"An essential new resource for gardeners." "In my experience of growing and writing about plants for 45 years, the first question people intemperate climates ask about an unfamiliar plant is whether it is hardy." -from the Introduction What is a hardy plant? What is a hardiness zone? What conditions affect hardiness? Gardening expert Derek Fell answers these and other questions of gardeners living in a temperate climate. He challenges strict adherence to the zone system and encourages readers to explore their garden's microclimates. Doing so can add two or three zones to a plant hardiness rating. Encyclopedia of Hardy Plants is a comprehensive reference organized by plant type. Its easy-to-use directory format provides quick retrieval of specific data on over 700 recommended plants. Along with full color photographs of favorite annuals, bulbs, herbs, perennials, shrubs, trees, vegetables, fruits and nuts, the author includes: Botanical and common names Zone ratings Height, width and growth habits Flower, fruit, vegetable and nut production Suggested uses Soil, water and sunlight requirements Planting tips and combinations Preferred species and hybrids. Encyclopedia of Hardy Plants provides a combination of observations, expertise and master photographs. This new book is a resource that gardeners will use again and again for its thoroughness, accessibility and reliability.