Shrubs Discover the Perfect Plant for Every Place in Your Garden

A Shrub for Every Situation

Shrubs are the perfect plant—they are low-maintenance, there is a variety for nearly every need, and they are widely available at garden centers and nurseries. In his new book Shrubs, Andy McIndoe—one of the world’s foremost woody plant experts—shares all the information and advice you need to pick the right shrub for every site and condition. Shrubs includes plant suggestions for challenging growing conditions and restricted planting spaces, along with shrubs chosen for their desirable characteristics—like hardiness in shade, difficult soil, and harsh conditions. Plant profiles include complete growing information, color photographs, and recommended companion plants. With this helpful guide in hand, it’s easier than ever to add shrubs to add to your home garden.

Andy McIndoe is the former managing director of Hillier Nurseries and Garden Centers in Hampshire, England. As designer of the Hillier exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show for more than two decades, he has upheld the company’s unprecedented record of 68 consecutive gold medals. He is now a freelance speaker, writer, and consultant. 

Table of Contents
 
A Few Good Reasons to Plant Your Garden with Shrubs   
Choosing the Right Shrub, Planting, and Care       
Assessing your situation
Planting: Give new shrubs the best possible start                
Care during establishment            
 
Shrubs for Challenging Growing Conditions           
Shade, including dry shade           
Exposed and coastal situations   
Wet and compacted soil, including clay and new construction      
Alkaline and chalk soils  
Acid soil: Moist and peaty, dry and sandy               
Hot and dry conditions, including prolonged drought        
Harsh winters    
 
Shrubs for Restricted Planting Spaces      
Pots and containers         
Small gardens    
Narrow beds and borders             
Steep slopes and banks 
Wall shrubs, alternatives to climbers        
 
Shrubs with Desirable Characteristics       
Architectural and dramatic foliage effects             
Fast movers for impact, screening, and shelter   
Shrubs grown as trees   
Long-blooming shrubs   
Shrubs with fragrant flowers       
Shrubs to attract wildlife               
Deer- and rabbit-resistant shrubs