Customer Reviews

Instant Container Gardens

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I agree with the other reviewers that this is a good book, full of valuable information; however, I'm surprised no one has mentioned that it is basically a "How To" guide for using Pamela Crawford's/Kingsman Nurseries (patent pending) instant container gardens. While the book does give good information about which plants grow well in containers and also what color schemes work together, etc., it is mostly devoted to using the "instant" container products the author designed. Unfortunately, these containers are not available in mass-retail garden centers, only limited availability in small business garden stores and two on-line garden retailers (from what I can tell). I gave the book four (4) stars because it does provide useful information, but I couldn't give it five (5) stars because it's not completely useful off-the-shelf ... one must also buy the containers and special liners to make the beautiful container gardens described.

What a great book! I am a beginner at gardening and bought the book because a friend told me it made container gardening easy. I followed the instructions and planted a window box, a wall pot next to my front door, and this amazing flower ball on a post that was shown in the book. My neighbors have been asking me, the beginner, for gardening advice ever since they saw this beautiful display in my front yard!

I view this book as Part 2 to her first book on containers called "Container Gardening for Florida". The book is filled with colorful photos. It is clearly written and easy to understand. Pamela Crawford is my favorite author for gardening, particularlly because I live in Florida. The only thing that bothers me about the book is the title because the whole book is dedicated to wire baskets only and that is disguised in the title. I have made four wire baskets on posts so far as taught in her book and I just love this new way to show off my coleus and begonia plants!

Had I known this was a 156 page commercial for Pamela Crawford's new line planters (patent pending!), I would have never ordered it. I can't believe I paid money for what is basically a catalog for the Kinsman Company. I feel totally ripped off. I would return it, but I don't want to have to pay postage and have to make a trip to the post office. If I could give this book zero stars, I would.

I am new to gardening and this book is a must. The pictures are beautiful and its very clearly written with lots of detail and easy to follow instructions. I've read it 3 times already and plan to create one of these pots on post in my front garden.

Book is excellent at expanding what was once a very small and difficult part of gardening. The examples presented were inspiring and the technique was well explained and easy to follow.

This book is for those who would like to have truly beautiful container gardens. Even if you are a beginner at container gardening you will find instructions for something easy for a start. Such beautiful photographs!

I have this book and not only is it beautiful, it is so informative. The author has done an excellent job of researching her material and giving even the novice gardener all the right tools to make a successful garden in containers. I highly recommend this book for anyone who would like to explore a new and exciting way to garden. Not only will you be raving about your gardens, but you will be using the knowledge that you gain to help others grow something beautiful. Get it now! You will not be disapointed.

We live in Northern New Jersey where cool weather plants do very well. But we have a wonderful west and northwest facing deck that is perfect for container gardening. It gets sun almost all day long, especially in the afternoon, and with reflections from the house and wind breaks, the microclimate temperatures often exceed 90 degrees F for several hours a day.

We've had real problems with our plants drying out. Our garden supply store suggested this book last spring, and we tried out several of Crawford's ideas -- all of which exceeded expectations.

Pamela Crawford provides clear instructions and suggestions. She is careful about recommending plants and their specific light, heat and moisture preferences. Best of all, she welcomes questions on her website.

We are experienced in-ground gardeners. Give us another year and Pamela Crawford's book and we'll be experienced container gardeners as well.

Robert C. Ross 2008

Bought this book at the request of my husband who has been container gardening for several years. He absolutes loves the new ideas, tips, and step-by-step instructions for success. Before and after pictures and plant types to combine are also very helpful. Our yard has never been more beautiful! And he has been asked by our local Garden Club to guest lecture on container gardening. Wonderful and easy to follow book--and it's fun! Highly recommend it.