Book Reviews

 
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Books are a great source of ideas, education and
reference. Contact us if there's a book you've read relating
to gardening or nature and would like to share your review.

 

Audubon: Beyond Birds — Plant Portraits and Conservation Heritage of John James Audubon,  by E. Small, P.M. Catling, J. Cayouette & B. Brookes

 The 19th-Century naturalist and painter, John James Audubon, is particularly well known for his illustrations of birds. Only 150 copies of his  
"Audubon: Beyond Birds — Plant Portraits and Conservation Heritage of John James Audubon" bookcover - click on picture to enlarge

four-volume set entitled The Birds of America,  published in 1838, are known to exist. From a rare original in the Canadian Library of Parliament, Ernest Small selected 106 plates to be reproduced in full color in this magnificent book. Introductory chapters detail Audubon's life, work, and influence on subsequent generations of artists, naturalists and on the conservation movement. Plates depict 96 bird species and 10 mammals, each shown with plants native to its habitat. Accompanying text covers the range, habitat and other aspects of the biology of each bird, mammal and plant species, as well as interesting details about the painting itself. Hardcover, 8-1/2"×11", 266 pages, 2009, Item Number LA233.

--Review by Lee Valley
A Landscaper's Guide to Perennial Flowers, by Mark Zampardo
This at-your-fingertips, quick reference to nearly 200 common landscape perennials is your go-to guide. Featuring one plant per page, it provides  
"A Landscaper's Guide to Perennial Flowers" bookcover - click on picture to enlarge

stunning color photos of foliage, bloom and habit, making it easy to quickly identify perennials in any season. Information includes common and Latin plant names, as well as a pronunciation guide; brief descriptions of flowers, foliage, size and shape; bloom time; recommended garden use; hardiness zones and special requirements. Also included is a useful glossary - in both English and Spanish. Keep it in your pickup or at the drawing table for on-the-spot plant ID. Or use it in the garden center to help you select the right plant for the right place. Landscaper, student or buyer, you'll find this handy guide to be your trusted reference. 2008, Paperback, 214 pages, ISBN: 1887632018.

 --Review by American Nursery

  
 
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Revised:  January 30, 2012