Robin Stockwell is the founder of Succulent Gardens in Castroville, CA. He has been active in the nursery industry as a grower and retailer and working with succulent plants since 1972.
When Stockwell opened his Carmel retail shop in the ’80s, succulents had a reputation for being stiff and boring. People realized they were exceptionally functional, requiring less water and fertilizer, than other plants. The go-to succulent in those days was reputably the Aloe.
“A common perception was that they’re cacti and they’ll poke you,” he says. “My interest evolved into trying to understand why people didn’t use them more like other plants, for landscaping and container gardening.” Stockwell writes.
In Stockwell, succulents had found the champion who would sing their praises to the masses. He made it his mission to experiment with them, growing new varieties and, although he doesn’t consider himself a designer, creating installations “to popularize the plant.
Stockwell has dedicated his life to encouraging the use of these plants and worked with plant professionals and the general public to better understand them. As an innovator, writer and speaker, he has inspired audiences in the joy of gardening with succulent plants.
From Aloe and Agaves to Senecio and Taciveria, this handbook by leading garden expert Robin Stockwell highlights 200 of the easiest, most useful, and gorgeous plants, and shares advice on care and cultivation.
Readers will find inspiration for imaginative and exciting new ways to use succulents in striking garden designs, containers, vertical walls, and indoor arrangements, as well as step-by-step projects, such as living bouquets and terrarium ornaments.
This is the essential reference for landscapers, home gardeners, and anyone looking for a thorough introduction to the perfect plant for modern times.
