An interesting, informative, and inspiring introduction to container gardening. Fern Richardson's prose is well-written and clearly explains things without getting bogged down in unnecessary details or oversimplifying. Excellent information on choosing plants and containers, working with weather, and gardening with edibles, succulents, and fragrant flowers - even on attracting wildlife, a topic I didn't expect to see in a book that focuses on gardening on patios. Recommended. ( )

A comprehensive starting guide for small container gardening. Includes everything from soil and plant types to maximizing space, attracting beneficial insects, privacy options, weather considerations, and co-planting design strategies. ( )

As soon as the first frost hits here I am planning for next year’s plantings. Small-Space Container Gardens has already helped me start planning for our spring porch and deck. No matter what your available space, this book has something for you.

The first few chapters set the scene by choosing colors, containers settings, and location. Following that there is information on attracting wildlife and growing food plants in containers. There is a section on succulents and scents, and a chapter on privacy planting. You can learn to create a vertical garden, and battle pests. There is even a green thumb crash course. This is just a brief summary of what is in this information packed book.

The book helps with ideas for designing not just individual pots but, an entire patio or porch. There is something for the spacious areas for those who live in the country as well as those who have limited space in the city. Large or small, there are planting ideas for all.

There are several projects for inexpensive pot upgrades and very unique ideas using thrift shop or found items. My favorite project was the beautiful garden table that would be so simple to create with only a few materials. ( )

Beautiful photos and great information, makes me wish I had a small space of my own! ( )