In a world increasingly dominated by manicured lawns and perfectly pruned hedges, Cynthia Banham is leading a movement that encourages us to embrace a more natural approach to gardening. With her suburban garden in Sydney as a canvas, she is redefining the concept of wild gardening as a means to combat climate change and restore biodiversity. Her journey began amidst the chaos of bushfires and personal challenges, and now she stands as a beacon for those seeking to reconnect with nature.
A New Era of Gardening
On a chilly January day in Manchester, the inaugural “Wilding Gardens” conference brought together a diverse group of scientists, gardeners, and environmentalists eager to explore innovative ways to harness the power of nature in our gardens. This gathering was timely, as the UK grapples with the pressing issues of climate change and biodiversity loss. Amidst the manicured lawns of the University Green, attendees shared insights on how letting nature take its course can yield surprising benefits for both gardens and the planet.
As snowdrops peeked through the unmown grass, it was clear that this conference was not just a discussion but a call to action. Banham, who had travelled all the way from Australia, found inspiration in the words of rewilding pioneers Isabella Tree and her husband Charlie Burrell. Their transformative work at Knepp Estate in West Sussex, where they relinquished control to nature, served as a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within our own suburban spaces.
From Conventional to Wild
Banham’s fascination with wild gardening began long before she learned about Knepp. During the devastating bushfires of 2019, she felt compelled to make a change in her own garden. The silence of her meticulously maintained space haunted her, prompting her family to create a frog pond. This small yet meaningful act sparked a desire to attract a variety of wildlife, from insects to lizards, leading them to uproot their lawn in favour of native plants.
The journey was not without its challenges. Banham faced criticism from traditional gardeners who warned her that her choices would diminish her property value. However, she remained resolute, immersing herself in horticultural studies that illuminated the conflict between outdated gardening practices and her vision of a wildlife sanctuary.
Embracing the Wild Aesthetic
At the conference, the speakers outlined a philosophy that champions a departure from conventional gardening norms. Isabella Tree emphasised the importance of a more relaxed aesthetic, where wild gardens become essential habitats for insects—the unsung heroes of our ecosystems. Entomologist Erica McAlister echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical role of insects in maintaining balance within our natural world.
As discussions unfolded, experts like James Hitchmough and Mike Edwards pointed towards the alarming decline of insect populations and the need for gardens to become auditory as well as visual spaces. Landscape designers Adam Hunt and Lulu Urquhart challenged attendees to think creatively about incorporating elements like scrubland to provide refuge for small animals.
It was a rallying cry for the 500 attendees, who shared a collective passion for restoring the delicate balance of nature within their gardens. With each story and insight, it became evident that wild gardening is not just a trend but a necessary shift towards sustainability.
A Journey to Knepp
After the conference, Banham embarked on a pilgrimage to Knepp, eager to witness the rewilding magic first-hand. As she travelled the narrow roads leading to the estate, she was filled with anticipation. Despite warnings that winter might not showcase the estate’s beauty, her heart raced with excitement. Upon arrival, she was greeted by a landscape that vividly contrasted the urban sprawl she knew—a wild tapestry of fields, ducks waddling, and birds soaring overhead.
During her two-day visit, Banham explored the once-silent croquet lawn transformed into a vibrant garden, rich with biodiversity. The team at Knepp intentionally allows plants to thrive, working in harmony with nature rather than against it. This approach has seen an impressive increase in insect species, proving that wild gardening can indeed yield extraordinary results.
On her final day, under a brilliant blue sky, Banham and her family strolled through the rewilded estate, their laughter blending with the songs of birds. In that moment, she realised the true essence of wild gardening: a lasting legacy for future generations, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
Why it Matters
Cynthia Banham’s journey encapsulates the urgent need for a shift in how we perceive and interact with our gardens. As urbanisation encroaches on natural habitats, rewilding offers a beacon of hope. It empowers individuals to create sanctuaries for wildlife, contributing to the broader battle against climate change and biodiversity loss. By embracing the wild aesthetic and relinquishing the need for perfection, we can cultivate spaces that not only enhance our own lives but also support the myriad creatures with whom we share this planet. In doing so, we pave the way for a more sustainable future—one garden at a time.
