The English Garden is the universal measure of all things related to garden design. It is in the UK that the great garden designers live and work and where a major gardening movement has developed over the last few decades, influencing the rest of the world with its ideas and vision. This book introduces the “grandes dames” of contemporary English garden design and includes the great names of the garden world which have emerged since the 1950s, from Vita Sackville-West and Beth Chatto to Beatrix Havergal.
It also presents outstanding women gardeners of the present-day who have likewise had a substantial influence on the development of contemporary garden design. Heidi Howcroft has discovered these women’s gardening secrets and writes sensitively and informatively about the individual women and their influence on the English country garden. The individual gardens’ charm and design are captured in photos by Marianne Majerus.
"much to learn from the gardening philosophies of these inspirational women and their dynamic planting compositions." "Gardening guru Margery Fish - a 50s horticultural rebel - is one of the stars of a brilliant new book" "First Ladies of Gardening illustrates that there is not just a single type of English garden but a diverse range of glorious and inspiring alternatives, all beautifully photographed by award-winning photographer, Marianne Majerus." "much to appreciate and learn" "enjoyable and informative copy and finely observed photographs." "Mrs Howcroft writes engagingly ... and there is much to enjoy and learn from the glorious photographs by the talented Marianne Majerus." "Setting out to celebrate the English garden, this informative, inspiring and visual treat of a book highlights the contribution of fourteen different female gardeners." "Gardening guru Margery Fish - a 50s horticultural rebel - is one of the stars of a brilliant new book" "much to learn from the gardening philosophies of these inspirational women and their dynamic planting compositions." "... one of the most delightful and enjoyable books I have read in quite a while." "Among the plethora of recent books showcasing gardens one has really stood out for me - First Ladies of Gardening" "First Ladies of Gardening illustrates that there is not just a single type of English garden but a diverse range of glorious and inspiring alternatives, all beautifully photographed by award-winning photographer, Marianne Majerus."