Canadian author Margaret Atwood said in her work Two-Headed Poems, ‘This is the rock garden. In it, the stones too are flowers’, exemplifying the attraction that a rock garden holds for many people. Rock gardens appeal not just to plant enthusiasts but also to those with an interest in geology. A successful rock garden depends on skilful use of stone to create an aesthetically pleasing design, as well as a suitable habitat for plants.

This lavishly illustrated book explores the history of the creation and design of rock gardens, as well as their place in society.

'Fashionable in the 1970s, the rock garden's place in history and society is reassessed by Harland.' * Horticulture Week, March 2025 *
'I loved this book even more than I expected to. Gail covers just about every aspect of gardening that you can think of. I really enjoyed this book, it is truly interesting and informative. I can happily recommend it.' * The Blackberry Garden, April 2025 *

Gail Harland is a regular contributor to Cage and Aviary Birds magazine and author of six books including Foraging for Edible Wild Plants and Snowdrop. She lectures on plants and birds. Her interest in birdkeeping was inspired by Peter the budgerigar, her grandmother’s companion bird.