First Garden: An Illustrated Garden Primer

Gardening wisdom blossoms from the pages of this delightful and instructive how-to book for the beginning gardener, a perfect gift for homeowners. First Garden was written by renowned columnist, socialite, and lifelong gardener C.Z. Guest in 1975 to provide advice and information to those who would like to develop green thumbs of their own. In her clear, straightforward manner, C.Z. walks the reader through the process of starting a garden, from sowing seeds and planting bulbs to landscaping with shrubs and trees to enjoying flowers inside and out-all with an eye to keeping it simple. Additional information is provided in the form of charts on pruning trees and roses, yearly planting schedules, winter protection methods, and bulb depth, all accompanied by Cecil Beaton's delightful and copious illustrations.

In 1975, C.Z. Guest, an accomplished sportswoman, was injured in a riding accident. While she lay recovering, friends called constantly to ask her advice on tending gardens. C.Z. decided to write a clear and concise gardening primer that would enable any beginner to know the satisfaction of working in the garden. First Garden has long been out of print. Demand from the collector's market for her timeless text and Beaton's classic illustrations prompted C.Z. to suggest republishing her book, and the result is this lovingly produced tribute to the joys of nature that will show anyone how to create a first garden. C.Z. has provided a new introduction to the book. The charmingly packaged facsimile is the perfect housewarming gift and a perennially popular present.