Easton (A Pattern Garden: The Essential Elements of Garden Making) and photographer Koch are champions of low-maintenance gardening techniques, designs, and routines. Easton's concept is emphatically simple: her tips are intended to lessen the gardener's load but still yield a nourished and fulfilling garden. The goal is to spend less time and energy gardening and more time living with and enjoying the garden. Combining tips on different types of gardening (e.g., ground, container, raised beds), choosing plants, using hardscape, and working with nature, this is about designing a space to enjoy, not agonize over. Including photos, quotes from gardening experts, and a list of resources, Easton also focuses on green gardening and sustainability, which is sure to please progressive gardeners. VERDICT Another well-informed and useful guide that, although focused mostly on the West Coast, contains advice and information on resources that will appeal to gardeners all over the country. Recommended.—Jenny Contakos, Southwest Florida Coll. Lib., Fort Myers