Modern heroes of horticulture - Advolly Richmond

Advolly Richmond is a familiar face to viewers of Gardeners World.  A garden historian, her slots on the popular BBC show cover subjects ranging from lawns, to Japanese gardens, famous plant hunters, and influential gardeners such as 19th century Irishman William Robinson who famously championed cottage and wild gardens.

Born in Zimbabwe in the 60’s, Advolly grew up in a household of keen gardeners with a grandfather and father passionate about growing lilies.  It wasn’t until her 30’s after a career in air travel that the desire to garden turned into a reality and Advolly studied for an RHS level 2 qualification.  Her fascination with plants and gardening led her into studying Garden History full time at Reeseheath College in Cheshire where she gained an MA in the subject.

Her knowledge is such that she now visits the University of Oxford and lectures on the social and cultural history of Italian renaissance gardens and the social and cultural history of 18th century gardens.  She also gives regular talks to garden clubs and societies.  Her podcast ‘The Garden History Podcast’ is an A to Z of places, plants, people, and features that make up the history of our outdoor spaces. 

In March of this year Advolly released her first book, A Short History of Flowers: the stories that make our gardens.  Published through Frances Lincoln the description reads ‘Have you ever wondered where your favourite garden flowers came from?  Where their names derived?  Or why some cultivars go in and out of favour?  Every flower in your herbaceous border has a story, and in this book Advolly Richmond takes you on a tour of the most intriguing, surprising and enriching ones.’ 

Following publication Advolly embarked on a tour to Atlanta, where she presented a lecture to the Atlanta History Center, The Garden Conservancy, Historic Oakland Foundation, and the Cherokee Garden Library.  Whilst visiting she had the opportunity to visit many great gardens of the area.  She is continuing her tour next year with a visit to Virginia.