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The Alchemy of Gardening
At a time of ecological crisis, this book encourages us to think differently about our own small patches of land, helping us to heal ourselves and our damaged earth, renewing our connection to the alchemy and magic of gardening. Juggling a heady mix of running a business and caring for her mother, while moving into a remote derelict smallholding, Jan was diagnosed with a life-limiting chronic illness. This experience not only taught her to slow down and listen more carefully to nature’s teachings; it gave her a new approach to gardening from which we can all benefit. The Alchemy of Gardening weaves an inspiring combination of Jan’s extensive knowledge of gardening with the story of her journey back to health and the deep, regenerative relationship she cherishes with the land she inhabits. Following the Celtic calendar, Jan takes us through the gardening year, tuning us in to the rhythms of the seasons, offering practical tips and a mindful philosophy. This accessible investigation into rewilding, permaculture and organic techniques is interspersed with beautiful lyrical passages depicting the ebb and flow of the seasons.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
August 11, 2024
I’ve always considered myself fortunate to have been a gardener, a gardener for both work and pleasure
From my horticultural training as a 17 year old to now at 60 my connection with plants, gardeners and the outside has only brought me calmness and pleasure.
Here in The Alchemy of Gardening by Jan Hoyland I have revelled in her words of wisdom, her celebration of life, her journey as her working life changed to find a way of being at peace with her new methods of growing.
I urge you to read this “heartfelt plea for the return of wildness, nature and joyous experimentation into our lives”, I guarantee once you have dipped a toe in you will want to swim and swim until you have reached the end.
This book is beautifully written, well thought out and something I will keep close by to re read sections as the seasons change.
Dan Thomas
Professional gardener and co founder of Potager Garden, Cornwall.
From my horticultural training as a 17 year old to now at 60 my connection with plants, gardeners and the outside has only brought me calmness and pleasure.
Here in The Alchemy of Gardening by Jan Hoyland I have revelled in her words of wisdom, her celebration of life, her journey as her working life changed to find a way of being at peace with her new methods of growing.
I urge you to read this “heartfelt plea for the return of wildness, nature and joyous experimentation into our lives”, I guarantee once you have dipped a toe in you will want to swim and swim until you have reached the end.
This book is beautifully written, well thought out and something I will keep close by to re read sections as the seasons change.
Dan Thomas
Professional gardener and co founder of Potager Garden, Cornwall.
Displaying 1 of 1 review