ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Heatwaves Damage Monet's Nasturtiums at Giverny Gardens

cultural-heritage · 2026-08-26

In Giverny, France, unprecedented heatwaves have severely affected the cherished nasturtiums at Claude Monet's home and gardens. Rémi Lecoutre, the deputy head gardener, expressed to France24 that such extensive heat damage is a first, describing the situation as 'incredibly sad.' The vibrant flowers that once adorned the main pathway have succumbed to the extreme temperatures, relentless sunlight, and ongoing drought. A representative from Monet's estate informed Hyperallergic that the nasturtiums will require replanting but will flourish again next year. Additionally, they highlighted the efficiency of a nighttime automatic watering system that irrigates at ground level, along with the dense plant arrangement that minimizes water loss. Monet's gardens are a significant cultural heritage site in France, inspiring numerous Impressionist works.

Key facts

  • Record-breaking heatwaves in France have damaged nasturtiums at Monet's gardens in Giverny.
  • Deputy head gardener Rémi Lecoutre stated this is the first time heat damage has occurred to this extent.
  • Lecoutre called the damage 'incredibly sad.'
  • The entire stock of multicolored blossoms lining the main alley has withered.
  • A spokesperson said the nasturtiums will be replanted and will bloom again next year.
  • The gardens have an effective nighttime automatic watering system that irrigates at ground level.
  • Dense grouping of plants reduces water loss.
  • The story was reported by France24 and Hyperallergic.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Monet's house and gardens
  • France24
  • Hyperallergic

Locations

  • Giverny
  • France

Sources