This is a troubleshooting book that locates difficult areas in real gardens and shows how to overcome the particular problems by choosing plants that will thrive in those conditions. The author looks at these plants in their natural habitats and explains the characteristics of each group, so that the gardener is able to deduce which of them are likely to thrive in his or her own garden. Examples are shown of well-planted areas such as a bog garden, a woodland garden and a Mediterranean garden. The book focuses on shady areas; thin, dry, sunbaked soil; heavy clay soil; damp, boggy sites; windswept sites and seaside gardens; and acid/limey soil. It also provides practical information, with plans of planting combinations and mini-plans and boxes which give fast solutions for instant effect.