Awesome is the only word one can use to describe this tome. If you want to know anything about the history, styles of gardening, famous gardens and gardeners - this is the place to go. It covers absolutely everything in sufficient detail to give you a good idea of the place or subject. For example Mosiaculture refers to French carpet bedding coined by Chretien in the late nineteenth century.
While the Akbar, a sixteenth century Moghul emperor conquered Kashmir and called it his private garden. Interesting links are drawn between countries: the growth of allotments in England are linked to comunity gardening in the US and Kleingartens in Europe. A detailed study of tools and technology covers everything from Mesopotamia to Flymos; and you can even read about the remains of the 710 AD period garden at Toin in Japan.
All the entries are written by experts in their field and it shows. To add to the delight are lots of full colour illustrations of famous gardens.
A brilliant, totally comprehensive study of the garden. It is not a practical guide about growing, but it will tell you everything you need to know about mankind's love affair with gardens. A perfect present for any committed gardener who will love dipping in to this wonderful collection of information.
Your Talkback on this Story