Better Homes and Gardens has issued what may be the perfect book on perennials. Perennials for Today's Gardens contains all the details a gardener could need or want: gorgeous, full-page color photos of each of the 100 perennials covered; written descriptions of each plant; a history of the name and the plant's propagation; planting guidelines (including the correct soil conditions, drought tolerance, sun and shade requirements, spacing and placement tips, friendly companion plantings, and hardiness according to zones); and information on related species. 

In addition, we get sections on design (focusing on color, form, texture, fragrance, luminescence, and seasonality), design partners (shrubs and trees, structure, water, ornaments), garden ecology (pattern, process, light, soil, and moisture), and "putting it all together" (creating space, combinations, layering) The perennials themselves are grouped into sections on shade, partial shade, and sun, so you immediately know where to look for the perfect plant for that shady backyard spot or the full sun of the front yard. Perennials will suit the gardener ready to create stunning, easy-care garden plots that will bring joy year after year. 

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I am a lousy gardener. What I know about gardening could be summarized in a few words: "Plant something and hope for the best." Yet, I love to garden, and keep trying year after year in my tiny flowerbeds around the street trees in a sea of concrete here in San Francisco. I don't even bother to attempt planting annuals or growing things from seed, but for years I've been experimenting with perennials to see if I can find something that will survive for more than one year out there in the urban jungle. If I'd had this book years ago, I might have been successful a long time ago. For me, it's a walking tour of everything I have done wrong. For you, it can be a guidebook to doing things right from the get-go! 

Synopsis 
Now any homeowner can add substantial investment value and beauty to a home through careful landscape design. Two landscaping experts explore in practical and clear language how to create a landscape plan, determine a budget, choose a contractor, and achieve financial return on a limited budget. Plus numerous tips for the beginning landscaper and handy checklists and charts to ensure the successful completion of any project. 
 

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This is a concise and readable "how to" book. 
Janet Macunovich and Steve Nikkila have done a wonderful job of organizing this book. It is a month to month compilation of things to do in the garden. You see the garden before it has been replanted. The author tells the reader what is wrong with the garden and then proceeds through the growing season with lists of things the gardener needs to accomplish. The time spent in the garden is minimal for lasting results. 
A reader from Huntington Woods, Michigan