Gardening is one of the most popular leisure activities today and most people take it for granted that suitable plants, equipment and information are easily available. This was not always the case. Anne Wilkinson's engaging book recreates the world of amateur Victorian gardeners - those who had no idea how to start gardening, and no information to help them. In the 1860s gardening was mainly the preseve of professionals who worked on large estates, but a new breed of gardeners was emerging - ordinary householders. This book richly illustrated with images from contemporary magazines and other sources, explores their journey to create their own piece of England's 'green and pleasant land'.