Book Launching: Introducing My Second Book-Landscape Design Combinations!

Landscape Design Combinations

The Story Behind the Book:

I am very excited to be officially announcing the launching of my second book, Landscape Design Combinations! Fifty something years ago, I developed a passion for all things green and started digging in the soil by the age of five. In the 1980's, I entered the field of education and after sixteen years, with the encouragement of friends, started up a landscape design business in 1996. I took up an interest in blog writing and photography in 2010, and after retiring from 32 years of teaching in 2013, I decided to put all my experiences into a published work. I had quickly realized that writing and publishing a book was not an easy task, but persisted in accomplishing what I had started. By 2015, I published my first book A Guide to Northeastern Gardening. 

The thought of starting the process all over again was the furthest thing from my mind, but to my own astonishment, the desire to write within me grew even stronger. There was still so much I wanted to share. As I started to write, the words came easily, and a second book started to materialize.  Now, two years later, I have completed Landscape Design Combinations, which takes the first book a step further by going much deeper into the design process, while offering numerous landscape designs with labeled photographs and descriptions. One can say that it completes what I had started. I am now thrilled to be able to share my love of gardening and design with you through a second book. 

What does this book have to offer?

Landscape Design Combinations is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your outdoor space. If you have ever felt overwhelmed by “what to plant where” in your garden, or have spent months, or even years, not knowing where to begin, Landscape Design Combinations will help to facilitate the process. The first two chapters deal with the basic principles of landscape design and color coordination. You will get ideas for the desired function of your space and discover your own personal sense of garden style and color preference. Throughout the book, each chapter builds upon the one before it, discussing foliage combinations, then types of and proper placement of evergreens, followed by flowering shrubs and finally, perennials.

Numbered and labeled photographs are supplied throughout the book with information on each plant, such as common or scientific name, plant descriptions and cold hardiness. Once plant usage and placement is covered, the remaining chapters discuss hardscape, with directions on how to build a simple stone walkway or patio, along with more information on garden styles. Each chapter will incorporate plants discussed earlier and create designs starting from simple perennial combinations to full landscape designs.

Discussion of evergreens and flowering plants will focus on placement and interest provided, while perennial combinations will include bloom time for each plant discussed. As each chapter progress, more detailed design plan layouts will be provided as a guide to assist you in planning your space. In the later chapters, topics covered include designing for seasonal interest, container combinations and hardscaping, with easy to follow designs. The book ends with "Garden Inspiration", which discusses garden styles throughout the centuries and how various design elements have developed over the years. Finally, a glossary is included with definitions of design terms used throughout the book.

About the Book:

Landscape Design Combinations provides the necessary tools to help you easily plan your garden, while offering a multitude of design plans with labeled photographs and detailed descriptions. Topics such as landscape design principles, color in design, the use of foliage, designing with deciduous and evergreen plants, planter combinations and landscape planning are discussed. Additional topics include designing with hardscape with “quick and easy” landscape designs and garden styles throughout history, with colorful illustrations. The information presented is applicable to both novice or professional gardener alike, and is all based on Lee Miller’s personal experience as a landscape designer for over twenty years. Lee Miller is also the author of “A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer”, initially published in 2015.

About the Author: 

Lee Miller is a professional landscape/garden designer involved in the horticultural industry since 1996. Having started a gardening blog in 2010, she is the author of over 200 articles on general gardening, landscape design principles, gardening tips, planting, pruning, garden maintenance, feature plants and more. In addition, Lee Miller has donated her time as a contributing writer for the American Heart Association Gardening Blog, as well as Gardening Know How, and has been involved as a presenter at local gardening clubs. 

To Preview Landscape Design Combinations, simply click on the link or icon below. I hope to inspire you!

Landscape Design Combinations

As Always...Happy Gardening!

Author: Lee@A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2017. All rights reserved

Weeping Pussy Willow: Feature Spring Blooming Tree

Salix caprea 'Pendula' (Weeping Pussy Willow)

Here in my zone 7 northeastern garden, one of my favorite trees for spring interest is Weeping Pussy Willow (Salix caprea 'Pendula'). In early spring Weeping Pussy Willow develops beautiful silvery-gray catkins that cover the tree and turn to bright yellow. The display continues for several weeks until the tree develops its beautiful light green foliage. Salix caprea 'Pendula' possesses a strong cascading nature that can be allowed to weep all the way to the ground. It looks great next to a patio area or as a stand alone piece in any garden. Weeping Pussy Willow prefers a slightly acidic moist soil in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Salix caprea 'Pendula' stays relatively small reaching a mature height of approximately 5-8 feet while spreading to a width of 4-5 feet. 

Salix caprea 'Pendula' (Weeping Pussy Willow) spring catkins

Salix tolerates pruning well and can also be maintained in a more manicured manner. It is easy to maintain and gives enjoyment all season long. Catkins form on the growth of the previous season in late winter, so any pruning should wait until after bloom. Salix caprea 'Pendula' are often sold as grafted trees so they appear on a single trunk resembling an umbrella. Salix caprea 'Pendula' is reasonably disease resistant.

Visit My Author Page and Books

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9

Landscape Design Combinations 

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener...and 

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

As Always...Happy Gardening!

Author: Lee@A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2012

Landscaping with Japanese Maples

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis' (Weeping Japanese Maple)

Japanese maples have been welcomed additions in the landscape for hundreds of years and are long admired for their delicate red or green foliage, beautifully structured trunks and striking fall color. 

Native to Japan, these beautiful trees have been cultivated since the 1800's.  When the first Japanese Maple specimen reached England in 1820 the name palmatum was given to the tree by botanist Carl Peter Thunberg after the characteristic palm-like feature of its leaves.

Basically there are two varieties of Japanese maple.  Dissectum refers to the weeping or lace leaf type of maple and palmatum refers to the upright or standard form.  The terminology is used interchangeably to describe the exact characteristics of each tree.  More known for the red variety, approximately sixty percent of the palmatum Japanese Maples are red and the remaining green.  I must point out however; that green variety, (pictured above) can be just as magnificent in the landscape.  Most Japanese Maples are cold hardy to zone 5 and prefer a moist but well-drained acidic soil.

Acer Palmatum dissectum 'Crimson Queen' (Weeping Japanese Maple)

When choosing a type of Japanese Maple it is important to consider the lighting requirement for your tree.  The lace leaf varieties have more delicate foliage and cannot tolerate direct sunlight or wind as well as the palmatum types.  I find that an eastern exposure works well for these trees so that they receive the morning sun and are shielded from the more direct afternoon rays.  Generally both varieties do best in non-direct filtered light and the green varieties can handle a little more sun, but again not direct.

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Red Select' (Weeping Japanese Maple)

This 'Red Select' Japanese Maple is known to be a little more sun tolerant than some of the other varieties.  This beauty keeps its vibrant "red" coloration throughout the entire season.  'Red Select' is hardy to USDA zone 5 and grows to a mature height of 5-6 feet and width of 6-10 feet.  'Crimson Queen' (above) grows a little taller at 6-10 feet in height at maturity.

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis' (Weeping Japanese Maple)

One must also consider the mature size of the tree for its space.  Sizes do vary considerably for each individual type so be sure to do your research accordingly or ask an expert.  Japanese Maples can be selectively pruned to keep them more compact and to preserve their beautiful cascading rounded shape.  The best time to prune a weeping Japanese maple is in the early springtime.  Pruning is somewhat of an art but if you take your time your tree will become even more magnificent as it matures. Always make clean cuts flush to the trunk and just outside the branch collar.  Systematically clip branches that are cascading to the ground around the perimeter of the tree until you reach the desired height.  There are basically two types of appearances, one exposing the trunk to view the form of the tree or that of a more cascading nature.  The nature of these trees is that they resemble a cascading waterfall, making them a graceful and beautiful focal point in the landscape.

Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku' (Upright Japanese Maple)

One of my favorite upright varieties of Japanese Maple is Coral Bark Maple or Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku'. Known for its striking red bark in the fall and winter, this specimen makes an excellent single piece in the landscape. The foliage of 'Sango Kaku' varies from a pinkish-green in the spring to medium green in summer, then turning to a bright yellow in fall. During the winter months the vivid coral-red color of the branches contrast beautifully against the snow, hence the name Coral Bark Maple. Coral Bark Maple is hardy to USDA zone 5 and is classified as a medium sized tree, reaching to a mature height and width of approximately15-20 feet.

Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira’ (Upright Japanese Maple)

A more exotic and rare and species of upright Japanese Maple is that of  Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira’ or "Lion's Mane" Japanese Maple. 'Shishigashira' is in a class of its own unlike any other Japanese maple in the world.  It's leaves are curled and more densely arranged unlike other maples and its deep green color lasts into the fall before it transforms into the most fiery-red foliage you ever did see, resembling a lion's mane.  'Shishigashira' is extremely slow growing reaching a mature height of 15 feet and is hardy in zones 5-9.  Due to its slow growth this tree is also well known for its use as bonsai.  This tree is mostly used as a single specimen and will surely be a conversation piece in the garden.  It's show of changing color will supply interest in the landscape all season long and for many years to come.

Japanese Maple Types (Summary Chart)

Japanese Maples are known for their long time history and will add constant beauty and grace to your outdoor space.  Find the perfect location for these beauties and they will be sure to supply you with many years of color, interesting foliage and enjoyment!

Visit my Author Page and Books on Amazon:

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9 
Landscape Design Combinations

Dream, Garden, Grow!

As Always...Happy Gardening!

Author:Lee@A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2012. All Rights Reserved

Weeping Evergreens in the Landscape

Weeping Norway Spruce (Picea abies 'Pendula')

Weeping evergreens are beautiful and graceful trees that can add much interest in the landscape. Often acting as a focal point, there are a variety of pendulous trees to choose from, each unique in its own way. An important characteristic of these trees is that several specimens from the same cultivar can range in size, shape and form.  Since no two trees are identical they can become quite the conversation piece in the garden. 

Weeping Norway Spruce (Picea abies 'Pendula') is hardy in USDA zones 2-8 and exhibits dark green cascading branches.  Picea prefers a moderately moist well-drained soil and will tolerate a range of soil pH from strongly acidic to mildly alkaline. Weeping Norway Spruce will tolerate some partial shade but does best in full sunlight. This tree makes a beautiful specimen in the landscape and it also deer resistant. Weeping Norway Spruce is one of the more compact varieties of pendulous trees and ranges in height and width from 4-15 feet. The tree is quite versatile in that the branches can be trained while young to any desired stature, thus making it possible to use in smaller spaces.

Weeping White Pine (Pinus strobus 'Pendula')

Weeping White Pine  (Pinus  strobus' Pendula') is a larger weeping evergreen in the conifer family displaying graceful soft blue-green needles on cascading branches. This tree thrives best in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Weeping White Pine prefers to be grown in a slightly acidic, moderately moist, well-drained soil. Height at maturity varies from 5-10 feet and width from 4-10 feet. Candles may be pruned in spring to keep this tree compact. This tree fits nicely into a variety of landscape styles ranging from foundation plantings to informal woodland settings. 

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Pendula')

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Pendula') is a favorite member of the conifer family displaying powdery blue-needles on graceful cascading branches. Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and does best in full sun in a well-drained soil. They can reach a mature height of approximately 10 feet tall and can span in width to 15-20 feet. Plant this tree where it is shielded from strong winter winds and give it plenty of space to grow for it will become a magnificent specimen and favorite in your garden.

Weeping Alaskan Cedar
(Chamaecyparis nookatensis 'Pendula')

Weeping Alaskan Cedar (Chamaecyparis nookatensis 'Pendula') is a "false" cedar of the genus cypress with graceful hanging dark green foliage on descending branches.  Weeping Alaskan Cedar is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and prefers a moist, well-drained, acidic soil.   It thrives best in full sun to light shade and prefers moderate humidity. Weeping Alaskan Cedar can reach a mature height of 20-40 feet and width of 15 feet. This majestic evergreen serves well as a screening tree or stand-alone piece in the landscape and develops into a beautiful specimen in its maturity. 

Weeping evergreens can supply lasting color and form to any landscape and even look beautiful in winter as their cascading branches are graced with snow. Their range of form and color makes them very versatile in the landscape and they are reasonably easy to grow once established. If you are able to incorporate one of these majestic weeping evergreens into your landscape, you will not be disappointed. Each one is so unique and elegant that it will quickly become a favorite conversation piece and greatly admired focal point. For more ideas on gardening and design, visit my Author Page.

For more gardening tips: Visit My Author Page and Books

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9

Landscape Design Combinations 

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener...and 

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

Shade Gardening for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

As Always...Happy gardening!

Author: Lee@ A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar-Focal Point in the Garden

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula') 

One of my all time favorite evergreens in the landscape is Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar, Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca Pendula’. Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar is a conical evergreen known for its graceful flowing nature and beautiful silvery blue-green needles.  It is a focal point and specimen in the garden and quite the conversation piece for its shape and irregular weeping pattern resembling a cascading waterfall. Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca Pendula’ is hardy to USDA Zones 6-8, prefers an acidic-slightly alkaline well-drained loam soil and location in full sun (6-8 hours sunlight). They are tolerant of many soil types but will not fair well in soils with poor drainage such as clay.  

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar Zones 6-8

Use this beautiful evergreen as a specimen planting where it will not be crowded and has plenty of room to spread. Depending on the structure of your tree it can reach a height of 10-15 feet and a width of 8-10 feet across and would be difficult to transplant once established. As your tree matures its cascading branches will drape down to the ground giving your tree grace and charm.

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula')

Generally the trunk of a Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar can be trained as a spiral, grown horizontally or in a more upright form; therefore, they can be purchased at a variety of heights and shapes and will stay around the height at which they were trained. To prune the tree wait until late October-early November (mid-Fall) to clip off any weak or bent branches which are resting on the ground to an inch or two above the soil. The branches look best when cascading to the ground but it is recommended to perform this routine pruning in order to prevent any fungal disease that may result from the branches resting on soil. Branches that reach out beyond a desired point can also be pruned back to give fullness and strength to the structure of the tree. Other than that Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar do not require much pruning.  

 Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar takes on its own unique shape.

Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar is not prone to any particular pests or diseases. Another plus is that they are also deer resistant! They do benefit from an early spring feeding and should be protected from strong winter winds. If you have clay soil break up the soil and add gypsum, which will help to improve drainage, or if the clay is very compact use a post-hole digger to dig down and add gravel to help water flow. When planting, allow this specimen plenty of room to grow so that it can reach its full potential.

If you are looking for something different, this specimen tree will highlight your landscape and bring you many years of enjoyment. Its silvery-blue needles and beautiful weeping habit make it an excellent addition as a focal point in the garden…an attribute that will only improve as your tree matures in age.  

For more gardening tips: Visit My Author Page and Books

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9

Landscape Design Combinations 

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener...and 

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

Shade Gardening for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

Author: Lee@A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2011. All rights reserved