Discovering Annuals - Softcover

Rice, Graham

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0711217157 ISBN 13: 9780711217157

Publisher: Frances Lincoln, 2001

Synopsis

A handbook on growing annuals. It shows and explains how to choose and grow plants raised from seed and demonstrates the many ways to use them in the garden for spring and summer displays. Graham Rice explores the use of annuals in carefully co-ordinated plantings and intimate groups as well as in traditional cottage-style borders, in mixed borders in sun and partial shade, and in containers. The book features both familiar and not-so-familiar plants.

About this title

Review

For anyone who has hesitated over investing time in the growth and care of these plants, Graham Rice's Discovering Annualsis a revelation. Stunning photography conveys countless variations of colour, height, foliage and combinations, for pots and cut flowers, as well as in borders. Meanwhile, his accompanying text is absorbingly anecdotal: the entry for the Cleome, for instance, commences with the engaging question "What on earth are they?"

Beautiful and readable though it is, this book is also aiming to equip the reader to make their own decisions about planting annuals. To that end, Graham goes systematically through the alphabet, pointing out particular opportunities to experiment as well as warning of possible pitfalls. The most satisfying course, he suggests, is to ignore fashion and concentrate instead on trying to discover your own personal taste in an ongoing process, whatever your level of expertise.

To give this development some practical grounding, a cogent advice section, glossary, contact details for suppliers, further reading and index are accompanied by a specially designated Web site. This last not only contains additional information, but also the promise that supply details given in the book will be updated. A final, convincing example of Graham's genuine desire to enhance the reader's gardening experience. --Fiona Murphy

Review

... a rollicking style which makes a good read of an attractive and sound manual (Financial Times)

... as much about rediscovering annuals ... and rehabilitating this large and versatile group of plants within current gardening trends ... (House & Garden)

a great deal of helpful advice based on personal experience and plentiful colour pictures with interesting combinations ... all in all this is a thoroughly lively and informative book (Christopher Lloyd Country Life)

Edition details

• Publisher: Frances Lincoln
• Publication date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0711217157
• ISBN 13: 9780711217157
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192