The Well-Tempered Garden

by Christopher Lloyd
The Well-Tempered Garden cover
Good Books rating 4.38
How-To and DIY
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £16.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 4752
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9781780228730
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-05-08
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Well-Tempered Garden is a celebrated work by Christopher Lloyd, a renowned plantsman whose love for gardening shines through every page. This updated edition includes a new foreword by Anna Pavord and offers a wealth of knowledge on planting, weeding, propagation, and more, making it an essential read for both novice and experienced gardeners. Lloyd's critical intelligence and humor make this book as fresh and necessary today as it was over four decades ago./n/nHailed as a masterpiece, this book covers a wide range of topics from annuals and water lilies to vegetables, providing keen gardeners with the information they crave. Whether you're looking to enhance your garden or simply enjoy the art of gardening, The Well-Tempered Garden is a must-have addition to your collection.

Reviews
Five Books · 2025-10-22
valuable 4.75

The book is packed with information and no waffle, making it a valuable resource for gardeners. It's a timeless classic that continues to be useful and enjoyable.

The reviewer from Five Books highlighted how the book is full of practical information without any unnecessary fluff. This makes it a valuable resource for gardeners looking for straightforward advice. The timeless nature of the book is evident, as it continues to be useful and enjoyable for readers today. The reviewer appreciated the no-nonsense approach, making it a go-to book for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike. The book's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and the author's expertise.

Quick quotes

    I was just glancing at this book again this afternoon, and what I like about it is that it is full of information and no waffle.

    The Well-Tempered Garden is as useful and as enjoyable today as the day it was first published.

    Christopher Lloyd's insights and advice are timeless, making this book a classic in the gardening world.

John Denson's Blog · John Denson · 2023-06-29
inspiring 4.50

The author's approachable and conversational writing style makes the book a joy to read. Lloyd's love for gardening is evident and infectious.

John Denson praised the book for its approachable and conversational writing style, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in gardening. He highlighted how Christopher Lloyd's passion for gardening is evident throughout the book, making it both informative and inspiring. The book's timeless advice on planning, planting, and maintaining a garden is as relevant today as it was when it was first published. John appreciated the practical tips and the author's unique perspective, making it a valuable addition to any gardener's library.

Quick quotes

    One of the book's most commendable aspects is the author's approachable and conversational writing style.

    Christopher Lloyd's love for gardening is infectious, and his enthusiasm shines through on every page.

    The book's timeless advice on planning, planting, and maintaining a garden is as relevant today as it was when it was first published.

Rona's Quirky Bird Gardener · Rona · 2017-12-14
soothing 4.00

The book's soothing monotony allows readers to develop their own ideas while enjoying Lloyd's gardening insights. It's a unique blend of practical advice and creative stimulation.

Rona found the book to be a calming read, perfect for those moments when you want to let your mind wander. The soothing monotony of Lloyd's writing style is not a drawback but rather a feature, as it leaves the reader's mind free to explore new ideas. Rona appreciated the practical gardening advice interspersed throughout the book, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced gardeners. The conversational tone makes it feel like Lloyd is right there with you, sharing his passion and knowledge.

Quick quotes

    Some people find in it a kind of soothing monotony.

    It leaves their minds free to develop the plot for their next novel or to perfect the gardening techniques they've recently learned.

    Christopher Lloyd's love for gardening is infectious, and his enthusiasm shines through on every page.

Mark McNee · Mark McNee · 2012-05-18
refreshing 4.25

The book is more about 'how to think' rather than 'how to do'. It stands out from other gardening books that focus on repetitive instructions.

Mark McNee finds this book to be a refreshing departure from typical gardening guides. Instead of focusing on repetitive instructions, it encourages readers to think critically and creatively about gardening. This makes it a valuable resource for those who want to deepen their understanding and appreciation of gardening. The reviewer appreciates the book's unique perspective and its ability to inspire thoughtful reflection on the art of gardening.

Quick quotes

    This is not so much a 'how to do' book' as a 'how to think' book.

    Far too much published in the name of gardening is a repeat of 'now do this, ...'

    It encourages readers to think critically and creatively about gardening.

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