The Secret Gardens of the South East

Choosing twenty stunning gardens from amongst hundreds in England must have been a difficult feat indeed. But Barbara Segall chose a wondrous variety from the South East which highlight the incomparable artistry of nature. Art, bits of history and architecture can enhance both formal and informal gardens, whether natural woodlands, succulent plots, herb plantings or secret gardens. Soil, climate and people (in particular relationships) affect what to and how to grow. Deceased greats such as Christopher Lloyd and Gertrude Jekyll are important details in this book, too.

Some gardens are inspired by travels, others by the bones of established gardens. As a master gardener visiting gardens in Europe is one of my favourite past times. This gorgeous book filled to the brim with glorious photography is so lovely that the photography instantly brings memories of my own travels to mind. A favourite of mine in this book include Gertrude Jekyll's Munsted Woods with its paths and rooms, fruit and vegetables. Walled Arundel Castle is resplendent with stunning mass plantings and Long Barn, first garden of Vita Sackville-West, includes unexpected secret rooms.

Many tips feature in conversations with the owners and gardeners such as including the wow factor, maintenance, sharp sheers, seasonal colour, the "no dig" policy and simplicity. Animal topiary and yew hedges always grab my attention and the examples shown are mind boggling. Who could resist the "Stumpery", rose gardens, Cloister Walk, Banqueting House Garden, Circle Pond, Italianate Sunk Garden, The Quadrangle, Hornbeam Walk and Birch Maze? Personal tidbits are included such as Jekyll's predilection for fig trees which I share! I love that the author includes photographs of the owners and gardeners and their gardens and future plans. Most privately-owned gardens in this book are large but a few smaller ones are described as well...so many live in cities and on small farms. Thankfully many gardens are open to the public.

Whether you are an armchair gardener or like getting your green thumbs dirty, you will not regret reading and learning from The Secret Gardens of the South East. Regardless of the climate you live/garden in, there is a lot to enjoy.

My sincere thank you to Quarto Publishing Group - White Lion and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this inspiring book!