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Good Reading : March 2005
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�������������������� ��������� ����� � ����� ��� ��������� ����� ��� �������������������� �� ���� ���� ���� ��� ��� ���� ���� ���������������������� reviewed by Gordon Bain gardening word of mouth Agapanthus: A revision of the genus Wim Snoeijer Agapanthus always make me think of my mother – she planted some in the 1950s and they thrived mightily in South Australia’s hot, dry climate. Generations of enormous, horny-shelled snails found refuge in the thickets of strappy green leaves, and stormed out to cause havoc in the rest of the garden. Consequently, Mum – the mildest of women – referred to her planting as the ‘aga-bloody-panthus’ rather than the more poetic ‘Lily of the Nile’. She threatened to tear them out on a regular basis for the next 20 years, and yet each season she forgave them as they bloomed and a cerulean cloud danced down the driveway. I’d have liked more photos to illus- trate the vast range of cultivars that have been developed from this hardy South African native, but that’s a minor quib- ble. Snoeijer’s meticulous descriptions of form, colour and origin make tantalising reading – collectors will undoubtedly find this definitive work a welcome addi- tion to their library. ★★★ Timber Press $69.95 Growing Orchids in Your Garden Robert GM Friend I’ve murdered more than a few orchids in my time, so I’m certain that those still clinging to life in my garden have breathed a collective sigh of relief with the timely ar rival of this book. Growing Orchids in Your Garden focuses on natural cultivation, without any paraphernalia of the hothouse, misting variety I’ve certainly associated orchids with until now. Orchids grow in a huge range of climates and conditions, so you’re certain to find one here that will flourish for you. This book is an absolute goldmine of information on how best to place the different species in your garden to ensure healthy growth and spectacular blooms. I particularly enjoyed the historical notes from orchid hunt- ers and plant collectors that are seeded throughout the text – they strike just the right note and capture all of the romance and exoticism associated with these splendid plants. Mr Friend – I thank you, my local nursery thanks you (for the impending boom), and my long suffering Dendrobium speciosum is deeply, deeply grateful. Lovely stuff. ★★★★ Timber Press $49.95
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