Get ready to garden at the library—March 26, 2010
This is a difficult time of year for the frustrated gardener who has been cooped up inside all winter. As soon as the weather starts warming up and we have a few consecutive days of sunshine, the urge to get out and work in the yard starts to build. Unfortunately, it is still a bit early to actually do much, but it is a great time to read, plan and dream about what that yard or garden will look like in a few months.
Unless your garden area is exactly the way you want it, check out the many ideas offered in “The Perennial Gardener’s Design Primer” by Stephanie Cohen and Nancy Ondra. Whether you are looking for a total new look or just a few new accent plants, this book has lots of colored pictures, design schematics and growing tips. Another title that will inspire your planning is the “Prairie Lands Gardener’s Guide” by Cathy Barash. This is a complete gardening crash course in one book with separate sections on types of plants, lawn care, water gardens and design. A bonus is that this book focuses on plants and conditions for this region.
If mowing grass is not your favorite summer activity, peruse “Covering Ground” by Barbara Ellis. Here you will find page after page of lovely alternatives to all that grass with an emphasis on low-maintenance and good design. If you want to add pizzazz to a small yard, look at the ideas in “Planting a Small Garden” by Phil Clayton. Clayton gives all kinds of design ideas for small spaces and I especially like the way the plant guide in this title is organized by height of plant, making it easy to find a variety that fits into your design.
Each of us should be aware that what we do in our yards effects the environment. Reading “Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants” by Douglas Tallamy is an eye-opening call to restore the balance that once existed in the flora and fauna of our land. It might change the way you look at your yard forever.
Whether you are a master gardener or just wanting to plant a few flowers, the Hastings Public Library can help you find the resources you need.
