In the 17th century and into the 18th, the Dutch dominated the publishing of botanical books, and established the very strong position in the breeding and growing of garden plants, which they still retain. They were perhaps also distinguished by their efficient use of space, and in large examples, the use of topiary (sculptured bushes and trees) and small "canals", long thin, rectangular artificial stretches of water.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Dutch people held a significant influence on botanical books and garden plant cultivation. They are known for their efficient use of space, particularly in large gardens where they used topiary (sculpted bushes and trees) and small canals.