A new, motivated generation of garden makers are just as, if not more, concerned with ecology as aesthetics. This might require that we accept a wider definition of “garden”, and a broader sense of what beauty can be, but the reward for embracing a different ethos is a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with the little world outside your back door. These gardens are a good news story to give us hope, as well as dynamic works of art and activism, science and sustenance. They offer a glimpse of what’s possible, a brighter future, and a gentle plea for nature.

The Garden Conservancy presents a webinar on October 21 from 2 – 3 with Stephanie Mahon. $5 for Garden Conservancy members, $15 for nonmembers. Note: You will receive the webinar link directly from Zoom. A recording of this webinar will be sent to all registrants a few days after the event. We encourage you to register, even if you cannot attend the live webinar. Register at https://www.gardenconservancy.org/events/web25-new-beautiful-10-21-2025

STEPHANIE MAHON is Editor of Gardens Illustrated and host of the Talking Gardens podcast. Twice winner of the Garden Journalist of the Year Award, she previously edited The English Garden magazine and the Society of Garden Designers’ Garden Design Journal. She is author of several books, including Wild Gardens: Inspired by Nature for the National Trust.