The aim of the National Garden Clubs Landscape Design Study Program has been to educate members in the application of sound principles of design to landscaping. With that purpose in mind, "Stewards of the Land: A Survey of Landscape Architecture and Design in America" is well-written by highly-accredited authors to address subjects outlined in Landscape Design Study Courses. Chapter by chapter, readers are led through the early beginnings of landscape design to the adaptations for modern lifestyles and on to the future of landscaping. The contents include: space, design, and people; principles and elements of landscape design; the landscape design process; site design and landform; plants in the landscape; color in the landscape; planning your home grounds; design for the environment; structures in the landscape; plant selection; landscape design for maintenance; the private garden; public landscapes; parks, playgrounds, and conservation areas; contemporary landscape design; development of landscape design in early America; design on the land: regional expression; development of landscape architecture and design from 1840-1940; development of landscape architecture: World War II to present; development of landscape design in Latin America: pre-Columbian to 1900; development of landscape architecture and design in Latin America: 1900 to present; evaluating landscape designs of residential, public & business property; introduction to urban design; community landscape management; preservation of historic sites and structures; and much more.