The Emerging Renaissance – Nature and Art
Europe erupted from a period of darkness into the Renaissance. Known for art, architecture, technology, and literature, the Renaissance brought about a wave of cultural development. When we think of the Renaissance, we think of notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, William Shakespeare, and Galileo Galilei. As the culture changed, so did the gardens of the world. Closed-off cloister gardens expanded outward and created a precedent for order, harmony, and aesthetics where art tamed nature. These became known as Renaissance Gardens.
Italy’s Growing Influences
Contrasting the cloister gardens and utilitarian gardens of the Middle Ages, Renaissance gardens were highly ornate and aimed at expanded outward, both physically and intellectually. Upper-class landowners, royalty, and religious figures owned majority, if not all, Renaissance gardens and they originated in the 15th century.
Florence and Rome were the epicenter of the new garden style and created the foundation of the Italian Renaissance gardens. Their expansive, geometric gardens typically built upon slopes took advantage of views outside the garden, which increased the perceived size of the space. Additionally, gardens were expansions of villas and incorporated frescos, sculptures, large water features, and outdoor rooms/spaces.
Unlike cloister gardens, Italian Renaissance gardens were for strolling, relaxation, entertaining, and retreat. The gardens included surprise and evoked exploration. As guests strolled gardens, they would discover hidden grottos, fountains, arbors, topiaries, glades, or unexpected views. Rightly so, some of my favorite and notable Italian Renaissance gardens include Villa Medici in Fiesole, Villa d’Este in Tivoli, Villa Madama, and Boboli Gardens.
Villa Medici in Fiesole
One of the most notable Italian Renaissance gardens includes Villa Medici in Fiesole. In fact, this villa is recognized by some as the first residence after the Medival period that wasn’t fortified and opened up to the surrounding landscape and rid itself of traditional Medival architecture and style.The villa sits atop a sloped landscape and overlooks the landscape below. Features of the garden include symmetry and strong geometric forms, which became rather iconic to many Renaissance gardens.
Villa d’Este in Tivoli
Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este of Ferrara’s primary residence, Villa d’Este became an iconic Italian Renaissance garden. The designer, Pirro Ligorio, created a plan that took advantage of the steep terrain, but introduced strong geometric forms, allays of trees, water features, and a sense of exploration and discovery. The interplay of water and fountains are an important characteristic of this garden, especially the famous water organ, which is an organ powered by water.
Boboli Gardens
Boboli Gardens is another Italian Renaissance garden the Medici family helped establish. Located behind Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy. Organized around a prominent central axis, the gardens house grottos, art, and sculptures. Therefore, as visitors explore the garden, they can disappear within wooded/wild areas and emerge near a large fountain with a statue of Neptune in its center.
French Renaissance Gardens
As the Italian gardens’ influence grew, similar gardens began popping-up around Europe, especially within France and England. French Renaissance gardens had many of the same design characteristics of Italy’s gardens, but had more control over nature and increased perspective and space. The garden of Domaine Royal de Chateau-Gaillard is viewed as the first French Renaissance garden, which was built after King Charles VIII returned from Italy. This opulent garden typology in size and grandeur culminated with King Louis the XIV’s Palace of Versailles. Other French gardens include Chateau Vaux le Vicomte and Chateau de Villandry.
Domaine Royal de Chateau-Gaillard
King Charles VIII loved Italian Renaissance gardens and architecture, so he brought 22 Italian artists back to Amboise, France, to design and plan Domaine Royal de Cahteau-Gaillard. The gardens of this chateau sit on 15 hectares and have seven paths of paradise, a large orangery with over 60 citrus varieties.
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles has the definition of a large garden. It. is. massive. Also known as Parc du Chateau de Versailles, this 800 hectare garden was designed by Andre Le Notre (A very important landscape designer during this period) for King Louis XIV. The gardens are organized by a cross-axis of water features that seemingly disappear into the horizon. If you visit the garden and need shade, don’t worry, there are over 200,000 trees and an additional 200,000 ornamental plants. Additionally, throughout the garden, you’ll find lawns, parterres, sculpture gardens, fountains, and a residence for Maria Antoinette.
English Renaissance Gardens
English Renaissance gardens were slightly different than Italian and French gardens. The strong, formal landscape typology present in Italian and French gardens existed and co-mingled with medieval gardens. Therefore, Tudor gardens during this period began emerging in the late 15th century. The English gardens connected homes to gardens but also included knot gardens, ornamental plants, and viewing mounts (man-made hills). Differing from other gardens was the use of deer parks. They provided recreation but also served as a symbol of wealth. Some examples include Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden and Hampton Court Palace.
Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
The Elizabethan Gardens and Kenilworth Castle are juxtaposed atop an old Medival garden, which is a notable characteristic of English Renaissance gardens. Although, current visitors to the gardens are viewing a 2008 restoration of the gardens, as determined by architectural evidence. Nonetheless, the Elizabethan garden has a strong geometric form defined by ornamental plants, which is a stark difference from the preceding gardens of the Medival Period.
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace is located in the London Borough of Richmond. Originally begun by Cardinal Wolsey, this residence became the primary residence of King Henry VIII and his six wives. Similarly, the palace’s open gardens are organized along a cross-axis and include arbors, mazes, and very ornate planting styles
Eastern Gardening Influences
At the conclusion of the Middle Ages, culture quickly changed with art, literature, and architecture. Within Renaissance-era gardens, art became a way to control and subdue nature. While gardens affiliated with the Renaissance controlled nature, Asian gardens were seeking influences from nature – which we’ll discover in the next article of the Gardens of the World series.
Gardens of the World Series, Additional Articles
Interested in more gardening-related blogs or following Alachua County’s MGVs on Social Media? Check out the additional links from Dr. Clem.
Alachua County Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program Page
UF/IFAS Alachua County Extension Master Gardeners, Facebook Page
UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County YouTube Page
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Comments:
January 24, 2022
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January 23, 2022
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October 18, 2021
Hi Lane, I attached some information via email. Thanks
October 17, 2021
I think I know the answer to this but can you confirm that growing crops in a hydroponic system can not be sold, even at a farmers market, unless that land is categorized as agricultural or if you fall into the "limited use" category, which I believe that requires atleast a single acre of land? If this is correct, do you know if there is any exemptions, as my property would not qualify for limited use, as it's only a half acre. I'm just trying to sell my produce at farms markets as a side business! Thanks for any advice, feedback you can give.
August 31, 2021
I found it really interesting to know that handwashing can help reduce the number of people spreading respiratory illnesses by up to 21%, that will be particularly helpful these days what with COVID still being present. I was thinking of suggesting my boss rent some portable toilets and handwashing stations while the pandemic roars on. That way customers won't be using the same bathrooms as my fellow employees and the chances of crew being infected will be lessened a bit.
August 24, 2021
Thank you very much. Glad you enjoyed it.
August 24, 2021
Great recipe! We call this a Frittata. I like the order of adding the ingredients and the technique. Also the tip about Sulphur.
April 21, 2021
Hi Deborah, Awesome. I love cinnamon basil. If you will email me mmaddox@ufl.edu or call I will give you suggestions for uses and places to purchase. I love it with fruits and teas. It is great to rub on peaches and then grill and with baked apples. I look forward to talking to you.
April 21, 2021
thanks for the info. Basil is one of my favoriye summer spices. i have never seen nor heard of cinnamon basil . Ill be on the look out for ot now. I like Tulsi basil for tea which catagory does that one fall in? is that perhaps same as cinnamon basil?
April 12, 2021
As we try to increase biodiversity in our environment, why is it necessary to destroy these larvae and moths? It seems like, in balance, they would not cause serious harm and, as moth-pollinators, they contribute to our plants.
March 30, 2021
You certainly can try to sprout them. You will have a far far greater germination rate if you cold stratify the seed first. Its a very simple process that just requires a wee bit of patience.
March 29, 2021
I’m curious about the cold germination. I’m in zone 10 and the pods are opening. Do I need to do this cold germination process or can I just try to sprout them? Thank you.
March 24, 2021
You are right, good catch! Many of the gardens during the Renaissance Period had varying underlying principles/theories. Le Notre definitely created the synthesized definition of French Classical Gardens, starting with Vaux-le-Vicomte, which definitely had Renaissance/Baroque garden influences. One major difference I've always liked was the use of theatrical perspectives within gardens (focal points, unification around one plane/frame, and use of planes to influence depth) and Mollet's influence on parterres. Of course, the French-style gardens were substantially more grandiose than the Italian Renaissance for purposes of pleasure, entertainment, conducting court, etc, but focused much on absolutism. I'd love for you to send me some additional resources because it is hard to find them. You can send me a direct email to taylorclem87@ufl.edu Thank you.
March 23, 2021
The Gardens of the Palace of Versailles is not a Renaissance Garden. It is instead a French Classical Garden, which held quite strongly opposing values of the renaissance ideals. It was not even in close proximity with the Renaissance period.
March 18, 2021
Are there any classes or events coming up? Alachua or Levy County is the closest to me. I want to learn how to grow a vegetable garden and Florida natural flowers. Thank you
January 24, 2021
Click on what shovel, where can I get ph test kit?
January 12, 2021
Thank you for your great question. We have lots of materials and resources available online for homeowners. The Gardening Solutions webpage is a great webpage for all homeowners (www.gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu). We also have a county webpage dedicated to the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program that includes additional resources (https://sites.google.com/ufl.edu/alachuaffl/home). Regarding services, we offer programs throughout the year relating to landscaping best management decisions and vegetable gardening. I recommend checking out our county’s programs/events page for all our upcoming programs (https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/events/?location=alachua). Other services we provide include our Master Gardener Volunteer Help Desk. You can reach out to our Master Gardeners Volunteers via email (mag@alachuacounty.us)or phone (352)955-2402 to help troubleshoot any issues within your landscape or garden. Also, the Master Gardeners perform Florida-Friendly Landscape Recognitions. Volunteers visit a homeowner’s property and do a landscape evaluation. This free evaluation allows homeowners to learn ways to improve their landscapes and potentially earn a Gold or Silver landscape recognition. Taylor Clem, PhD Environmental Horticulture Extension Agent UF/IFAS Alachua County Extension 106 SW 140th Terr. Suite 3 • Newberry • FL • 32669 955-2402 (office)
January 8, 2021
Is there any documentation, preferably online, that defines and lists the availability of services for homeowners and those planning on planting beneficial plants on their property?
October 12, 2020
I'm not sure about mobile friendly but will research to see if I can find you an answer.
October 12, 2020
Hey! Quick question that's entirely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My blog looks weird when browsing from my iphone4. I'm trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct this problem. If you have any suggestions, please share. With thanks!
October 6, 2020
I recommend reaching out to our office. Dr. Cindy Sanders is our county's livestock agent and she will be able to answer your question and give recommendations. Feel free to call us from (352)955-2402
August 23, 2020
I would like to know if horses can Eat sunshine mimosa
August 3, 2020
Great Blog! Looking forward to more!
July 9, 2020
Genevieve, Thank you for reaching out. We have quite a few publications that can help you out! Here are a couple articles from UF/IFAS Extension relating to butterfly gardening and attracting wildlife to your landscape. If you'd like further information, feel free to reach out to our office at (352)955-2402 or email our Master Gardener Volunteer help desk at mag@alachuacounty.us. Butterfly Gardening in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/UW/UW05700.pdf Landscape Backyards for Wildlife: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/UW/UW17500.pdf
June 19, 2020
Interested in plants that are easy, come up each year. attract butterflies and humming birds
May 27, 2020
Good morning, Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County. I'll forward your question to our Livestock Agent, Dr. Cindy Sanders. She'll be able to give you the best recommendations regarding your pasture. Thank you, Taylor Clem
May 26, 2020
I'm in Alachua county and over the years Sunshine Mimosa has spread across quite a bit of my bahia grass horse pasture. It's intermixed with the grass. I'm not finding anything that says it's toxic to horses but I don't think my horses eat it. I think I could control it with herbicide but am hesitant because it is always covered with honey bees and native bees. Is this something I should try to control? Is there a danger that it will choke out my pasture?
April 28, 2020
Hi Carol, I understand this may be a practice you use however our recommendations are based on guidance from the USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation. We must follow their guidelines and protocol for proper food safety. Please see the statement below from the National Center for Home Food Preservation and their link as reference in my article on washing blueberries before freezing. Freezing Blueberries or Huckleberries Preparation – Select full-flavored, ripe berries. Remove leaves, stems and immature or defective berries. Dry Pack – Do not wash blueberries. Washing results in a tougher skinned product. Pack berries into containers, leaving headspace. Berries can also be frozen first on a tray and then packed into containers as soon as they are frozen. Seal and freeze. Wash before using. https://nchfp.uga.edu/how/freeze/blueberry.html
April 28, 2020
I have always heard don't wash your blue berries..I do and have no problem. I love bb fresh..not a problem to grab a handful and give them a wash..frozen? that’s a problem! When I had my bushes I’d pick every few days put them in the sink (bowl, pot whatever) give them a swim..that’s when you see how dirty they can be..then put them on a terry tea towel, gently spreading them into one layer. They would stay on the counter until they were dry. Occasionally I’d lift the towel to roll them about to hasten the drying. If the towel is really wet change it out. When they are dry put them in an appropriate container with a folded paper towel on the bottom, another mid way and one on the top. There ready to eat and easy to see if one may be going bad.
April 27, 2020
Monarchs caterpillars only eat milkweed, and the butterflies only lay eggs on milkweed.
April 23, 2020
I have counted as many as 30 monarch (and queen) caterpillars munching happily on my Giant Milkweed. Later I discovered more than 15 spent chrysalis in the cat palm growing beside it.
April 20, 2020
Hi Carlos, I recommend always to follow science-based information, shadow a beekeeper and have the opportunity to learn some about the biology and principles of honeybees before any major investment. Keep in mind that keeping bees in Florida is different from keeping bees in other areas so try to learn from resources that are focused at least to the South East. The beekeeping series offered in Alachua County is a good place to start, the next series cycle starts in November. I also recommend Bee College and the Master Beekeeping program at UF. You can do it online or face-to-face (annual event). You can check it out at http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/extension/master-beekeeper-program/. If you have specific questions on these programs you may contact Amy Vu at amy.vu@ufl.edu. Lastly, you can contact the Gainesville Area Bee Club and join them to meet other beekeepers and learn about others' experiences (https://www.gainesvilleareabeeclub.com/). Here are some recommended sources for you to start exploring beekeeping: - http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/ - https://impact.extension.org/?s=beekeeping - https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/
April 18, 2020
Hello I would like to start with bee keeping!! Any advise ?
April 16, 2020
Hello do Monarch caterpillars eat only milkweeds leave or will they ravage my entire garden?
April 14, 2020
James, There are different types of turfgrass species, but finding a specific species that are good for sun and shade is difficult. Seville St Augustine and Empire Zoysiagrass are the most shade-tolerant turfgrasses, but they still need a good amount of sun. Areas directly under trees won't typically develop a good turf stand. The best strategy for managing turfgrass is following IFAS recommendations for growing turf in shadier conditions. If you would like to get more information, email me at taylorclem87@ufl.edu. Also, we have an upcoming webinar on turfgrass management on April 23 from 4 - 5:30pm. You can register and see more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turfgrass-in-alachua-county-tickets-102293845646 Thank you very much, Taylor Clem Environmental & Community Horticulture Agent UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County.
April 6, 2020
I am looking for a grass to replace my St. Augustine which has been eaten by chinch bugs. I have both full sun and full shade areas. My yard is now almost completely covered by sand burs. Is there one grass for both shade and sun? I am a disabled vet and mowing the grass is about the limit of the yard work I can do.
March 17, 2020
I'm guessing the March 19 event is cancelled. However, if you had handouts about planting edible plants, would you either post them or email them to me? Thanks!
February 4, 2020
Thank you so much for your article. I am a firm believer in Companion planting.
June 5, 2019
I recently purchased a giant milkweed plant. I had never heard of it before. Do monarch caterpillars like it as much as regular milkweed? Thanks!
July 11, 2018
Dam awesome Kevin. I'm proud of you!
June 12, 2018
Hi Dave - I would, as carefully as possible, transplant. Ideally you would want to wait until your plants are roughly 3 inches tall. You may still want to wait with 1/2 of your plants. I just don't know if your plants will make that size given you germinated in egg cartons. You could also cut the egg cartons apart & just transplant the whole thing. The egg cartons should decompose. Good Luck.
June 12, 2018
I have planted 6 varieties of .milkweed from seeds in paper egg cartons after 30 days in the fridge. Germination went well. I have about 20 young seedlings about 3/4 to an inch high. Should I get them out of the cartons and into pots now or wait til they're bigger? Thanks
June 1, 2018
Santa Rosa Gardens, a mail-order company in Pensacola, Florida has incarnata and tuberosa. The website is santarosagardens.com. Tell them Louise from the Panhandle Butterfly House sent you. They are a great company.