The Complete Shade Gardener

Schenk George

ISBN 10: 0395353971 ISBN 13: 9780395353974

Synopsis

This classic and indispensable reference for shade gardening is now back in print. Long considered required reading for those with difficult low-light areas, it covers the basics literally from the ground up, leading the gardener through the creation of his or her own shady retreat. Part One concerns the art and science of a shade garden, from preparing the soil, to pruning, to considering different 'shades of shade' (does your favorite bed lie in dappled shade or high shade?). Part Two, which details information on growing the plant, is neatly arranged in sections according to the type of plant. These descriptions are casual, to the point, and often humorous. The sago palm, for example, 'will put you in touch with paleobotany'. Selected photographs and line drawings both illustrate and inspire.

About this title

Review

Long considered required reading for shade gardeners, this classic reference has been recognized by the American Horticulture Society as one of the '75 Great American Garden Books.' American Gardener 20020731 The author's down-to-earth approach is not only highly credible, but also very entertaining. -- Marge Howard-Jones California Garden 20020924 Has a huge amount of information well written by someone with obvious hands-on experience. Compass 20021115 Schenk writes as though he is talking to you, and encourages you to use the necessary sequence of steps for success. -- Marty Figley Michigan Observer and Eccentric 20021031 Having grown several thousand plants in his New Zealand and North American gardens, the author's down-to-earth approach is not only highly credible, but also very entertaining. -- Marge Howard-Jones California Garden 20021022 The bilssful charm and grace of easeful green shade is echoed in the casual, lighthearted humour of the author's approach. -- Helen Chesnut Victoria Times Colonist 20021212 This classic reference book for shade gardens is very comprehensive. -- Bobbie Schwartz Buckeye 20020127 A treasure. Perennials 20030225 This book is a practical guide to planting a shade garden, but goes beyond that to help the gardener make the results aesthetically pleasing. -- Barbara Joe Hoshizaki Los Angeles International Fern Society Journal 20030218 An exceptional, well-written and organized guide to shade gardening for atmosphere, beauty, and personal satisfaction... An excellent gardening resource and a welcome, practical, highly recommended addition to personal and professional gardening reference collections. Library Bookwatch 20030422 A wonderfully written encyclopedia of shade plants. -- George Graine Virginia Master Gardeners Association Report 20030630 I wish that I had had (this book) to advise me forty years ago when we bought our property ... (Schenk's) plant lists are valuable for gardeners everywhere--even in the desert. -- John R. Dunmire Pacific Horticulture 20031106 This well-done book is written with knowledge and understanding. It is the best shade gardening book I've ever read. -- Natalie Walsh Schenectady Daily Gazette 20031009 This is the classic reference for shade gardening. Alberta Gardener 20041116 My first introduction to gardening for interest other than flowers. I'll always remember his comment about arranging a garden as though it were a party with plants and to make it look like all the plants are having fun. -- Victoria Shallow Spring Affair News 20050322

About the Author

A former nurseryman and landscaper, George Schenk retired from business to pursue his passions for designing gardens and writing about them. Schenk is the author of several magazine articles and books. His book Moss Gardening won the Book Award of the American Horticultural Society; The Complete Shade Gardener has been recognized by the society as being one of America's seventy-five "Great American Garden Books." George is a specialist in the sculpture of the tribes of the Philippine Cordillera and is active in the effort to preserve their cultural heritage. He splits his time between gardens and residences in Seattle, North Vancouver, Auckland, and Manila.

Edition details

• Publication date: 1900
• ISBN 10: 0395353971
• ISBN 13: 9780395353974
• Binding: Apparel
• Language: English