Covering Ground

July 15, 2007
Ellis (Shady Retreats ) delivers a fresh look at landscaping with ground covers. Divided into three main sections, the book addresses why one should consider using ground covers, types of plants for different areas, and planting, growing, and propagating. The first section, "Rolling Out the Carpet," takes readers through identifying appropriate sites, plant selection, and aggressive and invasive ground covers. Part 2, "Perfect Plants for Every Site," details what ground covers grow best in which sites (e.g., sunny or shady, wet soil or acid) as well as the various types of ground covers, such as active spreaders, perennials, vines, shrubs, and flowers. Part 3, "Planting, Growing, and Propagating," explains buying and planting ground covers, how to care for them, and how to grow them. Loaded with design ideas, tips, and photographs, the book concludes with a glossary, selected resources, a USDA zone map, and an index. Suitable for all gardening collections, this easy and fun read is essential for the home gardener looking for low-maintenance or problem-area ground covers. Recommended for public libraries.-Nicole Mitchell, Univ. of Alabama at Birmingham Lib., Lister Hill

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