This volume collects 50 stories of gardening invention, innovation and discovery. Among them is that of Thomas Hyl, who in 1577 devised the first water sprinkler; Nathaniel Ward who began a craze for indoor gardening in 1829 with his terrarium case; and Henry Telende, who in 1720 grew England's first pineapple. From the invention of the trellis, flower pots and the waterscrew in the ancient world; via secateurs, jute string and flame guns in the Victorian age; to the Gro-Bag and Flymo of modern times, the ingenious achievements make an inspiring international collection.

Ever wondered if you could grow plants from the food you buy? Grow Your Groceries shows you how.

Discover 40 simple, fun hacks to try – no gardening experience needed, just a windowsill and a recycled container.

Raise tomato plants from tomato slices. Collect strawberry seeds for endless strawberry plants. Pick salad leaves from beetroot tops. Split teabags for flowering camomile. Grow fresh cobs from popcorn kernels.

So don’t throw away your melon seeds and spring onion trimmings, save them to grow new plants instead!

A variety of practical gardening topics in handy small-format books that can be kept by one’s side while working in the garden.

The series was inspired by the author’s numerous visits and lecture tours to gardening clubs across the country. With South Africa’s variable climate and topography, each region presents its own set of unique challenges that make gardening a truly specialist hobby. But in spite of these problems, almost every South African town boasts exquisite gardens. This series aims to inspire and equip gardeners across the country with the knowledge and know-how to create a beautiful garden of their own.

In each book the secrets of successful gardening are summarised in ten key concepts.

Planned topics in the series include:

• Planning the garden
• Choosing plants for the garden
• Preparing the garden for planting
• Irrigation systems
• Composting and other types of nourishment
• Pests and diseases
• Water features and ponds
• Creating focal points in the garden
• Lighting for the garden
• Pruning
• Bulbs
• The winter garden
• And many more