Designing with Grasses

June 1, 2011

This work is for gardeners who desire a less formal look requiring less maintenance than traditional turf lawns or who wish to breathe new character into their property. Lucas, owner of Knoll Gardens in Dorset, England, is a recognized authority on using ornamental grasses in the landscape. Although he writes from the UK, this is not a regional book; he includes U.S.-specific discussions and images. Designing with these versatile, adaptable, and often beautiful plants is gaining more attention in the gardening world. These grasses are generally low maintenance and often thrive under conditions where many other plants cannot. They can add texture, movement, and year-round garden interest or serve as borders, screens, and wildlife habitat. Lucas covers their various growing requirements and all aspects of cultivation, including the environmental benefits of growing ornamental grasses. Color photographs, informative tables, and a comprehensive directory of plants (including U.S. sources) round out his enjoyable and useful book. Many of the design applications are taken from grasses growing in their natural settings. VERDICT This clearly written and well-designed book will appeal to most landscape designers and gardeners. Two green thumbs up!--Deborah Broocker, Georgia Perimeter Coll. Lib., Dunwoody

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.