Welcome to my new website blog!  I’ve been rambling on-line in one form or another for nearly nine years (good grief) but since coming back to the UK I realise that most of my attention has been upon being at home and, moreover, in the greenhouse and garden.  Therefore, as I seem to spend an inordinate amount of time both knee-high and green-fingers deep in soil and compost, I thought a new website focus might whet the [my] appetite.

As many of you already know, I am enthusiastic about the garden and all that it entails, but I am certainly not particularly knowledgeable!  Hence the moniker ‘Liability Brown’ apropos to that of the great eighteenth century landscape designer.  Of course, I recognise the name but actually know next-to-nothing about him or, indeed, gardens, design and “proper” gardening itself.  I make it up as I go along and therefore Liability is probably apt!
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However, I have done a little bit of background reading, and briefly:

Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown (c. 1716 - 6 February 1783) was so nicknamed due to his habit of describing the great ‘capabilities’ of his clients’ landscapes, was the most successful landscape gardener of the eighteenth century.
Capability Brown’s landscapes look so natural that it is difficult to see any easily perceived design; they are simple, ordered and restrained, comprising of sweeping pasture bordered with tree clumps, perimeter belts and screens of trees opening up to offer glimpses of interest points, such as classical temples, bridges, or monuments. The landscape appears to be that of natural informality, but in actual fact was planned meticulously.

The landscape was designed to encourage eighteenth century leisure pursuits including hunting, shooting and carriage-riding. It is estimated that he was responsible for designing approximately 170 gardens surrounding the finest country houses and estates in Britain.
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Paul and I have National Trust membership and they look after 18 Capability Brown landscapes, and at least five are within fairly easy driving distance, so I intend to attempt to learn more.

"... ​Ah, yet, ere I descend to the grave
May I a small house and large garden have;
And a few friends, and many books, both true,
Both wise, and both delightful too!"
from The Wish by Abraham Cowley (1618 - 1667)