Small gardens, and how to make the most of them

by Violet Purton Biddle

"Small Gardens and How to Make the Most of Them" by Violet Purton Biddle is a gardening guide written in the late 19th century. The book aims to help those with limited outdoor space—such as suburban homeowners—make the most out of their small gardens, focusing on practical advice and innovative ideas for cultivation and design. The opening of the book sets the stage for the premise that even the smallest gardens can be both beautiful and productive with proper attention and clever planning. Biddle underscores the importance of thoughtful garden arrangements, emphasizing features that enhance both aesthetics and utility, such as paths leading to specific destinations or areas designated for experimentation with plants. The author encourages readers to embrace creativity and individuality in their gardening efforts, suggesting that a small garden should reflect personal tastes rather than mimic larger landscapes.