Book Review - New Illustrated Guide to Native Plants

Planting with Trees - a new Hillier Gardener's

Trees are the most dominant plants in the landscape and in our gardens yet many gardeners shy away from planting them. Gardeners seem in awe of their powerful influence on the garden environment and perhaps sometimes fail to grasp the fact that they absorb carbon dioxide and replenish oxygen, which if nothing else, should encourage us all to consider a place for them in our gardens.

In ‘Planting with Trees” Andrew and Rosamond McIndoe introduce us to the exciting world of trees and stress their importance in the garden. They are long-term subjects that form an essential part of garden structure which can often influence the rest of the planting.

'Planting with Trees' approaches the subject from several user-friendly angles and will help the reader choose the right tree for the position and type of garden as well as considering soil and climatic conditions. There are lots of hints and tips on what to plant under and around trees, information on foliage effects and seasons as well as the author’s own choice.

We have come to expect high standards from the range of Hillier Gardener's Guides which have already been published and 'Planting with Trees' is no exception. With a unique mix of practical advice and inspiration, Andrew and Rosamond introduce us to a wide variety of trees for every situation and location. As with all the garden guides, there is a no nonsense approach in a practical and useful format which is easy to refer to and informative with a wide range of excellent illustrations.

Andrew is the Deputy Managing Director of Hillier and Director of Hillier Garden Centres. He has designed the Hillier Chelsea exhibit for 16 years with an unbroken record of Gold Medals. Andrew’s wife Rosamond, is a garden designer and plantswoman with a particular expertise in trees and shrubs.

A tree will provide height in the garden and structure. They connect our gardens to the surrounding countryside and keep wildlife routes open across urban areas. They provide shelter for birds and are a valuable food source. They provide shade in the garden and if placed carefully can provide screening and privacy.

'Planting with Trees' by Andrew and Rosamond McIndoe is published on 29th March 2007 by David and Charles priced £14.99 or purchase online at Amazon for £10.49 (as going to print) saving 30%!