I recommend this book to help anyone with garden design basics. It has great content, illustrations, and lots of pictures (eye candy!). I bought it after I had planted most of my garden, and I learned why I wasn’t happy with the way some areas are turning out. I’m looking forward to revamping some of the garden next year!
When we moved into our home, the builder provided front yard landscaping and had hooked up a drip line to the courtyard. I used this book (an older version, actually, so I imagine the latest revision is great) to learn how to add to the drip system. Our neighbor was impressed that I could plant something and then immediately add a drip line; she said she had to always ask her husband, and that he would eventually get to it. : )
I mainly consult the Sunset Western Gardener’s book for plant selection and maintenance, but I got this book for in-depth information about pruning. I must admit that my yard is not groomed very well. Once I have more time and knowledge (when the kids are in school, perhaps?), it should look much better!
