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Books > Health, Home & Family > Gardening > Gardening: plants
If you want a vibrant, chemical-free vegetable garden, companion planting is the solution. Did you know tomatoes produce a natural insecticide that can help protect carrots against pests? Or that planting mint near lettuce can repel slugs? Every gardener knows that the key to an abundant harvest in their vegetable garden is controlling pests and disease, while still maintaining a healthy growing environment. But it is possible to have a healthy, thriving vegetable garden without using dangerous chemicals? It is, as long as you know how to pair up the right plants. Organic gardeners have known for years that planting the right plants together is the key to minimizing pests, improving soil quality, and increasing the yield of their gardens, and almost any vegetable you can grow likely has a beneficial companion. Companion planting is the ideal way to avoid using chemicals, while still increasing the efficiency of your garden. Expert organic gardener Brian Lowell will teach you how to use plants to create a beautiful, vibrant vegetable garden that will be free of toxic chemicals. Here's what you'll find inside: Handy companion planting pairings for all of the most common garden vegetables Practical, simple photography and colorful illustrations for dozens of beneficial planting configurations Expert advice from a master gardener that is specifically designed for beginners Loads of troubleshooting tips for fixing common issues with companion-planted gardens Tips for setting up the perfect vegetable garden, including practical advice on watering, soil management, troubleshooting, and more
Keeping your beautiful garden safe from deer is as simple as choosing the right plants. In "50 Beautiful Deer-Resistant Plants," gardening expert Ruth Rogers Clausen introduces the most versatile and drool-worthy options: white snowdrops that bloom in the spring; shade-loving, electric gold hakone grass; long-blooming Texas sage in vibrant reds, peaches, and pinks; and the feathery foliage of Arkansas blue stars that glows golden in the autumn. Illustrated throughout with full-color photographs of every plant, this inspiring guide offers everything a plant-lover with a deer problem needs to know. In addition to the 50 best annuals, perennials, bulbs, ferns, grasses, and shrubs -- plus advice on how to grow them -- Clausen includes dozens of deer-resistant companions and smart design tips for pulling it all together. And here's the best part: your gorgeous garden will be irresistible to everyone "but" those pesky deer.
For everyone from beginners to masters, the one essential book to
growing, grooming, and caring for your bonsai tree.
The definitive guide to hundreds of Britain's most outstanding gardens, in the care of the National Trust The National Trust has the finest collection of gardens in the United Kingdom. In this book, Stephen Lacey paints a vivid picture of the individual gardens, and places each one in its context within British horticultural history. All the major periods and styles of garden design are represented, from the formality of early gardens such as Hanbury Hall and Ham House, magnificent 18th-century landscapes like Stowe and Croome Park and the heady Victorian creations of Biddulph Grange and Waddesdon Manor to the famous plantsmen's gardens of the last century, such as Nymans, Hidcote Manor and Sissinghurst Castle. The text and pictures have been fully updated, with new entries including Allan Bank, High Close Arboretum and Wentworth Castle. Several gardens have undergone major redevelopment since the previous edition, while others have colourfully expanded the acreage open to visitors. Extensive tree planting, including reinstating a lost eighteenth-century avenue at Dyrham Park and recreating the pear tree arch at Rudyard Kipling's home, Bateman's, are just a few of the new and exciting additions to this classic guide to Britain's most outstanding gardens.
This is an illustrated guide to varieties, cultivation and care, with step-by-step instructions and over 170 beautiful photographs. Features: everything you need to know at a glance in one handy and magnificently illustrated practical guide; full photographic directory of over 50 varieties, including single zonal, double zonal, dwarf zonal, rosebud zonal, regal, angel, decorative, scented leaf and stellar; step-by-step guidance on planting, propagating and growing pelargoniums, and controlling pests and diseases; tips for growing and displaying pelargoniums outside and indoors, in beds, hanging baskets and window boxes; for each variety, full botanical information is provided on history, growth, hue, height, spread and suitability; and a highly accessible guide to some of the most popular flowering plants, celebrating their diversity and beauty. Pelargoniums are one of the most cherished groups of garden plants. They are particularly renowned for the impact of their vibrant flowers, their pretty leaves and rich aromatic scent, and they thrive both outdoors and inside. This book guides you through the simple techniques involved in growing and propagating these decorative plants, and illustrates some of the most popular cultivars. It includes a history of pelargoniums, with advice on how to recognize the different types. A fully illustrated plant directory describes over 40 recommended varieties, together with expert advice on selecting the best ones, planting them in beds and hanging baskets, and dealing with pests and diseases. The book will help you to create pretty displays indoors, in conservatories, on windowsills or as outdoor plants.
For centuries, plants have transformed interiors. Today houseplants are once again experiencing a revival. Author Bree Claffey of Mr Kitly journeys into the worlds of fellow plant lovers to explore the enduring attraction of houseplants. From the ever-reliable Peace lily and beguiling Fiddle leaf fig to the elusive Chinese money plant, houseplants are showcased in all their weird and wonderful forms. More than good-looking props, plants are living growing things rooted in community and creativity and as this book celebrates, houseplants are a way of life.
Greens are highly nutritious, contributing essential vitamins and minerals to the diet, and they are particularly tasty if they are home-grown and eaten soon after harvesting. In this book, the main types of greens are described and illustrated, with useful information about the different varieties that can be grown, their history, cultivation requirements and cooking uses. There are step-by-step instructions for planting greens, as well as keeping them in tip-top condition by dealing with pests and diseases. A must for novices and experienced growers alike, the book is ideal for anyone who wants to experiment with new varieties.
Fenugreek presents an in-depth review on the Genus Trigonella and particularly the species T. foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek). It is written by experts and includes chapters describing the genus' botany, physiology, cultivation, breeding, nutrition, pest-disease and weed control. The chemical constituents of the species of Trigonella, their pharmacological properties and the marketing of fenugreek seed are also discussed as are its medicinal applications. A detailed presentation of the usefulness of fenugreek seed as food (whole, flour, roasted), spice (in curry powder), perfume, dye and source of galactomannan and steroidal diosgenin, widely used in industry, is also included. The book will be of interest to all those concerned with the study, cultivation and use of medicinal and aromatic plants and particularly of fenugreek.
Few elements add interest to a garden better than a well-placed tree, and even small gardens can accommodate one. But trees are long-term investments, so it's worth knowing exactly what you want before you plant. Here Alan Titchmarsh guides us through the selection and planting processes, plus how to look after trees to ensure optimum performance and maximum impact. * Garden design ideas and where to plant trees * Practicalities of location and aspect * Ornamental effects for all seasons * Pests, tree diseases and problems * Illustrated gallery of recommended trees
This book explains everything you need to know to grow a low maintenance edible polyculture. Do you dream of a low maintenance perennial garden that is full to the brim of perennial vegetables that you don't have to keep replanting, but only have a small space? Do you struggle with too little time for gardening or controlling the pests and diseases that eat your crops? Do you want to grow unusual vegetable varieties? You can do all of this with Edible Perennial Gardening. Anni Kelsey has meticulously researched the little known subject of edible perennials and selected her favourite, tasty varieties. She explains how to source and propagate different vegetables, which plants work well together in a polyculture, and what you can plant in small, shady or semi-shady beds as well as in sunny areas.
Plant Propagation? That's starting your own flowers and vegetables, inside and out. It's raising shrubs and trees for your property, creating your own orchard -- even growing many houseplants from one. Here are just a few of the results you can expect: * Raise the best tomato plants. * Grow your own Christmas trees. * Offer the finest of gifts -- houseplants. * Avoid buying expensive shrubs; start your own. * Plant those hard-to-find flowers, perennials and annuals, at little or no cost. But is it expensive? Definitely not. You don't need a greenhouse or costly equipment. You can do a lot with a couple of fluorescent bulbs. Seeds are cheap, some are free. As for shrubs, trees, and houseplants, Lewis Hill explains how to collect, rather than buy, the materials you'll need. It's fun, can be profitable, and, with the help of Lewis Hill plus the many illustrations in this book, is easy. Beginners will learn from step one; those more advanced will discover new techniques and find tips to improve their results. Try plant propagation. You'll be amazed at your results.
This is an illustrated guide to varieties, cultivation and care, with step-by-step instructions and over 150 inspiring photographs. It is a full photographic directory of over 50 varieties of ivy, such as 'Ambrosia', 'Buttercup', 'Goldheart', 'Kolibri', 'Merion Beauty', 'Romanze' and 'Silver King'. For each variety, full botanical information is provided on leaf characteristics, growth, spread and size. It offers practical step-by-step photographic guidance on cultivating and caring for ivies, including training tree ivies, making topiary shapes, planting hanging baskets and window boxes, and propagating ivies with cuttings. Ivy has an ancient history and has been used for decorative, symbolic and medicinal purposes. Hardy and versatile, it will often prosper where other plants fail. The wide range of leaf shapes, types of variegation, shades of green and ability to climb and trail make it ideal for any garden. This book shows how ivy can be used for a multitude of gardening purposes, from providing excellent ground and wall cover to being trained into topiary shapes and used in containers.A fully illustrated directory covers 50 beautiful varieties within the Hedera genus, each demonstrating the understated charm of this hardy and accommodating plant.
The Times Best Gardening Books of 2022 Ornamental plants are the cornerstone of our gardens and we are spoiled for choice with literally tens of thousands of hardy beauties from which to select. But we take them absolutely for granted, not for a moment realising that every plant has a fascinating tale to tell. Wild Edens sets the record straight. With global coverage, each of the nine richly illustrated chapters explores a plant biodiversity hotspot. The reader is transported on a visually stunning and fascinating voyage of discovery which reveals our garden favourites - as well as some species that should be more widely cultivated - in their natural habitats, from daffodils from Andalusia and tulips from the Tien Shan, to monkey puzzles from Chile and rhododendrons from the Himalayas, lilies from Japan and proteas from South Africa. Because the authors have been to the hotspots, each chapter opens with their personal reflections on the landscape and spirit of place, and closes with their selection of prime locations. In between, the informative yet approachable text tells of the plants' 'forgotten stories'. Of the landscapes which are their home, the adventures of how and when they were discovered and by whom, the reasons why they were collected, their impact on garden fashions and trends, etc. Wild Edens brings another dimension of interest and understanding to plants and gardens, as well as being a premium armchair traveller's guide to the natural world of garden plants.
How to care for your houseplant, and the many ways that houseplants care for us, as well-from the founder and horticultural experts at Horti. From Puneet Sabharwal, cofounder of plant subscription company Horti, My First Plant approaches houseplant care as a journey which brings us closer to nature and is equally beneficial to the houseplant and the plant parent. With the goal of building your confidence in tending to indoor plants, this book covers basic plant care, the history of what we know today as houseplants, how these living creatures communicate, and the ways in which to sustainably troubleshoot any issues that may arise along the way! Whether you're afraid to bring home a plant or have a healthy row of green along your windowsill, Sabharwal is here to guide you through the trials, errors, and joys of plant care through personal experience and sage advice, with detailed illustrations, color photography, and accessible infographics bringing technical concepts to life. Join the thousands of plant parents who have entrusted Horti's expertise in their own plant care journeys and get your hands in some potting soil today.
This practical guide shows how to grow decorative flowers and foliage and use them to create floral arrangements, plans, plant and maintain a well-stocked cutting garden, and demonstrates how to create arrangements ranging from simple bunches to romantic hanging globes, swags and medallions.
Garden of Your Dreams is an inspirational and practical guide to complete outdoor transformations - from the smallest urban courtyard to a rural paradise. Let award-winning garden designer and landscape expert from Better Homes & Gardens Charlie Albone walk you through the process of turning your outdoor space into your own personal oasis. Start by identifying your dream design style, then learn how to make a plan that works for your site, budget and aspirations. Create an entertaining space you are proud of, prepare the soil and then the real fun begins - planting! Packed full of ideas and inspirational how-to as well as Charlie's personal plant guide, Garden of Your Dreams is the ideal first step to dreaming up your own outdoor transformation.
This title is an illustrated guide to varieties, cultivation and care, with step-by-step instructions and over 160 beautiful photographs. Everything you need to know at a glance in one handy and stunningly illustrated practical guide. It offers full photographic directory of over 50 of the most common varieties of heather from the three genuses of Calluna, Doboecia and Erica. For each variety, full botanical information is provided on history, growth, hue, height, spread and suitability. It offers step-by-step guidance on planting, propagation and pruning, and how to deal with common pests and diseases. It includes instructions on growing heather in outdoor borders, raised beds, containers, hanging baskets and indoors. It is a highly accessible guide to some of the most popular flowering plants, celebrating their year-round beauty. Heathers are not only able to survive and flourish in even the most severe climates, but they also provide bright flowers throughout the year, with many that also boast attractive year-round foliage. This combination of hardiness and beauty, along with relative ease of cultivation and care, makes heathers a wonderfully versatile feature in any garden. This book explains how to use heathers to their best advantage, from achieving seasonal interest to combining with other plants. A fully illustrated directory of 50 recommended varieties, together with professional advice on where to plant them, will help you to create pretty displays in beds, borders, containers and indoors.
Spiky, smooth, round, long or thin cacti and succulents come in all shapes and sizes. The purpose of this book is to help you know, enjoy and care for these striking decorative plants. The section on care and cultivation provides step-by-step guidance on all aspects of buying, planting and maintaining cacti and succulents, ensuring gardening success whatever your level of experience.
A quick-reference guide to planting perennials for gardeners with little experience and time.
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