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Hercule Poirot #0.31
How Does Your Garden Grow?: a Hercule Poirot Short Story
Miss Lemon brings Hercule Poirot an intriguing letter from an old woman asking for his assistance. When the lady dies suddenly five days later, Poirot suspects foul play. He quickly travels to the scene, pretending the note from the elderly woman's family telling him that he was no longer needed had not arrived. His suspicions were further aroused. Was he right?
A classic Agatha Christie short story, available individually for the first time as an eBook.
Librarian's note: this entry is for the story, "How Does Your Garden Grow?" Collections of short stories by the author can be located elsewhere on Goodreads. Individual entries for all Poirot short stories can be found by searching Goodreads for: "a Hercule Poirot Short Story."
A classic Agatha Christie short story, available individually for the first time as an eBook.
Librarian's note: this entry is for the story, "How Does Your Garden Grow?" Collections of short stories by the author can be located elsewhere on Goodreads. Individual entries for all Poirot short stories can be found by searching Goodreads for: "a Hercule Poirot Short Story."
35 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1935
120 people are currently reading
1242 people want to read
About the author
Agatha Christie
5,737 books76k followersAgatha Christie also wrote romance novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott, and was occasionally published under the name Agatha Christie Mallowan.
Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller) was an English writer known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She also wrote the world's longest-running play, the murder mystery The Mousetrap, which has been performed in the West End of London since 1952. A writer during the "Golden Age of Detective Fiction", Christie has been called the "Queen of Crime". She also wrote six novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott. In 1971, she was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to literature. Guinness World Records lists Christie as the best-selling fiction writer of all time, her novels having sold more than two billion copies.
This best-selling author of all time wrote 66 crime novels and story collections, fourteen plays, and six novels under a pseudonym in romance. Her books sold more than a billion copies in the English language and a billion in translation. According to Index Translationum, people translated her works into 103 languages at least, the most for an individual author. Of the most enduring figures in crime literature, she created Hercule Poirot and Miss Jane Marple. She atuhored The Mousetrap, the longest-running play in the history of modern theater.
Associated Names:
Agata Christie
Agata Kristi
Агата Кристи (Russian)
Агата Крісті (Ukrainian)
Αγκάθα Κρίστι (Greek)
アガサ クリスティ (Japanese)
阿嘉莎·克莉絲蒂 (Chinese)
Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE (née Miller) was an English writer known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She also wrote the world's longest-running play, the murder mystery The Mousetrap, which has been performed in the West End of London since 1952. A writer during the "Golden Age of Detective Fiction", Christie has been called the "Queen of Crime". She also wrote six novels under the pseudonym Mary Westmacott. In 1971, she was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to literature. Guinness World Records lists Christie as the best-selling fiction writer of all time, her novels having sold more than two billion copies.
This best-selling author of all time wrote 66 crime novels and story collections, fourteen plays, and six novels under a pseudonym in romance. Her books sold more than a billion copies in the English language and a billion in translation. According to Index Translationum, people translated her works into 103 languages at least, the most for an individual author. Of the most enduring figures in crime literature, she created Hercule Poirot and Miss Jane Marple. She atuhored The Mousetrap, the longest-running play in the history of modern theater.
Associated Names:
Agata Christie
Agata Kristi
Агата Кристи (Russian)
Агата Крісті (Ukrainian)
Αγκάθα Κρίστι (Greek)
アガサ クリスティ (Japanese)
阿嘉莎·克莉絲蒂 (Chinese)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
June 26, 2024
Did a greedy maid poison her mistress?
Poirot receives a letter from an elderly woman who wants his advice. Intrigued by her phrasing, he asks Miss Lemon to send a letter back agreeing to come to her home. Before he can see her, he receives word that she has died.
Poisoned!
At first, it looks like the maid was the only one who could have slipped her a Mickey, but also the only one who wouldn't profit from her death. Then news comes in that the old lady had disinherited her niece and nephew and left everything to her little Russian maid.
But Poirot isn't convinced. And thanks to a few disorderly shells in the garden, he discovers who the real culprits are in the woman's murder.
As an interesting side note, this is the 1st appearance of Miss Lemon.
Originally published in 1935 in Ladies Home Journal.
Read in the short story collection The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories.
Poirot receives a letter from an elderly woman who wants his advice. Intrigued by her phrasing, he asks Miss Lemon to send a letter back agreeing to come to her home. Before he can see her, he receives word that she has died.
Poisoned!
At first, it looks like the maid was the only one who could have slipped her a Mickey, but also the only one who wouldn't profit from her death. Then news comes in that the old lady had disinherited her niece and nephew and left everything to her little Russian maid.
But Poirot isn't convinced. And thanks to a few disorderly shells in the garden, he discovers who the real culprits are in the woman's murder.
As an interesting side note, this is the 1st appearance of Miss Lemon.
Originally published in 1935 in Ladies Home Journal.
Read in the short story collection The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories.
August 29, 2025
Mistress Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With cockle-shells, and silver bells,
And pretty maids all in a row.
The nursery rhyme struck Poirot as soon as he saw the garden when he makes a visit to a client's house, however he has to deal with the mystery of the death of his client soon after she writes to him of requiring his help with a private family matter. This is yet another mystery with the classic trope using the death of an old relative, but quite clever in the plot and the structure of the mystery.
An interesting story, with a quite good plot, though a short read. There are some good characters in the story, the leads as well as Poirot's secretary, who like order almost as much as he does. Recommended for the mystery.
🌟🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[One star for the premise; One star for the characters; One star for the plot; 3/4 star for the world-building; One star for the writing - 4 3/4 stars in total.]
How does your garden grow?
With cockle-shells, and silver bells,
And pretty maids all in a row.
The nursery rhyme struck Poirot as soon as he saw the garden when he makes a visit to a client's house, however he has to deal with the mystery of the death of his client soon after she writes to him of requiring his help with a private family matter. This is yet another mystery with the classic trope using the death of an old relative, but quite clever in the plot and the structure of the mystery.
An interesting story, with a quite good plot, though a short read. There are some good characters in the story, the leads as well as Poirot's secretary, who like order almost as much as he does. Recommended for the mystery.
🌟🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[One star for the premise; One star for the characters; One star for the plot; 3/4 star for the world-building; One star for the writing - 4 3/4 stars in total.]
December 30, 2021
3.5 stars
Wow! Poirot's amazing!! He's so brainy, it always dazzles me.
And he's so sweet, when he called himself the only friend of a poor stranger in need of help. That was so kind of him. Sir, you've earned a fan!!
Good book. Very engaging and enjoyable!
Wow! Poirot's amazing!! He's so brainy, it always dazzles me.
And he's so sweet, when he called himself the only friend of a poor stranger in need of help. That was so kind of him. Sir, you've earned a fan!!
Good book. Very engaging and enjoyable!
March 2, 2024
A lady is poisoned shortly after giving Poirot an empty parcel of seeds, so he's again in the business.
The same childish ( at least...) pattern as in many Sherlock Holmes stories: the hero has plenty of time, no client at all and takes some long guesses...
The same childish ( at least...) pattern as in many Sherlock Holmes stories: the hero has plenty of time, no client at all and takes some long guesses...
January 6, 2023
I think I just read my new favorite Poirot short story, until the next one that is.
April 9, 2021
Hercules Poirot investigates the sudden death of a lady who has recently contacted him, and whose demise he feels is suspicious.....
Her family seem innocent enough, but the eagle eyed detectives isn’t easily fooled......
My favourite sleuth does it again..... even in such a short story Agatha Christie has created atmosphere, menace, and great characters.....In fact, I felt that there was enough here to have made a full length book.
Her family seem innocent enough, but the eagle eyed detectives isn’t easily fooled......
My favourite sleuth does it again..... even in such a short story Agatha Christie has created atmosphere, menace, and great characters.....In fact, I felt that there was enough here to have made a full length book.
January 6, 2023
3 Stars. The mail today for Hercule Poirot contains only one interesting piece. From Amelia Barrowby, an elderly woman. She wants confidentiality and has been told that he is "discretion itself - and that there will be no fear of my being involved in a police matter." Poirot immediately asks Miss Lemon, his secretary, for her opinion, "Old lady, got the wind up badly." The story first appeared in "Ladies' Home Journal" in the US in 1935; my copy was from "The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories" of 1939 and reprinted by HarperCollins. As an aside, in Christie stories as opposed to the TV series, I thought Miss Lemon worked for Mr. Parker Pyne! Is it possible that neither of them pays that well and she needs to supplement her income? Poirot sniffs something, and writes back to tell Miss Barrowby that he will visit. No answer. When a response finally arrives days later saying she has passed away, he becomes fully alert and travels to Charman's Green. The woman's niece tries to deter him and Poirot knows something's wrong. An autopsy proves his instincts were right. Poison. You might ask what this has to do with a garden. On that point, I'm not revealing anything! (March 2021)
May 12, 2016
Yet another short story favourite :)
January 12, 2022
Poirot is so good in this story! Miss Lemon features quite nicely as well in this, & that was a rather pleasant surprise.
Today I have often seen the Dames work criticized for bigotry. Throughout her work, and especially here, Agatha Christie really let's one know how the British did not like foreigners at this time. But she is clearly against this bigotry, & she condemns this in such a good way - that it's obviously wrong but she is not heavy handed about it. The reader can clearly infer that AC is against this bigotry, & the offenders are not put in any good light.
I love Poirot. When the Russian girl is all but sent to the gallows, Inspector Sims asks Poirot: "(you said) something about the girl having a friend."
Poirot: "She has one. Me!" He obviously knows how it is to be a foreigner, & one who is looked down upon at times in Britian. It is a recurring theme through that's AC's work that people don't like or trust Poirot, exhibiting preconceived bias when they first meet him, until they find out that he is in fact the famous detective. Then their estimation of him changes rather suddenly.
Poirot is committed to the truth & is a compassionate man as well. He is emotional, but not ruled by his emotions, as he perceives details of his cases without bias, and treats everyone equally.
At the end of this short Poirot is disgusted by the murderer & their intention on framing an innocent for the crime...
"And you saddle an innocent child with murder. Had you no pity, madame?"
He really is such a great character!
This was my favorite short story in the book 'Poirot's Early Cases.'
C'est Magnifique
5/5
Today I have often seen the Dames work criticized for bigotry. Throughout her work, and especially here, Agatha Christie really let's one know how the British did not like foreigners at this time. But she is clearly against this bigotry, & she condemns this in such a good way - that it's obviously wrong but she is not heavy handed about it. The reader can clearly infer that AC is against this bigotry, & the offenders are not put in any good light.
I love Poirot. When the Russian girl is all but sent to the gallows, Inspector Sims asks Poirot: "(you said) something about the girl having a friend."
Poirot: "She has one. Me!" He obviously knows how it is to be a foreigner, & one who is looked down upon at times in Britian. It is a recurring theme through that's AC's work that people don't like or trust Poirot, exhibiting preconceived bias when they first meet him, until they find out that he is in fact the famous detective. Then their estimation of him changes rather suddenly.
Poirot is committed to the truth & is a compassionate man as well. He is emotional, but not ruled by his emotions, as he perceives details of his cases without bias, and treats everyone equally.
At the end of this short Poirot is disgusted by the murderer & their intention on framing an innocent for the crime...
"And you saddle an innocent child with murder. Had you no pity, madame?"
He really is such a great character!
This was my favorite short story in the book 'Poirot's Early Cases.'
C'est Magnifique
5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2021
Mistress Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With cockle shells and silver bells
And pretty maids all in a row.
Only in this little murder mystery, its... . ;)
How does your garden grow?
With cockle shells and silver bells
And pretty maids all in a row.
Only in this little murder mystery, its... . ;)
May 19, 2019
I really liked how much Miss Lemon featured in this story!
July 9, 2021
'You are a Russian girl,' began Poirot.
'Yes,' said Miss Lemon, looking intensely British.
Christie certainly has a way with words, even in short stories. This is another one that I just wish was longer.
March 2, 2019
If you're trying to hide the evidence of a crime in plain sight, through landscaping, be mindful of the symmetry and you're good to go.
July 5, 2016
Poirot receives a letter indicating a potential client wishes to have him investigate something discreetly. It is not specified in the letter, but Poirot accepts and sends a note. A few days later, Miss Lemon indicates that the woman is dead, suddenly. Poirot has her send another note. This time, a response is sent indicating that his services are no longer required.
Poirot goes to visit the house and finds a Russian maid and a married couple that is related to the deceased. The verdict is that the woman was poisoned by strychnine. The only way anyone can see it can be done is through something only the Russian maid touched and she is arrested. Poirot notices things and makes his inquiries. He then confronts the murderer before going to the police.
Who done it?
Poirot goes to visit the house and finds a Russian maid and a married couple that is related to the deceased. The verdict is that the woman was poisoned by strychnine. The only way anyone can see it can be done is through something only the Russian maid touched and she is arrested. Poirot notices things and makes his inquiries. He then confronts the murderer before going to the police.
Who done it?
August 24, 2016
I know it is a short story from the moment I bought it. I expected high but it turned out I am pretty disappointed reading it. Well, it's a murder and Poirot case, but somehow in my opinion there is something lack of from the story plot and the characters themself, which I am not sure I can't tell what it is.
July 27, 2019
“(Miss Lemon) had a passion for order almost equaling that of Poirot himself; and though capable of thinking, she never thought unless told to do so.”
Ahh, Christie leaves only the tiniest of clues in this enjoyable short story but shows us more of Miss Lemon.
Ahh, Christie leaves only the tiniest of clues in this enjoyable short story but shows us more of Miss Lemon.
February 13, 2015
Hadn't read before. I loved it.
Kept me entertained. I did not guess the culprit until I was close to the end of the story. I loved it.
Kept me entertained. I did not guess the culprit until I was close to the end of the story. I loved it.
April 14, 2015
Short and pithy
It seemed this one was over as soon as I began. Good little plot by motherless well developed as I had hoped.
It seemed this one was over as soon as I began. Good little plot by motherless well developed as I had hoped.
May 18, 2017
Hercule Poirot solves it yet again
With his smooth moves Hercule Poirot has solved another mystery with his finesse and ease that makes him my all time favorite sleuth!
With his smooth moves Hercule Poirot has solved another mystery with his finesse and ease that makes him my all time favorite sleuth!
December 14, 2019
Very short Poirot story. Still enjoyable.
February 19, 2020
An okay story and nice of Miss Lemon to be mentioned so frequently but also not my favourite
March 27, 2020
Read 2020
April 24, 2021
4.0 Poirot teaches us to always admire someone’s garden.
January 9, 2022
A short story featuring Hercule Poirot. Quick and entertaining.
November 17, 2025
One of the short stories in the anthology Murder in Paradise by the author.
Truly enjoyable they all were and for those who follow Agatha Christie a must read.
Truly enjoyable they all were and for those who follow Agatha Christie a must read.
November 23, 2021
Historia cortita pero que como siempre demuestra la genialidad de Poirot.
August 4, 2021
This is one of my favorite Agatha Christie short stories--my one complaint is that it is too short! (The intriguing half-Russian Katrina, the husband and wife duo, the ever-private old woman, and Miss Lemon of the mechanical, are all superbly delineated here and would fill a full novel or novella quite beautifully.) The Queen of Crime stored a good lot of humor in her stories; I found myself laughing out loud through this one, and, in especial, the Miss Lemon parts. The mystery is also superb, with all the proper hints to what happened given but only solved by those keen enough to point out all the oddities of the case (which I, unfortunately, did not; I did have suspicions of who did the killing, though, but, with such a small amount of suspects, the mystery seems most confined to how it happened, not who did it.)
I thought for a second this story would be about a body buried in the garden--a trope I love, I suppose--but that is not how it happened here. I liked that Poirot apologizes to the garden at the end of the story--it shows his appreciation for the good side of the killer whilst a condemnation of the bad, I suppose.
I thought for a second this story would be about a body buried in the garden--a trope I love, I suppose--but that is not how it happened here. I liked that Poirot apologizes to the garden at the end of the story--it shows his appreciation for the good side of the killer whilst a condemnation of the bad, I suppose.
March 3, 2020
It was fine, but I felt like I had read it already. Poirot gets a mysterious letter from a woman who thinks she might be in danger and before Poirot can reply, she dies. Of course her niece did it for the inheritance. The clue was in the garden where she deposited the shells from the poisoned oysters. Not bad, but not great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2020
Another Poirot Story. This time Poirot receives a letter from an elderly woman which intrigues Poirot. Before he starts the case the lady dies. The plot becomes irresistible to Poirot who looks into the matter. Add a will and poisoning and you have a great story. A bit too short though for the storyline.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews