Garden geranium - Pelargonium zonale

The dazzling peony with its generous blooms is revered and treasured in North America as it has been for centuries in its country of origin, China. Peonies is a comprehensive guide to selecting and growing the best species and hybrids for every region and garden condition.

In an easy-to-use format, this informative and practical reference book has dozens of color photographs and features chapters on:

- Genus Paeonia and the modern hybrids
- Ornamental and herbaceous peonies
- Tree peonies, the "king of flowers"
- Cultivation and propagation techniques
- Fertilizers, preferred soil composition, watering and over-wintering
- Remedies for pests, diseases and disorders
- Landscaping recommendations with peonies
- Displaying peonies indoors
- The origin and history of peonies.

There is also a valuable appendix of selected varieties and a listing of associations and suppliers.
Publisher: Firefly Books (2006-09-12)
Price: $24.95

In the tradition of his classic Herbaceous Perennial Plants, Allan M. Armitage has compiled descriptions and assessments of 245 genera of true annuals as well as plants that behave like annuals in USDA zones 1-7. Focusing on identifying the plants, successful culture, and their primary garden attributes, Armitage discusses 279 species in detail and summarizes the distinguishing features of hundreds of cultivars, many of which he has tested himself. Classics like begonias and pelargoniums are juxtaposed with newcomers from Australia, and all are subject to Armitage’s critical eye. Color photos and line drawings illustrate the text, and he suggests additional reading in books, articles, and Web sites for many of the covered genera.

Armitage bases his descriptions on extensive personal experience. His frank and conversational style keeps potentially dry details fresh, and each entry is liberally sprinkled with strong and sometimes amusing opinions ("Triphylla Hybrids… should be actively sought out if you have grown dead fuchsias in the past."). Useful lists in the appendix are further evidence of his expertise, as he compiles biennials, half-hardy perennials, winter annuals, shade-tolerant plants, fragrant plants, climbing plants, and everlastings. These lists extend the volume’s application beyond a necessary tool for horticulturists and nurserymen to a practical guide for the dedicated home gardener.
Publisher: Timber Press, Incorporated (2001-09-01)
Price: $39.95