Dr George Taylor & the Bicentennial

Inspired by the bicentennial celebration planned for 1959, Kew now began a period of expansion and change. The Orangery was converted back to a conservatory after decades as a Timber Museum. Many of its timber supplies were transferred to the Forestry Museum in Cambridge Cottage, which became known as the Wood Museum.

The Palm House, suffering through lack of maintenance during the Second World War, had been closed to the public after 1952 as it was considered unsafe. As part of the bicentennial activity, plans for a replacement at the Palm House were considered. Among the designs submitted was one that incorporated the Coronation Arches, drawn up by E Bedford at the Ministry of Works. Eventually the replacement idea was rejected altogether in favour of restoration, and the Palm House was reopened to the public in the bicentennial year.

Other changes during this period included the creation of the new Heath Garden and the construction of a new Rose Pergola between the Order Beds.

After the 1959 celebrations, the momentum for change continued unabated and further enhancements included reorganisation and expansion in the Rock Garden, Azalea Garden and Order Beds.

1963 saw the construction of a larger Jodrell Laboratory to support the burgeoning community of scientists and to expand Kew's research base. In 1965 the Gardens took on the management of Wakehurst Place, Sussex, a 465 acres (188ha ) estate in which allowed some much-needed expansion for both plants and conservation projects. The less harsh growing conditions let many genera unsuited to Kew flourish.

The preserved collections were also growing and in 1969 the Queen opened a fourth wing of the Herbarium.

Developments in the Gardens continued apace under Taylor. He was instrumental in designing and creating the 17th century styled garden, the Queen's Garden, behind the Dutch House, now Kew Palace; and oversaw the construction of the new Filmy Fern House.

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