This book is a technical manual targeting large-scale, professional growers. Author Nau has been trials manager and is currently the resource person for the Ball Seed Company.Perennials are arranged alphabetically by botanical name. Discussions of the 149 genera and 300 species include common name, description, hardiness, season of bloom, propagation, germination overview, growing conditions, varieties, related species, and uses other than perennial border in the home garden. An opening section provides a useful explanation of what is covered in these areas. "Hardiness" usually refers to winter's worst; here, the high heat and humidity of southern climates is also considered. "Germination" includes seeds per ounce, light and dark requirements, and days to transplant.
A chapter on propagation techniques describes processes in detail. "Stem Cuttings" ranges from softwood stems to leaves, rooting, particulars of timing, temperature, and other factors. "Seed Propagation" includes pros and cons of this method, various types of cold and warm conditioning, and scarification. Entries in the alphabetical section refer the user back to this section. Appendixes include a clear USDA plant-hardiness zone map, a table of perennials propagated by seed with expected response and bloom time, a propagation table for perennials, a source list, a glossary, a bibliography, and indexes to scientific names, common names, and subjects. The 70 color photographs are good, but peripheral.
Herbaceous Perennial Plants: Treatise on Their Identification, Culture, and Garden Attributes, by Allan M. Armitage (Varsity, 1989), covers 270 genera. It provides basics of perennial culture, classification, and use; identifies cultivars and related species; offers helpful charts, but contains far less methodology. Occasional folklore, history, line drawings, and lively author commentary make this a good choice for home gardeners. Hardy Herbaceous Perennials, by Leo Jellito and Willhelm Schacht (2v., Timber, 1990), covers 800 genera with brief notes on cultivation and use. Its 690 color and 352 black-and-white photographs make it an unmatched selection guide.
While the Ball Perennial Manual is designed as a resource for professionals, it can be of great value to the avid home gardener. A good choice for libraries with large gardening collections.
