French garden vs. English garden: What makes each unique?

As writer Jeff Cox eloquently observed, “A garden is a love song, a duet between a human being and Mother Nature.” While some gardeners may seek to assert greater human influence, others strive for a more harmonious balance with the natural world. This fundamental difference lies at the heart of a French garden vs. English garden.

These two styles are unique in other aspects, including plant arrangement and design layout. However, the choice between them depends on the desired aesthetic and the overall vision for your outdoor space.

What is a French garden? 

Château de Villandry, with its intricate garden and stunning architecture (Source: iStock)

The jardin à la française, or French garden, is characterized by strict control and an emphasis on symmetry. Key features include straight gravel paths, geometrically shaped hedges, and parterres—elaborate, flat flower gardens that adorn the grounds of chateaus and palaces.

French garden history can be traced to landscape designers employed by the French monarchy, culminating in the work of André Le Nôtre, renowned for his designs at the Palace of Versailles. The influence of the French garden extended beyond France, with examples found in English estates such as Audley End and Wrest Park.

While modern gardens may lack the vast, open spaces of historical French gardens, the principles of symmetry and geometric order can still be applied on a smaller scale. 

What is an English Garden? 

Château de Villandry, with its intricate garden and stunning architecture (Source: iStock)

With curved paths, seemingly overgrown trees, and the occasional rain barrel, the English garden, or jardin à l’anglaise, embodies a more naturalistic approach to landscape design than its French counterpart. 

Examples of this style can be found throughout England, including the renowned Biddulph Grange Garden in Staffordshire, with its iconic golden larch tree, and the vibrant Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire, known for its colorful flowerbeds and meandering stone paths.

Knowing a short history of the English garden is helpful if you want to know the spirit behind its design. Its origin goes back to the 17th century, following the Glorious Revolution of 1688, when the Dutch prince William of Orange ascended to the English throne. His preference for pastoral designs, a departure from the formal French style exemplified by Versailles, gained popularity among the nobility. 

Because of its lush beds, low hedges, and wandering stone paths, the English garden evokes a sense of natural abundance and invites a closer connection with the surrounding environment.

English garden vs. French garden: What’s the difference?

Choosing whether to incorporate English vs. French gardens in your property involves weighing several factors. 

In terms of design layout 

A garden with hedges and trees sculpted into geometric wonders (Source: iStock)

The design of a French garden is formal and geometric. Think of the gardens in the Palace of Versailles, which contain hedges trimmed into different shapes and flower beds made to form symmetrical patterns. Remember that the layout of a French garden demonstrates control over nature. 

Meanwhile, when visualising what an English garden looks like, remember that its designs are inspired by romanticism. They feature winding paths, irregularly placed trees, and a less formal approach, allowing plants to flourish more freely and creating a sense of a cultivated countryside.

In terms of plant arrangement 

Pink and white flowers artfully framed by circular hedges (Source: iStock)

French gardens have a structured arrangement of plants, so straight rows of trees and meticulously clipped shrubs are frequent features. Common beginner plant choices for these gardens include fragrant lavender and the timeless rose.

What plants are in an English garden? Since English gardens embrace a more naturalistic approach, they favor a diverse range of plants. Flowers with a wild appearance, such as foxgloves and climbing roses, are often incorporated. As such, plant delivery services can be valuable for sourcing the diverse selection required for an English garden.

In terms of water feature usage 

A garden oasis with a soothing fountain and vibrant summer blooms (Source: iStock)

Water features play distinct roles in English and French gardens. English gardens often incorporate natural elements like small waterfalls, trickling fountains, or serene ponds, adding a touch of “romantic wilderness” to the landscape.

On the other hand, French gardens prioritize symmetry, typically featuring formal water features such as symmetrical fountains or reflecting pools. These contribute to the overall sense of grandeur, as exemplified by the reflecting pools at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which draw the eye towards the main building and create a sense of awe.

In terms of pathway style

A garden path adorned with shades of pink, purple, and red (Source: iStock)

French gardens have a strong sense of order, reflected in their pathways. Instead of meandering paths, they feature precise, geometric shapes like semi-circles, diamonds, or triangles, leading visitors through the garden in a structured manner. 

This extends to the clear boundaries between hedges, trees, and flower beds, which enhance the visual impact but also control weeds. Achieving this involves incorporating materials like stone steps and gravel paths. Regular maintenance, whether through diligent DIY efforts or the assistance of a yard worker, is crucial for preserving the garden’s pristine appearance.

In contrast, winding paths are a hallmark of English gardens, perfectly capturing their naturalistic style. These pathways, perhaps leading to a secluded pond or a peaceful bench, invite exploration and discovery. The addition of low-growing border plants enhances the garden’s wild beauty, creating a sense of natural abundance.

In terms of color palette 

A  garden where lush, green foliage creates a captivating labyrinth (Source: iStock)

Inspired by the Palace of Versailles, a French garden emphasizes a color palette of natural browns and dark greens, evident in its gravel paths and meticulously clipped hedges. The incorporation of blue, white, and purple flowers enhances the symmetry and creates a serene atmosphere that complements the stonework.

Meanwhile, English gardens celebrate carefree abundance. They embrace vibrant blues, purples, and reds and feature lush greens to evoke an overgrown, natural look. A skilled garden designer can help you achieve this desired aesthetic.

In terms of structure selection 

A garden with a striking sundial at its heart (Source: iStock)

French gardens often incorporate hard features such as rows of vintage planters and elegant marble furniture, contributing to a sense of grandeur and timelessness. Sculptures are also frequently employed to evoke the opulence of Versailles.

Conversely, English gardens prioritize a more naturalistic aesthetic. Rustic furniture, weathered statues, and reclaimed stone pieces are commonly incorporated. Arches overgrown with roses are a signature feature, enhancing the garden’s romantic and untamed character.

It’s important to note that the specific structural suggestions from gardeners and landscapers will vary significantly based on their individual expertise and design preferences.

In terms of ideal view 

Winding paths inviting exploration in a garden of blooming flowers (Source: iStock)

French gardens are intended to be appreciated from various vantage points, particularly from upper-level windows or terraces. This allows for a comprehensive view of the intricate geometric patterns that define the garden and the interplay of contrasting colors.

As for English gardens, they are designed for intimate exploration. Winding paths and naturally occurring features, such as lakes or temples, invite visitors to immerse themselves within the landscape, experiencing its beauty through a more gradual and personal journey.

Achieve your dream French or English garden with Airtasker

If you’ve already decided between a French or English garden, you may need assistance to bring your vision to life. But if you don’t know where to start, Airtasker has got you covered. Post a task on the platform, and you can get the best gardeners ready to work on your project.