LATEST NEWS
06-18-2025

Book Review: Fallscaping, by Nancy J. Ondra and Stephanie Cohen

📖 By Nancy J. Ondra and Stephanie Cohen
🌳 Rating: 4/5 Trees

Genres: Non-Fiction, Garden Design, Horticulture

Why We Recommend Fallscaping

Most garden design books emphasize spring and summer blooms, but Fallscaping is an essential resource for gardeners looking to extend their garden’s beauty into autumn. This book provides practical guidance on seasonal transitions, native plant selection, and sustainable fall gardening techniques.

Key Takeaways from Fallscaping

✅ Focus on Autumn Gardens – Highlights plants that add interest through fall blooms, foliage, seed heads, and berries
✅ Native Plant Recommendations – Features top native plants like Purple Coneflower, Joe Pye Weed, Smooth Aster, Winterberry, and Pink Muhlygrass
✅ Garden Design Strategies – Offers small-scale plant pairings and large-scale garden planning
✅ Invasive Plant Awareness – Encourages responsible gardening by identifying invasive species to avoid
✅ Fall Garden Maintenance Tips – Covers seasonal gardening tasks like pruning, mulching, and soil care

In-Depth Review

Nancy J. Ondra and Stephanie Cohen provide practical, easy-to-follow advice for gardeners at any level. The book begins by introducing “The Key Players” for autumn gardens, categorizing plants based on their seasonal appeal—from vibrant fall foliage to striking seed heads. The authors highlight many of our favorite native plants, making this an excellent reference for eco-conscious gardeners.

The “Perfect Partners for Fall” section offers thoughtful plant combinations, while “Putting It All Together” guides readers through comprehensive landscape designs that ensure year-round interest. The book also includes a “Fall Garden Care Primer,” helping gardeners make the most of their fall season with low-maintenance, sustainable techniques.

While Fallscaping is not exclusively focused on native plants, native species are frequently recommended, and the book advocates for the removal of invasive plants. It also addresses the controversial topic of fall bed cleanup, providing realistic solutions for maintaining garden health while supporting pollinators and wildlife.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a garden design book that embraces fall’s natural beauty, Fallscaping is a must-read. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced gardener, this book provides valuable insights into native plant landscaping, seasonal transitions, and responsible gardening practices.

🌿 Looking for native plants to enhance your fall garden? Browse our collection of eco-friendly, wildlife-friendly native plants today!

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