As one of Britain’s best loved horticulturists, Carol Klein has been gardening for decades gardening, which has been at the heart of her extraordinary life. In this new memoir, Klein tells the story of the people, places and plants that have shaped her life. From her childhood adventures in Manchester to her first experiments in plantswomanship at Glebe Cottage, and from training as an artist and a teacher, and then finding an entirely unexpected career as one of Britain’s most beloved television presenters.
“From playing marbles in a Manchester back street to wading in a South Korean Lake alongside prehistoric blue water lilies. I hope you’ll love the book!” said Klein.
Exploring why our relationship with the natural world is so important, and how it brings joy, creativity and good health to our lives, Klein also offers insights on her favourite flowers and plants, and how to help them flourish. A story of a life lived happily amongst the greenery, this book is for anyone who has sought solace in the natural world.
Klein originally trained as a fine artist and spent many years teaching art in schools and colleges. She started gardening and running a nursery from her home in Devon, and her hobby eventually became a career. She began exhibiting at RHS shows in 1990 and went on to win gold medals at Chelsea, Hampton Court, Westminster and Malvern. She has been a regular face on Gardener’s World since 1998.
Klein is the author of several gardening books including the bestselling Grow Your Own Veg and Grow Your Own Fruit, Carol Klein’s Favourite Plants and Making a Garden.
Hortobiography by Carol Klein (Witness Books) will be released on the 5th of September 2024