How the Garden Grew

"How the Garden Grew" by Maud Maryon is a gardening memoir written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers on the character Mary, who takes on the challenge of reviving a neglected garden, full of flowers and potential, through her passion and determination. The book explores themes of growth and transformation, both in the garden and in Mary's journey as a gardener. At the start of the story, Mary reflects on her recent assumption of responsibility for a garden that has fallen into decline under the supervision of an incompetent gardener named Griggs. She expresses her frustration at the state of the flower beds, which are sparse and unkempt, and initiates a bargain with the local rector to procure funds for seeds. The opening sets the tone for an earnest journey filled with ambition and comedy, as Mary engages with her ineffective gardener, navigates the challenges of gardening, and dreams of creating a vibrant floral paradise, all while learning the ins and outs of maintaining a garden.