Landscapes create obvious environmental benefits but can have unrecognized negative impacts. Adam Regn Arvidson outlines the five primary problem issues—plant pots, vehicle fuel, energy consumption, water/fertilizer use, and green waste—and details a variety of practices, ranging from exceedingly simple ideas to long-term investments, for making the installation and upkeep of landscapes more green.

A companion website, GreeningtheLandscapeBook.com,  provides readers with additional resources and case studies, arranged by environmental impact and geography.