tudor and Elizabethan eras. Amherst discusses how gardens became symbols of status and refinement, with intricate layouts and a focus on aesthetic appeal.​

The book delves into the significant changes that occurred in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly the rise of landscape gardening. Amherst explores how figures like William Kent and Capability Brown revolutionized garden design by creating naturalistic landscapes that emphasized harmony with the surrounding environment. This shift marked a departure from the formal, geometric gardens of earlier periods. In the 19th century, gardening became more accessible to the middle class, leading to the proliferation of public parks and private gardens. Amherst also addresses the impact of industrialization and urbanization on gardening practices, as well as the emergence of horticultural societies and publications that disseminated gardening knowledge to a broader audience.​

Throughout the book, Amherst emphasizes the social and cultural significance of gardening in England. She highlights how gardens have served as spaces for leisure, artistic expression, and social interaction, reflecting broader societal values and trends. Her work not only documents the historical progression of gardening techniques and styles but also provides insight into the evolving relationship between people and their natural surroundings. By combining historical analysis with practical information, A History of Gardening in England remains a valuable resource for both scholars and gardening enthusiasts interested in the rich heritage of English horticulture.