0
0
Renowned TV gardener Carol Klein has opened up about her life, recent health journey, and enduring passion for gardening in her new memoir, Hortobiography: A Gritty Woman’s Tale of People, Places and Plants. The book chronicles her life from childhood to the present day, including her recent battle with breast cancer and subsequent double mastectomy, after which she has been given the all-clear.
Klein’s memoir reflects her lifelong love of gardening, sparked in childhood when she would bring soil indoors to decorate with flowers. She credits her mother for igniting this passion, starting her off with nasturtium seeds, a practice she continues to this day. The book also shares her gardening philosophy: “Gardening is not nature, but if you emulate nature, you’re on to a winner,” she advises, encouraging readers to garden whenever possible and to involve children in growing plants to foster a connection with nature.
Currently, Klein is focused on adapting her garden of 46 years to accommodate mature trees, including a Cercis tree gifted by her mother over 40 years ago. Despite some gardening challenges, such as not always pricking out seedlings promptly, she remains enthusiastic about cultivating her space, planning to create a nature reserve with a wood, pond, meadow, and bog garden on adjacent land.
In addition to her writing, Klein is active in filming for Gardeners’ World and embarking on a book tour. She also recorded an audiobook version of her memoir. Her literary influences include Richard Mabey, Christopher Lloyd, and Beth Chatto, and she currently enjoys England’s Gardens: A Modern History by Stephen Parker.
Carol Klein’s memoir offers an inspiring blend of personal resilience and gardening insight, appealing to both fans of her television work and gardening enthusiasts alike.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of October 2024 and reflects Carol Klein’s statements and experiences shared in her memoir and interviews. Any medical details mentioned are personal to Klein and should not be taken as general medical advice.
