Gardening for Pleasure is a rarity—a practical guide filled with invaluable advice, presented in such an engaging way that it is a delight to read from cover to cover. This book is sure to enlighten and entertain gardeneres, even those who have little experience and a limited amount of time.

Ursula Buchan's enjoyment of gardening is infectious. Insisting that gardens and plants are meant to be enjoyed, she explains which gardening tasks should be undertaken throughout the year and suggests the best ways to do them. She clarifies basic techniques such as planting, watering, pruning, and propagation, and explains which chores are unnecessary or impractical. Her experiences in creating new gardens and revamping existing ones are instructive, as are her tips on what to look for when choosing and buying plants. She also discusses the different planting and cultivation needs of various plant groups, from annuals, perennials, and roses to trees, shrubs, vegetables, fruit, and herbs, concluding with information on their care and maintenance.

Originally published in 1987, this book has been completely revised and illustrated throughout. Over 280 color photographs clearly show how to perform essential gardening tasks, while the captivating photographs provide inspiration for gardeners at every level of expertise. Wittily written as a narrative, Gardening for Pleasure is a both a joy to read and an invaluable reference.

About the Author

Ursula Buchan trained as a gardener at the Royal Horticultural Society's garden at Wisley and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. An enthusiastic gardener and highly respected gardening writer, she is now the main gardening columnist for London's The Sunday Telegraph. She has written a number of books, including Wall Plants and Climbers, The Classic Horticulturalist, The Garden Book, and The Village Show, a subject about which she also made two television series. In 1992, the Garden Writer's Guild voted her "Garden Writer of the Year."