A fresh new design movement in American gardening is introduced in this lavish & lushly illustrated book. Ken Druse, gardening editor of House Beautiful, tells and shows, with more than 400 gorgeous full-color photographs, how to create a garden that practically takes care of itself. The smartest thing in gardens now is the Natural Garden--a landscape planted in harmony with nature that appears spontaneous, unstructured, and intentionally innocent. Taking inspiration for the environment--even from potential problems such as rock outcrops, wild trees, or steep slopes--and using native plants, wildflowers, and hardy perennials, natural gardeners have created colorful gardens that require a minimum of attention. The spectacular full-color photographs present a beautiful seaside garden California chaparral, an "English cottage" garden (on Long Island), and many others, both small and large, in urban, suburban, or country settings all over the United States. There are 12 chapters covering everything from perennials & vines to water plants & permanent elements such as benches, pools, & garden paths. A complete directory provides sources for plants, seeds, tools, publications, where to write for help, & outdoor furniture. This is the perfect book to inspire novice or seasoned gardeners toward a backyard with a fresh new look. Ken Druse is an award-winning garden writer & photographer. Former editor of Garden Design magazine, he is now gardening editor at House Beautiful.