British novelist Ronald Firbank once described a character who, when entering a room, brought with her “the tranquility of gardens.” Diana Ross brings that feeling of tranquility — and beauty — to readers in this charming and informative book. In Gardeners, she leads a tour of nearly two dozen of Britain’s loveliest gardens, exploring each space in depth and talking with the owner. Through these interviews, readers learn about the owners’ relationship with the plants, who and what have inspired them, and how they approach the pleasures and challenges of garden making. Some are famous horticulturalists and designers; others gifted amateurs. Ross’ simpatico style brings out each subject’s particular approach. They include Roy Lancaster, Thomas Pakenham, Lady Salisbury, Anthea Gibson, Dan Pearson, Kim Wilkie, Beth Chatto, James Lovelock, and others.

British novelist Ronald Firbank once described a character who, when entering a room, brought with her “the tranquility of gardens.” Diana Ross brings that feeling of tranquility — and beauty — to readers in this charming and informative book. In Gardeners, she leads a tour of nearly two dozen of Britain’s loveliest gardens, exploring each space in depth and talking with the owner. Through these interviews, readers learn about the owners’ relationship with the plants, who and what have inspired them, and how they approach the pleasures and challenges of garden making. Some are famous horticulturalists and designers; others gifted amateurs. Ross’ simpatico style brings out each subject’s particular approach. They include Roy Lancaster, Thomas Pakenham, Lady Salisbury, Anthea Gibson, Dan Pearson, Kim Wilkie, Beth Chatto, James Lovelock, and others.