Roger Cook: A Legacy of Landscaping and Education

A Beloved Figure in Home Improvement

Roger Cook, the beloved and knowledgeable garden and landscape contractor on the PBS show This Old House, passed away on August 16, 2022. For nearly four decades, Cook shared his expertise and passion for landscaping with audiences nationwide, inspiring countless homeowners and gardening enthusiasts.

Early Life and Career

Born in Massapequa, New York, Cook developed a love for the outdoors and gardening at a young age. After earning a degree in horticulture from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, he founded KR Tree and Landscape Company in Burlington, Massachusetts.

Cook's exceptional landscaping skills caught the attention of the producers of This Old House, and he joined the show in 1984.

A Legacy of Knowledge

Throughout his time on This Old House, Cook became a trusted source of information and inspiration for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces. His expertise covered a wide range of topics, including:

- Garden design and planning
- Landscape maintenance and care
- Plant selection and installation
- Sustainable landscaping practices

Cook's passion for gardening and landscaping extended beyond the show. He authored several books, including The Complete Idiot's Guide to Landscaping and Roger Cook's Landscaping with Herbs. He also lectured extensively on landscaping topics across the country.

Personal Reflections

Cook's colleagues and friends have expressed their profound sadness at his passing. Norm Abram, another longtime cast member of This Old House, stated, "Roger was a true master of his craft. He had an incredible eye for design and a deep understanding of the natural world."

Kevin O'Connor, another cast member, shared, "Roger was not only a brilliant landscaper but also a great teacher. He had a gift for making complex concepts accessible and inspiring others to pursue their own gardening dreams."

Continuing Legacy

Roger Cook's legacy as a master landscaper and educator will continue to inspire and inform homeowners for years to come. His work on This Old House, his books, and his numerous lectures have left an enduring mark on the landscaping industry.

While his presence will be deeply missed, Cook's teachings and passion for landscaping will continue to guide and enrich the lives of homeowners and gardening enthusiasts everywhere.