Andrew McIndoe

“Shrubs” seems to be the most comprehensive book that I have encountered on planting and caring for shrubs. The color photos were beautiful. The author provides wise advice for many different kinds of locations and the problems inherent in many of them. In addition, suggestions are included for partner plantings. I especially appreciated the section on planting in small gardens and in pots. Excellent reference book for any gardener desiring information on shrubs and their care, a good addition to a gardening library.

I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.… (meer)

TThe Creative Shrub Garden contains a wealth of information for gardeners looking to enhance their existing landscape or to create a new space. The experienced gardener will be able to jump right in and browse through the sections on how to combine shrubs to create different moods or styles. Color combinations can be bold or relaxing, and styles range from country garden to contemporary or exotic. Each page is filled with gorgeous color photos. Whether the space is large or small, there is something for every garden.

New gardeners will benefit from the introductory chapters which explain the role of shrubs and how to make them fit in to the available landscape, plus how to choose the right shrub for the garden. There is an important chapter at the end on planting and caring for the new shrubs. Early in my gardening years I learned the hard way that the proper care during the first few years was critical for the survival of a new, and often expensive, shrub.

When I decided to add a few areas of wildflowers to my garden, I also assessed my overall landscape and realized that I only had a few shrubs. Shrubs add structure to a landscape. They are a good focal point and many have foliage, flowers or berries that add interest and change with the seasons; some are even a food source for wildlife.

The Creative Shrub Garden also contains a plant directory including the scientific and common names of each shrub, expected size at maturity and a brief description. Each is accompanied by a color photo. This is the section I was most interested in. I already knew what I wanted to accomplish, but I didn’t know which shrubs would be the best ones for my yard and I wanted to see what they looked like.

For anyone looking for ideas, or that wants to know more about the care and maintenance of shrubs, this is a good place to begin.… (meer)