A complete guide to creating successful planting schemes in every area of the garden, this book offers original ideas for island beds, planting around water, and planting to direct the view. Each type of plant is described in close detail and its role in the garden is considered in full. There is information on how to combine plants in numerous ways, according to height, form and habit, season, colour and rhythm and unity. Introductory chapters explain clearly all about site, situations and soil types, and advice is given to readers on how to assess their own gardens, with guidance on the best plants for any given condition.