My topiary book – Modern Topiary – has recently been put out as a PDF, which can be read for free. (Have a look here to download and read/share it!)

Then last week I received a lovely email from Ann Perkowski of Lady Clippers, who are topiary and pruning specialists in New York (Ann is a brilliant pruning teacher too, who teaches at New York Botanical Garden… check out her work and Lady Clippers website.)

Hi Darren,

I had to write you how much I love reading your Modern Topiary. I’m not sure I’ll ever be quite done with it because I’m going back already to pages read.

So much new to learn, confirmation of things known but unsure of, terminology, your time-tested rules.

Probably the most helpful I’ve ever read on the subject (and I have quite a collection).

And most certainly in your unique voice. 

With appreciation, Ann

Obviously, being told something you have made is useful and worth the time is always lovely…. but! I am most thrilled that Ann is returning to the book again, to read over and take more away from it.

I wrote it in this way specifically – as I mentioned in this blog post – because I wanted it to seem simple but also reward those who are going back over the text and digesting, mulling over the words again further.

Thrilled that the work put into the book (6 years to write!) has managed to capture something of what I wanted it to do and to be.

A few others have messaged about the book this week too…

Modern Topiary is a great reference book packed full of information and practical common sense tips, presented in a clear and factual way. I had no idea that so many plants species could be used for topiary.  I will certainly find it very useful when figuring out what to do, when, to whom and how! So, thank you!

I will certainly share it with similarly afflicted gardeners.  

Alistair, keen gardener in Norfolk

Then this message from the topiary artist Michael Gibson who works in New York. Read his wonderful New York Times article about his work here.

“I just downloaded your book and can’t wait to dive in! Appreciate you my topiary brother! Continue pushing the art form forward!”

Thanks Michael! I will try! (As I hope others will, after they read Modern Topiary the book….)

“I read your book on the journey home today to Oslo. It’s as if your language has been clipped and pruned, as if the sentences themselves are topiary.” Oystein, not a gardener, but a writer and director living in Oslo.

And finally….

“Written from the heart and honest. Well done.” My Mum. Ha! Sweet!

Read Modern Topiary for yourself here.