First published in 1986, this classic is back in print by popular demand. It is the authoritative text on edible landscaping, featuring a step-by-step guide to designing a productive environment using vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs for a combination of ornamental and culinary purposes. It includes descriptions of plants for all temperate habitats, methods for improving soil, tree pruning styles, and gourmet recipes using low-maintenance plants. There are sections on attracting beneficial insects with companion plants and using planting to shelter your home from erosion, heat, wind, and cold. Sunset magazine described Robert's Drip Irrigation book as "The last word on drip irrigation" and "infused with good humor." Paul Hawken extols his work as "uncommonly valuable." Rosalind Creasy calls Robert's books "encyclopedic." All of Robert's work and writings were oriented towards sustainability long before the term became popular.