History of New American Garden

History of New American Garden . . .
The American Garden has changed over the years. In colonial times, formal gardens showed the influence of Europeans settling the new land. Ornamentals, medicinals, culinary herbs, and food plants were grown in gardens laid out in strict rows. Perhaps this design was an attempt to make order out of the untamed plant materials found in the countryside.
Modern European designers incorporated hardy plants into their designs. Karl Foerster presented an array of grasses that energized gardens with movement and sound. English plantsmen championed perennials.
In the 1970s, Wolfgang Oehme and James van Sweden incorporate many native plants to define their bold, strong design style. Their creativity is reflected in gardens across North America. This style has aptly been named The New American Garden.
In describing the garden style, van Sweden commented, "Its point of reference is the American meadow–a place of freedom and ease where wildlife, plant life, and human life coexist in harmony."
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