The Less Is More Garden by Susan Morrison

The Less is More Garden by Susan Morrison
This book came out in 2018, and the subtitle is Big Ideas for Designing Your Small Yard.

Ah, the joy of a garden, a verdant sanctuary where one can commune with nature and cultivate a sense of tranquility.

Yet, for those of us with limited outdoor space, the dream of a flourishing garden can sometimes seem elusive.

Fear not, my dear gardeners! Susan Morrison's The Less Is More Garden offers a delightful guide to transforming even the smallest plot into a horticultural haven.

Right off the bat, when I saw the cover, I knew that I would love Susan's book, and you know, most people are small-space gardeners.

Susan writes.

In my practice as a landscape designer, most of the backyards that I design measure less than 2,500 square feet and layouts are rarely more than 40 by 60 feet. I no longer think of that as small, it has become standard.

Interestingly while active gardeners are often concerned with fitting in everything, into a space that's generally smaller than the backyards that they grew up in.

I am just as likely to hear from homeowners, more interested in creating a space that will be as simple as possible to maintain...
no one wants another to-do list item, but most of us want backyard that's a refuge... [and] the shift in how we live, work, and play is what led me to develop the less is more approach to garden design and outdoor living.

With her signature blend of practical wisdom and elegant style, Morrison invites us to embrace the beauty of restraint. As she so eloquently states, "Bigger isn't always better," and in the realm of gardening, this adage rings especially true. By focusing on quality over quantity, we can create a garden that is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying.

Morrison's approach is refreshingly down-to-earth. She doesn't bombard us with jargon or overwhelming advice. Instead, she offers clear, actionable tips that even the most novice gardener can understand and implement. From choosing the right plants to designing thoughtful hardscape elements, Morrison provides a wealth of inspiration and guidance.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its emphasis on seasonal interest.

Morrison encourages us to select plants that will provide a succession of blooms and foliage throughout the year, ensuring that our gardens remain vibrant and engaging. Whether you're seeking the delicate beauty of spring blossoms or the rich hues of autumn foliage, Morrison's recommendations will help you achieve your horticultural goals.

The accompanying photographs are simply breathtaking. They showcase a diverse range of small-space gardens from across the country, each with its own unique charm and character. From intimate courtyards to rooftop terraces, these images serve as a constant source of inspiration and motivation.

Here's how Susan defines as her less is more garden approach.

She writes:

At its heart, this approach to garden design means:
Less space, more enjoyment
Less effort, more beauty
Less maintenance, more relaxation, and finally
Less gardening-by-the-numbers, more YOU.

In conclusion, The Less Is More Garden is a must-read for any gardener seeking to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space. With its practical advice, inspiring photographs, and elegant prose, this book is sure to delight and inform readers of all ages and experience levels. So, let us embrace the joy of a smaller garden and discover the boundless possibilities that await us.

This book is 225 pages of small-garden design with the less is more approach. You'll find practical and helpful advice, inspirational photography, and many creative and unexpected tricks to help you get the small space garden of your dreams.

You can get a copy of The Less is More Garden by Susan Morrison and support the show using the Amazon link in today's show notes for around $18.