Designer's Landscape

In this three-volume set on landscaping aimed at do-it-yourself homeowners, Florida horticulturalist Gary Alan shows viewers how to install an automatic sprinkling system (Vol. 1, Irrigation); design, build, and plant an eye-catching landscape (Vol. 2, Landscape), and maintain the grounds, with tips on pruning, diseases, and pest control (Vol. 3, Maintenance). While all of the instruction takes place on an actual home lot, and is shown from start to finish in this nicely produced how-to series, this avid gardener had reservations. First, the U.S. has over a dozen climate zones with different types of soil (meaning that this program is wonderful if you live in Florida--but the sprinkler installation techniques won't work in my hard pan heavy clay Rocky Mountain region). Second, the diseases and pest problems also vary widely in many parts of the country. Third, it's smarter to plan your landscape plantings first and then design your sprinkler system accordingly, keeping in mind water needs, sun exposure, and the projected size of your mature plants. Finally, the programs are peppered with annoying advertisements (with brand names of products unavailable in many parts of the U.S.). Ultimately, these disadvantages outweigh the program's strengths, making this optional for all but Florida libraries. Aud: P. (L. Stevens)