Discovering Annuals [Hardcover]

For anyone who has hesitated over investing time in the growth and care of these plants, Graham Rice's Discovering Annualsis a revelation. Stunning photography conveys countless variations of colour, height, foliage and combinations, for pots and cut flowers, as well as in borders. Meanwhile, his accompanying text is absorbingly anecdotal: the entry for the Cleome, for instance, commences with the engaging question "What on earth are they?"

Beautiful and readable though it is, this book is also aiming to equip the reader to make their own decisions about planting annuals. To that end, Graham goes systematically through the alphabet, pointing out particular opportunities to experiment as well as warning of possible pitfalls. The most satisfying course, he suggests, is to ignore fashion and concentrate instead on trying to discover your own personal taste in an ongoing process, whatever your level of expertise.

To give this development some practical grounding, a cogent advice section, glossary, contact details for suppliers, further reading and index are accompanied by a specially designated Web site. This last not only contains additional information, but also the promise that supply details given in the book will be updated. A final, convincing example of Graham's genuine desire to enhance the reader's gardening experience. --Fiona Murphy

... a rollicking style which makes a good read of an attractive and sound manual (Financial Times )

... as much about rediscovering annuals ... and rehabilitating this large and versatile group of plants within current gardening trends ... (House & Garden )

a great deal of helpful advice based on personal experience and plentiful colour pictures with interesting combinations ... all in all this is a thoroughly lively and informative book (Christopher Lloyd Country Life ) --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

This text explores new creative and contemporary ways to use annuals raised from seed. It contains advice on propagation, care and cultivation, a glossary of terms and a list of suppliers.

Discovering Annuals shortlisted for a top award.
Discovering Annuals was one of three titles shortlisted for the prestigious Garden Writers Guild award (November 1999). I have already won two previous Garden Writers Guild awards.

Graham Rice has been growing plants and writing about plants and gardens, and photographing plants, for many years and has written for most of the major gardening magazines and book publishers. A prolific author, he has won five writing awards (on both sides of the Atlantic) and been shortlisted for more. He is a judge at the Chelsea Flower Show and a member of a number of Royal Horticultural Society committees. He gardens both in Northamptonshire in England, and in Pennsylvania.

To visit Graham Rice's website click here --This text refers to the Paperback edition.