AFP news agency reported that at Hampton Court Palace, southwest London, England, ever-green lawns are now yellowing under prolonged heat and drought.
Mr. Graham Dillamore - who has been in charge of gardening here for more than 20 years - is worried that if harsh summers like this year continue, maintaining the garden will become increasingly difficult.
Designed from the 17th century by famous landscape designers such as Lancelot "Capability" Brown and William Kent, the gardens at Hampton Court, Blenheim or Chatsworth are the leading tourist destinations in England. However, climate change is putting these historically significant gardens at risk of changing their appearance.
At the garden at Chiswick House, west London, Ms. Rosie Fyles - who is in charge of about 1,800 trees - said that many oak, mulberry, and birch trees are under serious pressure. Some trees have died and cannot be restored.
Mr. Dillamore said that the successive death of ancient trees is regrettable for historically significant gardens.
Gardens are not only affected by drought but also suffer from fierce storms and heavy rains in winter, causing fungi and pests to develop strongly.
According to the UK National Lottery Heritage Fund, all surveyed historical gardens recorded the impact of climate change. Some locations have lost up to 80% of their tree cover. Researchers at the Royal Kew Botanical Gardens predict that by 2090, about half of the trees here are at risk of dying due to the impact of climate change.
Faced with that situation, gardens are gradually changing the way they care for and choose crops. Some places prioritize drought-tolerant plants, while increasing the area for growing grass and perennial herbaceous plants.
In Hampton Court, test flower beds with plant varieties originating from the southern United States planted since April are still growing well even without regular watering.
Gardens also reduced tillage and accepted more weeds to adapt to new conditions.
Mr. Dillamore believes that historical gardens need to be preserved, but at the same time must adapt to new climate conditions. Although the care and selection of crops may change, gardens still need to retain their inherent characteristics and values.
