Conran Octopus Gardener's Factfile

This guide provides the ideas and know-how needed for creating a garden from scratch. Aimed at the novice gardener, the book takes you through every stage of the design, construction and planting process, helping to assess your needs and match them to your plot, budget and time available. Construction and planting techniques are illustrated in step-by-step projects that include building steps, planting a tree and installing a water feature. Notebook sections include grids and storyboards for designing individual features and planting schemes. A plant care troublehooters helps you to identify and treat common ailments and a calendar of essential tasks will help your garden look good all year round.

Noël Kingsbury is recognized internationally as a leading innovator in horticulture and landscape. His main area of interest and expertise is nature-inspired planting design, and the application of plant ecology to design and garden management. He writes for the UK and US garden press and has written 15 books. Together with Tim Richardson, he co-hosts 'The Vista Debates', a monthly forum for the discussion of garden and landscape issues, at London's Museum of Garden History.