Book review: Lawns

The book presents a bit like a Haynes manual and is not afraid to give old-school advice about helping fulfil the British obsession of having a tidy lawn.

Stylishly presented, the book has sections in weeds, pests and problems, which I thought no longer existed in lawncare now they are all rewilded meadows.

Of course, they aren't and nearly all lawns in UK gardens are mown. They have problems with dogs (reseed, returf, keep your dog off the lawn you want to look nice), yellowing (feed) and heat stress (water twice a day and feed). This advice is pleasantly traditional in what is a useful and concise guide to turfcare. Weeds are "unsightly invaders" and herbicides are recommended for daisy removal, for instance.

There's a bit on biology and types, then a fair amount on laying, mowing and maintaining your lawn. A single page addresses trends in lawn styles, such as clover and wildflower lawns, which "can replicate" natural meadows.

But there are "trade-offs" in looks and durability. "Traditional grass lawns remain the go-to choice for those wanting a classic, versatile and reliable surface that looks smart and feels great underfoot."