Living Wreath, The (ISBN 0879057009)

Great project for the "crafty gardener"!:
Nothing makes a garden project book better than glossy photos and clear step-by-step instructions. The Living Wreath has both! This Martha (Stewart, that is) approved activity developed by Teddy Colbert, is an exciting way to look at "container" planting. Although the book sometimes seems to be a vehicle for promoting Teddy's living wreath products, including tools, materials and completed wreaths, her products are not necessary to create your own living wreath. Teddy's technique was created with succulent plant materials and the majority of the "how-to" section focuses on creating a succulent living wreath however, there are also inspirational examples of adaptions that include such creative ideas as a fresh herb "clock" for the kitchen, a living strawberry wreath, a fresh spring greens wreath (put it in the center of your dining table and let everyone "pick" their own salad!) plus several flowering wreaths with petunias and impatiens or a beautiful mix of flowering annuals. 50 wreaths are pictured in all. A great book for the "crafter" in ever gardener.

50 Unique Wreath Designs:
No two wreaths are alike, yet they are all beautiful. Each reflects the character and ability of an individual - romantic, vivacious, formal, or gentle - and conveys the refreshing uniqueness inherent in each of us. ~Teddy Colbert I was amazed when I first notice a real-life succulent wreath. I had no idea you could grow plants in a wreath shape. This book shows you how to make living wreaths and how to care for them. There are horizontal and vertical styles. You might want to make one as a table wreath or even hand one like a chandelier with candles. The chapter on "Making It From Scratch" shows you exactly what you need to make the wreath, from soil quantities to how much copper wire and moss you will need. While reading this fascinating little book you will also find lore and decorating ideas. Once you have read about how to make the wreaths, you can adapt the basic design with other plant materials. The Culinary Herbs section shows a wreath made with Italian parsley, summer savory, cilantro and basil. The most interesting wreath is the one where you grow strawberries. ~The Rebecca Review