landscape lighting book

landscape lighting book

Dream: Stefan Hussong Plays John Cage $16.98 ...

Moonrays 91515 Turtles on a Log Solar-Powered Outdoor LED Light $11.51 Polyresin construction. 3 turtles rest on a log, shells glow at night with 3 amber LEDs. Rechargeable battery included....

Four Seasons Courtyard L3C-N2-BK-2 Dual Use Coach Style Solar Lights - 2 Pack $17.99 Sold as 2 UNITS at $17.91 per unit. (1 unit = Pk/2.) 2 pack. Powered by ultra high efficiency sun powered solar panel. Enhances brightness and extended runtime. Plastic construction in matte black finish. Use on Shepherd's hook or ground. Photocell control - automatically turns on and off. Two natural white LEDs. One "AA" NICD 600MH rechargeable battery. Solar powered no wires to install . Manu...

Fulcrum 20019-301 Battery-Operated LED Clip-On Task Light $22.11 Add extra light at the BBQ and other workspaces with this LED light. Its clip-on design lets you install it anywhere in seconds. An adjustable gooseneck lets you aim the light from 6 bright LEDs right where you need it. Battery-operated....

Fosmon 360 Degree Revolving Case with Multi Angle Stand for Kindle Fire - Green $7.99 This case is designed specifically for the new Kindle Fire taking into consideration of all ports and buttons from the Kindle Fire. The case was designed to allow 360 degree rotation of the Kindle fire and allows the Kindle stand horizontally or vertically in various viewing angle. Made of high quality artificial leather and designed with supporting stand. The new design of the Kindle Fire was als...

Fosmon 360 Degree Revolving Case with Multi Angle Stand for Kindle Fire - Dark Blue / Turquoise $7.99 This case is designed specifically for the new Kindle Fire taking into consideration of all ports and buttons from the Kindle Fire. The case was designed to allow 360 degree rotation of the Kindle fire and allows the Kindle stand horizontally or vertically in various viewing angle. Made of high quality artificial leather and designed with supporting stand. The new design of the Kindle Fire was als...

Fosmon 360 Degree Revolving Case with Multi Angle Stand for Kindle Fire - Purple $7.99 This case is designed specifically for the new Kindle Fire taking into consideration of all ports and buttons from the Kindle Fire. The case was designed to allow 360 degree rotation of the Kindle fire and allows the Kindle stand horizontally or vertically in various viewing angle. Made of high quality artificial leather and designed with supporting stand. The new design of the Kindle Fire was als...

Malibu 8301-9501-01 20 Watt Submersible Halogen Light, Black Matte $24.00 The Malibu Submersible Flood Light in Black (8301-9501-01) is an easy do-it-yourself project and can be installed safely in very little time. The plastic construction and waterproof seal allow the light to be completely submersed in water, making it ideal for installations such as backyard water gardens. The plastic material ensures the light is safe for use with aquatic life....

Fosmon 360 Degree Revolving Case with Multi Angle Stand for Kindle Fire - Green $7.99 This case is designed specifically for the new Kindle Fire taking into consideration of all ports and buttons from the Kindle Fire. The case was designed to allow 360 degree rotation of the Kindle fire and allows the Kindle stand horizontally or vertically in various viewing angle. Made of high quality artificial leather and designed with supporting stand. The new design of the Kindle Fire was als...

Fosmon 360 Degree Revolving Case with Multi Angle Stand for Kindle Fire - Dark Blue / Turquoise $7.99 This case is designed specifically for the new Kindle Fire taking into consideration of all ports and buttons from the Kindle Fire. The case was designed to allow 360 degree rotation of the Kindle fire and allows the Kindle stand horizontally or vertically in various viewing angle. Made of high quality artificial leather and designed with supporting stand. The new design of the Kindle Fire was als...

Malibu 8301-9501-01 20 Watt Submersible Halogen Light, Black Matte $24.00 The Malibu Submersible Flood Light in Black (8301-9501-01) is an easy do-it-yourself project and can be installed safely in very little time. The plastic construction and waterproof seal allow the light to be completely submersed in water, making it ideal for installations such as backyard water gardens. The plastic material ensures the light is safe for use with aquatic life....

Dream: Stefan Hussong Plays John Cage $16.98 ...

Hand Powered LED Flashlight Penguin $6.42 Hand Powered LED Flashlight Penguin Never before has a Dynamo LED flashlight combined kid friendly design with being green like the Hand Powered LED Flashlight Penguin. Fun and easy to use it is completely powered by hand squeezing the built in dynamo power generator, ingeniously molded right into the birds wing. Teach children the importance of being eco-aware and not using disposable batteri...

Black & White 2 $9.49 Will you be an evil or benevolent deity? That's the choice you must make upon returning to a warring land in Black & White 2. Like its wildly successful predecessor, Black & White, the sequel is all about moral choices. The land, however, has transformed itself. The inhabitants of this breathtaking 3D world have lost their innocence and developed new weapons and technology. As you enter this warri...

Age of Empires III $10.49 MODEL- MS-CD04328WI VENDOR- MICROSOFT CORPORATION FEATURES- Microsoft Age of Empires III PC This newest version of the Age of Empires Age of Empires III places you in the age of exploration and conquest-- roughly 1500...

World of Warcraft $7.77 Vivendi (72212) World of Warcraft PC...

Moonrays 91515 Turtles on a Log Solar-Powered Outdoor LED Light $11.51 Polyresin construction. 3 turtles rest on a log, shells glow at night with 3 amber LEDs. Rechargeable battery included....

Four Seasons Courtyard L3C-N2-BK-2 Dual Use Coach Style Solar Lights - 2 Pack $17.99 Sold as 2 UNITS at $17.91 per unit. (1 unit = Pk/2.) 2 pack. Powered by ultra high efficiency sun powered solar panel. Enhances brightness and extended runtime. Plastic construction in matte black finish. Use on Shepherd's hook or ground. Photocell control - automatically turns on and off. Two natural white LEDs. One "AA" NICD 600MH rechargeable battery. Solar powered no wires to install . Manu...

Fulcrum 20019-301 Battery-Operated LED Clip-On Task Light $22.11 Add extra light at the BBQ and other workspaces with this LED light. Its clip-on design lets you install it anywhere in seconds. An adjustable gooseneck lets you aim the light from 6 bright LEDs right where you need it. Battery-operated....

Total 3D Home & Landscape Suite 8 (DVD-Rom + CD-Rom) $12.99 Visualize Home Improvement Projects Before You Start! This complete design suite includes 35 integrated home and landscape design programs developed just for you, the homeowner, rather than architects and building contractors. Whether you are remodeling your house, redecorating a room, creating an enchanting water garden, or designing your dream home, all the tools and inspiration you need are inc...

Sun, Wind & Light: Architectural Design Strategies, 2nd Edition $49.99 Sun, Wind & Light: Architectural Design Strategies, 2nd Edition [Paperback]G. Z. Brown (Author) , Mark DeKay (Author)...

Fill Your Oil Paintings with Light & Color $19.99 These pages practically glow with Kevin Macpherson's rich and powerful paintings! He shares his techniques for quickly capturing the mood of a scene in bold, direct brushstrokes, with step-by-step instructions that make it easy - simply a matter of painting the colors you see. Follow his lead and you too, can create landscapes and still lives in a vibrant, impressionistic style....

Creative Landscapes: Digital Photography Tips and Techniques $16.01 Capture the beauty of the world around you with this professional adviceLandscape photography inspires millions of photographers. If you're one of them, you'll find new insight into landscape photography in this book by professional photographer Harold Davis, as well as tips, tricks, and technical advice to help you improve the quality of your photos. You'll learn to use lighting and composition c...

Do a web search… millions of tutorials

“First Light: Five Photographers Explore Yosemite’s Wilderness” photo book trailer

Nexus LED Landscape Lighting - DRIVER by Hinkley Lighting $498 The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Landscape Lighting -DRIVER, in combination with the Nexus LED Landscape lights, reduces excessive heat that could damage or diminish the LED light performance. Offers space for an optional plug-in timer. Works with a number of Nexus lights at any time, up to 150 watts. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Landscape Lighting -DRIVER is available with the following: Details:Reduces excessive heat from Nexus LED landscape lightsLED wattage 150w maxOffers space for an optional plug-in timer (timer not included)Stainless Steel finishUL Listed for wet locationsShipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Unit: Width 5.5 In., Height 17 In.

Nexus LED Landscape Lighting -STEMS by Hinkley Lighting $11.9 Light up all levels of the yard with the Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Landscape Lighting -STEMS. Interconnect several stems to allow taller plants or yard features to receive the same attention as lower-level ones. Available in 4 lengths. For use with Nexus LED Landscape lights for beautiful, energy-efficient exterior garden lighting. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Landscape Lighting -STEMS is available with the following: Details:Bronze powder coated marine grade finishAluminum constructionUL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Size: 6", 12", 18", or 24".Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days.

Nexus LED Swivel Landscape Light by Hinkley Lighting $158 Take landscape lighting to the next level with the Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Swivel Landscape Light. Offering a 90 degree elbow with a 350 degree head rotation, plants, garden paths, even walls are all within reach of warm, natural looking light. Energy efficient and powder-coated for long lasting enjoyment. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Swivel Landscape Light is available with the following: Details:High impact acrylic lensBronze powder-coated marine grade finishAluminum construction90 degree elbow350 degree head rotation36" leadwireUL Listed for wet locationsNOTE: Driver and stem not included. Options:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes one 6 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Small option utilizes one 3 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Large Fixture: Width 21 In., Height 7 In. Small Fixture: Width 14.5 In., Height 7 In.

Nexus LED Elbow Landscape Light by Hinkley Lighting $158 A sleek, contemporary option for exterior energy efficient garden lighting, the Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Elbow Landscape Light offers 180 degree swivel action and 350 degree head rotation to best light paths, signs, tall hedging, or anything you think deserves to be noticed. Lens is made of high impact acrylic. Powder finished for a great lasting look. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Elbow Landscape Light is available with the following: Details:Bronze powder-coated marine grade finishAluminum construction180 degree swivel action350 degree head rotationHigh impact acrylic lens36" leadwireUL Listed for wet locationsNOTE: Driver and stem not included. Options:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes one 6 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Small option utilizes one 3 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Large Fixture: Width 1 In., Height 17.75 In. Small Fixture: Height 11.75 In., Width 1 In.

Nexus LED T-Connector Landscape Light by Hinkley Lighting $278 The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED T-Connector Landscape Light provides dual lighting in a warm, natural looking energy efficient design for garden paths, landscaping, signs--anything that deserves to be seen. Features a 350 degree head rotation. Powder coated for long lasting enjoyment. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED T-Connector Landscape Light is available with the following: Details:High impact acrylic lensBronze powder coated marine grade finish350 degree head rotationAluminum construction36" leadwireUL Listed for wet locationsNOTE: Driver and stem not included. Options:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes two 6 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamps (included).Small option utilizes two 3 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamps (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Large Fixture: Height 2.5 In., Width 32 In. Small Fixture: Width 19.5 In., Height 2.5 In.

Nexus LED Mini-Bollard Landscape Light by Hinkley Lighting $138 The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Mini-Bollard Landscape Light offers warm, white light in an energy efficient design perfect for adding a natural-looking light to paths, garden landscapes, signs, or washing exterior walls with illumination. Available in two sizes. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Nexus LED Mini-Bollard Landscape Light is available with the following: Details:Bronze poweder-coated marine grade finish350 degree head rotationHigh impact acrylic lensAluminum construction36" leadwireUL Listed for wet locationsNOTE: Driver and Stem not included. Options:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes one 6 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Small option utilizes one 3 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Large Fixture: Width 14 In., Height 1 In. Small Fixture: Height 1 In., Width 8 In.

Tera Planter by Twist Lighting $203.2 Classic planter design recreated for the contemporary or soft contemporary home. The Twist Lighting Tera Planter is a great option for your potted trees and manicured shrubbery. Line several of the same size along a walkway or place three different sizes together for a layered, multi-leveled look. Made of durable, weather resistant plastic. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Tera Planter is available with the following: Details:Rotomoulded polyethylene constructionWeather resistantCapacity: Small 777.72 oz., Medium 1014.42 oz. and Large 1521.63 oz.Options:Color: Black, Brown, or Mocha.Size: Large, Medium, or Small.Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Small Item: Height 20 In., Width 22 In. Large Item: Width 20 In., Height 33 In. Medium Item: Width 26 In., Height 24 In.

Thuya Rainwater Tank by Twist Lighting $438.4 No more relying on hose water to hydrate your plants. The Twist Lighting Thuya Rainwater Tank is an energy efficient way to collect and store rainwater from the downspout for use in the garden. It collects water from the top and holds up to 50 gallons, is virtually unbreakable and is resistant to freezing. Easily fill a watering can by the nozzle at the base. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Thuya Rainwater Tank is available with the following: Details:Green rotomoulded polyethylene constructionUnbreakableFreeze resistantWeather resistantFilling device on topWater tap on bottomCapacity: 50 GallonsShipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Item: Height 60 In., Width 24 In.

Ariel Spotlight No. 20309 by Access Lighting $27 Whether highlighting the features of a landscape or safely illuminating a walkway, the Access Lighting Ariel Spotlight No. 20309 provides bright light in a clean, unobtrusive design. The frosted glass lens allows the single spotlight to shed a gleaming, glare-free beam of light. Suitable for installation in any outdoor setting. Available in a Black or White finish. Access Lighting, a California company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting Ariel Spotlight No. 20309 is available with the following: Details:Frosted glass lensMetal baseRound wall plateAdjustable headUL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Finish: Black, or White.Lighting: One 75 Watt 120 Volt Type G9 Halogen lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 8 In., Length 6.4 In., Extension 6.4 In.

Siesta Lounge Chair by Twist Lighting $572.8 Take in some sun with the Twist Lighting Siesta Lounge Chair. Formed to encourage relaxation, the Siesta blends with the rolling hills of its surroundings as its smooth body beckons one to take a load off. Light enough to move around the yard and durable enough to withstand the weather. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Siesta Lounge Chair is available with the following: Details:Polyethylene constructionWeather resistantOptions:Color: Green, Mocha, Ocean, or White.Shipping: This item usually ships within 3-4 weeks. Dimensions: Chair: Length 80 In., Height 28 In., Width 30 In.

Mia Serata Outdoor Mood Light by Twist Lighting $560 Mother Nature's unruly stepchild. The Twist Lighting Mia Serata Outdoor Mood Light is an abstract take on the pine tree, its rotomoulded body glowing with bright, attractive light. Choose from two sizes or pair Large (60") and Small (36") together for a unique forest in the yard. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Mia Serata Outdoor Mood Light is available with the following: Details:White colorRotomoulded polyethylene constructionPlugs in to standard outlet with screw base socket6 foot cordWeather resistantEnergy efficientOptional anchoring system available. Please call Customer Service at 877.445.4486 to order.UL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting: One 15 Watt 120 Volt Fluorescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Width 20 In., Height 36 In. Large Fixture: Width 24 In., Height 60 In.

Tera Lux Illuminated Planter by Twist Lighting $270.4 The glowing partner to the Tera Planter, the Twist Lighting Tera Lux Illuminated Planter adds another element to the outdoor garden. Great for potted Conifers or dwarf citrus trees, the Tera Lux Illuminated offers both light and life to the rooftop garden or outdoor patio. Choose from 4 color options. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Tera Lux Illuminated Planter is available with the following: Details:Rotomoulded polyethylene constructionPlugs in to standard outletIncludes drainage holeEnergy efficientSafe for indoor and outdoor useOptional anchoring system available. Please contact Customer Service at 877.445.4486 to order.UL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Color: Coral, Fuschia, Green, or White.Size: Large, Medium, or Small.Lighting: One 15 Watt 120 Volt Fluorescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Large Item: Width 20 In., Height 33 In. Small Item: Height 20 In., Width 22 In. Medium Item: Height 24 In., Width 26 In.

Stella Illuminated Christmas Tree Pot by Twist Lighting $270.4 The Twist Lighting Stella Illuminated Christmas Tree Pot glows with holiday cheer. Safe for both indoor and outdoor use, this colorful planter is the perfect host for your Christmas tree decoration. Measures 20" deep and is available in either Red or White, and its fluorescent lamping means the planter is energy efficient. Tree not included. Based out of Quebec, Canada, Twist Lighting is known for their decorative outdoor lighting and furniture pieces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. They offer a contemporary "twist", if you will, to Mother Nature's home. The Twist Lighting Stella Illuminated Christmas Tree Pot is available with the following: Details:Rotomoulded polyethylene constructionPlugs in to standard outletAccommodates tree trunks up to 4.75" diameterAccommodates both real and artificial trees (no drainage hole)Safe for indoor and outdoor useEnergy efficientTree not includedOptional anchoring system available. Please contact Customer Service at 877.445.4486 to order. UL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Color: Red, or White.Lighting: One 15 Watt 120 Volt Fluorescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Item: Height 20 In., Width 22 In.

75-Watt Halogen Bi-Pin Outdoor Accent Light by Kichler Lighting $104 The Kichler Lighting Accent 75-Watt Halogen Bi-Pin Outdoor Accent Light offers the clarity of halogen light in a large size (4.5" diameter) that allows for a wide spread of bright up or downlight. The fixture is made out of durable die-cast aluminum and offered in two finishes to add an attractive aspect to functional landscape lighting. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler Lighting 75-Watt Halogen Bi-Pin Accent Light is available with the following: Details:Heat-resistant, fully-sealed flat glassDie-cast aluminum constructionHigh-temperature porcelain socket8" in-ground stake38" lead wireCable connector includedLow-voltageUL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Finish: Bronzed Brass, or Textured Architectural Bronze.Lighting: One 75 Watt 12 Volt Bi-Pin Low-voltage Halogen lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 6.25 In., Diameter 4.62 In. Diffuser: Diameter 4.5 In.

Book of Legends $19.99 Book of Legends

Britto Collection by Heys USA Landscape 12 Beauty Case $200 Britto Collection by Heys USA Landscape 12" Beauty Case

Britto Collection by Heys USA Landscape 26 Spinner $300 Britto Collection by Heys USA-Show your artistic point of view while you travel! Landscape Spinner case measures 26" from wheels to top of case; actual packing case is 24".

Britto Collection by Heys USA Landscape 30 Spinner $350 Britto Collection by Heys USA-Show your artistic point of view while you travel! Landscape Spinner case measures 30" from wheels to top of case; actual packing case is 28".

Hunger Games Movie Mockingjay Logo Flip Book Light $13.99 When you've got a pang for Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games , don't settle for inferior lighting - get this Hunger Games Movie Mockingjay Logo Flip Book Light! Featuring a clip-on, free-standing design, the light has a rotating arm, on/off slide switch, and LED for bright page coverage. It even folds flat for easy storage! Whether you use the Hunger Games Movie Mockingjay Logo Flip Book Light as a book or purse light, or whatever personal item you need to see in the dark, it makes for one fast and convenient light!

God Loves You! Personalized Book $24.95 The God Loves You! personalized children's book tells your child just how much God loves them... and that they are God's special creations! It comes personalized with a child's name on the cover and throughout the text. God Loves You! features beautiful poetry by award-winning children's author Jennifer Dewing and colorful, whimsical illustrations by award-winning artist Maria Carluccio. The book is perfect for the birth of a baby, baptism, naming ceremony, first communion, Easter, Passover or everyday occasion. It makes a perfect gift for children of the Christian, Jewish or Muslim faith.

Gardening isn’t one of my talents. I’m Mrs. Blackthumb and every plant I touch dies immediately or goes into shock and dies slowly. So when we moved into our present home, which was devoid of landscaping, I hired a landscape designer. The designer asked some important questions.

His first question was “How do you want the garden to look?” I had never thought about this. “I want the garden to look like a children’s book illustration,” I answered. “I want an old-fashioned garden filled with flowers.”

“What colors do you like?” the designer asked. “Well, the house is pale gray,” I said, “I would like flowers that go with with that color.” We walked around the small yard as we talked. Our conversation and site visit were all the designer needed. He drew up a plan, I approved it, and several weeks later two trucks pulled up in front of the house.

A mother and her children interrupted their walk to watch the landscaping “show.” Planting the shrubs and flowers took an entire day. The flower beds were outlined, the plants were positioned, and then set into the ground. By sunset, the yard was totally transformed. There is always something blooming in the garden.

We have hydrangea, hosta, some type of geranium (I don’t remember the name) and succulents. The Dianthus along the front steps are the first plants to come up in the spring. Wispy gray-green stems appear first and they blossom into a riot of pink. I love the Nearly Wild roses (that is their name) by the bottom step. These hardy roses are charming and really look nearly wild.

Darker pink chrysanthemums bloom in the fall and the flame bushes by the front door provide a final touch of color before winter comes. The garden was planted 12 years ago and we have not changed anything. Oh, there was a scruffy pine tree in the back yard when we arrived and it developed some sort of blight. We replaced this tree with a flowering apple called Spring Snow.

Should you hire a landscape designer? Yes! First, the designer had the vision to turn my hazy description of a garden into reality. Second, he knew which plants were deer resistant (herds gallop through the back yard) and which plants could survive a Minnesota winter. Third, most nurseries guarantee their plants for two years and we have taken advantage of this guarantee.

When people ask where I live and I give them directions they say, “Oh, you’re the house with all the flowers.” And more flowers have been added. The designer left space for bedding plants and each year I plant something different: purple petunias, yellow and purple pansies, striped violas, or red geraniums. Cars slow down – even stop – to look at the flowers.

I may be Mrs. Blackthumb, but I love my garden. In the long run, hiring a landscape designer saved me money. He planned the garden to fit the house, chose plants for my geographic zone, and gave me a garden that changed with the seasons. A landscape designer can do the same for you.

Copyright 2006 by Harriet Hodgson