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

Ten perennials appear here, each a specific cultivar carefully selected for its innate and enduring beauty. The photographs show every critical stage of their development, creating an album which should inspire planting that is as attractive in Winter as Spring. Each plant is described in detail, explaining not just how it develops and the conditions in which it develops, but also its cultural, historic and folkloric associations.

In a fast-paced world with mega upheaval, including climate crises and a global pandemic, the allure of growing your own food, being self-sufficient, and living green is immense. This yearning for not being wholly reliant on the supermarket, and the growing concerns over pesticides and food miles has led to the resurgence in seeking old-world skills. As showcased in Urban Homesteads, the benefits of a productive garden on your doorstep or within arm's reach, tending to chickens, harvesting your own honey, and using eco-friendly water-harvesting techniques are clear: fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruit on tap, fresh eggs, delicious honey; plus living at a slower pace, better value for money, and a more soothing and mindful existence. Of course, a healthy garden and environment also attracts beneficial insects and birds. Get inspired with this book's range of eco-friendly possibilities from around the globe. With beautiful full-colour photos, gathered here are stories of people who have set up their own productive and abundant back yard or patio, as well as examples of great vertical planters, indoor gardens, and those who have reached into the urban community allotment. Use this book to start your own journey with an urban homestead lifestyle, with lots of generous tips, modern green concepts as well as a twist of modern, technically savvy know-how. All the practical guidance you need on how to be the change you want to see.