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Garden Legends
Could garden-gnomes be returning this summer? Experts believe it is possible, as gardening trends continue to change. Once considered tacky, gnomes – much like Marmite – have always sparked strong opinions, either you love them or hate them.
In the 1960s gnomes were very popular. Although some consider them outdated, their roots are in European folklore dating back to works by Paracelsus, the Brothers Grimm, and other authors from the 16th century. Phillip Griebel in Germany created the first garden-gnome, which was originally intended to be a good luck charm.
Gnomes were popularized in England by Sir Charles Isham in the middle 1800s. During World War II, production was stopped due to concerns that they would be used to conceal secrets. The fun designs of gnomes appealed to many homeowners after the war.
Garden gnomes today are viewed as fun and nostalgic. The Royal Horticultural Society in 2006 banned brightly colored gnomes, but they are still a popular feature in many gardens.
Could 2025 mark the return of gnomes? Only time will reveal.
Sculpture Smarts
The right material is important for the appearance as well as longevity of garden statues. Concrete, stone, wood, metal, and resin are all popular materials. Concrete is the most durable and versatile option, as well as being eco-friendly.
Concrete statues have a high durability and can withstand weather extremes like rain, sunlight, and snow. They will not fade or degrade. Once sealed, they require very little maintenance. An occasional wash is all that’s needed to keep them looking good. Concrete can be formed into virtually any shape, which makes it an excellent choice for various themes. It is also recyclable and eco-friendly because it’s made with natural materials.
The weight of concrete statues makes them difficult to move. However, it also gives them stability and prevents them from falling over. Although they are heavier than materials such as resin, their durability makes them a better long-term investment.
Resin statues can be lightweight and inexpensive, but can fade or crack over time, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Stone statues can be beautiful and durable, but they are also more expensive and hard to move. Customisable wooden statues require more maintenance because of weather damage and pests.
