An encyclopedia of shade perennials /

Finding an array of unique and diverse plants for shade might seem like a daunting task, with limited options available to the gardener. Author and shade perennial expert W. George Schmid dispels this perception in his new encyclopedia on shade perennials. This companionable reference provides information on more than 7,000 species and cultivars in 184 genera, from Acanthus to Woodwardia--some new to horticulture, others unjustly overlooked, but all eminently suitable for enlivening and thriving in the shade garden. Schmid has behind him a half century of practical gardening experience, horticultural education, and extensive travel observing shade perennials in their native habitats; readers are therefore treated to both practical growing tips and his personal associations with the plants. Detailed chapters on types of shade, soils, watering, fertilizing, and other challenges peculiar to shade plants and shade gardening open the book, and cultural notes throughout concern cold and heat tolerance, shade intensity, soil conditions, propagation, and pest and diseases. The expert text is rounded out with 500 stunning color photographs, most taken by the author himself. -Dust jacket.