The Gardener's Year

May 15, 2006
These two calendar-themed books, written by experienced and much-honored U.K. gardeners, highlight contrasting aspects of gardening: there -s the verdant beauty that plants produce, and then there -s the beastly amount of work done to bring about their splendor. A plant enthusiast -s wish book, "The Year-Round Garden" presents full-color-pictures of plants accompanied by short narratives that describe notable features, advise about growing conditions and maintenance, and identify companion plants to carry the garden from season to season. The entries are organized by season, beginning with spring, then categorized by plant type, such as bulbs and shrubs; botanical names occur in alphabetical order. Because there is no cross reference by common name, this title is most suited to committed gardeners. Many -but not all -varieties suggested are available in the United States.

"The Gardener -s Year", on the other hand, sees the garden as serious ongoing work. Although Titchmarsh never neglects the appeal of particular plants, his emphasis is on what to do, when to do it, and, most important, how and why. Even gardeners already familiar with how a lawn complements a border -or those not inclined to drying flowers and chili peppers -will find much of interest here. Myriad details, from getting orchids to rebloom to storing leftover seeds, make this book insightful and rewarding. In a garden-book market where repetitions of mainstay advice are common, these titles show to advantage; both books should find eager readers among avid U.S. gardeners." -Jennifer Burek Pierce, Indiana Univ. SLIS, Indianapolis"

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