Improving fruit trees' appearances and increasing their productivity, and using decorative concrete to turn bland backyard slopes into view-commanding getaways are the techniques addressed in two new books out this summer.

Looking for a little summer reading? New releases from Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. will fill you in on two distinctively different landscape techniques: training fruit trees and shrubs to grow in controlled shapes, and transforming hillsides with sculpted concrete stairways, walls, raised patios, fire pits, and built-in seating. Following are the details:

Espalier Fruit Trees For Wall, Hedge, and Pergola by Karl Pieber and Peter Modl

By training fruit trees and shrubs to grow in controlled shapes, you accomplish two goals: improved appearance and increased productivity. Depending on location and demand, espalier fruit trees can offer privacy, weather protection, and decoration, not to mention an abundant and delicious harvest. All types of trellises, including wall-covering cordons and free-standing pergolas, are featured here, as well as a comprehensive list of fruit plants and their unique characteristics. The authors provide not only construction tips and a list of tools and materials required, but invaluable information on the planting of different fruit species, their upbringing, and shaping. Learn how to combat the most common fruit tree diseases and pests, and develop a knowledge of habitat requirements and care to ensure these espalier structures bring the desired results.

Size: 7″ x 10″ | 240 color photos & sketches | 160 pp

ISBN13: 9780764344886 | Binding: hard cover | $29.99

Sculpting Hillsides with Decorative Concrete by Tom Ralston

Over 250 inspiring images and engaging text cover the techniques necessary to successful sculpt any hillside and enhance backyards with concrete. Contractors will feel empowered to unleash their inner artists. Designers will become inspired to create hillside expanses. Among the projects explored are beautiful, curved stairways, lit walls, raised patios, fire pits, and built-in seating that transform bland backyard slopes into view-commanding getaways. Further inspiration is provided by a gallery of spectacular completed projects. For the contractor, Ralston shares wisdom from years of business experience and training to help readers navigate the various challenges they face. The author explains design development, bid building, and suggests how to translate those into contracts. The book also addresses: ways to make projects profitable by keeping them in line with the initial bid, ways to keep clients happy by involving them throughout the project, and how to document your work
as you go.

Size: 8 1/2″ x 11″ | 253 color photos | 128 pp

ISBN13: 9780764346668 | Binding: hard cover | $34.99

More information can be found here.