WEEKLY TIPS.

WEEKLY TIPS - MARCH.

Ahh sping is springing - at last! Lighter nights are almost here, days are warmer and its time to start sowing those seeds -

   Cauliflower,Broccoli,LeeksTomatoes,Parsnips,Marigolds,Echinacea,Rudbekia,Verbena, and many more can be started off in the greenhouse -

TIP - if you can afford to install a heated seed bed with soil cable and thermostat - will cost about £30-£40, germination rates are sooo much better - it also keeps the green house warm.

Yes, I know you might be thinking - well if I'm spending that much money I might as well buy veg - ummm maybe but the amount of plants you get from seed is huge in comparison to buying plugs - and its sooo exciting waiting for them to come through.

BOOK - 'Designing Gardens with Plant Shapes'.

Written & Illustrated by Carol J Smith,to be published by August 2011.

Designing Gardens with Plant Shapes introduces a new creative, visual approach to planting design. Instead of relying heavily on plant knowledge, it provides a practical, hands-on method for the design of planting, so that the final garden suits your needs and style. This innovative book sets out the principles of planting design, introduces nine plant shapes with a library of appropriate plants, and explains how all gardeners – from the novice to the experienced amateur – can achieve a beautiful and rewarding garden.

The book will also be invaluable to the professional garden designer.

INCLUDED in the BOOK: 

Theoretical aspects of planting design / ddesign theory.

Nine plant shapes described and plant libraries suggested.

The plant shapes method explained with practical drawing exercises.

Advice on using colour in a planting scheme.

Examples of three-dimensional planting design schemes.

Guide to the planting process.

All illustrations in the book have been drawn by Carol.

Carol Smith is a professional garden designer and freelance lecturer. She has worked on several award-winning show gardens and teaches on all aspects of garden and planting design.