Inspiration from Salt Lake City's Temple Square Gardens

Temple Square in Salt Lake City stages some of the West's most orchestrated spring displays—bulbs and early perennials blooming in unison beneath flowering trees. For years, landscape designer Peter Lassig conceived these spectacles, and his approach informs Temple Square Gardening (Deseret Book, 2003), a comprehensive guide for the region (Sunset zone 3a).

Fall Planting for Spring Glory

Bulbs are interplanted with pansies and other spring bloomers in autumn, giving roots time to establish before winter. This reduces frost heaving—the cycle of freezing and thawing that pushes plants from the ground.

Beyond the Spring Show

The book includes "Tricks of the Trade" and "Favorite Lists" covering perennials, annuals, bulbs, roses, grasses, trees, and shrubs. Early bloomers like aubrieta and English daisy make ideal companions for tulips and other spring bulbs.