Charming Emmett's Garden is an Edwardian estate owned by Frederic Lubbock, becoming both a plantsman's passion and a much-loved family home. The garden was laid out in the late 19th century and was influenced by William Robinson. Robinson was a well-respected horticulturist and garden designer, and between them, they created this magnificent garden filled with rare and unusual trees, shrubs, and plants from across the world. Frederic Lubbock died in 1927, and Emmetts Garden was acquired by American geologist Charles Boise. Charles wanted the garden to continue flourishing and ensure continuity, so he continued to employ Frederic’s head gardener, George Taylor, for another 34 years. Charles generously left the estate to the National Trust when he died in 1964.
The Rock Garden:
One of the first major areas of the garden is the Rock Garden. This garden is home to a wonderful variety of alpines and English hardy species, alongside a lily pond. Winding paths allow you to explore this unique part of the garden.
History of the North Garden:
An integral part of Lubbock’s plans for the North Garden, or Shrub Garden as it was then known, were the views from a northern plateau that overlooked a section of the garden and pond. This view then goes beyond to the South Garden and Wealden Ridge. Similar views were designed from the very bottom of the North Garden, stretching up above its rocky slope and rising above the planting towards the original Acer specimen at the top of the garden.
History of the South Garden:
The South Garden was originally laid out by Lubbock to display some of his most extraordinary species. He bought rare plants from around the world, many had been collected in China on plant huntsman expeditions. Many trees and shrubs Lubbock bought for the South Garden originated from China, including the beautiful dove, or handkerchief, tree. These specimens were introduced in Europe in the 19th century and became wildly popular. For many years China had restricted access to European trade but was forced to make concessions after the First Opium War. Plantsmen were among the first merchants and adventurers to seek out the country’s riches.
The Great Storm of 1987:
The great storm of 1987 proved devastating to Emmetts Garden with 95 per cent of surrounding woodland lost, taking years to recover. Nearby Toys Hill, which is the highest point in Kent, lost 98 per cent of its trees. A 20-hectare ‘exclusion zone’ was set up at Toys Hill and the surrounding countryside, and the area was left alone to regenerate completely naturally.
