In this memoir one of the greatest plantsmen of the last century recalls the great gardens and gardeners that he knew, including such figures as Gertrude Jekyll, Edward Bowles, William Robinson and Vita Sackville-West. Born in 1909, Graham Stuart Thomas was a friend and adviser to hundreds of the most interesting of his gardening contemporaries, before becoming Garden Consultant to the National Trust. It is an exciting privilege to see his chosen gardens as he went round them with their owners and to note with them the special features and plants that made them outstanding. The admiration he feels for these gardens is transparent, and we meet some outstanding personalities (some well known, some less so) in the company of one who knew them well and shared their passion for plants.

Recollections of Great Gardeners

Crafts, Hobbies & Home

Stuart Thomas, Graham

Gardening & Landscape Design

Frances Lincoln

This is a comprehensive and detailed survey of woody plants undertaken by one of the world's most knowledgeable plantsmen. Thousands of species, their hybrids and cultivars are described in a directory accompanied by practical advice covering planting, cultivation, pruning, propagation and pests, adorned with charming and relevant quotations from other sources. Graham Stuart Thomas discusses the history of shrubs in Britain, their introduction and use at different periods, as well as the value of shrubs in the garden today - for their individual beauty or as a structural part of mixed plantings. The expert information is always related to the interests of the gardener: characteristics such as size, evergreen or deciduous, colour of flower, scent, season of flowering, autumn colour, methods of propagation are all given in an ingenious Line of Facts for easy reference. Lively short descriptions of the characters of each plant help amateurs and professionals alike choose what to grow and what to avoid.

Ornamental Shrubs, Climbers and Bamboos

In this book, which is part history and part practical guide, Graham Stuart Thomas paints a portrait of the landscape movement of the 18th century and, in particular, the principles of Humphry Repton, assessing the way trees can be used to create landscapes. He goes on to explain the practical aspects of evaluating trees in the landscape, how to predict their future growth and shape and how to apply these lessons to the art of making new landscapes. Problems of drainage, climate, ground level and peculiarities of various species of tree and their ability to be mixed with others are all thoroughly discussed, and there is a comprehensive list of trees and shrubs suitable for landscape design. Beyond the making of private and civic landscapes, Graham Stuart Thomas recognises the need to design and plant for the future. Scenic countryside, parks and public gardens in urban centres are the legacy of good planning by past generations. Today, more than ever, there is a need to conserve open spaces. This book provides a map for imaginative yet realistic landscape planning for the future.

Trees in the Landscape

Arts & Photography

Graham Stuart Thomas made rock gardens an important part of his life's work. In this book, the first complete history and exposition of rock gardening, he provides the necessary geological background, traces the historical introduction of alpine plants and gives practical and aesthetic advice on how to create a rock garden and choose suitable plants. There are chapters on all the relevant topics – including grottoes, the history of early rock gardens, the scree garden, the alpine lawn, the peat garden, paths, ponds, the rock garden in autumn, dwarf conifers – and extensive information on suitable plants and shrubs. There is a revealing chapter on the restoration and maintenance of rock gardens, which dispels the fear that rock gardens involve a large amount of detailed work. Numerous illustration, many of which are of special historic interest, help to make this the most authoritative, comprehensive and up-to-date volume on the subject.

The Rock Garden and Its Plants: From Grotta to Alpine House

Hailed as a classic from its first publication, Perennial Garden Plants is the most comprehensive and detailed survey ever undertaken for gardeners. Over 2,000 species are described and practical information is given on planting, seasonal flowering, colour, propagation and cultivation as well as on the origins of plants. In addition, Graham Stuart Thomas covers a wealth of related subjects, including display, shad and moisture, tender plants, pests and diseases, and other useful lists and suggestions for particular need. Throughout this masterly work, Graham Stuart Thomas conveys his immense experience of plants and gardens to provide the standard work of reference on the subject.

Perennial Garden Plants or the Modern Florilegium

The National Trust cares for the finest collection of historic buildings, gardens, parks, landscape and coastline in the world. Its famous and well-respected series of guidebooks provides the essential companion to your visit and a lasting souvenir of the experience. And now you can buy the guide before your visit. Authoritative texts and superb illustrations illuminate the history of the place and tell the stories of the people who have lived and worked there.

Mottisfont Abbey (Hampshire): Garden, House and Estate (National Trust Guidebooks)

Travel

Stone, David

Moore, Cathal

Europe

Tempus

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