Grass Scapes: Gardening with Ornamental Grasses

Beryl Hamilton is a freelance writer in Thunder Bay who specializes in
home gardening.

Ornamental grasses have had a great resurgence in the past few years. In
the early 20th century, they were popular in garden design but faded in
the 1940s, as evidenced by overused pampas grasses in suburban gardens.
The authors provide an extensive introduction to grasses here,
explaining the hardiness and versatility that have contributed to their
re-emergence. The book is organized into six chapters: “About
Grasses,” “Working with Colour,” “Special Conditions,”
“Designing with Grasses,” “Perennial Companions,” and “Grasses
at a Glance.” The authors also provide a valuable list of selected
reading.

Expert grass breeder Martin Quinn and writer Catherine Macleod reveal
the wonderful diversity of ornamental grasses in this beautifully
written and illustrated book. The more than 100 colour photographs are
visually appealing and do a superb job of conveying the exciting
possibilities of these plants. The adjacent text is clear and concise.
“Grasses at a Glance” is an excellent chapter to use as a summary or
as a basic resource to find particular grasses. The authors have managed
to demystify relevant terminology and demonstrate that there is an
ornamental grass for every habitat: naturalized, in a formal garden, or
in full sun or shade.

In short, Grass Scapes is a superb introduction for all gardeners
interested in incorporating hardy ornamental grasses. The book gives a
basic understanding of shapes, colours, sizes, and history, and a sound
knowledge of creating and caring for grass scapes.