Lesson Plans in an Iowa Garden

In 1977, a close call with a push mower on their steep lot led Jim and Mary Lippold to their first landscaping decision. They tamed the slope with steps and terraced retaining walls made from railroad ties. The Lippolds spent the next several years planting Midwest perennial flower beds, shrubs and trees.

Buying the adjacent partially flat/partially hilly half-lot inspired them to dream of more. Today, with more flower and foliage plantings, and the addition of flagstone paths and patios, the Lippolds have gradually reduced the lawn area on their 165x100-foot lot to a point that makes Jim’s mowing job quick, flat and safe. Click ahead for more photos of this garden.