"This is the most comprehensive book on rhododendrons ever to be published and should be the definitive one on the subject. It covers planting, care, diseases, propagation, forcing, greenhouse culture and hardiness; it gives a history of rhododendrons, their distribution all over the world, their plant anatomy, their adaptability to garden use and what other plants to use with them. There is a detailed listing of 148 species, information which has never been assembled before, and there is also a comprehensive chapter on hybrids. Because every aspect of the subject has been exhaustively covered, this book will be of use anywhere in the United States or Great Britain where rhododendron growing is at all possible. It is entirely practical for the average gardener and should be an invaluable reference work for such specialists as nurserymen, landscape architects, and professional horticulturists"--Book jacket.

Rhododendrons are a most versatile garden plant, large and evergreen, with glorious flowers and wonderful foliage, and the big-leaf species (Falconera and Grandia) take these attributes to a whole new level. All of the big-leaf rhododendrons known to date are covered in this book, including descriptions of each, how and where they were discovered, and by whom, as well as information on the public and private gardens around the world with the best collections, and what new species are still being discovered. International expert on the genus Graham Smith and garden writer Glyn Church, both New Zealand-based, also give practical advice on growing these spectacular plants in your own garden, and how to create the best conditions in which to enjoy them. Illustrated with over 190 photographs, the majority of these from photographer Pat Greenfield.

"From the towering Burmese magnificum, with its three-foot-diameter trunk and its masses of sweet-smelling purple flowers, to the potted pink azalea, glowing like a burning bush on the backyard garden patio, Rhododendron is a genus of infinite variety and beauty. There are 1,025 known species: it is a native of the snows of the Himalayas and the swamps of the Carolinas, the jungles of Borneo and the island inlets of Japan. It is also one of the oldest of plants - many believe the dove that returned to Noah's ark was carrying a rhododendron sprig - although it has been known to western horticulture for only 300 years. The curious history of Westerners and rhododendrons is full of swashbuckling plant collectors and visionary gardeners, colonial violence and ecological destruction, stunning botanical successes and bitter business disappointments. And it is here related with consummate skill by Jane Brown, an English garden writer."--BOOK JACKET.

CLICK HERE to download sample native plants from Real Gardens Grow Natives For many people, the most tangible and beneficial impact they can have on the environment is right in their own yard. Aimed at beginning and veteran gardeners alike, Real Gardens Grow Natives is a stunningly photographed guide that helps readers plan, implement, and sustain a retreat at home that reflects the natural world. Gardening with native plants that naturally belong and thrive in the Pacific Northwest’s climate and soil not only nurtures biodiversity, but provides a quintessential Northwest character and beauty to yard and neighborhood! For gardeners and conservationists who lack the time to read through lengthy design books and plant lists or can’t afford a landscape designer, Real Gardens Grow Natives is accessible yet comprehensive and provides the inspiration and clear instruction needed to create and sustain beautiful, functional, and undemanding gardens. With expert knowledge from professional landscape designer Eileen M. Stark, Real Gardens Grow Natives includes: * Detailed profiles of 100 select native plants for the Pacific Northwest west of the Cascades, plus related species, helping make plant choice and placement. * Straightfoward methods to enhance or restore habitat and increase biodiversity * Landscape design guidance for various-sized yards, including sample plans * Ways to integrate natives, edibles, and nonnative ornamentals within your garden * Specific planting procedures and secrets to healthy soil * Techniques for propagating your own native plants * Advice for easy, maintenance using organic methods

This new edition of Success with Rhododendrons and Azaleas offers in one handy volume all the information gardeners need to grow these delightful plants. Reiley advises on selecting the best rhododendron cultivars for any site based on cold hardiness and heat tolerance and shares modern methods for transplanting containerized plants. The text has been fully updated for this revised edition, and presents the latest cutting-edge research. The indispensable "good-doer" lists have been refined, and a new chapter on North American native azaleas added. Reiley has included more than 100 color photographs illustrating these lavishly blooming shrubs. This improved version of an already popular reference is an invaluable tool for azalea and rhododendron fans.--COVER.

Forget the 100-mile eat-local diet; try the 300-square-foot-diet &— grow squash on the windowsill, flowers in the planter box, or corn in a parking strip. Apartment Gardening details how to start a garden in the heart of the city. From building a window box to planting seeds in jars on the counter, every space is plantable, and this book reveals that the DIY future is now by providing hands-on, accessible advice. Amy Pennington's friendly voice paired with Kate Bingham-Burt's crafty illustrations make greener living an accessible reality, even if readers have only a few hundred square feet and two windowsills. Save money by planting the same things available at the grocery store, and create an eccentric garden right in the heart of any living space.