gardens

Gardens are cultivated spaces for growing plants and for human enjoyment, relaxation, and study. They can serve as sources of food, habitat for wildlife, or centers for learning and conservation, and they range from small residential plots to public parks and large estate grounds.

Common forms include private residential gardens, public gardens, botanical gardens, kitchen or allotment gardens, ornamental and rock gardens, and therapeutic or sensory gardens. Urban gardens, rooftop gardens, and community gardens have grown in importance as city populations rise and land becomes scarce.

Design and management involve plant selection suited to climate, soil, and light; soil preparation and fertility; irrigation and drainage; and built features such as paths, fences, water features, and greenhouses. A well-designed garden integrates hardscape and softscape and considers maintenance requirements and accessibility.

Gardens have a long history across civilizations. Early gardens appeared in Mesopotamia and Egypt and evolved into Persian paradise gardens with axial layouts and enclosed walls. In Europe, medieval monasteries and manor houses shaped formal and utilitarian gardens; the Renaissance and Baroque periods emphasized symmetry, while the 18th and 19th centuries popularized landscape and picturesque styles. In the modern era, sustainability, biodiversity, and edible landscaping have broadened garden practices.

Ongoing care includes pruning, weeding, mulching, fertilization, pest management, and seasonal planting. Gardens provide food and medicine, support pollinators, improve urban microclimates, offer recreational and educational opportunities, and contribute to mental and physical well-being.