California Native Plants for the Garden
by Bart O'Brien, Carol Bornstein, David Fross
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Book Summary Information
Author: Bart O'Brien, Carol Bornstein, David FrossEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2005-12-01
ISBN: 0962850586
Number of pages: 280
Publisher: Cachuma Press
Book Reviews of California Native Plants for the Garden
Book Review: Can't Live Without It
Summary: 5 Stars
I got my copy of California Native Plants for the Garden a few years ago on the recommendation of a friend, and it is a well-loved (and well-used) book now. Inspired, I tore out the lawn, and I used the information in the book to start my native plant garden three years ago and even today refer to it again and again. When we removed the lawn and switched to natives, our water bill was reduced by 80%, and now, we are building something much more beautiful.
This book is always my first stop. For the most part, the plant descriptions are sufficient enough to guide both experienced and inexperienced gardeners. That said, there were a few times when I was just starting out that I needed more detail and had to turn to other sources. For example, when (in rare cases) they list information for general families of plants, but not specific varieties even though each may have different needs. Also, if you are very picky with having an exact match to your geographical plant zone, you will need additional sources as well. When I started out, I just took what was in the book that would grow here and was pretty. Since then, I have changed to only plants which grow within 2 miles of my vicinity.
One thing that was right on the money: matilija poppies: wow -- when they take off, watch out. I started with a 6-inch twig that nearly died, and three years later, I had a huge bush 3 ft wide with blooms about 8 feet tall. No extra water needed. I've got neighbors coming by asking for seeds and root cuttings.
One of the features I love is the recommended plant selections at the back of the book. It is the breakdown into groups of plants, e.g., annuals, bank cover, vines, fast-growing, etc. based on your goal. For example, if you want a woodland garden, it lists all the possible recommended plants for creating it, broken down by category (shrubs, grasses, etc.).
I'll be using this book for years to come. One of the best purchases I've made.
Summary of California Native Plants for the Garden
California Native Plants for the Garden is a comprehensive resource that features more than 500 of the best California native plants for gardening in Mediterranean-climate areas of the world. Authored by three of the state's leading native-plant horticulturists and illustrated with 450 color photos, this reference book also includes chapters on landscape design, installation, and maintenance. Detailed lists of recommended native plants for a variety of situations and appendices with information on places to see native plants and where to buy them are also provided.Gardening & Horticulture Books
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