Gardener's Folklore

Ever wondered if there's any truth behind planting by the moon? Or why wassailing is still a common folk practice in some parts of the world? In Gardener's Folklore, these practices is demystified, and accompanied by plenty of tips and tricks to try in your own 21st century garden for blooming bushes and plentiful potatoes.

First published in 1976, Gardener's Folklore collects the little bits of magic and myth to be found in the gardens of Britain and North America. Compiled from letters sent by gardeners to the author Margaret Baker, it unravels and documents the mysterious sayings and scraps of knowledge that are passed down through generations, while exploring the science of the time that backed up - or in some cases, didn't - the claims that were made.

This delightfully written book shows just what people have believed, and still believe will help their plants to grow, including the observance of lunar and astrological conditions when planting, ways of encouraging fruit-bearing and discouraging pests, beliefs about the effects of the climate and calendar and many more aspects of gardening lore.

With this edition of Gardener's Folklore, the ancient secrets of a happy and healthy garden are shared for a new generation of green-fingered plant-lovers.