PEREN N I AL FOCUS
BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb
Photo courtesy of Wendy Moore of Davis Tree Farm & Nursery.
THE HOLIDAY BOOKSHELF 2018 EDITION
THE LESS IS MORE GARDEN: BIG IDEAS FOR DESIGNING YOUR SMALL YARD Morrison, Susan Timber Press, 2018 Portland, OR
This book, written by landscape designer Susan Morrison, illuminates the fact that small gardens are more difficult to design than larger gardens. Too many different plants or concepts leave one feeling overwhelmed or muddled rather than relaxed. In this day and age, the design must be practical (relatively low maintenance) as well as beautiful. Most clients want to spend time enjoying their outdoor refuge, not working in it.
10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Susan believes that the key is focusing on the client’s lifestyle and how the space will be used. Therefore, she asks three questions: What will you be doing in the garden? When you will be outside? Who will be with you? Defining realistic goals is critical to preventing the inclusion of too many elements in a small space and creating a space that reflects you. It is important to focus on creating space for activities instead of objects. For instance, if you grill outside, how often? Simple or elaborate meals? Those answers will help determine the size of this space. Do you want herbs growing nearby? Is there space for a vegetable/herb garden or will herbs grown in pots, placed nearby, be sufficient? Timing is important. Are there specific times of the year when your client will be outdoors more than others? That is when you want the garden beds to look their best, so select plants that will be at their best during that time. If you can choose plants that have more than one season of interest, continued on page 12 even better.