Annuals; A Complete Guide to Cultivation and Care Book

Annuals provide instant satisfaction in the garden as they have almost immediate effect. They can be used to fill any gap in a bed or a border, provide splashes of color in an otherwise uninspiring garden, or quickly change the look of a garden. Because they take root so speedily and provide instant color, annuals are an ideal way to fill a new or young garden while waiting for more permanent plants to mature. This makes them invaluable for temporary gardens such as on patios and balconies.

In the popular step-by-step style, this beautifully photographed book shows the gardener how to choose, plant and grow annuals such as nasturtiums, marigolds, impatiens, dahlias, zinnias, and lobelia through practical and inspirational pictures and informative text. They introductory section describes exactly what annuals are, as well as explaining the differences between them and biennials and short-lived perennials. Next there is a section on the use of annuals in informal and formal schemes and for use in mixed borders and as temporary fill-ins.

The variety of colors of annuals, from reds and golds to blues and purples, is beautifully demonstrated with inspiring ideas for using these colors to stunning effect. The projects also covers ideas for using annuals in hanging baskets and window boxes and as foliage plants.

Providing practical advice as well as inspiring ideas, this book gives excellent guidance and helpful tips on all aspects of growing annuals from propagation and planting to controlling pests and diseases.