BOOKS

The Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust

This was my first gardening book, and I still refer to it on a regular basis. The first half of the book is devoted to perennial planting and maintenance, and contains information on design, maintenance, bed preparation, planting and establishment, pests and diseases, staking, division, pruning, deadheading and more. The second half of the book is an encyclopedia of perennials, with hundreds of great photos and information on zones, plant descriptions, size, flowering time, pruning, and maintenance. This book is probably one of the most useful gardening references I own.

The Well-Designed Mixed Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust

Inspiration through artistic design for any garden, small or large. The Well-Designed Mixed Garden offers great information on color, form, and texture, features mouth-watering plant combinations, and guidance through the design process. Much of the book lists plants by design characteristics such as flower, foliage, or fruit color as well as seasonal interest, and maintenance requirements. This book has proven to be a valuable and reliable reference tool.

Plant-Driven Design by Scott Ogden and Lauren Springer Ogden

This book is jam-packed with fabulous design ideas for any garden, in just about any climate. The Ogdens make plants the primary focus, and teach gardeners how to create gardens that honor plants, place, and spirit. With extensive lists of plants adapted to specific purposes and sites, and teaching gardeners how to choose the right plant for the right place, you will surely be inspired when creating your own garden paradise.

Ann Lovejoy’s Organic Garden Design School by Ann Lovejoy

Seattle-based author, designer, and gardening instructor, Ann Lovejoy, creates naturalistic gardens and guides readers through the design process emulating the natural patterns found in meadows and prairies. In the back of the book, there is an organic garden design school workbook. Ann guides you through the process of creating a garden space as well as an effective garden design.

Our Life In Gardens by Joe Eck and Wayne Winterrowd

Joe and Wayne garden in Southern Vermont, and their gardens are considered by some to be one of the most spectacular private gardens in North America.  This latest book is in part a memoir, and it is wonderfully entertaining to read of how their garden in Vermont came to be.  Browsing through the table of contents, I was delighted to find entire sections devoted to poppies, magnolias, lilacs, and much more.  Beautifully written, this is a fabulous reference for any gardener.