Natural and wild gardening Books

Book SynopsisThe Wild Garden is a revolutionary book which swept aside Victorian gardening conventions and formality and replaced it with a new style of gardening: naturalistic, cottage gardening. Decades ahead of its time, it remains hugely relevant today.

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Book SynopsisRoger Phillips is an award-winning photographer with a reputation spanning thirty years. He has consistently pioneered the use of colour photography for the reliable identification of natural history subjects, and has written numerous books dedicated to this purpose, including Roses and Herbs. Described as Mr Mushrooms because of his expertise in the field, Roger has written and presented two major six-part TV series on gardening (BBC & Channel 4). Famed for his ebullient personality and garish red glasses, he has become a well-recognized figure in the world of gardening.Trade ReviewRoger Phillips has written the best mushroom book I know: the sublime taxonomic accuracy of his descriptions and photographs, combined with an evangelical and infectious passion for the subject, will make an instant mycophile of anyone who picks it up. -- Hugh Fearnley-WhittingstallA masterpiece of identification. -- David BellamyTable of ContentsIntroduction - i: Introduction Index - ii: Visual Index Section - iii: Glossary Section - iv: BASIDIOMYCETES Chapter - 1: Mushrooms with Gills Chapter - 2: Mushrooms with Primitive Gills Chapter - 3: Mushrooms and Fungi with Pores Chapter - 4: Fungi with Spines Chapter - 5: Stomach Fungi Chapter - 6: Bird's Nest Fungi Chapter - 7: Stinkhorns Chapter - 8: Club and Spindle Fungi Chapter - 9: Coral Fungi Chapter - 10: Jelly Fungi Section - v: ASCOMYCETES Chapter - 11: Morels Chapter - 12: Saddle Fungi Chapter - 13: Cup Fungi Chapter - 14: Ear Fungi Chapter - 15: Club-shaped Fungi Chapter - 16: Finger & Disc Fungi Chapter - 17: Truffles Chapter - 18: Spots and Crusts Index - vi: Index

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis'An extraordinary and powerful book, full of vitality. Every page celebrates the way traditional skills can shape who we are' Tristan Gooley'Lyrical, moving and never self-pitying . . . a lovely book' The TimesBen Short has a successful career in advertising, a flat in a trendy part of London, a flashy motorbike. But after years of suffering with anxiety, he's a wreck. A drastic change is needed.For a time, he finds solace working with a forester, then as an apprentice to a Gypsy woodman, setting up home in a dilapidated wagon with just a rescue dog for company. However, it is not until he feels the call of the furnace, a glowing charcoal kiln in the Dorset woods, that he can truly re-forge his thoughts, put the years of suffering behind him, and start afresh by immersing himself in the old ways of woods and fire.Exquisitely written and deeply honest, Burn is a hopeful story of transformation, a celebration of manual work and craft, and a love letter to the English countryside.'Beautifully written . . . reading it leaves you feeling ruffled but alive' Mail on SundayTrade ReviewLyrical, moving and never self-pitying . . . a lovely book. * The Times *Short's story is as much about work as it is escape and landscape; he illuminates the value of doing rather than thinking. Beautifully written, Burn is melancholy and hopeful in equal measure. Like taking a forest ramble in changeable weather, reading it leaves you feeling ruffled but alive * Mail on Sunday *An intriguing, touching and beautifully written book, about how it feels to be in a dark place spiritually, to move into the woods but enter an increasingly lighter place, to be practising the ancient skills of coppicing and charcoal burning, to love a dog. -- Ruth PaveyIn this candid memoir, [Ben] learns the benefits of living simply . . . above all, Ben discovers the joys of risking everything in the search for personal happiness. * The Countryman *A most excellent read. Destined to become a classic in its field, much like Walter Rose's memoir, The Village Carpenter -- Sean HellmanAn extraordinary and powerful book, full of vitality. Every page celebrates the way traditional skills can shape who we are. -- Tristan Gooley

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Book Synopsis**A SUNDAY TIMES GARDENING BOOK OF THE YEAR 2020**'A must-read for every gardener who wants to up their game for wildlife and do their bit for the planet.' -- Isabella Tree'A refreshing, uplifting and positive look at the true value of a garden.' -- Alan TitchmarshThe perfect book for any gardener looking to get back in touch with their wild side.The rewilding of public spaces and farmland is vitally important to conservation, but how can we support native species and provide rich habitats on our own doorsteps?In this practical, beautifully illustrated guide horticulturalist and Gardener's World presenter Frances Tophill shows you how to plan and maintain a beautiful garden that will attract bees and birds as well as a throng of unsung garden heroes. Whether you have a small balcony or a large open space, discover the joys of welcoming natural ecosystems back into your garden - along with a host of new visitors.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A new book from the doyen of naturalistic planting equips readers with the know-how to ditch outdated approaches to gardening" John Manley, Irish News -- John Manley * Irish News * "indispensable for anyone with an interest in current gardening trends" Rory Dusoir, Gardens Illustrated -- Rory Dusoir * Gardens Illustrated * "What is inspiring is to see how such planting, alongside the work of those such as Hitchmough and Oudolf, can change spaces for the better - both for humans and the wildlife that finds new habitat in often inhospitable conditions." The English Garden -- The English Garden * The English Garden * "Naturalistic Planting Design is an important and inspiring book that takes planting to a whole new level." Country Life * Country Life * "Nigel's low-input, high-impact ideas are so important." Piet Oudolf -- Piet Oudolf "Every page is - literally - brilliant." "A book to keep and return to for its invaluable and proven research" Mary Keen, The Daily Telegraph -- Mary Keen * The Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisNew friends. New beginnings. Old secrets Sweet and heartwarming' Bestselling author MARIAN KEYESThe word uplifting was invented for this tender and poignant story. It's a beautifully written debut, a must-read' Bestselling author JUDY LEIGHThough they come from the same small Irish village, lonely widow Ruby and struggling single mother Frankie couldn't be more different.Then they discover the Moonlight Gardening Club, founded to remind its members that even on the darkest of nights, beauty and light can still be found. As they plant flowers chosen specially to be enjoyed under a carpet of stars in the gentle glow of moonlight, an unexpected friendship starts to bloom and it might be just what each of them needs.But when shocking secrets from the past are revealed, both their worlds are turned upside down. If their friendship is going to survive, each of them must face what they've been running fromFans of FAITH HOGAN's The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club, SHEILA O'FLANAGAN and MARY Trade Review PRAISE FOR THE MOONLIGHT GARDENING CLUB: ‘Sweet and heartwarming’ – Marian Keyes ’A fabulous book, the writing is superb, the characters (including the town itself) are fully realised and credible…Full confession: The Moonlight Gardening Club melted my cynical old heart, which says a great deal about how good it is.’ Anne Marie Scanlon, The Independent Ireland ‘I absolutely loved it. The word “uplifting” was invented for this tender and poignant story about the unlikely friendship of Ruby and Frankie … It's a beautifully written debut, a must-read’ – Judy Leigh ‘What a delight. It was a gorgeous, emotional read with characters to hold your heart’ – Liz Fenwick ‘A poignant, heartwarming, uplifting story of the enriching gift of friendship. A terrific debut novel that will enthral readers’ – Patricia Scanlan ‘Full of warmth and heart, The Moonlight Gardening Club is an absolute delight. Ruby and Frankie are characters to really care for and will definitely inspire you to grab your wellies and get out into the garden! Rosie Hannigan is an exciting new voice in Irish fiction’ – Hazel Gaynor ‘A beautiful, warm book with relatable characters and plenty of surprises’ – Rachael English ‘Rosie Hannigan weaves a delightful tale showing how friendship can pull us from our darkest moments. Secrets, love and forgiveness – the perfect seaside read!’ – Amelia Addler ‘Frankie and Ruby’s voices were beautifully distinct … well done to this stunning writer, Rosie Hannigan is one to watch!’ – Amanda Geard

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Book Synopsis"If the world of gardening has rock stars, Piet Oudolf qualifies as Mick Jagger, David Bowie, and Prince rolled into one." -Gardenista The original publication of Planting the Natural Garden ushered in a revolution in landscape design: the New Perennial Movement. Spearheaded by internationally renowned designer Piet Oudolf, and incisively articulated by the late plantsman and designer Henk Gerritsen, it transformed private and public spaces with its emotionally resonant, naturalistic use of hardy perennials and grasses. Now this classic has been expanded and updated to include scores of new plants and combinations. Packed with practical information and visual inspiration, Planting the Natural Garden zeroes in on the New Perennial Movement's power to move us, making its distinctive plant palette available to all. For enthusiasts of these vibrant landscapes, it is an essential text; for gardeners who love the dreamy moods and colours that Oudolf and Gerritsen celebrate, it's the key to a magic kingdom of garden beauty.

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Book Synopsis Follow Hannah Dale''s deeply personal journey as she returns her Lincolnshire farm to nature, celebrating the return of an astonishing variety of wildlife. Hannah Dale, the artist and founder of the award-winning nature-centric gift company Wrendale Designs, takes you through a year on her farm in rural Lincolnshire where, alongside her husband, she has undertaken an ambitious rewilding project. Together, they are attempting to return the land to nature and increase the number of species their land is able to support. A Wilding Yearexplores how one family have been able to embrace the beauty to be found in untidy landscapes, heralding the return of skylarks, meadow pipits, hobbies, polecats and many more species to their farm. The land was originally claimed from marshy wetlands, and leaning into the land''s natural inclination to be wet has also yielded amazing ponds and pond life. This rewilding journey has also provided Hannah with new sources of inspiration for her paintings. A Wilding Yearis both a journal and a sketchbook, in which Hannah keeps a visual record of the incredible variety of species she finds on the farm. This fascinating account of a year spent in nature brings to life the beauty and power of wildlife in every season.

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Book Synopsis A SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER Fill your garden with flowers all-year round with inspiration, planting ideas and expert advice from Sarah Raven. Colour and scent are the hallmarks of Sarah Raven’s style – and they are simple luxuries that everyone can bring into their garden. A Year Full of Flowers reveals the hundreds of hardworking varieties that make the garden sing each month, together with the practical tasks that ensure everything is planted, staked and pruned at just the right time. Tracing the year from January to December at her home, Perch Hill, Sarah offers a complete and transporting account of a garden crafted over decades. Sharing the lessons learned from years of plant trials, she explains the methods that have worked for her, and shows you how to achieve a space that’s full of life and colour. Discover long-lasting, divinely scented tulips, roses that keep flowering through winter, the most magnificent dahlias and show-stopping alliums, as well as how to grow sweet peas up a teepee, take cuttings from chrysanthemums and stop mildew in its tracks. This is passionate, life-enriching gardening; it’s also simple, adaptable and can work for you. Sarah has made the garden central to her life – this book shows you how you can too.Trade ReviewThis book is a superior article – without doubt the best horticultural offering of the year. * Sunday Telegraph *Detailed and inspiring, it’s a must-read for novice and seasoned gardeners alike. * Country Living *A brilliantly helpful guide to filling the garden with successive waves of colour … A great book for resetting jaded palettes * Country Life *Every book by Sarah Raven is a treat * The Times *Informative and companionable ... Most of us aim to have something in flower throughout the year, and this selection should ensure that you succeed. * Sunday Times *Full of inspiration, planting ideas and expert advice for a beautiful garden all-year round * Countryside *Both practical and beautiful, this is a go-to gift for the green-fingered * Culture Whisper *

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated giftable gardening reference book, combining exquisite botanical illustrations with practical self-help projects. Readers can discover more than 200 life-saving plants and 25 home-grown remedies to make themselves.

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Book SynopsisCreate your own enchanting witch’s garden and draw energy from the earth with this guide to cultivating your very own magical ingredients.A green witch embraces the power of nature, draws energy from the earth and the universe, and relies on stones, plants, flowers, and herbs for healing. In The Green Witch’s Garden, you will learn how to create your own magical space to enhance your witchcraft practice. With information on how to plan and design your sacred garden and tips and tricks to growing and harvesting magical ingredients, this book will allow you to take control of your practice and more deeply connect with the earth. Let experienced witch and author of The Green Witch Arin Hiscock-Murphy guide you on your path to creating your personal piece of nature.Trade Review"Well-written, seems extremely well researched, and is very comprehensive… highly visually appealing." —Bucolic Bookshelf

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Book SynopsisForage is a beautifully illustrated celebration of edible plants that can be found throughout the world.Anybody can enjoy the increasingly popular back-to-nature activity of foraging. In some countries these plants are now forgotten as food, but in others they are still celebrated for their value as nutritious, delicious ingredients and cooking with wild plants is increasingly being adopted by mainstream restaurants.Journeying through 50 globally populated edible plants, Forage explores the culture and history of our wild food. Stunning botanical illustrations by artist Rachel Pedder-Smith accompany each plant, alongside recipes inspired by the regions of the world where they are most celebrated.

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Book SynopsisA Wood of One's Own is a lyrical, beguiling and inspiring story; a potent reminder of nature's delicate balance, and its comforting and abiding presence.Trade Review'So beguiling... Pavey's writing is everywhere amiable' Times Literary Supplement'[In planting her wood] the satisfactions are many... her book is a gentle, generous extension of that... one all her readers can share in' The Lady'Pavey's love for her small patch of land shimmers off the page [in this] narrative of warmth, honesty and great spirit made all the more beautiful by Pavey's own lively and accomplished drawings... this lovely book is itself a gift encouraging country-dweller and townie alike to marvel at the infinite possibilities at the heart of a single tree' Daily Mail, Book of the Week'Captivating... If this book was not as much a pleasure to write as it is to read, I'll eat my hat and gardening glove... Pavey's unassuming memoir celebrates the imperfections of rural life and the virtues of spontaneity... the non-bravura style attractively illustrated with Pavey's black-and-white sketches makes this book a winner' Kate Kellaway, Observer‘A delightful account… with intriguing digressions into local history and culture. [Pavey] writes with warmth and spirit, and brings this space to life in all its detail of plants, trees and wildlife’ Penelope Lively‘A lovely story – a super book’ Steve Yabsley, BBC Radio Bristol and Somerset‘Draws together childhood memories, local history… and literary penumbra’ Sunday Telegraph‘A lyrical story of desire and determination, soft and gentle, warm and wise in a wicked world’ Camden New Journal‘Practical and full of helpful advice which has been artfully baked-in throughout. If someone asks you what you'd like for Christmas or a birthday don't hesitate to reply, A Wood of One's Own' Woodlands.co.uk

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Book SynopsisThis deck will take you on a journey through the magical, mysterious and medicinal world of fungi and their power to heal. In the Mushroom Spirit Oracle, you will find 36 hand-drawn images of mushrooms from all over the world. Each mushroom has a message for you. The guidebook not only guides you with answers you may be seeking on a spiritual level, it also goes into the medicinal aspects of known mushrooms and how we can bring these incredible beings into our life to raise our vibration and physical health.

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Book SynopsisHumans and the world around us have been governed by the waxing and waning of the moon since the planet came into being. Over the centuries different civilisations have embraced these natural cycles, and so lunar gardening has been around for as long as man has pulled food from the soil; once practised by the Incas and Native Americans, this tried and trusted method has been largely forgotten.John Harris, head gardener at Tresillian Estate in Cornwall, has been using Moon Gardening for over forty years. The methods he uses can be implemented anywhere, you do not need fancy tools, expensive seeds or substantial acreage, but instead, given time, patience and care, the results can be breath-taking. This is gardening at its most natural and organic.The Natural Gardener charts John's story from a rudderless young lad in a Cornish village to being charged with the salvation of the long-neglected gardens at Tresillian. As he shares how to follow these simple principles, he imparts his abundance of horticultural knowledge from years spent working in harmony with the soil, providing a timely link back to nature and the reassuring regularity of the seasons.Trade ReviewVery readable...a warm and engaging narrative...Hand-drawn line illustrations add to the charm of this useful addition to any gardening library. * The English Garden *

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Book SynopsisTom Petherick is a writer, author, and journalist, specialising in biodynamic gardening and farming. He has written Biodynamic in Practice and How to Garden Organically amongst others, and written new content for this edition of Biodynamic Gardening.Monty Waldin is a consultant on biodynamic vineyard growing and has written articles for Decanter, the Grape Collective, and The Oxford Companion to Wine along with multiple books on biodynamic wine, wine in general, and the previous edition of Biodynamic Gardening with DK in 2015. From 2016-2021 Monty was the first host of the Italian Wine Podcast.

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Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE WAINRIGHT PRIZE & SHORTLISTED FOR THE RICHARD JEFFERIES AWARD''A daring, delightful and galvanising call to save the world, one plant at a time'' Bookseller, Editor''s ChoiceTEN YEARS AGO, BEN JACOB TURNED OUTLAW TO SAVE OUR RAREST FLOWERS. THIS IS HIS STORY.Obsessed by orchids since childhood, Ben spent years travelling to far-flung jungles to see them in the wild. Then a chance encounter set him off on a journey of discovery into the wonderful, but often forgotten, world of Britain''s fifty-one native species. These include the Bee which looks (and smells) so much like one that even bees are fooled, the Ghost which exists without sunlight, and Autumn Lady''s Tresses which gave Darwin the proof he needed for his theory of evolution.But our orchids are in desperate trouble. Many species are facing extinction. Decimated by changes in land use and climate, inadequately protected by environmental and planning laws, their Trade ReviewA daring, delightful and galvanising call to save the world, one plant at a time * The Bookseller, Editor’s Choice *It's noble work in a time of great change. The Orchid Outlaw urges us to look closer and tread more carefully -- Alice Vincent * New Statesman *If this doesn't turn into one of the most talked about nature books of the year, I'll eat my hat. Brilliantly written, urgent and brave -- Lee Schofield, author of WILD FELLA vivid love letter to Britain's wild orchids . . . Ben Jacob breaks all the rules with enormous success -- FRANCIS PRYOR, Time Team and author of THE MAKING OF THE BRITISH LANDSCAPEThe Orchid Outlaw . . . offers captivating descriptions of pre-dawn forays on to private land where housing developments will soon obliterate colonies of precious orchids * Financial Times, Best new books on climate and the environment *The book is written with a skip and drama, and will leave you furious that these strange and delicate plants have been so neglected * Mail on Sunday *A brave, timely and inspiring example of how to exercise our moral obligation to care for the non-human beings we share the world with. The Orchid Outlaw is an empowering tonic to the environmental despair evoked by the lack of leadership from our lawmakers -- Leif Bersweden, author of Where the Wild Flowers Grow

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Book Synopsis'Breathtakingly beautiful' i'Tender and wholehearted' Helen JukesLONGLISTED FOR THE WAINWRIGHT PRIZEA BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR IN THE INDEPENDENT, FINANCIAL TIMES, I and GARDENS ILLUSTRATEDWhen she suddenly finds herself uprooted, heartbroken, grieving and living out of a suitcase in her late twenties, Alice Vincent begins planting seeds. She nurtures pot plants and vines on windowsills and draining boards, filling her many temporary London homes with green. As the months pass, and with each unfurling petal and budding leaf, she begins to come back to life.Mixing memoir, botanical history and biography, Rootbound examines how bringing a little bit of the outside in can help us find our feet in a world spinning far too fast.Trade ReviewBreathtakingly beautiful writing about the natural world . . . Vincent's championing of female gardeners from eras past is both cheering and fascinating . . . Rootbound is a story of growth * * i * *This memoir has the potential to be the millennials' answer to Eat Pray Love * * Daily Telegraph * *Rootbound is a poignant testimony to the joy that greenery will bring to your life, and it is a magical reminder that humans, like plants, can mend and grow in their own good time * * Independent * *Reading this book is like breathing fresh spring air. Rootbound is achingly honest and earthily good, a beautiful hymn to wild hope, strength and tenderness, in nature and in ourselves. I loved it -- CHARLOTTE RUNCIE author of SALT ON YOUR TONGUEA book about heartbreak, salvation, nature and balcony gardens . . . Alice Vincent mixes memoir with botanical history to explore how plants can heal us * * Huffington Post * *As much a green prescription for a richer, more connected life as a beautiful story of hope. Rootbound captures our universal need for nature, freedom and replenishment, away from the manmade, rushed woes of modern living . . . A valuable reminder to us all, that couldn't come at a better time -- SARAH IVENS author of FOREST THERAPYA deeply personal exploration of the healing power of plants * * Independent * *There are riffs on everything from famous women gardeners to the history of New York's wondrous High Line elevated linear park . . . Rootbound gives a revealing insight into Alice's generation, their concerns, self-absorption and earnestness. It also radiates a youthful enthusiasm and optimism, a hunger to reconnect with nature even in the midst of a sea of concrete, and the refreshing belief that anything is possible. Millenials, in particular, will love it * * Daily Mail * *Unrestrained, exuberant, vigorous, forthright . . . A tender and wholehearted story of re-finding that most precious resource, the space to grow -- HELEN JUKES author of A HONEYBEE HEART HAS FIVE OPENINGSHeartbreak can be the best teacher . . . [A] hopeful memoir of self-discovery and horticulture . . . A beguiling bouquet whose vibrancy feels extra welcome as the first green shoots of spring start to show * * Mail on Sunday * *

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Book Synopsis'This extraordinarily useful compendium should be required reading for anyone aspiring to ... a gorgeous garden.' – New York Times Book ReviewA stunning exploration of one of the hottest trends in garden design, nature-based planting with an eco-aware approach, featuring the work of leading designers such as Sean Hogan, Piet Oudolf, and Dan PearsonForget the mild, manicured gardens of the past: planting today is undergoing a revolution in taste and aesthetics. This is the first comprehensive overview of a new planting approach that is wild and natural by nature, reflecting the global turn towards sustainability and the current zeitgeist in garden design. Featuring over 40 gardens - from a perennial meadow in East Sussex, England to a private, drought-resistant garden in Australia - each garden in this stunning book is brought to life with beautiful photography and insightful text.Trade Review'Well-groomed gardens are taking a backseat to wildflowers, according to this beautiful tour.' – Publishers Weekly 'No matter what your idea of wild is, the book offers myriad variations on the theme.' – Gardenista 'An unconstrained approach to planting.' – Landscape Architecture Magazine 'A trove of naturalistic gardens.' – Washington Gardener Magazine 'Enlightened gardeners have grown away from contained, stiffly regimented beds organized around lawns in favor of free-form swaths of native plants, pollinators once considered weeds, grasses and wildflower meadows. [Wild] ... says it all.' – Forbes 'Ample inspiration.' – ELLE Decoration 'An expert study of a major gardening trend.' – Garden Design Journal 'Readers will find plenty of ideas to incorporate into their own landscapes from the beautiful images and engaging text.' – Veranda 'Free-flowing yards that still have plenty of curb appeal.' – Domino '[A] gorgeous gardening tome.' – TIME 'A pleasing new book.' – AD Pro

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Book SynopsisIn Planting for Garden Birds find straightforward ideas and easy to achieve plans that will make your garden irresistible to birds.Packed with interesting facts, environmental and habitat information as well as easy to achieve planting ideas, this is a practical, illustrated guide for people wanting to encourage more birdlife to their outdoor space.By gardening sustainably, you can make a considerable difference to the wildlife populations in your immediate area, as well as in the country as a whole. While some birds are residents we’ll see from day to day, others are fleeting visitors – but they’re all potential guests in our gardens if we make the environment suitably welcoming.Planting for Garden Birds is aimed at the keen amateur gardener and those hoping to take their knowledge and experience to the next level.Planting for Garden Birds is part of a series of books aimed at encouraging wildlife into your garden. Other titles in the series are: Planting for Butterflies, Planting for Wildlife, Planting for Honeybees.

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Book SynopsisA practical and attractive guide to the many edible varieties of wild plant that grow all around us. Whether you think of them as pretty wildflowers or troublesome weeds, wild plants are invaluable for wildlife. Not only are they an essential habitat and nectar source for insects, they are also beneficial for the soil, accumulating trace elements and acting as hosts for mycorrhizal fungi. Wild plants can be also be included in a variety of tasty recipes as unusual and flavoursome culinary ingredients.Written by qualified dietician and horticulturalist, Gail Garland, Foraging for Edible Wild Plants describes more than 50 edible species, from common species, such as nettle, dandelion, chickweed and ground elder, to the less well-known brooklime and wintercress. Gail also shares advice on how to identify wild plants that are harmful to eat, as well as tips on controlling invasive species such as knotweed . The guide is beautifully designed with illustrated notes on appearancTrade ReviewA delightful read, well organised, informative and easy to use, successfully filling the hungry gap between books on gardening and those on foraging with inspiring recipes, cooking tips and relevant words of caution for each plant profiled. A welcome and valuable addition to the library of any new or more experienced foragers, gardeners, cooks and weeders. Highly recommended. * Fergus Drennan, Forager *A very well written and enjoyable book. Gail Harland is quite obviously passionate about her subject and clearly lives it. Small tit bits such as how Himalayan balsam can be used as an Indian preserve known as gulqand, which literally means sweet flowers indicate she has really done her research. This book would be a welcome addition to the shelf of any forager. * Dave Hamilton, author of The Self-Sufficientish Bible *Table of ContentsIntroduction PART 1: Know your wild plants Wild plants or weeds? Characteristics Achievable weed control: A question of balance How to identify poisonous species PART 2: A–Z of edible wild plants Glossary Notes Bibliography

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Book SynopsisRevitalise your recipes with the joys and satisfaction of foraged ingredients from your garden and beyond. In high-end restaurants and in the home, more and more cooks have unearthed the pleasures of using natural, foraged ingredients. But, what few realise is that you don''t necessarily have to go rootling in hedgerows or woodlands to find them. Many of our own gardens contain an abundance of edible and medicinal plants, grown mainly for their ornamental appearance. Most gardeners are completely unaware that what they have actually planted is a rather exotic kitchen garden. The Garden Forager explores over 40 of the most popular garden plants that have edible, medicinal or even cosmetic potential, accompanied by recipes, remedies, and interesting facts, and illustrated throughout in exquisite watercolours by Lizzie Harper. This beautifully illustrated book redefines how we look atTrade ReviewThe book is a rare treasure and is as beautifully written as it is illustrated -- Andy Hamilton * Gardens Illustrated *An exquisitely illustrated encyclopedia of plants that may well be growing in your garden -- Violet Henderson * Vogue *The informative text and pretty watercolour paintings which illustrate each of the plants make a lovely gardening book with a difference * Scottish Memories *This compact, well researched and beautifully illustrated book is jammed full of fascinating garden lore, culinary history and clever recipes using flowers, leaves and seeds from plants you probably didn’t even know were edible. It’s a beautiful book – and I now know how to use of those dogwood flowers come spring… -- Susan Low * Delicious *

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Book SynopsisThe New Wild Garden combines new approaches to a more naturalistic design with the practical side of growing wildflowers and shows how to incorporate wildflowers, real meadows and a looser prarie-style planting into gardens and wild spaces.Trade Review‘this book offers an inspirational yet accessible guide to wild planting that is low-maintenance yet enormously creative’ * Homes and Gardens *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTIONCREATING NATURALISTIC LANDSCAPES​PLANNING A WILD GARDEN CREATING MEADOW EFFECTSNATURALISING PLANTS IN GRASSLANDNATURALISTIC PLANTINGSWILD POTS AND CONTAINERSPLANT GALLERY SOURCEBOOK

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Book SynopsisExplore the magical world of moss, with this fully-illustrated and comprehensive guide. ''Moss is the height of fashion . . . for inspiration, as well as beautiful pictures of mossy forests and gardens, [this book] has a range of outdoor and indoor projects'' The Sunday TimesMoss is all around us. While it is most often associated with damp, shady spaces, it can be found in the most unexpected and far-flung places, from deserts to Antarctica. This book is a celebration of its quiet, unassuming beauty and a primer to understanding the secrets of the world''s most ancient plant: Discover the fascinating history of this soft and tactile plant Learn how and where to identify and gather different moss species. Take a tour of some of the most beautiful moss gardens in the UK, the US and Japan, where moss viewing has become a national phenomenon. Learn how to cultivate moss, tie Japanese moss balls (kokedama) and plant moss landscapes in pots and terrariums.With stunning photography and botanical illustration, this is an utterly unique book that will be treasured by plant enthusiasts of all kinds.''A whistlestop tour of the magical world of mosses, from Scandinavian craft projects to the animacy of carpeted Japanese gardens . . . It''s a beautiful book, as happy on a coffee table as it might be on the potting bench'' Gardens IllustratedTrade ReviewMoss is the height of fashion... for inspiration, as well as beautiful pictures of mossy forests and gardens, Moss has a range of outdoor and indoor projects that use the plants * The Sunday Times *In this illustrated guide, Ulrica Nordström teaches readers about the world's most ancient plant * Country Living *A whistlestop tour of the magical world of mosses, from Scandinavian craft projects to the animacy of carpeted Japanese gardens . . . This charming book invites you a step further than mere observance, to getting down on your knees and truly exploring the hidden world of moss . . . It's a beautiful book, as happy on a coffee table as it might be on the potting bench * Gardens Illustrated *It's packed with inspiration from moss gardens all over the world, with lots of useful advice about growing moss in your own plot * Modern Gardens *Historical uses and a practical guide to using moss * The Garden *

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Book SynopsisCreate an edible garden brimming with wildlife that provides you with food every day of the year Imagine a garden that is as beautiful as it is productive, that gives you fresh, wholesome, chemical-free food with flavors that go beyond anything shops can offer. In Eat What You Grow, Alys shows you how to create a rich, biodiverse garden that feeds not only you, but supports a wide range of pollinators, bees and butterflies, as well as other wildlife. From perennial vegetables that come back year after year, to easy-to-grow delights, she has selected plants that hold their own in both the garden and on the plate. And tells you how to raise these plants, guiding you through the process of feeding your soil, saving seed and taking cuttings to increase your supplies. The book covers every size garden with tips on what can grow in containers (for smaller gardens) as well as harvesting throughout the year.

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1870, The Wild Garden challenged the prevailing garden style of the day and advocated a naturalistic style, in which hardy plants, both native and exotic, are arranged in groupings that mimic wild landscapes. Thanks to Robinson’s passionate advocacy, the naturalistic style triumphed, and Robinson's urgent message continues to resonate today. For this newly designed edition, Rick Darke has written an introductory essay that not only underscores Robinson’s importance in the evolution of garden design and ecology, but also explains his relevance for today’s gardeners, designers, and landscape professionals. The book contains over 100 stunning photographs taken by Darke, including images of Gravetye and of modern “wild” gardens. Trade ReviewWill truly inspire you. Originally published in 1870, [it] remained in print for more than 50 years with a message that is just as revolutionary today. -- Doug Bergstrom Wenatchee World 20091130 Rick Darke could well be Robinson's reincarnation. -- Ailsa Francis Ottawa Citizen 20091205

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Book SynopsisThe ultimate guide to encouraging wildlife into the garden all year round. Taking a month-by-month approach, The Wildlife Gardener's Almanac is packed with ideas, advice, tips and checklists, to give gardener's the best chance to make their contribution to conserving our native flora and fauna, no matter what size their garden.

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Book SynopsisMake your garden a haven for wildlife and a joy for you and your familyWhether you just want to make an existing family space more wildlife friendly or go the whole hedgehog and turn your back garden into a mini nature reserve, The Wildlife Garden will show you how to do it. You will discover:- What plants are best for wildlife- How to make refuges for insects and homes for bats- How to create a pool for frogsThe Wildlife Garden is the essential guide to attracting birds to your bushes, butterflies to your buddleia and a whole array of other creatures into your garden - even if you only have a window box - all whilst adding scent and colour to your surroundings.

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Book SynopsisA beautiful and accessible seasonal guide to herbalism from the historic botanic garden.Discover the best times of the year for growing specific healing herbs and also when and how to forage for wild medicine, such as water mint, St John's Wort, hawthorn berries and rosehips. Recipes are included for how to use these herbs, along with folklore stories from herb wives and hedge witches, the meanings behind their names and the history of how these natural medicines were discovered.There are plenty of tips for how to create your own medicinal herb garden, even with just a few pots, along with a biodynamic guide for sowing, planting and harvesting. Including detailed hand-drawn line illustrations to help deepen your understanding, The Herb Almanac is the perfect gift for any nature lover.CONTENTS INCLUDES:IntroductionIncluding using herbs as seasonally appropriate remedies and tonics, an overview of herbs in folklore, wild medicine, magic, superstition, ritual, tradition and literature and herbs in religion and floriography (the language of flowers)Gathering and Using HerbsIncluding safe, legal and successful foraging, a brief introduction to growing your own herbs and preparing, drying and preserving herbsWitches' Brews: Poisonous Plants Including an overview of herbs with interesting stories that cannot be easily used, e.g. wormwood, hemlock and mandrakeHerb EncyclopediaIncluding detailed information on over 50 different herbs

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Book SynopsisThe Little Book of Wild Gardening is a guide for anyone wanting to garden in a more sustainable, natural way. Working with nature benefits not just the garden, but also the gardener, wildlife and the wider environment. Divided into sections for different garden areas - including lawns, flower beds, edibles, trees and water features - The Little Book of Wild Gardening details how to embrace a natural approach to gardening for plots large and small.Introductory chapters explain how garden ecosystems can work, and how a healthy garden can mean savings in both work and resources for the gardener. There are plant profiles providing a variety of choices for a wilder approach, plus design tips and expertise in sustainable and wildlife-friendly gardening. From a sustainable veg patch to wildflower meadows, and from bat boxes to gravel gardens, the book includes projects and plants in a range of sizes and timescales so gardeners can create a bountiful and enjoyable haven that will benefit themselves, their local area, and all kinds of wildlife.

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Book SynopsisRHS Weeds gathers together 50 untamed and beautifully wild plant species, illustrated with exquisite botanical images from the Royal Horticultural Society's archives. Their natural untamed beauty, ability to thrive under challenging conditions, and the attraction of growing species native to their surroundings have all taken weeds from undesirable to covetable. These subversive species no longer need to be seen as 'plants out of place'. In the modern garden, where harmony with nature is key, weeds are finally getting their moment in the sun.RHS Weeds highlights the delicate charms of some of the most fascinating vagabond plants around. Beautiful botanical illustrations from the Royal Horticultural Society's collections and captivating profiles by RHS author Gareth Richards provide key information for the modern gardener on the characteristics, usefulness and cultivation of 50 unsung heroes of the plant world.Table of ContentsIntroduction • Fifty weeds • References • Index.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing simple tips, practical advice and inspiring ideas, this book will help you discover how to reap the mental, physical and spiritual benefits found in natureWe all know that our environment is critical to our well-being, so when seeking a boost to our happiness, where better to look than the garden? Whether you're hoping to cultivate a calmer mindset, nurture your physical strength or connect with your community, the restorative powers of gardening can help you flourish.With valuable information, actionable tips, creative project ideas and feel-good gardening facts, this book will help you discover the all-round health benefits that can come while honing your green fingers.Inside you will discover:- How the aromas, colours and sounds of plants and nature can both relax and invigorate you- Why gardening and its therapeutic actions are beneficial for your mental health- How to energize your body, tone muscles and improve flexibility for overall fitness- The plentiful spiritual aspects to be found through breathwork and grounding exercises- How and why gardening can plant you within your community and encourage teamwork and cooperation

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Book SynopsisThis book reveals the wisdom in garden ecosystems on a practical wildlife gardening and permaculture level; explores how we emotionally disconnect from nature when we see things as pests'; applies the wisdom observed to our own healing and spiritual development.

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Book SynopsisMaking Garden Meadows is a practical guide to creating a beautiful native wildflower meadow or a colourful area of cornfield annuals in even the smallest of gardens.

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Book SynopsisIn this book, Sharon Amos explains how to design and create a beautiful garden for little or no money, offering tips on bartering for clippings, getting a bargain at garage sales or neighbourhood fairs, digging up suckers or adapting wild species and controlling them in a garden environment. She provides a comprehensive directory of 80 plants including detailed advice on where and how to grow a wide variety of garden favourites, from snowdrops to poppies. With beautiful illustrations, Plants for Free is the perfect gift book for cultivating your garden on a budget of next-to-nothing.

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Book SynopsisYou step out of the back door into the garden. There may be a few birds flitting around, perhaps butterflies or bumblebees on the wing, but often the garden can seem very still. However, if you look beyond the superficial inactivity there is an ecological web of wildlife to explore, to understand and then to encourage more biodiversity. The Science of Garden Biodiversity: The Living Garden shows how data and science can help to dispel myths, such as that wildlife gardens are great for wildlife (and other gardens aren’t), that a garden fit for wildlife must be ‘wild’ and that you must grow native plants. It also provides an understanding of how diverse life can be in gardens and how gardens work. And along the way there are scientific ‘signposts’ to better wildlife gardening. Julian Doberski explains the role of 'small things' - microorganisms and invertebrates - that are fundamental to the ecological functioning of gardens. Learning more about the ecology of a garden helps us understand what makes a garden a refuge for wildlife and how following the science may lead to a more thoughtful and constructive approach to gardening, garden design and garden planting.Trade Review"Brings an informed, academic element that will satisfy serious growers and nature lovers." * The English Garden *"Meticulously referenced with the latest research, this book will appeal to all gardeners who want to please the local wildlife and better know the scientific basis of what they're doing." -- Ken Thompson, plant ecologist and lecturer * The Garden *"Community ecology is so important in the garden habitat but the information in the academic literature almost never escapes into the gardening media. Julian Doberski has undertaken several small but important meta-analyses that are very revealing. It`s a terrific work, and deserves every accolade it will undoubtedly receive." -- Dr Jolyon Kirby, Garden Ecologist

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Book Synopsis''Blanc set about the most thorough apple-tasting and cooking project I have heard of . . . [The Lost Orchard] condenses the highlights, his love letters to the forgotten apple breeds.'' The Times''I began to dream about an orchard filled with thousands of fruit trees... Today we have an orchard with over 150 ancient varieties of apple. Each one has its heritage in a village or a county that used to thrive on that particular variety. They tell the story not only of what we have lost in Britain but also what we could regain.''Over the past seven years, Raymond Blanc has planted an orchard of 2,500 trees in the grounds of his hotel-restaurant in Oxfordshire. Yielding about 30 tonnes of fruit for his kitchen each year, it is full of ancient and forgotten varieties of British apples and pears, along with walnut trees, quince, medlars, apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, damsons and cherries. A further 600 heritage fruit trees have been aTrade ReviewThe recipes are lovely. . . [The Lost Orchard] is about Blanc's love of orchards and how he established one in England . . . It's also a guide to the varieties of apple, pear, fig, quince and stone fruit he has planted . . . offering tasting notes and history for each. As useful for gardeners as for cooks. * The Telegraph - One of their Top 20 cookbooks of the year 2019 *The recipes are lovely. . . [The Lost Orchard] is about Blanc's love of orchards and how he established one in England . . . It's also a guide to the varieties of apple, pear, fig, quince and stone fruit he has planted . . . offering tasting notes and history for each. As useful for gardeners as for cooks. * The Telegraph - One of their Top 20 cookbooks of the year 2019 *Raymond Blanc has created a garden haven at his Le Manoir restaurant in Oxfordshire . . . keenly aware of the perilous state of heritage apples, pears, cherries, medlars and quinces, he was determined to add an orchard of forgotten fruits to his ensemble. This magical book describes his quest and the hard work needed. * Simple Things *Raymond Blanc has created a garden haven at his Le Manoir restaurant in Oxfordshire . . . keenly aware of the perilous state of heritage apples, pears, cherries, medlars and quinces, he was determined to add an orchard of forgotten fruits to his ensemble. This magical book describes his quest and the hard work needed. * Simple Things *The legendary chef opens the door to a living library of lost varieties of heritage English fruit in a treasury of recipe and reflection. * Waterstones Weekly *The legendary chef opens the door to a living library of lost varieties of heritage English fruit in a treasury of recipe and reflection. * Waterstones Weekly *Blanc says [apples are] . . . the root of everything. A kind of symbol for Britain to move forward by reconnecting with the past. * The Times *Blanc says [apples are] . . . the root of everything. A kind of symbol for Britain to move forward by reconnecting with the past. * The Times *Blanc set about the most thorough apple-tasting and cooking project I have heard of . . . [The Lost Orchard] condenses the highlights, his love letters to the forgotten apple breeds. * The Times *Blanc set about the most thorough apple-tasting and cooking project I have heard of . . . [The Lost Orchard] condenses the highlights, his love letters to the forgotten apple breeds. * The Times *Beautifully written by our favourite French chef, these recipes are inspired by Raymond Blanc's love of the British orchard. It's a love affair with apples and a bit of history, too. * Closer *Beautifully written by our favourite French chef, these recipes are inspired by Raymond Blanc's love of the British orchard. It's a love affair with apples and a bit of history, too. * Closer *A beautifully presented recipe guide that doubles as a nostalgic paean to the heritage and provenance of forgotten varieties of British fruit, Blanc's latest volume is much, much more than just a cookbook. Adorned with evocative black and white drawings and a treasury of anecdote, The Lost Orchard is a sumptuous feast for the senses. * Waterstones *A beautifully presented recipe guide that doubles as a nostalgic paean to the heritage and provenance of forgotten varieties of British fruit, Blanc's latest volume is much, much more than just a cookbook. Adorned with evocative black and white drawings and a treasury of anecdote, The Lost Orchard is a sumptuous feast for the senses. * Waterstones *More than a cookbook, this is a love letter to the English orchard, [Raymond Blanc] writes tenderly about the hundreds of varieties he has planted in his orchard at Le Manoir, each as precious to him as a much-loved child. * Sunday Times – Best Food and Drink Books 2019 *More than a cookbook, this is a love letter to the English orchard, [Raymond Blanc] writes tenderly about the hundreds of varieties he has planted in his orchard at Le Manoir, each as precious to him as a much-loved child. * Sunday Times – Best Food and Drink Books 2019 *This is a reference book that you can turn to if you want to know anything about apples. It will fly off the shelves for hundreds of years. * Tim Hayward *This is a reference book that you can turn to if you want to know anything about apples. It will fly off the shelves for hundreds of years. * Tim Hayward *The Lost Orchard is a paean to the orchard behind the chef's restaurant in Oxfordshire. Each variety is described in terms of growing and cooking; the very names are evocative. The last chapter provides excellent fruit recipes. * Evening Standard - Best Cookbooks of 2019 *The Lost Orchard is a paean to the orchard behind the chef's restaurant in Oxfordshire. Each variety is described in terms of growing and cooking; the very names are evocative. The last chapter provides excellent fruit recipes. * Evening Standard - Best Cookbooks of 2019 *Raymond Blanc has spent the past seven years creating a 2,500-tree orchard at his Oxfordshire restaurant, Le Manoir. Here, he describes the experience with passion, introducing us to many 'forgotten' varieties, and revealing how best to use them in the kitchen. * The Week - Nine of the best food books from 2019 *Raymond Blanc has spent the past seven years creating a 2,500-tree orchard at his Oxfordshire restaurant, Le Manoir. Here, he describes the experience with passion, introducing us to many 'forgotten' varieties, and revealing how best to use them in the kitchen. * The Week - Nine of the best food books from 2019 *Must read! French chef Raymond Blanc has written a new book dedicated to the impressive orchard he has planted in the grounds of his hotel-restaurant in Oxfordshire, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, which is full of trees producing ancient and forgotten varieties of British and French fruit. * Living France *Must read! French chef Raymond Blanc has written a new book dedicated to the impressive orchard he has planted in the grounds of his hotel-restaurant in Oxfordshire, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, which is full of trees producing ancient and forgotten varieties of British and French fruit. * Living France *A true delight * The Caterer *A true delight * The Caterer *Blanc's enthusiasm fills this story with not only of what we have nearly lost in Britain and France, but what we could regain. * Love England *Blanc's enthusiasm fills this story with not only of what we have nearly lost in Britain and France, but what we could regain. * Love England *Raymond celebrates the gentler pleasure of home. He chronicles the 2,500-tree orchard he has planted in the grounds of his Oxfordshire hotel-restaurant, Le Manoir. He salutes the orchard's ancient and forgotten varieties . . . along with tempting recipes . . . - Waitrose WeekendRaymond celebrates the gentler pleasure of home. He chronicles the 2,500-tree orchard he has planted in the grounds of his Oxfordshire hotel-restaurant, Le Manoir. He salutes the orchard's ancient and forgotten varieties . . . along with tempting recipes . . . - Waitrose WeekendIn his book The Lost Orchard, Blanc writes with typical romance about the bountiful breadth of fruit varieties that England produced in the days before the supermarket era. * The Telegraph *In his book The Lost Orchard, Blanc writes with typical romance about the bountiful breadth of fruit varieties that England produced in the days before the supermarket era. * The Telegraph *You can't go wrong with the French chef's recipes, perfected over many years at his mother's side and in his Michelin-starred kitchen, but this is also a love letter to the English orchard, whose slow destruction he dates to the arrival of the Golden Delicious in the 1970s. He writes tenderly about the hundreds of varieties he has planted at Le Manoir. * The Saturday Review, THE TIMES *You can't go wrong with the French chef's recipes, perfected over many years at his mother's side and in his Michelin-starred kitchen, but this is also a love letter to the English orchard, whose slow destruction he dates to the arrival of the Golden Delicious in the 1970s. He writes tenderly about the hundreds of varieties he has planted at Le Manoir. * The Saturday Review, THE TIMES *

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Book Synopsis'Is farsainn beul a' bhothain'There is always a welcome at the hutAre you ready for the good life? Huts, whether in the country, by the sea or near to home, are a glimpse into nature, letting us slow down and enjoy the details of life's little things and create time for self-care, health and a sustainable way of living.Whether you will design alone, build as a group, or just want to find the perfect spot for a restful interlude, PeterMacQueen shares his knowledge and insight on all things hutting - from foraging and places to stay, to firemaking and solar panels - alongside some seasoned hutters who share their tales of the joys and challenges.Full of tips, stories and recipes, The Art of Hutting will teach you how to create the ultimate sense of wellbeing and community, take the sting out of nettle soup and even bake the Hebridean way!

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Book SynopsisLearn what to feed garden birds, as well as how to attract birds by planting the right flowers, trees and shrubs, and practical projects for feeders, bird boxes and birdbaths; includes a visual directory to common garden birds.

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Book SynopsisPlanting for Pollinators is an easy-to-use gardening guide to help you encourage different types of insect pollinators into your garden.Insect pollinators not only bring joy to our gardens, they also provide an essential service for our planet. Without bees, flies, hoverflies, butterflies, moths and beetles, some of our favourite foods, flowers and plants would cease to exist. Whether you have a large garden, an urban balcony or just a window box, planting to encourage pollinators is a fantastic and surprisingly easy first step in creating a wildlife-friendly space. Planting for Pollinators features a wide range of plants, with guidance on the best ways to nurture lawns and verges, pollinator predation and tips on watching and photographing wildlife. Beautifully illustrated throughout with images from award-winning wildlife photographer Heather Angel, this essential guide will show you how plants communicate with insects, and why it''s so importaTrade ReviewI love this book, it's packed with gorgeous photos and practical advice, featuring my favourite plants and my favourite pollinators. * Kate Bradbury, author of Wildlife Gardening *I can fully recommend this book for its wealth of information and for highlighting the importance of pollinators for our planet’s survival. -- Val Bourne * The Garden *[A] beautiful and informative book that focuses on the fascinating relationship between plants and insects. * The English Garden *The author’s photos and illustrations of flowers and insects make this book a delight to peruse for ideas. -- Margaret Heller * Library Journal *If you want to create an abundant habitat for pollinators – and who doesn't – you will be inspired by this gorgeous new book... filled with stunning photos, the book provides insights and inspiration for transforming your garden, balcony or even a modest window box into a buzzing paradise for pollinators. * Writers Voice *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Parts of a flower What is pollination? Types of pollination Why pollinators and flowers need each other How flowers communicate with pollinators Rewards and pseudo-rewards Looking at lawns The decline of pollinators Pollinator predation Redressing the balance Choosing Plants for Pollinators - Spring - Summer - Autumn - Winter Watching pollinators Daytime forays Native versus alien flowers Pollen load colours Nocturnal sorties Photo tips Into the future Glossary Further reading and resources Acknowledgements Index

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Book Synopsis ‘Garden Book of the Year’ – Garden Media Guild Awards 2022 Discover Britain’s most beautiful and inspiring wild gardens, and how you can make your own. Winner ‘Best Garden Book of the Year’ Garden Media Guild Awards 2022 Despite our best efforts, and no matter how much we prune, tidy and shape our gardens, they are inherently wild. In fact, it is often the most unrestrained and untamed areas that add drama and romance. In this glorious celebration of exuberant, naturalistic planting, we take a walk on the wild side. Be transported to lush valleys and tropical jungles with exotic gardens shaped by Victorian plant hunters. Wander through beautiful bluebell woods, blossoming orchards and magical wildflower meadows, and explore prairie-style gardens inspired by North American grasslands. Discover special places influenced by natural landscapes, and sustainably managed spaces designed with wildlife in mind. You’ll find out how wild play areas can help children to connect with nature and how immersing yourself in quiet woodland can immediately benefit your sense of well-being. A helpful guide also offers advice and tips on how to create and manage your own wildlife-friendly garden so that you can attract birds, bees, bats, bugs and many other wild and wonderful creatures.Trade ReviewFrom the orchid-studded wild flower meadows of Stowe and the artful gardens that Dan Pearson recently designed around the picturesque ruins of Lowther Castle, to the tree fern glades of Trengwainton in Cornwall, the exotic “jungle” of Glendurgan (also in Cornwall), and the “nature on steroids, visual suckerpunch” that is Bodnant, Mahon paints a vivid, immersive picture of these “wild” gardens and how they support a complex, biodiverse range of vulnerable habitats. The Irish Times

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Book SynopsisIn The Regenerative Garden, discover 80 projects that put you and your garden in-sync with nature, which leads to reduced maintenance and a wiser use of resources, and results in a garden that practically cares for itself.Trade Review"Within each chapter are many projects that you can readily accomplish at reasonable cost and time. In fact, you might scratch your head and think….why haven’t I done that. Do not scold yourself because with this book in hand, you can do it! Follow these permaculture suggestions and you will become a better informed and more eco-conscious gardener." * George Graine, The Graine Thumb *"This is a must-need book in your gardening library." -- Maria Colletti, author of Terrariums: Gardens Under Glass * Shepherd.com *"Conservation of materials, eliminating waste and a concern for introducing children to the joys of the garden are present alongside useful tips. Anyone who yearns for planting season will appreciate this book." * Connecticut Horticultural Society *Table of ContentsForewordIntroduction1 | SoilGrowing from the Ground Up2 | WaterEfficiency in Collection and Use3 | PlantsGrowing Life4 | ClimateCreating Harmony5 | EthicsReducing Waste and Encouraging Diversity6 | CommunityBuilding Sharing Spaces for EveryoneResourcesAbout the AuthorAcknowledgmentsCitationsIndex

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Book SynopsisLearn how to design and nurture a beautiful, vibrant and magical space. Bring the energy and atmosphere of wild places into your garden while incorporating sustainable living, growing your own food in harmony with the land.Trade ReviewThis is a fantastic book... I absolutely love the way that [it] captures the spirituality of the land and the magic of nature. * Jane Goodall, anthropologist and primatologist *The Garden Awakening re-awakens sweet memories of my childhood and a love for nature. Mary Reynolds book is like an inspirational ‘clarion call’ to all of us humans to reconnect again with nature, where many of us are caught and suffocate in a pressurized, exploitative, dysfunctional concrete jungle. * Duncan Stewart, eco-architect, environmentalist & TV presenter *A new manifesto for working with nature, The Garden Awakening seeks to re-establish our vital link with the world they live in. Mary Reynolds knows there is more, much more, to the outdoors than pretty gardens and her new book sets to show how you can unlock nature’s secrets by immersion in what’s around you. * Jim Carroll, journalist, writer and broadcaster *Gifted with the Irish heritage of great story-telling, Mary weaves a fine tapestry of stories instilled with ancient druidic wisdom, which she offers helpful practical ways of applying in the modern world. The Garden Awakening is a truly wonderful and highly inspiring read. * Markéta Irglová, Grammy and Oscar winning singer songwriter/actor *Mary Reynolds weaves a wonderful tapestry in which the garden is not only a resilient, productive and healthy space that provides food, it is also a magical place of beauty, peace and inner nurture. * Maddy Harland, Permanent Publications *Mary Reynolds has been appointed a guide, something she possibly didn’t ask for, but that’s been bestowed upon her capable shoulders.... She connects back to a deep past, to a timeless growth and regrowth, to the natural, to the voices moving in the land, to a church not made by hands. * Glen Hansard, Grammy and Oscar winning singer songwriter and actor *Mary Reynolds is not really a garden designer: at least not in the same way that the rest of us are garden designers. She is a custodian of the earth, a creature of the forest and, above all, a creative spirit whose work is so deeply anchored to the earth that her gardens are always a partnership rather than an imposition. In this book she explains her philosophy, her life and her dreams. You need to listen to her voice as what she says makes perfect sense. * James Alexander-Sinclair – RHS judge and television presenter *The Garden Awakening has woken me up. Beautifully written with a message that will open your eyes to a whole new outside world. A revelation. Mary Reynolds preaches harmony. You will be a convert. * Eoin Colfer, writer of the Artemis Fowl series *The Garden Awakening offers a treasury of insight and advice for anyone who feels that our culture’s relationship to land has profoundly lost its way and is seeking new inspiration. Her skilful drawing together of history and beauty, her acute appreciation of place, and her belief in taking nature as the model for how we design, together offer us something that feels deeply right and utterly timely. * Rob Hopkins, author of The Power of Just Doing Stuff *Garnering insight from permaculture, biodynamics, and her own wonderful weird, [Mary] shows how to deepen the conversation until it becomes both profound and ecstatic. The Garden Awakening reminds us that the natural but hidden connections between soil and soul are at once familiar, comfortable, and sovereign. -- Peter Bane – Author ‘The Permaculture Handbook: Garden Farming for Town and Country’ www.permaculturehandbook.comBrims with poetry and mythology and psychology and algebra and geometry and ancient symbols and dream-like parables and other unexpected things. In [Mary's] hands the wounded earth becomes a living, breathing creature: it sighs and moans and remembers. We really should sit up and take notice she tells us – the earth won’t forget. * Billy Roche, playwright and actor *The Garden Awakening performs the miracle of waking up and engaging someone like me with no prior interest in gardens; in fact, showing me an idea of the garden quite unlike anything I had ever imagined. This book is not only strikingly original, but lucid, inspiring and soundly practical. * Gillies MacKinnon, film director, writer and artist *The Garden Awakening by Mary Reynolds has put into words what gardeners feel they should be doing and know to be true but society doesn’t encourage this way of thinking. Mary has tuned into nature and articulated it better than I have ever read before. Every gardener needs to read this book to empowered themselves to do what their heart desires. * Fergal Smith, pro-surfer turned organic farmer *Marvellous... I loved this book and feel that with each passing year it will become more important... a remarkable, inspirational and admirable woman has written a book that should be essential reading for everyone interested in the real meaning of wellbeing in its widest sense. * Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of the Eden Project *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Foreword by Larry Korn Introduction I. Restoring Wellness Sacred Spaces Nature is Stronger than Nurture Finding Your Roots Restoring Health to your Land II. Garden Design Gardens as expressions of beauty The five elements for designing gardens in partnership with nature Design element 1: The tool of intention. Magic uncloaked Design element 2: Selecting areas to hold specific intentions Design element 3: Designing with the patterns and shapes of nature Design element 4: The power of symbols and imagery Design element 5: Putting your design on paper III. The Forest Garden Forging an alliance Listen I Never Liked Planting Plans Grow Your Own Forest Gardening Successional Planting Forest Gardening in Steps The Seven Layers of a Forest Garden Bees for Life Joe IV. Alternative Management Practices Mulching Ways to Clear the Land Lawns and Lawn Maintenance Pest Control Natural Remedies Tonics, Fertilizers, Potting Mixtures and Tree Protection The Cultivation and Care of Trees Resources Index

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