[.ca] Ortho's All About Dry Climate Gardening (Ortho's All ... (ISBN 0897214994)

Colorful, Informative and Valuable.:
The world climate is changing. Water rationing has become common in many cities and states. Though you may not live in an extremely dry environment there are 'common sence' tips through out this book that can benefit any active gardener. The unique word, Xeriscape, is becoming more common as gardeners become more environmentally conscious. It comes from the prefix xero = dry, dryness. Common associated words are : xeroderma (dry skin), xerophyte (plant or person flourishing in a dry, hot environment) and of course, Xerox (dry copy). Though the writing is written in a `xero' style, there is a ton of horticultural wisdom to be excavated in this book. The brilliant color photos are sure to make up for any short coming in literary inspiration. `Dry Climate Gardening' may help you to see gardening in a new way, a natural way. It teaches how to work with the forces of nature, not against them. Most beneficial is the section "Plants for Dry Climate Gardens". The sections starts with trees, goes to shrubs and ends with perennials. This section is a cornucopia of unusual plant varieties unique to most gardens. If the plants you select are right for the environment you will not have to `nuture and protect' them and have more time to sit, sip and celebrate your new garden. Strongly recommended. 4.5 stars.