The Complete Houseplant Survival Manual

October 15, 2005
Pleasant ("The Southern Garden Advisor") offers an attractive, easy-to-use guide to 160 common houseplants that is divided into three main sections: blooming houseplants, foliage houseplants, and houseplant care. The first two are arranged by scientific name, except for sections on groups of plants like bulbs, orchids, or ferns, which are arranged by their common name first and then by selected species within. Each entry includes scientific name, pronunciation, common name(s), a beautiful color photo, and general information about the plant. A box summarizes requirements for light, temperature, water, and soil type, plus supplies information on repotting, longevity, propagation, selections, and display tips; many entries also include a troubleshooting guide. The houseplant care section is arranged alphabetically by subject and ranges from drainage to insect pests to light to soils. Pleasant covers each subject completely, listing cross references when necessary. Appendixes include, helpfully, a glossary, resources, and botanical name/common name cross references. Perfect for both the beginner and the more experienced houseplant grower, this is recommended for all libraries that need up-to-date material on houseplants and their care." -Sue O'Brien, Downers Grove P.L., IL"

Copyright 2005 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2005
Even the most intrepid outdoor gardeners frequently admit that indoor plants under their care have an expected lifespan roughly equivalent to that of a mayfly. Whether one has just been given his or her first pot of grocery-store ivy or has been growing intricate bonsai for years, everything the indoor gardener could ever want to know about how to select, tend, and enjoy houseplants is contained in Pleasant's monumentally comprehensive yet straightforward and easy-to-follow encyclopedia covering more than 160 houseplants. Following an enlightening introduction that discusses the history, uses, and benefits that houseplants bestow, the manual is divided into three main sections. The first two are plant directories offering in-depth plant profiles of first flowering, then foliage, houseplants. The third is an extensive compilation of houseplant-care topics, from acclimatization to watering. With vivid color photographs, precise illustrations, appendixes listing helpful resources, definitions, and a cross-reference chart of botanical and common names, this is a must-have manual for anyone who shares home or office space with potted plants.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2005, American Library Association.)