You've probably seen them on TV, if you ever watch those home improvement channels. The before and after shots prove that they can work wonders with the materials at their disposal: stone, wood, water, plants. I'm talking about landscape designers. But what are the personal stories of the people behind the projects? How does one become a landscape designer?

My interview with Paul Corsetti yields a peek into the life of one highly successful landscape designer. What subjects did Paul enjoy most in school? What were the formative influences on him as he advanced toward his career goal? What mistakes did he have to learn from along the way? What code of professional ethics does he live by? In addition to finding out the answers to these questions, you'll also learn some tips on how to become a landscape designer, yourself.

Read interview: How to Become a Landscape Designer

"Made in the shade." Most homeowners eager to garden in shade-plagued areas with their favorite plants probably wonder why this phrase has such a positive connotation. They find their garden design plans thwarted again and again by the lack of sunlight in their gardens. But About's Gardening Guide has some suggestions that might make you change your mind about shade.

"White is actually a pretty tricky color to design with, in the garden. White washes out in bright sun, but positively glows in partial shade," writes Marie Iannotti. Using pictures, Marie outlines a plan featuring plants with white flowers and bright foliage that will "brighten a forgotten, partial shade corner." And you thought your choices in shade gardens were too limited!