Tab Article

Genre: Gardening, Horticulture, Botany, Reference, Sri Lankan History
Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Book Review:
''H.F. Macmillan's Tropical Gardening and Planting'' is a timeless classic and an indispensable reference for anyone interested in gardening in the tropics, particularly in Sri Lanka. Originally authored in 1910 by H.F. Macmillan, the distinguished Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, this facsimile edition by Vijitha Yapa Publications preserves a seminal work of horticultural knowledge. The book offers comprehensive guidance on plant selection, cultivation techniques, garden design, and landscaping, all tailored specifically to the climatic and soil conditions of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Beyond its practical utility, it serves as a valuable historical document, capturing the botanical interests and gardening practices of the early 20th century. Macmillan's expertise and meticulous observations shine through, making this more than just a manual—it's a piece of Sri Lanka's botanical heritage. This reprint, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Kew Gardens in Colombo, ensures that this vital knowledge remains accessible to modern gardeners, landscape architects, botanists, and history enthusiasts. It is a beautifully produced, authoritative guide that has stood the test of time and continues to be the definitive text on tropical gardening in the Sri Lankan context.