The Beautiful Edible Garden: Design a Stylish Outdoor Space Using Vegetables, Fruits, and Herbs

Bennett and Bittner specialize in blending herbs and edibles with ornamentals in limited yard space with an eye toward sophisticated design. Aided by 200 color photos by David Fenton and Jill Rizzo, the authors, who live in California (and it shows in plant selection), offer guided steps and insights for putting together an edible garden that sings with beauty. A mushroom centerpiece, a fruit and nut orchard, and a plum wreath are among the book’s innovative offerings. The authors take readers through the process of planning, preparing, and planting with lucid and accessible instruction that includes the principles of landscape design. Even so, don’t be fooled by the step-by-step approach. The book is detailed and thorough, and requires thought to assimilate its valuable information. Best first to read it carefully, front to back. Then take it in hand, grab a shovel or spade, and get into the dirt, which, if directions are followed, is destined to become your canvas, your masterpiece, and your dinner. Agent: Andrea Barzvi, ICM. (Feb. 26)