Edward Lowe (1825–1900) played a significant role in the popularization and cultivation of ferns during the Victorian era. While he was not directly involved in exploration expeditions like some other botanists, Lowe’s contributions to fern study were influential in bringing ferns to the forefront of Victorian horticulture and botanical interest.
Exploration through Horticulture and Gardening
Lowe was instrumental in introducing ferns to the world of horticulture and gardening. Horticulture is the science and art of growing and cultivating plants. Lowe recognized the ornamental value of ferns and cultivated a wide variety of species, both native and exotic, in his own garden.
Lowe experimented with fern cultivation techniques and developed methods for propagating ferns. Methods included spore germination and vegetative propagation. He wrote extensively on fern cultivation and published several books and articles on the subject. Published books include the following:
Ferns: British and Exotic (1856-1860)
This multi-volume work is one of Lowe’s most well-known publications, featuring detailed descriptions and illustrations of ferns from Britain and around the world.
Beautiful-leaved Plants: being a Description of the Most Beautiful-leaved Plants in Cultivation in this Country (1861)
A single volume publication featuring a variety of plants known for their attractive foliage.
Our Native Ferns, or, a History of the British Species and their Varieties (1867)
In this book, Lowe focuses on the native ferns of Britain, providing descriptions and classifications.
A Natural History of British Grasses (1865)
This publication delves into the various species of grasses found in Britain.
He combined scientific knowledge and techniques with practical gardening skills to improve the growth, quality, nutritional value, and resistance to insects, diseases, and environmental stresses of cultivated plants. Lowe collected and cultivated numerous fern varieties, including rare and unusual species. He also experimented with hybridizing ferns to create new cultivars with unique characteristics, contributing to the diversity of ferns available to Victorian gardeners.
Fern Cultivation through Education
Lowe was passionate about educating the public about ferns and their cultivation. He gave lectures, organized fern exhibitions, and wrote articles for popular gardening magazines, helping to raise awareness and interest in ferns among amateur gardeners and botanists. Lowe’s enthusiasm for ferns led him to establish a successful commercial nursery specializing in ferns. He supplied ferns to collectors, gardeners, and botanical institutions, further promoting the cultivation and appreciation of ferns.
Lowe‘s role in the exploration of ferns was focused on cultivation, propagation, and popularization rather than exploration in the traditional sense. However, his efforts were instrumental in bringing ferns into the spotlight of Victorian horticulture and botanical fascination, laying the groundwork for future fern enthusiasts and botanical explorers.