Easy Plants For Difficult Places

Well-known gardener Geoffrey Smith (1928-2009) was famously interested in plants and their origins.As a former superintendent of the Northern Horticultural Society’s gardens at Harlow Carr near Harrogate he gained valuable experience of growing plants in difficult conditions; the site was well known for its harsh climate, strong winds and soil problems. Similar conditions existed in his own garden nearby where he only grew plants which would stand up to harsh problems.These are the plants he describes in his book. He starts with the general considerations of designing a garden telling the reader about the problems of frost, wind and soils and gives his ideas for dealing with them. He studies planting techniques and dealing with shade. The plants he lists have all been carefully selected for their enduring qualities as well as for the beauty of their flowers, foliage or fruit.Above all each plant he discusses has proved its worth to him in difficult situations over many years.