Sowing, Mowing and Growing

Description

Watch this event live-streamed or watch on demand.

Join us as we take you for a stroll through South Australian gardens from colonisation to the 1930s. 

Early gardening emphasised subsistence but British landscaping styles were soon introduced to a variety of larger pastoral homesteads and the city’s stately homes. Closer to Adelaide larger domestic blocks highlighted changing fashions in design and planting and a melding of individual styles.  

By the 1870s flowers were as proudly grown as vegetables and garden shows proliferated. As aesthetics overtook the purely practical, the home garden became a place to enjoy and admire. 

This Live and Learn program, along with the State Library’s Cornucopia exhibition, is part of the 2023 Nature Festival.

Image: A man and a woman working in a vegetable garden, 1922. SLSA: PRG 280/1/23/108

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid metered street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available in the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.