What makes a garden special? Focal points that attract the eye turn each area into a habitat of graceful beauty, and make a strong first impression. Using dozens of inspiring photographs, plus detailed drawings that provide a map of all the elements, horticulturist Tara Dillard reveals her secrets for creating dazzling arrangements that are elegant (not overdone) and maintain their loveliness all year long. Find out how to choose a theme, make a splash with color, add garden art, install effective architectural pieces and furnishings, and generate a big impact with just a little input. From trompe l’oeil (including faux doors and windows) to recreating the first garden you loved, every idea here is top-quality.

A photographic guide to garden design, discussing the importance of focal points and their placement, looking at different garden styles, and considering design challenges.

Bring in the energy of wild places and work in harmony with the land to grow your own food and live sustainably. In this beautifully illustrated book, award-winning garden designer Mary Reynolds encourages us to create a bond with the land to restore its health and feel its energy. Drawing inspiration from permaculture traditions as well as the ancient multi-tiered approach of forest gardening, Mary demonstrates how to create a magical garden that is an expanding, living, interconnected ecosystem. The Garden Awakening is both art and inspiration for any garden lover seeking to create a positive and natural space while incorporating sustainable living such as growing your own food. It combines practical step-by-step instructions with spiritual, ancient Celtic stories to help you awaken any garden space, nurturing it to benefit both the land and the people in it. This design approach allows ecosystems to be whole and in balance while providing a place for human beings to live happy and productive lives. Transform your garden into a vibrant, wild area that embraces the spiritual side of nature with this wonderful read.

"She Sheds provides inspiration, tips, and tricks to help create the hideaway of your dreams"--

Pathways around your home can be the most striking outdoor element, providing a visual and physical guide through your surroundings. Instead of settling for boring straight-line sidewalks, why not create your own geography with paths that add art to necessity! Let this lush visual resource for gardeners and garden designers inspire you with its 125 different paths that feature styles from very casual to natural trails to elegantly formal walkways. Do-it-yourself installation instructions cover materials, elements of design, each step of construction, and maintenance tips. The value of your home will increase, and so will the pleasure you receive from walking outdoors, as the ordinary activity of going from one place to another reveals your sense of beauty and character. A Selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club & the Homestyle Book Club.

**Heartland Homesteading A Comprehensive Guide to Sustainable Living in Iowa** Discover the keys to self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship with "Heartland Homesteading," your ultimate guide to sustainable living in the heart of America. This essential resource is designed for individuals and families looking to embrace a lifestyle that harmonizes with the unique environment of Iowa. **Introduction to Heartland Homesteading** Begin your journey with an insightful introduction to homesteading and sustainable living, tailored specifically for the rich lands of Iowa. Uncover the environmental challenges and opportunities that Midwest homesteaders face, and set achievable goals for a sustainable lifestyle. **Building a Sustainable Home** Learn how to construct an eco-friendly home using sustainable materials and energy-efficient techniques. Delve into the benefits of solar and wind energy, tailored for the Midwest climate, to reduce your carbon footprint and energy costs. **Water Management Strategies** Master the art of water conservation with comprehensive guides on rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and other vital water management techniques crucial for any homesteader in Iowa's varied weather conditions. **Sustainable Agriculture Practices** Transform your gardening skills with organic, permaculture, and crop rotation strategies that enrich soil health and ensure bountiful harvests. These sustainable agriculture practices are the backbone of a thriving homestead. **Raising Livestock Sustainably** Equip yourself with knowledge on selecting and managing livestock compatible with Iowa’s climate. Learn about pasture management, rotational grazing, and integrating livestock into your homestead to create a balanced ecosystem. **Food Preservation Methods** Extend the bounty of your harvest through expert food preservation methods, including canning, fermentation, dehydrating, freezing, and root cellaring. Never let a single crop go to waste. **Natural Pest and Weed Control** Adopt natural pest and weed control techniques, such as companion planting and homemade organic pesticides, to maintain a healthy and chemical-free garden. **Native Plant Landscaping** Cultivate a thriving garden with native plants that support local wildlife and enhance biodiversity. Discover the benefits and beauty of establishing a native plant garden in your homestead. **Waste Reduction and Recycling** Implement effective composting methods and recycling practices to reduce waste and promote a cleaner environment. Learn tips for minimizing single-use plastics, crucial for a sustainable homesteading life. **Alternative Transportation Solutions** Explore the benefits of biking, walking, and community car sharing as part of a greener, more sustainable lifestyle. Utilize public transportation options available in your area to reduce your carbon footprint. **Supporting Local Economies** Strengthen your community by supporting local economies through farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and local businesses. Foster a circular economy that benefits everyone. **Community Involvement and Education** Get involved in sustainable living groups, community education programs, and collaborations with local schools to spread the knowledge and benefits of sustainable practices throughout your community. **Sustainable Practices for Families** Involve every family member in homesteading activities and create lasting sustainability goals together. Teach the next generation the values and practices of a sustainable lifestyle. **Seasonal Activities for Sustainable Living** Engage in seasonal activities that align with sustainable living, from spring planting to fall preservation. Prepare your homestead for every season with practical tips and activities. **Overcoming Challenges in Sustainable Living** Face the inevitable challenges of homesteading with confidence. Learn how to navigate Iowa’s weather extremes, manage time and resources efficiently, and stay motivated on your sustainable living journey. "Heartland Homesteading" is your go-to manual for transforming your life into one of sustainability and self-reliance. Embrace the power of sustainable living in Iowa today!