Tudor and Stuart Gardens explores the love of formality that characterised gardening in the 16th and 17th centuries, and the influence of Renaissance culture on British gardens. Intricate knot gardens and parterres, the structural use of topiary and hedges and the period's fascination with non-native plants influenced the evolution of British gardens over the following centuries. This was a time when gardens were used to demonstrate the status, wealth and education of the owner, and the period provides an intriguing perspective on how garden design and plantsmanship reflected social differences and divisions. Tudor and Stuart garden design and planting includes much that can inspire today's gardener, and the book includes tips and advice on how to create elements of these gardens in modern plots, large or small.