To Stand And Stare: How to Garden While Doing Next to Nothing

The book encourages a more low-intervention way to garden,with minimum fuss,effort,and guilt,and maximum measure of healthy,organic growth for your garden.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd

In a world where our lives are increasingly busy and filled with lists of chores, finding time for self-care and relaxation can be a challenge. However, gardens offer a unique opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. What if there was a way to garden that not only nurtured your garden but also nourished your soul?

Andrew Timothy O'Brien's book, "To Stand and Stare," offers a refreshing perspective on gardening that encourages the reader to think about how to be while in their garden. O'Brien weaves together strands of botany, philosophy, and mindfulness to form an ecological narrative that is suffused with practical gardening know-how. Through his deep understanding and appreciation of natural processes, O'Brien encourages the reader to think from the ground up, following the pattern of a plant's growth through the season, from roots to shoots to fruits.

At the same time, he advocates for an increased awareness of our surroundings, urging us to slow down and observe the world around us. By doing so, we can develop a deeper connection with nature and find solace and peace in our gardens.

In "To Stand and Stare," O'Brien offers practical advice on how to garden in a more low-intervention way, some reciprocal arrangement through which both you and your soil get fed. He encourages the reader to use natural fertilizers, such as compost and manure, and to avoid using chemical pesticides and herbicides. By doing so, we can create gardens that are not only healthy and organic but also beneficial to the environment.

Furthermore, O'Brien encourages the reader to develop a mindfulness practice in their garden. By being present at the moment and observing the details of the plants and the surrounding environment, we can develop a greater sense of gratitude and appreciation for the natural world. This practice can also help us to reduce stress and anxiety and to find a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

In conclusion, "To Stand and Stare" is a wonderful book that offers a fresh perspective on gardening and encourages the reader to think about how to be while in their garden. By following the advice of Andrew Timothy O'Brien, we can create gardens that are not only healthy and organic but also nourish our souls and help us to develop a deeper connection with nature. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to find peace and joy in their garden.

Dimension: 222 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241544013