The Penguin Book of Basic Gardening by Alan Gemmell

“The Penguin Book of Basic Gardening” is a guidebook to gardening written by Alan Gemmell and published by Penguin Books in 1975. The book is designed to provide an introduction to gardening for beginners and covers a wide range of topics related to growing plants, flowers, and vegetables.

The book is divided into three main sections: “Getting Started,” “Planting and Cultivation,” and “The Garden Year.” In the first section, Gemmell provides an overview of the basic tools and materials needed for gardening, as well as advice on planning and preparing a garden plot.

The second section covers the various aspects of planting and cultivation, including soil preparation, seeding and transplanting, and pruning and fertilizing. Gemmell also provides information on caring for specific types of plants, such as trees, shrubs, and roses.

In the final section, “The Garden Year,” Gemmell provides a month-by-month guide to the tasks and activities that need to be done in the garden throughout the year. He also includes a section on garden design and landscaping, with tips on creating attractive and functional outdoor spaces.

“The Penguin Book of Basic Gardening” is a comprehensive and accessible guide to gardening for beginners. The book is well-organized and easy to follow, with clear explanations and practical advice. Whether you are looking to start a small vegetable garden or create a beautiful flower bed, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in gardening.