Brings us vivid insight into the creation and management of the wet garden. He shares his expertise as he guides the reader confidently through what is a difficult environment in which to garden. -- Mat Reese BBC Gardens 20090201 Though Simmons is writing about his experience with wet gardening in England, his information and advice are applicable to those wishing to establish, maintain, and enjoy wet gardens anywhere. -- R. L. Krajewski Choice 20091101

John Simmons OBE VMH has had a long professional career in botanical horticulture managing large gardens and supporting wider interests of horticulture and conservation through honorary positions including presidencies and trusteeships with many related organisations. From 1972 until his retirement in 1995 he was curator at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, after which he directed the development of the arboretum at Castle Howard in Yorkshire. Fascinated by wet gardens and ponds since childhood, in 1986 he purchased a two-and-a-half-acre wet meadow in North Norfolk, England. This book stems from his subsequent experiences of developing a private garden on this ploughed but otherwise abandoned site.