Second Nature: The Story of a Naturalist's Garden

by Susie White

In a hidden valley tucked into an unspoiled corner of England lies a naturalist's garden that was developed from scratch by award-winning gardener and author Susie White, with the help of her husband and friends. This is the story of how they created a remarkable oasis, a place as alive as it is beautiful.  Susie's vision and passion unfold as she transforms a patch of untended ground into a wildlife-friendly haven planted with flowering perennials, trees, herbs, vegetables, and a wildflower meadow. The spaces teem with owls and blackbirds, bats and mice, butterflies and bees, all drawn by pollen-rich flowers, ponds, and nesting sites. Susie takes us through the planning and construction, and how she designed the garden to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. From the plantings to the structures that provide shelter and habitat, every element reflects Susie's commitment to sustainability. Her account is filled with inspiration and practical advice for gardeners to learn from, as well as her deep appreciation for the natural world and the transformative power of building an outdoor sanctuary for all species to thrive in and enjoy.

288 pages, Paperback

Published April 30, 2024

Reviews

[Phil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this while on holiday in Northumberland earlier this year, following enthusiastic recommendation from the bookshop staff (Cogitos in Hexham - brilliant bookshop and well worth checking out) but it's only just been added to goodreads for me to review.

Susie White created a garden from scratch in rural Northumberland, and this is her account of the garden. It's not strictly speaking a 'how to' book, although keen gardeners will gain plenty of inspiration and practical advice as they read. It's partly a description of the processes involved in designing and creating a garden, partly a plea to garden with greater care for the environment and partly a celebration of the natural world around her. It finishes with a very touching tribute to Ern, the man who maintained her parents' garden during her childhood, and whose gardening wisdom is sprinkled throughout the book.

Recommended to anyone who enjoys good garden writing, and especially to those with an interest in organic gardening, garden design or gardening for wildlife.