Wood and Garden: Notes and Thoughts, Practical and Critical, of a Working Amateur

A horticultural guide written in the late 19th century. This book captures the author's passionate reflections on gardening, blending practical advice with critical insights. The focus is primarily on the joys of cultivating a garden, particularly emphasizing the aesthetic arrangements of plants and flowers to inspire both experienced gardeners and novices alike. The opening of ''Wood and Garden'' introduces the idea of gardening as a lifelong pursuit filled with joy and learning. Gertrude Jekyll shares her experiences and observations from many years of tending to her garden, advocating for a pictorial approach to gardening that highlights beauty and harmony. She reflects on the importance of understanding the unique qualities of various plants and encourages readers to cultivate their gardens according to personal tastes, emphasizing the emotional satisfaction that comes from this intimate relationship with nature.