Ground Rules

September 15, 2018

Frey's broad horticultural background includes organic vegetable production and management of gardens in California wine country, with an emphasis on environmentally balanced landscape design. A two-time gold-medal winner at the Chelsea Garden Show in London for biodiversity and sustainability, she's also directed the Sonoma State University Sustainable Landscape Program and currently writes gardening columns, lectures, and does consulting. Frey's first book, The Bee-Friendly Garden: Design an Abundant, Flower-Filled Yard That Nurtures Bees and Supports Biodiversity, focused on healthy habitats for pollinators. This new title presents six interrelated sections covering all aspects of planning and growing gardens that support wildlife and are compatible with local environmental conditions. These 100 lessons consider practical landscape design, how to choose and install plants and trees correctly, ways to be water wise, why good soil is critical, means to provide habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife, and the psychological rewards of creating a personal haven. Following Frey's straightforward instructions should prevent frustrating mistakes and result in a successful garden plan. VERDICT Recommended for a wide range of ecologically friendly gardeners with any level of experience.--Deborah A. Broocker, Georgia Perimeter Coll. Lib., Dunwoody

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2018
This book offers 100 rules for growing a successful garden, organized into 6 sections that take readers from the planning stages to enjoying their established garden. Each rule is accompanied by a full-page color photo (or collage of two or three images) illustrating the idea and a paragraph or two of explanation. This is not a comprehensive how-to book but, rather, a somewhat-arbitrary collection of basic tenets a gardener might learn through years of experience, such as using native plants, being water-wise, making good compost, and knowing what is invasive in one's area. The central philosophy is to create a self-sustaining mix of flora and fauna that brings joy to those who visit. Throughout, readers are urged to go with what works in their locale, and although details are not provided, an appendix of resources includes books that contain specifics about particular regions and zones. Many of these rules will ring true to experienced gardeners, and, collectively, they provide a solid groundwork for anyone who aspires to create a gratifying garden.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)