Book Reviews

---

Note: Originally published in The American Gardener Magazine, November/December 2023

Shakespeare might say: “A Moon Garden by any other name would smell as sweet,” as this genre has many names, most famously Vita Sackville-West’s iconic Sissinghurst “White Garden” and more recently: The Evening Garden (Loewer, 1993), The Moonlit Garden (Ogden, 1998), and The Twilight Garden (Leendertz, 2011). 

Thankfully Jarema Osofsky was not dissuaded by these fine efforts, but inspired to offer a compelling case that moon gardens are for everyone and can be scaled for any space, even a window box. She begins with some history and folklore, offers actionable design advice, provides a luminous and fragrant plant palette, and highlights ways of engaging with moon gardens. Kate Jordan’s photography demonstrates how vespertine plants pop in the dark and Jill De Haan’s illustrations of sample gardens (and botanical illustrations) convey warmth consistent with the author’s vision. 

As a practicing designer and horticulturist in Brooklyn, Osofsky has experience with urban gardens, balconies, rooftops, and notably - interior plant design! While offering a lot of innovation, the indoor moon garden might be her main contribution to the genre, given the millions of plant parents who live in residential buildings. In another step forward, Osofsky prioritizes sustainability, with an emphasis on including native plants, mitigating light pollution, and serving pollinators and wildlife. A charming and detailed account of designing a xeric terrace garden for her sister in Northern California shows there are moonlit gardens for every climate. Osofsky also suggests wellness opportunities, whether you’re looking to meditate, journal, socialize, or experience nature.

“Plants for a Moon Garden” is the heart of the book. North American natives are clearly identified, and profiles offer cultural advice and interesting facts. Night-blooming and night-fragrant plants are emphasized, every planting layer is well-represented. Special sections highlight silver foliage and houseplants. This is the working palette of a seasoned horticulturalist, and featured plants should be accessible for the gardening public.

Moon Garden is a great gift or garden library addition for every experience level. As someone who teaches at public gardens, I look forward to adding it to the resource list I share with classes and using the recommendations in my own garden.

Christopher Barrett Sheridan, “The Flower Sommelier,” is a garden writer, educator, and designer, based in suburban Philadelphia. Chris specializes in scented plants, cottage garden design, and garden history. (www.flowersommelier.com)