The Wild Garden by William Robinson : A New Illustrated Edition with Photographs and Notes by Charles Nelson (New illustrated ed.)

Few people have owned a copy of The Wild Garden, yet it is one of the most influential books published in the history of gardening.

Published in 1870, it was revised many times during Robinson's long life.

It challenged the prevailing formal bedding style, advocating a naturalistic approach, using hardy perennials and annuals to provide long-lasting, self-perpetuating displays in the same way as they do in the wild.

The book has a special resonance for Irish gardens and gardeners, not simply because Robinson is Irish and trained as a gardener in Ireland.

The style of gardening he advocates succeeds very well in the Irish landscape and climate and, some might say, appeals to the Irish character.

This edition, the first published in Ireland, is augmented with captivating photographs of plants discussed by Robinson and notes by Charles Nelson, whose introductory essay sets Robinson and his book in context.