"Gardeners' World" Practical Gardening Course Book

The late Geoff Hamilton was probably more than anybody else responsible for the current enthusiasm for amateur, domestic gardening in the UK. As the presenter for seventeen years of the television "Gardeners' World", his popularity and influence were immense. Straightforward in style and encyclopedic of knowledge, he was that type of ideal teacher who encourages by communicating a love of his subject. His Practical Gardening Course, first published in 1993 and now reissued in paperback, is described as "The Complete Book of Gardening Techniques"; and so it proves. It's a comprehensive, hands-on guide to the principles and practice of horticulture in small-to-medium sized gardens, clearly written and unintimidating in approach. Virtually every technique discussed is clearly illustrated by series of beautifully clear photographs, most of them featuring Hamilton hard at work. Introductory chapters deal with broad topics such as plants (and how they grow), equipment, planning and landscaping, before moving on to the specifics of lawns, borders, water and vegetable gardens and growing plants in containers. The final chapters cover vegetables, herbs and fruit, and greenhouse and cold frame cultivation. While the emphasis is firmly on technique, Hamilton offers plentiful suggestions for different plants and varieties to suit all types of gardens, aspects and soils. If there is anyone who has't yet caught the gardening bug, this would be an ideal introduction. For experienced gardeners, too, it represents a fund of practical ideas. --Robin DavidsonRead More