"Frances Tophill discusses her path to success in the unconventional field of gardening"

Frances Tophill, a well-known gardening enthusiast, has published a new book titled A Year in a Small Garden. The book, filmed by BBC's Gardeners' World and published by BBC Books, offers insights into the first year of Frances' own garden.

The book, priced at £26 with the ISBN 978-1785948640, is not just a guide but a personal journey through the trials and triumphs of gardening in a smaller space. Frances' garden, measuring 9m x 10m, is smaller than average and is situated in a location with morning sun, silty soil, and plenty of rain.

To protect tender pelargoniums and edibles like lemongrass and liquorice, Frances added a greenhouse to her garden. However, her biggest gardening mistake was creating a tiny, almost unusable corridor due to a larger than anticipated greenhouse.

In the book, Frances emphasizes the importance of not rushing in and taking a year to observe the changes in a garden. She encourages readers to take their time and enjoy the process, rather than focusing solely on the end result.

Frances' interest in gardening was sparked by an appreciation of the natural world and a practical job, which she discovered through a gardening apprenticeship. Her bookshelf includes fantasy and adventure genres, with an interest in Harry Potter audiobooks and science podcasts like Studio Lab.

One of Frances' favourite gardens to visit is Sissinghurst, where she enjoys being among trees and walled gardens. At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Frances learned about conservation, community gardening, and ethnobotany.

Despite not composting in her personal garden, Frances is a strong advocate for composting and composts at work. She believes that compost plays a crucial role in creating a healthy and thriving garden.

Overall, A Year in a Small Garden is a must-read for anyone interested in gardening, offering practical advice and personal insights into the world of horticulture.

"Frances Tophill discusses her path to success in the unconventional field of gardening"