This enormous reference book is exactly what an avid gardener needs - with entries covering perennials, annuals, woodland plants, trees, shrubs, and just about any other plants available both commercially and naturally. The individual entries contain information about cultivars, propagation, problem pests and diseases, as well as a concise description of the plants appearance and growth requirements. Most, though not all, include a small photograph of at least one specimen. Plants are listed by their botanical names; if you do not know the genus, youll have to look up the common name first in the index. This volume also contains a visual glossary (inside the front cover), and excellent sections on general botany, the garden environment, and propagation techniques. The only drawback to this otherwise excellent encyclopedia is the near-impossibility of identifying unknown plants. The entries are not listed (or cross-listed) by type, requiring the gardener to page through nearly one thousand pages of pictures to identify, say, a particular woodland plant. And forget leaf identification since most photographs are taken from a distance to capture the whole of a species. This would make an excellent gift for any gardener. It is hefty and comprehensive. Especially for those interested in non-mainstream plants, this book is a must-have.
I ordered this book in hopes that it would give me information on plant heartiness, when and where to plant, diseases, pests and cures. It does that, and so much more. Too much more. It really is more for the horticultural enthusiast/expert, and less for the weekend gardener. The information is vast, the pictures are wonderful, but the "lingo" is a bit professional. I do feel rather cool having it in my collection though! PS, this book weighs a TON! Beware!
THIS BOOK SHOULD BE A MANDATORY, MUST HAVE FOR ANYONE WHO PURCHASES A HOME, ALREADY HAS A HOME, OR IS THINKING OF DOING ANY GARDENING AT ALL.........
