The Magical World of Moss Gardening

August 3, 2015
Martin, owner of North Carolina–based landscaping firm Mountain Moss, presents the visual and tactile wonders of moss gardening. The pluses include no ravaging deer, no mowing, and no wintertime dormancy to subtract from what Martin declares are the medicinal and spiritual attributes of moss’s brilliant green color. Martin addresses the “magic” of moss; tours moss gardens, including her own; lightly lectures on bryophyte basics; introduces 25 mosses to gardeners; presents garden designs (including fairy gardens); teaches planting and propagating, weeding, watering, and fluffing; and encourages walking on mosses as part of their maintenance. Martin’s style of prose is neighborly yet knowledgeable, with a distracting fondness for alliteration. In this informative guide to a unique style of garden, the photos steal the show. Photos.

Starred review from December 1, 2016

A viable alternative to lawns, moss is thoroughly explained in this one-of-a-kind tome from the owner of Mountain Moss Enterprises in North Carolina. (LJ 8/15)

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from August 1, 2015

Martin (owner, Mountain Moss Enterprisess, based in Pisgah Forest, NC) invites readers into the enchanting world of ecofriendly mosses to share her expertise and inspire others discovering this increasingly popular alternative landscaping option. In the tradition of George Schenk's groundbreaking Moss Gardening, Martin's work explains the use of moss throughout history and highlights exquisite public gardens. The author flawlessly blends botanical descriptions and artistic sensibilities so that evocative summaries, accompanied by vivid photos, help readers understand the tactile and visual delights of moss, as well as its environmental benefits. The directory of 25 recommended species (some native throughout the world) includes a close-up image to illuminate detailed structure as well as a larger view of the colony. The author builds readers' confidence by featuring successful home moss gardeners and pointing out that mosses succeed in settings ranging from deep, shady woodlots to hot, urban concrete sidewalks. Having done public installations, Martin effortlessly walks gardeners through the steps of site assessment, design, costs, establishment, and maintenance chores. VERDICT Perfect for anyone interested in growing moss or those captivated by Robin Wall Kimmerer's Gathering Moss.--Bonnie Poquette, Milwaukee

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.