Customer Reviews

Simon & Schuster's Guide to Garden Flowers (Nature Guide Series)

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

 

 

Finally, a book small enough to carry out to the garden with me for reference yet compact with enough information to enable me to find answers to my basic questions regarding best locations, season, size, appearance, care, possible difficulties, etc. I found the illustrated key next to each written description and picture of each plant to be extremely helpful and time saving for quick reference as to whether or not I want a plant based on its's being suitable for the location I want and the purpose intended for the blooms. All I have to do is flip open the book to the desired page, glance at the illustrated key symbols, slide my eyes over to the colored photograph of the actual plant and I know in less than 10 seconds if the plant may be suitable for my needs. I can then read the clarifying information and firm up my choice. The photography is very clear and the write-ups simple enough for a beginning gardener, such as myself, to understand.

The real strength of this book is its profuse illustration. Every flower is shown in a good-sized photo, and there are hundreds of them. That makes the book useful as a visual reference for someone drawing or painting, giving plenty of color and variety.

As a gardening guide, though, I'm not sure how successful it is. The descriptions of each plant and its culture are very brief, possibly too brief to ensure good understanding of the plant and its needs.

I have had a copy of this book for years. Last year, I loaned it to someone and couldn't remember them returning it. I frantically ordered another copy of the book as I wouldn't want to be without it. Each flower is pictured and concisely described including height, flower size, flowering time,cultivation and propagation.