Our Place: Can We Save Britain’s Wildlife Before It Is Too Late?, by Mark Cocker, Jonathan Cape, RRP£18.99

In this bleak and compelling book, the naturalist Mark Cocker strips the UK of its “green and pleasant” mythology. He charts the catastrophic decline of wildlife and the natural environment over the past century, and the collective responsibility of farmers, politicians and the public for its loss. Laura Battle

Joseph Banks’ Florilegium: Botanical Treasures from Cook’s First Voyage, by Mel Gooding, David Mabberley and Joe Studholme, Thames & Hudson, RRP£65.00

This is the first time that Joseph Banks’ botanical engravings, made after his return from James Cook’s maiden voyage around the world (1768-1771), have been published in full-colour book form. The result is monumental — 147 exquisite reproductions, together with accompanying essays — and marks the expedition’s 250th anniversary. LB

Setting the Scene: A Masterclass in Garden Design, by George Carter, Pimpernel Press, RRP £50

A inspiring romp around George Carter’s Baroque/post Modern gardens on both sides of the Atlantic. Practical and delightful it also weaves a narrative on the great landscaper Humphry Repton who died 200 years ago. Jane Owen

Join our online book group on Facebook at FTBooksCafe. Subscribe to FT Life on YouTube for the latest FT Weekend videos

What is the best gardening book you have read this year? Let us know in the comment field below

Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2024. All rights reserved.
Reuse this content (opens in new window) CommentsJump to comments section

Follow the topics in this article

Comments