This engraving shows a picturesque view of the fertile land around
Wandsworth some time between 1750 and 1800. There are neat rows of
vegetables and a windmill, and people stroll through corn fields while
cattle graze.
Market gardening
Many Flemish and Dutch gardeners moved to Wandsworth in the 1600s. They
brought new gardening techniques and London soon became a centre for
intensive market gardening. It was easy to get produce from Wandsworth to
Covent Garden, London's chief vegetable market.
Fresh fruit and vegetables
From the 1600s people developed a taste for eating raw and fresh
vegetables. By the early 18th century, vegetables were very cheap. But
they also began to be used as an accompaniment to meat, instead of being
reserved for the poor. By the end of the 18th century, fruit and
vegetables were in daily use by every section of society.
