This concise, easy-to-use book shows how to create productive gardens by selecting the perfect plant combinations! Over 300 gorgeous photographs, illustrations, and diagrams Practical, expert advice from leading cultivation specialists Step-by-step instructions for building up layers of soil with mushroom compost, covering weeds with mulch, protecting plants with nets and plastic and much more A comprehensive plant directory covers summer-flowering annuals, herbaceous perennials, shrubs, small trees, climbers, water plants, bamboos, culinary herbs, fruits, vegetables and more What could be better after a challenging day at work or a long drive home than to relax in the garden? Reflecting among aromatic flowers and enjoying your own homegrown vegetables is what dreams are made of. For some, it can seem like just that—a dream. But two cultivation specialists have teamed up to break down the steps of creating the perfect flower and vegetable garden in this handy guide. Packed with practical advice from leading cultivation specialists, this concise, easy-to-use book covers virtually every aspect of garden design and maintenance—from choosing a plot to selecting plants, maximizing space, and building raised beds. Plant Combinations for an Abundant Garden shows how to create productive gardens by selecting the perfect plant combinations. A comprehensive plant directory provides handy information on summer-flowering annuals, herbaceous perennials, shrubs, small trees, climbers, water plants, bamboos, culinary herbs, fruits and vegetables. Practical advice and step-by-step instructions are included for building up layers of soil with mushroom compost, covering weeds with mulch, protecting plants with nets and plastic and much more. "This book will gently guide you through all the stages of gardening," says author Alan Bridgewater. "No more dreaming ... now is the time for turning fantasies into realities." With more than 300 gorgeous color photographs, illustrations and diagrams, this book is a must for busy gardeners everywhere! "...an excellent resource for the beginning gardener who dreams big, but doesn't know where to begin." —American Horticulture Society