Home Ground: Sanctuary in the City

by Dan Pearson
Home Ground: Sanctuary in the City cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Design, and Photography
Technical
  • ID: 4757
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-23
  • ISBN: 9781840915372
  • Publisher: Conran
  • Published: 2011-09-07
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Home Ground,' Dan Pearson invites readers into his personal gardening adventure, documenting the trials and triumphs of cultivating a rare city plot over ten years. Through a series of diary-like essays arranged by seasons, Pearson shares the horticultural challenges and successes he encounters, offering a unique glimpse into the mind of a master garden designer. The book is not just a gardening guide but a beautifully photographed and written account that brings the experience of gardening to life, making it a captivating read for both gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers alike./n/nPearson's 'real-time' documentation provides an intimate look at the evolution of his urban garden, from initial neglect to a flourishing space. His reflective and romantic writing style, combined with stunning photography, creates a vivid narrative that celebrates the beauty and complexity of gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate the art of landscape design, 'Home Ground' offers inspiration and insight into the creative process behind one of the world's most respected garden designers.

Reviews
Tangly Cottage Gardening · 2025-10-23
engaging 4.75

The book is highlighted as the reviewer's favorite among several garden books read recently. It is praised for its engaging content and has inspired the reviewer to explore more of Dan Pearson's work.

Among the several garden books the reviewer has read in the past month, this one stands out as their favorite. The content is engaging and inspiring, making it a standout choice. The reviewer has even placed interlibrary loans for three other books by Dan Pearson, eager to delve deeper into his work. The book's ability to captivate and inspire is evident, making it a must-read for any gardening enthusiast.

Quick quotes

    Of the several garden books I've read in the past month, it is my favourite.

    I've placed interlibrary loans for three other books by Dan Pearson and eagerly ...

    It is a must-read for any gardening enthusiast.

Frustrated Gardener · 2018-02-04
delightful 4.00

Dan Pearson's writing style is soft and gentle, making the book a joy to read. The book is full of insights and beautiful descriptions of urban gardening.

The reviewer appreciates Dan Pearson's gentle and engaging writing style, which makes the book a delightful read. They highlight the book's insights into urban gardening and the beautiful descriptions of transforming neglected city plots. The book is seen as a valuable addition to any gardener's library, offering both practical advice and inspirational ideas. The reviewer finds Pearson's approach to gardening both relatable and aspirational.

Quick quotes

    Dan P has a soft, gentle, style in the way he writes and gardens.

    This book is full of insights and beautiful descriptions of urban gardening.

    It's a valuable addition to any gardener's library.

Daily News · 2011-08-27
informative 4.00

The book records a year in the life of transforming a neglected city garden, offering a unique insight into the work and thoughts of a landscaper.

This review emphasizes the book's documentation of a year in the life of an urban garden transformation. The reviewer appreciates the unique insights into the work and thoughts of landscaper Dan Pearson. They find the book both informative and engaging, offering a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of urban gardening. The book is seen as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the process of transforming neglected spaces into thriving gardens.

Quick quotes

    Landscaper Dan Pearson's 'Home Ground: Sanctuary in the City' records a year in the life of transforming a neglected city garden.

    It offers a unique insight into the work and thoughts of a landscaper.

    The book is both informative and engaging, offering a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of urban gardening.

Sally Nex · 2011-05-04
inspiring 4.50

The book is a masterclass in naturalistic planting and creating a sense of place, even in small spaces. Dan Pearson's work is transformative and inspiring.

This review highlights the book as a game-changer in the world of gardening literature. The reviewer praises Dan Pearson's ability to create a sense of place and his expertise in naturalistic planting. They appreciate how Pearson brings the experience of gardening to life, making it accessible and inspiring for readers. The book is seen as a valuable resource for anyone interested in transforming urban spaces into beautiful, functional gardens.

Quick quotes

    It's a masterclass in naturalistic planting and how to create a sense of place even in the smallest spaces.

    This is one of those game-changing books that will inspire you to think differently about your own garden.

    Dan Pearson's work is transformative and inspiring.

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