A HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO LANDSCAPING

Perhaps this has little that is strikingly original but it is as good a general once-over-lightly for the average layman as I can remember reading. The basic philosophy is sound: relate the grounds to the house, avoid standardization, study each phase of the subject in relation to the particular problem. The three main types are formal, informal and naturalistic- with some attention given to specialized gardens within these categories, such as the alpine or rock garden, rose garden, a swamp garden, a city garden. But the fundamental principles are the kernel of the book:- making the plan, color and texture, soil conditions, relation of garden to house, terrace, walls, steps. One phase too often pushed aside is here recognized for the vital factor it is-fences, walls, hedges, as part of the garden planning. Good section on foundation planting relates trees, shrubs, etc. to the garden areas. A final chapter touches on garden furniture, again in relation to the background.