Striking Succulent Gardens

December 21, 2020
Frank, founder of the landscape design firm Gardens by Gabriel, champions succulents as “a user-friendly addition to any garden” in his instructive, entertaining debut. He parses the differences between succulents and cacti (“all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti”), busts watering myths (the plants “do, indeed, need and enjoy occasional water”), and instructs on propagation (such as stem and leaf cutting). He shares tips for small spaces, encouraging city-dwelling gardeners to draw out a plan if space is tight, and addresses cold climate needs. He also instructs on building planters and shares helpful garden design advice (such as incorporating “repeating elements that contribute unity to the space”), all of which is enlivened by vibrant photos and his playful approach: “plan your garden vignettes as you would decorate for a party. Develop a theme, and then invite the guests that will bring your plans to fruition.” Frank will inspire gardeners at all levels to turn their eye to succulents.