Home & Garden Publications

From The Bookshelf. - Review - book review

Flower & Garden Magazine, Jan, 2000 by Jonathan Prebich

With the hectic holiday season in full swing, the slower pace of January will be a welcome change. This is the perfect time to sit back, reflect, and read some exciting new books for the upcoming gardening season.

I've always loved backyard birdhouses but never ventured to build one of my own. With the help of "The Backyard Birdhouse Book" (Storey Books, 1998; $34.95; 203 pages) by Rene and Christyna M. Laubach, my birdhouse will become a reality. This book is filled with wonderful ideas and projects of all sorts. From creating species-specific nestboxes (with detailed instructions), to landscaping a habitat for attracting birds, there is something for every bird lover to ponder and enjoy.

"What Houseplant Where" (DK Publishing, Inc., 1998; $19.95; 128 pages) by Roy Lancaster and Matthew Biggs, is full of excellent hints and how-to information. With lovely full color photographs of more than 400 plants and marvelous sections for beginning and advanced plant enthusiasts, this truly is a magnificent book. Providing vital guidance and advice are only a few ways it lends itself to a wealth of invaluable information.

I always thought the art of growing Bonsai would be a daunting task, but with "Low Maintenance Bonsai" (Sterling Publishing Co., 1999; $12.95; 96 pages), it doesn't have to be. The author, Herb Gustafson, presents various shortcuts, ideas, tricks and important time-saving techniques. Several aspects of shaping, repotting, watering and general care are also covered. With many detailed photographs and illustrations, it is sure to make the Bonsai experience easier than ever.

Lastly, one of my favorite hobbies is growing great tomatoes (or at least attempting to). After reading "The Great Tomato Book" (Ten Speed Press, 1999; $14.95; 160 pages) by Gary Ibsen with Joan Nielson, I have again been inspired to try for the perfect tomato. For vegetable gardeners, including myself, beginning to plant from tomato seedlings is filled with both apprehension and inquiry, but by including tips on seed selection, soil preparation, transplanting and trellising, starting out couldn't be easier.

Also included are wonderful tomato recipes (my favorite - the Green Tomato and Apple Pie). So, if you have a passion for tomatoes, then this book is definitely for you.

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