Agnes Block: Dutch Art Collector, Horticulturist, and Botanical Patron

Agnes Block thumbnail image

First Pineapple in Europe Today is the anniversary of the death of the inspiring female Dutch collector, paper artist, illustrator, and horticulturist, Agnes Block. A Dutch Mennonite, Agnes first married a silk merchant named Hans de Wollf. His income made it possible for Agnes to pursue her many passions. The Dutch poet Joost van den…

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John Evelyn: English Gardener, Writer, and Early Environmentalist

John Evelyn thumbnail image

The Detailed Diary of John Evelyn Today is the birthday of the English Gardner and writer John Evelyn who was born on this day in 1620.  Evelyn kept a detailed diary for 66 years, and he had an excellent understanding of trees. In 1664, Evelyn wrote a treaty called A Discourse of Forest Trees. It was…

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From Churchyard to Garden Museum: John Tradescant’s Lasting Legacy

John Tradescant the Elder portrait attributed to Cornelis de Neve

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: April 17, 1638 On this day, dear readers, we mark a somber yet significant moment in horticultural history. For it was on this date, that the mortal remains of John Tradescant the elder were laid to rest in the hallowed ground of St Mary…

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