Tales of a Farmboy isn't just the life story of a farmer and his struggles (though it is that, too). It warmly relates the peaks and valleys in one man's life, told with a great depth of feeling, and with great humility and humor. Clarence Salmon paints pictures with his stories and poems, and the reader can almost smell the scents and hear the sounds that his vivid descriptions evoke. This book is filled with first-person accounts of a simpler time, when going to church meant hitching up the horse and buggy, when Christmas was truly a homegrown affair, and where children could actually go sledding down the middle of Allen Hill Road without danger. It describes the author's firsthand experiences with the traumatic events of the times, such as the stock market crash of 1929, when he was a twenty-year-old bellhop at a well-to-do Florida hotel, as well as the destruction of the 1938 hurricane - "The Storm of Storms". Together, Clarence and Donna Salmon have created a wonderful reading experience which follows one man's journey from cradle to old age using love, faith, determination, strength of character, perseverance and a great sense of humor. A true piece of Americana.

In this eloquent plea for compassion and respect for all species, journalist and gardener Nancy Lawson describes why and how to welcome wildlife to our backyards. Through engaging anecdotes and inspired advice, profiles of home gardeners throughout the country, and interviews with scientists and horticulturalists, Lawson applies the broader lessons of ecology to our own outdoor spaces. Detailed chapters address planting for wildlife by choosing native species; providing habitats that shelter baby animals, as well as birds, bees, and butterflies; creating safe zones in the garden; cohabiting with creatures often regarded as pests; letting nature be your garden designer; and encouraging natural processes and evolution in the garden. The Humane Gardener fills a unique niche in describing simple principles for both attracting wildlife and peacefully resolving conflicts with all the creatures that share our world.

The first comprehensive guide to outstanding gardens in America features all the where and when to go information to plan a visit. It tells readers what to see in various grand estate gardens, private pleasure gardens, charming cottage gardens, exotic Asiatic gardens, famous botanical gardens, humorous topiary gardens, and all-season conservatories. It also tells the stories of who built the gardens and the stories of famous owners and designers. Photos.

This beautifully illustrated book presents the first comprehensive look at the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C. Through historical documents and coloful photos, A Botanic Garden for the Nation tells an important story about this special place. The story begins in 1796 with the support of George Washington, who believed a bBotanic Garden would be a significant addition to the capital. Along with other early leaders, including Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, Washington understood the value of plants for the health and economic well-being of the nation, a message that still resonates today. Through sumptuous photographs, A Botanic Garden for the Nation offers a tour of the Conservatory, starting with the formal Garden Court, with its foundations and special flower collections, and continuing through every plant environment, including the lush Jungle, colorful Orchid House, and spare World Deserts. The engaging text explores ecosystems and reveals details aobut interesting plants and plant collections.