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A Visit to Cistus Nursery

I rarely go to nurseries anymore since I work part-time at one and another reason being that I don't have much room for additional plants. When a garden fanatic runs out of room, the brain goes into overdrive, dreaming up ingenious ways to incorporate more plants. And another thing happens - a burning desire to obtain rare and unique plants. I've been moving plants around, a tricky process that has a domino effect. A plant is unhappy - it is getting too much shade or perhaps too much sun. There is a plant that did not get as large as you thought it would or it is just a slow grower and now it is hopelessly hidden behind a taller plant. Sometimes a plant is just a dud for reasons unknown (Rhododendron 'Golden Gate' anyone?). I find the plant in question a better home, but it means that another plant will have to be moved. And the merry-go-round continues to turn... However, for those plants that are to be discarded, a space opens up for a new one! I decided to move a Mou...
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The Elegant & Edible Garden - a book review


The Elegant and Edible Garden by Linda Vader
Publication Date: April 12, 2022 (Cool Springs Press)

I often wonder how many people actually look at the construction and design of a book before diving in. I am one of those people and the first thing I noticed upon receiving this book in the mail was how beautiful it is and how it feels in the hand. It is by no means a large book and measures a compact 10" x 8" (approx.), not too big, not too little, just right. It is also very tactile with a rough canvas texture and embossed lettering. It is a beautifully designed book book inside and out. But enough about that - what's in it?

Photo courtesy Cool Springs Press

Judging from the title, one would assume that it is about vegetable gardening and that does play a significant role but the book is more about designing your dream garden as opposed to how to grow specific vegetables.

Linda Vater is a garden designer and social media personality who lives and gardens in Oklahoma City on a small lot surrounding a 1935 English Tudor house. She was inspired by Rosemary Verey, who created her famous potager (a kitchen garden incorporating ornamental plants and low hedges) at her home at Barnsley House in Gloucestershire.

Photo courtesy Cool Springs Press

As Vater demonstrates, "inspiration" is the first step, whether it comes from a photo in a book or magazine or visiting a garden that captures your imagination. She goes on to explain that once you determine the kind of garden you want, the next step is to analyze the physical needs that such a garden requires (soil, light, water, etc.)  Design elements such as entryways, focal points, edgings, colors and how to frame views follow. She goes on to discuss the practicality of caring for the garden and anticipating likely changes that will occur (as she herself experienced boxwood outgrowing their spaces and a devastating ice storm.)

In addition to Vater's practical and motivating words, the book is generously illustrated with gorgeous photographs.

Photo courtesy Cool Springs Press


 Note: Quarto Group / Cool Springs Press provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I received no compensation and the opinions are my own. 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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