The good news is that there is a brand new, fattened up and completely revised edition fresh off the presses. The bad news is that it is so handily and expertly expanded that no matter what edition you already own, you'll want a copy of this new one. The heart of the book is the 8,000-listing plant encyclopedia. Thousands of new plants have been added, so for a couple of years anyway this will be the best reference for the newest and hottest cultivars. What makes this book so useful is that all these new plants were compiled not as a result of one grower or designer's enthusiasm, but by surveying hundreds of nurseries all over the West to see what plants are available to the public.
Readers can see at a glance whether a plant is a good bet for their gardens.
Now In Bloom Hyacinths spread their heady perfume around the early spring garden. Hyacinths need sun and good drain-age, but will take partial shade. Hyacinthus orientalis 'City of Haarlem' is a bright yellow, 'Carnegie' a pure white. Both show up well against springtime greens. Her core staff of 10 worked with experts all over the West.