Garden Reading: Winter Garden

It's been a while since I've felt the urge to share a book with you. This one surprised me. You knew I would take a second look with a title like Winter Garden.


This is a novel, though, and not one of the ever present how to books. The bonus is that there is a winter garden in this book (duh) but what it means and why it is exists is central to the story.

Since we are...still...in winter, it seems a perfect time to settle in with a good story and I especially enjoy one that brings in a bit of well, you know, a garden and/or gardening. Really, though, I became captivated with the story told and found the book hard to put down. It was over much too soon, although the end has a bit of twist and left me pondering what might have been. All hallmarks of a good read, wouldn't you say?

Briefly, the story unfolds in Washington State in an apple orchard. A family enterprise, it is the background to who/what/where/ and why this family is what it is. And it is interesting...as we explore the strained relationship between a mother and her two daughters. The Russian mother shares of herself by telling her daughters fairy tales. They grow up hearing these stories but not understanding their importance to their mother. Unraveling the fairy tales will change their family forever.

Author Kristin Hannah has provided a very enjoyable book to curl up in front of a blazing fire or maybe just to snuggle down in a warm bed with...wherever you choose to read, you will enjoy this story and think about it after.

****
Thanks to NBC (the person, not the network! Ha.) for the gift card that feeds my hunger for the printed word.

P.S. I was at the bookstore yesterday and saw that this one is now out in paperback.

Wayne Winterrowd

While online last night, I happened upon some sad news. It seems that Wayne Winterrowd of the famous North Hill Garden and partner/spouse of Joe Eck has passed away. The link to North Hill Garden in the previous sentence will take you to their homepage where you may peruse a number of remembrances.

Since I love garden books, that was my first introduction to the them. However, most of their books are now only available on the secondary market...checking Amazon, the prices have skyrocketed, I am sorry to say... I do own Our Life In Gardens. The title delights me. It sits on my nightstand (with others) where I like to pick and choose at will.

I feel especially privileged to have heard them speak....first up was Joe Eck and then Wayne Winterrowd closed out the program. It was at a now-defunct Horticulture Seminar....click here to read about my experience...(I actually got around to it! Yes!)

Anyway, I just wanted to add my condolences and express my sadness at the passing of an extraordinary gardener.

Garden Reading: The White Garden

by Stephanie Barron

The White Garden could only be, to gardeners, Sissinghurst. This book, though, isn't found in the gardening section but in the new fiction area. As someone who loves to browse in a good bookstore (or even a not-so-good one), this book was in my hands as soon as I saw the title.

Interestingly, while it's set in Sissinghurst and is about Sissinghurst, most specifically...duh...the White Garden at Sissinghurst...this is not a true story. Oh, but as you read it...and if you know a little of real life history...you may just find yourself asking: Is it possible?? And, then, my friends, that is when you know the author has you.

I plowed through this book (haha...plowed...get it?...I do love amusing myself) in just a couple days...or rather a couple of late nights up reading. (Another sign of a good book...). It engaged me to the extent that I found myself looking up Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group to learn more...where I discovered how seamlessly the author has incorporated actual people, events, etc. into her tale.

You see, without giving anything away, there was an unexplained and unaccounted for amount of time from when Virginia Woolf was discovered missing...and when her body was discovered.

And, then, too, we have a horticulturist (of course!) from the USA visiting the famous Sissinghurst...who discovers she has a connection to this garden...an actual connection. Set now, we get to explore Sissinghurst and its famous former inhabitants with her.

If you've visited Sissinghurst, you will enjoy remembering (and learning more) it; if you haven't, you'll want to and appreciate seeing it through the eyes of others. Plus, it's a delightful story with a touch of romance...what more do we need on Valentine's Eve?? (You aren't really expected to answer that. My DH is far far away, so I must be content with someone else's romance...sigh....for now.)

Thanks to Dr. NBC for the most marvelous Christmas gift card with which I acquired this book!

*****
My previous Sissinghurst posts (of which one needs to be re-worked...sorry, I'll get around to that one day...another thing on the to-do list..)

Garden Reading: Plant Seed, Pull Weed

While there have been any number of books and/or people using their garden and gardening experiences as a metaphor (for life or whatever story they want to tell us), this was my first reading of one using those experiences to teach Zen Buddhism. It works, though.



Plant Seed, Pull Weed (subtitle Nurturing the Garden of Your Life) by Geri Larkin is entertaining and thought provoking...and maybe even life changing. The gentle teaching (maybe we can call it sharing) of principles for living a better life are wrapped in wonderful stories from Ms. Larkin's own experiences and those of legendary Buddhist guides.

Her sense of humor shines in the writing and keeps a light tone. Pleasant surprises were the two recipes. I wasn't expecting them at all but I'm intrigued. Stir-Fried Dandelions and Skillet Blackberry Cobbler will certainly get a try out here.

This isn't a how-to book for gardening (there are lots of those already out there) but more of a how-to-find-joy-in-every-day-happenings. Mostly set in gardening situations, we gardeners will relate easier than we might to someone who just tapped us on the shoulder and said, "Let me share some Zen with you."

While I'm pulling those weeds (figuratively and literally), I think I may just look at them differently in the future. I did feel (this is only good, I suppose) that the book ended before I was ready. I kept turning pages thinking there was surely another chapter. There isn't, but there is a list of ten garden/nature books Ms. Larkin loves and that she feels convey a "sweet feeling that life filled with small doings can bring." Some I'm familiar with...one I recall having a hard time getting through (I think I gave up on it....maybe I'll give it another try). But, hey, I always like referrals of great gardening books.

I do have two questions for the author: 1) Did you get the $5k for the roof and 2) Who were the other six senators who signed the letter supporting Wangari Maathai?

And one comment: I'm all for planting trees and trust that your gifts are appropriate and wanted. I think just as important are trees that are planted in welcoming settings. My family just rolls their eyes when we're out in the car and I spy some of those trees (you know them....the one that's going to get huge planted right beside a house...the trees planted next to a fence with no room to grow...or those that are planted on property lines (those roots don't stay on one side...). I've made my share of mistakes, maybe more, and don't wish them on others...I've also had my share, maybe more, of heartburn from the mistakes of others.

Well, okay, I'll still go to sleep tonight anyway whether I know these answers. Just kidding around. In all seriousness, this book was a delightful read and I'm working on finding that joy. Some days, it isn't even work....now, that's progress.

Garden Reading: Garden People

I admit it. I'm an impulse shopper, one of those people with a bull's eye painted on her that the advertisers and marketers aim for. So, it was with delight when I picked up this book, Garden People...after all, who doesn't want to know more about garden people....or find out exactly who garden people are?? The subtitle, The Photographs of Valerie Finnis, was intriguing as well.


Inside, right away, are some beautiful pictures that will have you ohhhing and awwwing, but keep turning because the most interesting life of Valerie Finnis is about to unfold. The name probably rings a bell to you (for instance, Muscari 'Valerie Finnis') but now you're about to learn about a gardening life and a gardening era.

It was a time when young women could attend a horticulture school just for them and totally immerse themselves in plants. Valerie chose a specialty in alpine plants, something she became known for her entire life. Her pictures tell not just her story (most details I'll leave you to read...you'll enjoy reading about her life well lived) but give us glimpses into the lives and gardens of last century's who's who in English gardening. And, they're not just any pictures....they're wonderful treasures of notable people in their gardens, the clothes they wore and the dogs they kept by their sides. Okay, I'll name drop just a bit...how about Roald Dahl? Margery Fish? (Some of your favorite plants...you'll find out who is behind those names...)

How Valerie met her husband is a sweet story and for those of us who are into health and healthy life styles (Blue Zones, anyone?), you might note the ages of these gardeners. Gotta be a connection! Anyway, the author Ursula Buchan (who knew Valerie Finnis) has done us all a great favor by sharing Valerie's story and her remarkable photographs.

In the very back, you will find short bios of all the gardening people you meet in the book. What a fascinating time, fascinating people and certainly a fascinating life Valerie Finnish led! Thanks for sharing this with us, Ms. Buchan.

******

My most humble picture of Muscari 'Valerie Finnis' (I'll have to get a better one this year):


Maybe ordering some more of these wouldn't be a bad idea...especially now that I know something about Valerie Finnis!

Garden Reading: Planting Green Roofs and Living Walls

(Can you tell I've been studying this book?? Hehe. It came to me in pristine condition...)


Nigel Dunnett and Noel Kingsbury have brought an impressive amount of information together on this topic. For those of us with a cursory knowledge of roof gardens (at best), this book expands our knowledge exponentially. For starters, green roofs can be intensive (those that are cared for similarly to a regular garden) and extensive (those not intended to be used by people, per se)...or, a combination of the two. The term ecoroof is synonymous for green roof and is preferred by some, especially in areas where the roofs may not be green all year.

Probably most of us have seen a roof garden, especially if you live or visit an urban area where ground space is at a premium. I glimpsed one out my hotel window in Richmond, VA, recently, but didn't get a further look as left we exceptionally early the next morning. I've also seen one (from a distance) while visiting in Seattle, WA. However, they're not particularly common out here in the suburbs.

This book explores options way beyond our simple idea of roof gardens. The authors are interested in green roofing worldwide and examples are given from many countries. They point out that Germany has been a leader in this field. While it is somewhat easier to conceive of some of these innovative gardens on a flat surface, it appears that sloped roofs can also support various types of ecoroofs (although they are more problematic).

The estimated costs were rather startling but not surprising. It was suggested that incentives could be offered to encourage this type of roofing. The benefits were numerous such as reduced flooding, temperature reduction and wildlife habitat.

This is a serious book about a serious topic. It's well researched and referenced. It's clearly a book intended to impart information to a wider audience. I could easily see it as a text for a class.

I'm uncertain about the more utilitarian ecoroofs. It's suggested in the book that native plants can be used so that the roofs blend in. There were pictures of some natural roof gardens that were quite impressive. However, on a small scale, or on a personal level, it's a bit hard for me to get past that some of them look...well, untended. The suggestions that some roofs could be maintained with naturally occurring plants or windblown seeds was also a bit harder for me to appreciate. Those sound like weeds to me and I don't know that I'm at a place where I can appreciate them on my roof (and from there...in a carefully tended garden below?) ,

I remember living in the Seattle area and uncared for roofs would often sprout moss and sometimes trees. This was not considered desirable. It's going to take some time to change attitudes and develop appreciation for some of these new roofs, I think.

In addition, the wildlife habitat was a bit disturbing, too. It's suggested in the book that insects and some species of birds might find them hospitable and that this would replace their displacement during construction. I remember living overseas and seeing rats on roofs, not a habitat I would encourage (nor, I expect, would the authors). I also remember pigeons being particularly messy in decorative tiles that were outside our dorm room windows when I was in college.

On the other hand, I grow iris tectorum, Japanese Roof Iris, and it's not at all hard to imagine how lovely it would be on a green roof. I suppose I'm more supportive of the garden type roofs...maybe simply because that's all I've really been exposed to. I also loved the idea of, for instance, the mall in Germany that has made an incredible green area out of its roof....with many uses and purposes. How could anyone not like the idea of bringing green, from lush grassy park like settings to out-and-out vegetable gardening, to areas where there isn't any?

Thanks to the authors, Nigel Dunnett and Noel Kingsbury, for compiling so much information into a usable format. I'm sure their work will be studied and used by many who will be bringing us exciting advances in the world of horticulture. I'm on the lookout, now, for green roofs and will bring an appreciation to (for) them that I didn't have before.

Garden Reading: The Garden Primer

If you knew someone to guide you, keep you from making mistakes and just generally mentor you in gardening, I suspect that someone would resemble Barbara Damrosch. At least, I hope she would!



Image courtesy of Workman Publishing.

Newly updated and greener than ever, Barbara Damrosch's The Garden Primer is available and ready to lead you down the garden path. While the beloved original still rests on many a gardener's bookshelf (saw it myself recently at my sister's), this new version brings it right up to date. Armed with the latest information, any one of us could venture out and make magic in the dirt. You know you can...and if you didn't, this is the perfect manual for you.

Ms. Damrosch jumps right in with What Plants Need. Of special interest to me was the section on Bulbs (you know how I love my daffodils) where I was reminded that it just might be time to divide some of mine. On page 513, I read, "If a clump is dense and the leaves have started to flop, it's a sign that division is needed." Well, that describes my clump of Mt. Hood exactly. Guess what I'll be doing after the foliage has withered (it will be fun to see exactly how many are in the clump).

I also dug right into the section on Vegetables. You might remember those peas I planted on a whim? Just waiting for me was a load of information on peas (pages 340-345). There I learned that I was right (whew) to have a trellis waiting for them and that I needed to not let them over ripen on the vine, lest they lose their sweetness. I'll have to remember that as they are just now breaking the ground. Also, to pick them right before dinner (unless I'm eating right where they grow) as they start to lose their sweetness upon picking. I also learned they freeze well (hope I have enough to freeze!). You can see I focused on the reward, i.e., the eating (hehe) vs. the actual growing; however, The Garden Primer contains plenty of information on the actual growing.

After each section, there is an extensive glossary with pictures and detailed information on, for example, numerous vegetables. Just liked I looked up peas, you could look up anything you wanted, like tomatoes (pages 373-379), for instance. Of course, trees, perennials, shrubs, herbs, wildflowers, you-name-it are all covered including a section on houseplants. If you can grow it, there's information for you to absorb and learn.

Because I have vegetables on my mind, it was with special delight that I discovered a lovely and very colorful feature on Barbara Damrosch and Eliot Coleman's Four Season Farm in Harborside, Maine, in the Spring 2008 edition of Country Gardens magazine. On display were the vegetable gardens (advice put into practice), luscious vegetables themselves and a flower garden in full bloom. A feast for the eyes and so very inspiring! Pictured also was the herb garden, complete with a plan featuring the actual plants used. I immediately turned back to the section on Herbs in the book, eager to learn more. (It's hard to put down; you'll see!)

If you didn't guess or or were unaware, let me be sure you realize we are talking about organic gardening. And, at Four Season Farm, they clearly know what they're doing! If you don't know something or, like me, are always eager to advance your gardening skills and knowledge, then make sure you have a copy of the new and improved The Garden Primer at hand. Our gardens will thank us!

Garden Reading: The Truth About Garden Remedies

From Dr. Jeff Gillman, Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota, comes another must-have book for your garden reference bookshelf entitled The Truth About Garden Remedies. This is the perfect companion to the previously reviewed The Truth about Organic Gardening.



Who among us hasn't read, been told or experimented on your own with some home remedy? Now, at last, you can know, whether these things are worth your time and trouble. I'm guessing that we probably think we are doing no harm or less harm so why not give it a try? Or, maybe, we think it is more natural (not necessarily so). At any rate, you can save yourself wasted effort or worse by doing a tiny bit of research and reading about it/them in Dr. Gillman's book.

After reading the introduction by the eminent Dr. Michael Dirr, I found myself, once again, enjoying the writing style and humor of Dr. Gillman. If you want, you can just look up a topic in the index, but these books, both of them, flow from subject to subject so easily that you may...like me...look up and realize you're way past that 'one thing'! Each topic is covered with the practice, the theory, the real story and then what it means to you (with a rating).

I was surprised to learn that eggshells weren't particularly effective as a slug barrier. He did find they could slow them down, but not repel them like diatomaceous earth (which was effective, p. 160). Here's a little example of Dr. Gillman's humor (I'm not a slug fan either):

"The slugs clearly hated the stuff. One bolted off the plate in the first 10 minutes. (This was a sad and pitiful thing to watch because he was constantly winding and rolling, trying to get away from the sharp substance under his feet. If I had any sympathy for slugs I would have helped him, but I don't, so I didn't.)"

Hehe. You gotta like him! Anyway, the above quoted section is referring to slug reaction to diatomaceous earth.

So, add this one to your reference books, won't you? I'm happy to have it and want to share that Dr. Gillman is just as delightful via email as I might have thought from reading his books. Coming up next, I asked for some help with a couple of problems I face in my garden and Dr. Gillman replied with some great help which he has given me permission to share with all of you.

Garden Reading: The Truth About Organic Gardening

Here it is...at last, I might add...the unvarnished real scoop about what we call organic gardening. From Dr. Jeff Gillman of the University of Minnesota comes an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand definitive reference on, as he says, the "benefits, drawbacks, and the bottom line" of organic gardening.

**

And, boy, do we need this! Let me elaborate a little. Pick a topic. Okay, let's look at Chapter 3, Soil Enrichment and Fertilization. Dr. Gillman first talks to us (that's what it feels like, when you're reading it) about our soil and our soil type. Then, we move on to our choices free of synthetic chemicals. For each one, compost and manure, natural fertilizers, green manure and cover crops, intercrops, and organic amendments for pH adjustment, after the explanation of what it is and how it can be used, you (the reader) are given three options: (the aforementioned) Benefits, Drawbacks and The Bottom Line. How cool is that! You make the decision...and now, you can actually make an informed decision.

Synthetic fertilizers, amendments and pH adjustments are covered next and yes, you get the same three options. The science and actual studies are referenced (you can check the Bibliography in the back for further information). Finally, the chapter concludes with a highlighted box entitled The Best Choices For You. Now, that you have all the information, you can make a choice that you not only feel great about, but you know why it is right for you.

You'll also find answers to many questions that you've had hanging around. One, for me, was organic fruit. Having attended lectures and read some on the subject, I must admit I was a bit surprised at just how beautiful some of the fruit is in a organic-type store I occasionally visit (quite a drive through lots of nasty traffic). It seems that some of the fruit we take for granted simply can't be grown without pesticide help...I mean, no one will buy fruit with insects....so spraying is what a grower must do to produce the beautiful fruit we want to buy (and who doesn't pick it over for the very best?). So, how was said fruit grown in said store?? Well, that mystery (and many others) is solved as 'natural' pesticides, we learn, are allowed. Those 'natural' pesticides can be just as tough (maybe more so) than a synthetic pesticide (chemically produced)...but here's the disturbing part I learned: Testing isn't done for them like it is for synthetic pesticides! Plus, because they typically don't last as long as their synthetic counterparts, they are used more often (pages 181-183). Yikes.

It's pretty clear to me that Dr. Gillman isn't on any particular side. Except the truth and what we know from science. I like that. Facts are good things. We can all have our own opinions but not our own facts! Facts are facts. So, go on...you know you want it, but I'm saying you need it...and add this book to your gardening reference shelf. You'll learn a lot and better yet, you'll be able to share with others why you've made the choices you have.

**
Thanks to Annie of The Transplantable Rose for her suggestion of the tabs vs. my proclivity to turn down pages...

Garden Reading: The Curious Gardener's Almanac by Niall Edworthy

What a delight Niall Edworthy’s The Curious Gardener’s Almanac is! Recently released here in the USA, we can now benefit from and enjoy Mr. Edworthy’s inquiring mind. Because he is right, you see, we do want to know all these things! We just didn’t know where to find it, how to ask for it, or in some cases, that it even was a possibility.

(Image courtesy of Penguin Group USA. )

Here in one tidy volume are all the answers to those questions other books don’t answer. Tied together and arranged by seasons are tips for gardeners, lists of plants for certain situations (or even categories), relevant quotes, uncommon facts (with some amusing comments from the author), recipes, lists of all sorts of things and anything else you can imagine wanting to know relating to gardening.

Maybe you have the habit, as I do, of turning down the page when you read something you know you’ll want to remember or come back to. What I didn’t realize was that the entire book is a “page turn downer”! You can see in the picture that nearly every page is marked in my book (just so you’ll know you don’t have to do that!).

I love the feel of this book. It’s smaller and fits in my hand nicely. There’s a ribbon for marking your place and, here, have a look at how charming it is inside.

Although Mr. Edworthy resides in England, this wonderful volume will be of equal interest and use to all of us “across the pond”. Did you know (I didn’t) that “Daffodil bulbs can last up to eighty years” (page 119)? Or, that “Prince Charles, AKA the Duke of Cornwall, is paid one daffodil a year as rent for unattended lands on the Scilly Isles” (page 115)?

I was surprised to learn that “ten million Britons, one-sixth of the population, are said to be dedicated gardeners, while roughly 90 million Americans engage in some form of gardening” (Introduction…which you must read…page 11). Think of that!

There are so many marvelous quotes in the book; however, given that I have daffodils on my mind, I did especially enjoy the quote from Margaret Atwood, “In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” (page 39). We gardeners, of course, know the bliss of working in our soil after waiting all winter.

You won’t want to miss “The five worst things about spring gardening” but you’ll have to read the book! As I mentioned, do read the introduction. It’s very funny and will give you such insight into Niall Edworthy as well as great appreciation for his efforts in bringing together all this information into one place. And, yes, there is an index.

You know how much I love my gardening books. I am so pleased to add this one to my collection and I know you will be also. We'll have great fun (when you get yours) entertaining others with all the things we've learned. Perhaps we'll make mint juleps (page 107)!

Many thanks to Penguin Books for such a delightful read!

Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen

My mission at the book store was to purchase a copy of a book I had recently borrowed from the library (review will come…eventually). Book stores are fascinating places with temptations beckoning all over. Seating myself on the handy bench, I proceeded to look at the new fiction. Pad in hand to write down interesting titles, my eyes were drawn to Garden Spells. No, I thought, I’m not into that type of stuff. Still, my eyes wouldn’t let go. It must be the garden in that title, my mind reasoned. Yet, my hand pulled it off the shelf and I opened it and began to read. Just a tiny bit, I told myself, enough to see if I like it, and then I’ll put it back.

And that, my friends, is how Sarah Addison Allen pulls you in. The book didn’t go back onto the shelf. No, it marched itself (practically) to the register where I found myself paying for it (and no discount…I paid full price…whatever has possessed me). Home we went, the book and I, where I sat on the couch with my feet comfortably under me (no comments) and dug in. Surely, I had other things to do. It didn’t matter. I was more interested in Claire Waverley and Bascom, North Carolina.

I want a house to belong to, as Claire does, and a rather unique garden. Even more (I think), I want to write like Ms. Allen. Delicious and smooth, this book reminded me of an ice cream cone I couldn’t put down. I’m sure I made dinner (I don’t really remember), and the tv must have been on…all I know is that I was deep into the arrival of Claire’s sister Sydney and daughter Bay…and oh, the neighbor, Tyler. Sleep, I did do that, but the next morning, the book was back in my hand. Things all around me beckoned; it was a gorgeous day to be out in the garden. Still, I sat on the couch and devoured this book.

I knew it was coming to an end and part of me wanted to savor it, draw it out and not let it end, but I couldn’t help myself. I had to know. So, in a little more than 24 hours, I had completed the book. Big sigh. It was so good.

If you like small southern towns (come on now, who doesn’t?), small southern town ways and small southern town people…add a little dash of mysticism, a beloved garden and an endearing story of coming home…well, you’ve got a pretty perfect story. Hurry up and write more, Sarah Addison Allen, we’re out here waiting…

Garden Bloggers Book Club; Garden Reading

(Can you believe it?? It's not midnight at the end of the month...I'm early! Maybe I get a gold star...maybe?)

Carol of May Dreams Garden has suggested our book for this period and is the de facto president and hostess of our Garden Bloggers Book Club (Carol, I hope you don't mind the title! I mean it well.). Her choice is A Hoe Lot of Trouble by Heather Webber. Thanks, Carol, for a great suggestion! To my review...

What makes a garden novel enjoyable? First, it needs to be about a garden or gardener. Second, it should read quickly as it is not a reference book, per se; however, helpful information interspersed throughout is a plus. Third, the characters should be likeable enough that you would enjoy reading about them again.

A Hoe Lot of Trouble scores perfectly (for me) in all three categories listed above. Sometimes you just want to read for pleasure. I liked it well enough that I quickly read the second one in the series, Trouble in Spades, as well as the third one, Digging Up Trouble. There is a fourth one that I’ll probably be ordering very soon.

I do have a slight disagreement with something in the second book, but I’ll save that for the end. (Obviously, it wasn’t serious enough for me to stop reading the books!) On to the books…let me just say that if I am vague, it is intentional because I want you to read and enjoy these books…and not have the story spoiled.

Nina Quinn is the main character (hence, Nina Quinn Mysteries). The books revolve around her landscaping business Taken by Surprise and her interactions with family and friends. Because Nina’s life continues to evolve through the books, I’ll just say that it’s all very entertaining. The dialogue is witty and the books are fast paced. The books are murder mysteries, so in the fashion of Murder She Wrote (wherein one would probably not want to vacation in Cabot Cove due to the high murder rate), murders seem to occur regularly in the small Ohio town she resides in…and Nina is somehow right in the middle of them. Struggling in her personal life, successful in her business, she presents a character many of us could identify with. Her food choices are pretty amusing in their own right. She appears to fuel herself on cookie dough, candy bars and other foods stress eaters can identify with.

There are lots of things to admire about Nina. She’s loyal, caring, adventurous, hard working…and conflicted. Her family has an assortment of characters that become more familiar to you, the reader, with each book. I’m not sure I’m totally with the author in the direction she seems to be taking Nina’s life, but I’m leaving room to be convinced. The journey is pleasant enough and with my husband having Ohio roots, I also enjoy the references to places that are familiar.

So, if you are a murder mystery reader like me, then these are fun books. I think I read all three in less than a week. If you had the time, you could easily read one over a weekend (great to take on a trip!).

Now, I know you’re just waiting to hear what I didn’t like. In book two, Trouble in Spades, Nina mentions that “day lilies” are poisonous. The author takes that further in the section at the end purportedly written by Nina Quinn called Take Your Garden by Surprise. On page 380, under Know your plants, we are told:

"Certain bulbs are toxic too, like amaryllis, lily of the valley, tulips, daffodils, and day lilies."

Sigh. Giant sigh. Do you see it, faithful readers?? Let me back up a minute and bring you up to speed in that a dog in this book becomes ill after eating morning glories. The informative section at this end of this book (the first one dealt with poison ivy, the third with a hummingbird garden) deals with protecting your dog from harmful plants.

As someone who has hundreds of “day lilies” (you know, of course, that they are daylilies…one word), they are NOT toxic. I, myself have eaten daylily blooms. One of my cats regularly munches on daylily seedlings in the window during the winter. There are recipes for cooking with daylilies! The American Hemerocallis Society makes an effort to correct misleading information (or just plain confused) information and this looks like a case for them. I have seen discussions in the past on the email robin on this very topic.

The most obvious thing should have jumped out at you right away. Daylilies are NOT bulbs!!!! I suspect the author is referring to true lilies (lilium) which are bulbs. With a character who is supposed to be a credible landscaper, shouldn’t she know the difference??

Here’s a link that took me about two seconds to find. You’ll note the author of this page says that some of these cannot be verified. I would question a few, right away…tulips/crocus…how many squirrels have dug up and run off with these? And, we know deer love tulip flowers (which are contained in the bulbs)…Before my cats, the rabbits loved my saffron crocus. I guess orris root was forgotten as well (it is an iris). BUT, you’ll note what is not on there….that’s right, hemerocallis, i.e., daylilies. As you can see, it is easy to be confused about what is and isn't a problem.

I must say, for me, this a glaring error and cast doubt on the “garden creds” of the author and her character, Nina Quinn. At the end of the third book, I didn’t even read the information about hummingbird gardens and found that I skimmed her plant references in the book. (I’m harsh, I know).

Having said all of this, I still enjoyed the books. It would be nice to have the character be better informed, but I have also attended lectures from landscapers whose plant knowledge was more general than specific. It didn’t spoil the lecture. Thus, this doesn’t spoil the books for me. And, I hope not for you as well.

*****

American Hemerocallis Society

Garden Reading: China Bayles Murder Mysteries

“Summertime and the living is easy” or something like that. Reading should be, too, don’t you think? Time to stretch out in the cool shade with an icy drink and a good book….or two. Ah, a good murder mystery should just about hit the spot.

Dropping in on China Bayles in Pecan Springs, Texas, seems like a great thing to do. Bleeding Hearts and Spanish Dagger are the latest two offerings from Susan Wittig Albert. As a fan of China’s, I’ve enjoyed following her through the years. Currently, she and her best friend, Ruby, have expanded their business interests. Along with the murder de jour, the books contain herbal nuggets and even favorite herbal recipes.

It may just be me, but I felt Ms. Albert has included ongoing themes in these books that made me happy I had both…and now, I want the next one to finish up that business about China’s father. I don’t recall in previous books these sorts of pleasurable anticipatory loose ends, but I found them a great writer’s device. The characters themselves provided the continuity and learning what was happening in their lives bound the books. These two, however, have actual story lines that continue…and as I mentioned, it left me in eager anticipation of the next book. It isn’t often that I feel that way, so kudos to Ms. Albert.

If you haven’t read any of these before, let me urge you to give them a try. Pecan Springs sounds like the kind of place we’d like to visit, especially the Thyme and Seasons Herb Shop. Along the way, you’ll increase your herb knowledge painlessly.

GBBC: Passalong Plants

Passalong Plants by Steve Bender and Felder Rushing is a compendium of favorites by two well known garden writers. Both are beloved for their wit and humor and these are not lacking in the subjects covered here. It's hard to imagine that anyone who gardens will not find more than few plants they know and recognize.

I usually turn right to the index where I can find a plant by its common and/or botanical name. The plants here are ones that persevere in spite of us and reproduce with generosity, hence the ability to pass them along. I find it a fun exercise to see how many are in my garden. More than a few, I can tell you!

One of my favorite passages is on Crinums and entitled Crinums Never Die. Now, that's a plant to consider! Having seen them blooming north of me, I knew I wanted to try one for myself. That one turned into two. Here's a picture of the larger of mine (if you'll look carefully, you'll see some Hardy Begonias starting to come up in front of the Sweet Woodruff):



Here's the other with Balsam seedlings coming up around it. As Felder says, "If you fail with crinums, you may as well quit." With such encouragement, I'm proud to tell you that mine are alive. Maybe this year they'll actually bloom (finally)...one can always hope.



Actually, I think Mr. Felder might also say that about Tiger Lilies. Last year, I spent quite a bit of time digging mine out as they had gotten huge and seemed intent on taking far more real estate than I wanted them to have as well as their reputation for harboring a lily virus. Imagine my surprise upon seeing them back in "their" spot, looking as if I had dreamed all that effort last year.

Excusing the hose, here are a few other passalongs I enjoy. The Banana Shrub you've seen me post before, but you might not have realized there's a dwarf canna in front of it. To the right you see Butterfly Ginger with Tuberoses coming up in front. (Yes, those are weeds...we'll pretend they're not there.) All of these (knock on wood) have endured at least two winters here, so I consider this little patch my microclime area.



Many of the shrubs the authors write about are delightful and more than a few have a home here. I was surprised to not see Tea Olive listed as the fragrance is wonderful as well as Confederate Jasmine. Then, I realized that Gardenias were not included (What's a Southern garden without Gardenias, I ask?? Okay, a Southern garden in zone 8 and above, that is.). Maybe they don't "passalong" as well? Maybe they're more readily available? Who knows.

There are a few that one would hope would not be unknowingly passed along such as Artemesia, Empress Tree, Kudzu and Star of Bethlehem. To their credit, the authors mention their rapid spread, even in a funny way, such as with Star of Bethlehem Steve Bender, after advising of their rapid increase, says, "We really do need to keep passing them along, you see. Else, how will they make it to Hawaii or the Falkland Islands?" If you've ever tried to eradicate any of these, you know it is nearly impossible. There are a few others I would politely disagree with the authors on, but that is just a matter of personal preference, I suppose. Even in disagreement, I enjoy reading both of these writers' works.

For me, a favorite passalong came from my mother. She calls it a Blood Lily (Scadoxus). Last year, it finally bloomed for me and as of right now, it's just starting to appear. Inadvertently, another passalong rode in the pot. Balsam seedlings made a surprise appearance as my mother had grown them nearby. There are several passalongs in my garden from the Mary Washington House, among them Naked Ladies and Larkspur.


Now, I'm off to visit May Dreams Gardens to see what other garden bloggers are saying about Passalong Plants.

Garden Reading: Married to my Garden

You'll never guess what the mail brought me today! If you like guessing games and you've been reading along here, your first guess is probably a plant. A good guess, but it would be incorrect. (A gold star for you, however, if you thought daylily.) Maybe you think I ordered some of those clever garden shoes (I did, but that's for another post). Perhaps a signed book contract?? (Hahahaha...I think one actually has to submit something, but I could be wrong.) So, enough already.... It was a signed copy of Married to My Garden, a stupendous, entertaining, soul satisfying, look-in-the-mirror, endlessly readable garden book! (Do you think I like it a little??!)



There are garden books and then there are garden books...if you know what I mean. Now, I like and appreciate the how-to type of books and the books that give the necessary and informative plant information but what I really want, what I crave, is good garden writing. Describe your garden to me, tell me why you garden, explain to me how you lose yourself in your garden and especially entertain me and inspire me. I want to sigh with you when nature gets the upper hand and exclaim with delight when that moment (or moments) in your garden is so magical and special that you would burst if you didn't share it. Your book should so grab my attention that I 1) either can't put it down and/or 2) savor each reading, sometimes reading it again immediately, bending the page down to remind myself to come back or even underlining something you've written that resonates with me. It should end up on my nightstand or at least on the bookshelf close to my bed.

You know where I'm going here. There aren't many books like that and while there are many garden writers out there (very good ones), let's face it...in the Henry Mitchell category there are, well...not many. I herewith nominate another. From the moment I came across the title to this book (Married to my Garden), I knew I would like this book! What I didn't know was that I would love it and that it would jump to the top of the pile. (You've noticed, right, that it is the only garden book in my profile under Favorite Books? I did mean to add a few others, but never got around to it...it's telling, isn't it, that this was the one that my brain pulled up immediately.)

Now, I'm not going to quote the book to you (you gotta read it for yourself!), but if you like genuine writing and have such a passion for gardening that you miss your garden while vacationing (hint!), then this is a book you need on your garden bookshelf. If gardening is not just something you enjoy, but something you couldn't imagine not doing...if your garden is where you go to make sense of things that don't make sense...or if you are someone who wants not just sunflowers, but one of every type of sunflower....well, you get the picture!

Here's the thing. Married to my Garden was out of print until just recently. Now, it's back out there and available. I found this book on the Powells website while browsing garden books (don't you??) some time ago. You can find it there or at Amazon or at your local bookstore (ask them to order it, if they don't, for some strange reason, have it). It's my nomination for the next or a Garden Bloggers Book Club selection...Click here for May Dreams Gardens, headquarters central of the GBBC.

If you'd like to learn more or simply enjoy garden columns, Barbara Blossom Ashmun has a regular column in the Portland Tribune...just put her name in the writer search box. She also has a website.

I hope you enjoy it...happy reading!

********

Disclosure: Ms. Ashmun's publisher saw that I had listed MTMG in my profile and emailed me. I also heard from Ms. Ashmun herself (!) and she actually thanked me for liking her book! Almost immediately, a signed copy was sent to me (as you read, it came today). They did not ask me to do this post. I am happy this book is back in print and available! They made my day! (Okay, my week...my month...my year!!)

Garden Education: Pamela Harper

Tuesday night, I was privileged to hear gardening treasure Pamela Harper at Lewis Ginter. You may know her from some of her books, including, Time Tested Plants.



At 77 years young, Ms. Harper was energetic and engaging. We were there to hear about the lessons she has learned in 50 years of gardening. As was quickly pointed out, this didn't mean just the successes but also the failures. Opening with Eleanor Roosevelt's quote "Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself," we were laughing as Ms. Harper admitted to us that she probably had tried to make them all herself.

An adorable picture of her cats began the slide presentation. They keep her garden free of rabbits. She talked of tools and then moved on to design. Paths need to be at least three feet wide, a lesson she learned herself with smaller paths. Put perennials that need daily deadheading close to the paths so you won't trample other things getting to them. Ms. Harper quoted Tony Avent as saying, "I'm not a garden designer. I admit it. That's why God made shovels," to indicate that she, too, is not a garden designer. However, seeing her beautiful slides, one would have to disagree.

Lest I just relate to you the entire lecture, I'll hit on the high points. We were advised about balance and focal points, features and ornaments and not to believe everything you read (Clematis do not need lime, for instance). I was thrilled to hear that she also believes in "stuff and cram" and desires "one of everything."

Quite a bit of time (which was helpful) was spent on bulbs that voles do not eat. Because that is such good information, I'm going to list them for you:

Hippeastrum x johnsonii (not hardy beyond zone 7)
Amarcrinum (sometimes called Crinodonna)
Daffodils
Snowdrops
Snowflakes
Triteleia laxa
Ipheion uniflorum
Eranthis hyemalis
Anemone nemorosa

Unless they are vigorous self seeders, tulips, lilies and crocuses are favorites of voles. (So, that explains the disappearance of some of my lilies...that and lily virus, unfortunately.)

I especially enjoyed her chat on what she called Native Treasures, Native Nuisances. Here are some of the bad guys, in her garden as she was quick to point out:

Stylophorum diphyllum (celandine poppy) The Asian one self sows less.
Campsis radicans (trumpet vine)
Bignonia capreolata (cross vine)
Wild oats (Chasmanthium latifolim)
Staphyllea trifolia (bladder nut)

We moved on to color in the garden and the importance of foliage. Questions were asked and answered and then the book signing began. I had brought my copy (above) with me and here is Ms. Harper just before she signed it for me:


If you have the opportunity to hear Pamela Harper, you must go! If not, do read her books. Thank you, Ms. Harper, for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us. We are the lucky ones to benefit from your knowledge.

******
Yes, you know I got there a bit early and did a quick look around at the gardens. Photos are still coming!

Sissinghurst: Final Installment

It's time to finish up our little tour. I hope you enjoyed Part One and Part Two.

Before I start, I wanted to mention that I came across this book,V. Sackville-West The Illustrated Garden Book, A New Anthology by Robin Lane Fox. I just had to have it (that it was bargain priced was added incentive). As you may know, I love the month to month format and skipped right to May, since this was time period of my visit. Having read the introduction, I realized that the book was not exactly as I had thought when purchased, but nonetheless quite interesting. I had thought that it would tell me what Sissinghurst is like each month...and it does, sort of. It is, though, a collection of columns by Ms. Sackville-West that the editor believes many of which are not in her already published books. So, while the columns are delightful (more on that in a minute), it is not a book of see-this, see-that, etc. in May at Sissinghurst. Which, I suppose, upon reflection, is actually good since it is now too late for me to see those things and I can only hope I saw the highlights! What I did see was wonderfully enjoyable, but I am sure you could visit on a daily basis and see new things.

To the book, though....The first column in May is entitled Carpeting. Carpeting? Ah, ground covers! I laughed with delight because this is my current focus. If I needed a push or a pat on the back, or just a "Do It!", this column provided it. There in words written many years ago are my thoughts come to life backed by someone who put it in practice. In other words, you can choose what to fill a space or Mother Nature will. Ms. Sackville-West was not overly fond of bare spots and actually says "cram, cram, cram" with regard to placing plants and finding room for the next one. Vita, Vita, where have you been all my life??! (I am ashamed to admit that this is the first of her works I have read...correction, am reading.) That is exactly my philosphy although my humble small garden is no Sissinghurst (or will be), but it is crammed, crammed, crammed! I wouldn't have it any other way!

So, now I am eager to get on to the other months (as they come!) and I'll turn back to April because, you see, the columns are more like gardening conversations. I have begun to see why she was so adored and her columns generated such response.

On to the pictures...with a few notes...as I mentioned in a previous post, there were more than few people there. It was difficult, no downright hard, to get pictures without people in them. I hope you'll excuse the folks that pop up in these. Couldn't be helped. They were there for a wonderful experience, too...and who can mind a garden enjoyed by people who love it?


























*****
"...the more do I become convinced that a great secret of good gardening lies in covering every patch of the ground with some suitable carpeter." (page 69)

"...to follow my advice of cram, cram, cram every chink and cranny." (page 69)

*****
All pictures clickable

Garden Reading: Garden Bloggers Book Club March Selection

Our title for March was The Gardener's Year by Karel Capek. This book is part of a wonderful series of garden books edited by Michael Pollan (author of Second Nature, among others) called Modern Library Gardening. As Pollan says, these books are classics and not necessarily reference or how-to books but rather "how-to-think-about-it-than-how-to-do-it."

Diverse as we gardeners may be, there are also universal truths and experiences that bond us. The best of garden writers remind us, amuse us, and yes, at times, challenge us as we journey on our personal garden paths. Karel Capek's vocation was writing (at which he clearly excelled) but he, too, had that universal passion that gardeners recognize in one another. It's more than just a hobby as Mr. Capek's wit and humor remind us.

The format of the book is month by month, which happens to be my favorite. It also causes me to fight with myself as I have to make myself read past March while in March. I can convince myself to go a month or so ahead, but beyond that the messages in my brain compete with the text. "Why are you reading about July, for pity's sake, when it is March....March, you know" and other similar conversations distract me and convince me I won't remember what I've read. As you might guess, my nightstand has more than a few such books there that I like to read and re-read as the days go by. They never get old and I turn to them again and again. Certainly, A Gardener's Year has joined the pile.

Speaking of March, the chapter in Mr. Capek's book is entitled Buds and begins with the universal truth of gardeners waiting, waiting, waiting for the first bud. and for the "imperative 'Now!'" that happens when things burst forth all at once as if on cue. It was a personal Yes moment for me when he talked of (if he were a musician) composing a "march of buds" to describe the process. I, too (that universal thing), have thought that events in the garden remind of me a well orchestrated musical piece, although in my case, I had thought of a symphony rather than a march. He description hit such a chord with me that I marked the page to return to and savor.

Because I felt compelled to move on (although not wanting to), I did read on into April where I discovered another laugh out loud moment. The description of the gardener scurrying around the garden looking for a spare inch in which to plant something, finding it at last, only to discover later that he has indeed planted the new plant on top of something else. Who hasn't done that?! (Ahem, and who now has label mania??) And, speaking of labels, who could not be amused (and say, "true, so true") as we read of the gardener's obsession with labels and plants that lack thereof. The gentle pokes of fun at those of us consumed with our Latin names and our intolerance of those who don't know same. I love this particular passage:

"It is almost the same, but a name is a name; and we gardeners are particular about good names. For that reason we hate children and blackbirds, because they pull out and mix the labels, and it sometimes happens that we say with astonishment: "Look here, this broom flower is exactly like edelweiss--it is perhaps a local variety; and it certainly is a broom, because it has my label."

May was also a month of great amusement (as I would expect all are) with tales of the gardener obsessed with the rare and different only to discover the plant is most certainly not rare or different. There is the trouble with ordering plants. First, it is too early, then the supplier is too busy and finally, the supplier is sold out, but will send you something entirely different than what you want. Universal experiences and "the more things change, the more things stay the same" that we all relate to.

It is hard to imagine a garden library without this delightful little book. It will be with pleasure that I turn to it in the coming months to share experiences with Karel Capek. And, isn't that just the grandest thing? That time almost stands still among gardeners and we can have conversations with others before us and know exactly what they mean.

*******
My apologies for being late to this party. I'll try to do better from here forward. Although, I do note with the next book that it, too, is not one I'd sit down and read straight through. I like it and have owned it for some time, but find I turn to a particular plant at a particular time...more about that next time, though!

*******
Please see The Garden Bloggers Book Club.

Garden Reading: Book Review RECOVERED

I'm thinking that I'm not the only person this has happened to, but maybe by posting my experience, it won't happen to someone else!

Edit is a wonderful thing. Going back to the original of this book review, I thought I would attempt to post a picture of the book following some of the suggestions in the comments. However, I missed something in translation (no shock to anyone who knows my computer skills...or lack thereof) and kept getting errors messages from Blogger. Even after I pulled off my new additions, the post was still, somehow, in error. I was stumped. Then, I saw that little "recover post" in the upper left corner. Ah ha! I was saved, I thought. This will take me back to my post before these ill-fated attempts. Clicked on it and there was one paragraph of my post! That's it! I went to help and learned that that was typical of what was saved. Who knew??

Having made a critical mistake by not saving a copy before I attempted the edits, I was stuck. Or so I assumed until my brilliant son phoned. In the course of our conversation, he said, "Have you tried to Google it?" No, I hadn't but under his instruction I did and I discovered, wonder of wonders, that Google had cached it! I clicked on it and there it was...in its entirety! I quickly copied it. It was necessary to clean it up a bit and that's why the comments look as they do...but they're there! I am one happy camper!

What is our lesson?? Make a copy of everything before you fool around with it!

Without further adieu, the review:


(okay, the photo is from my bookshelf)

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Garden Reading

The $64 Tomato by William Alexander

There are always those books that you pick up to read and then you migrate to something else…and you never seem to get back to that first book. Let me just tell you that The $64 Tomato is not in that category! I read this book from beginning to end! It’s a great read.

I sorta wanted to dislike the author a bit. I mean, he has such advantages. He can order $1000 worth of topsoil without blinking an eye. If he needs hardscaping done, he hires it out. His wife gave him a gardener (help) as a gift.

But, you know what, I just couldn’t! Bill is very likeable and his straightforwardness is wonderful. So what if he is advantaged (like my lingo??!). He’s just like the rest of us…an avid, passionate, caring and determined gardener! I really couldn’t find anything to dislike about him…in fact, you’ll wish he was your neighbor and you’ll adore his vignettes (doesn’t that sound literary).

His story is our story…he just tells it much better! You’ll laugh with him and okay, at him, at times (as he means for you to). You’ll also feel his sadness (but not too much, he doesn’t want your pity…only your understanding) as he learns his body will no longer allow him to physically abuse it in the garden. You see, despite all the things that he can have done, Bill enjoys doing the hard work…and he does work hard.

Let’s hope there’s a $128 tomato (or maybe a $32 one?) still in him. Come on, continue your stories, your musings and yes, your mistakes and successes with us. We know you now. And, you know what…we really like you.

The writing is superb. 5 Stars! (My highest rating! And, with no pictures!)

(Okay, I'd really like to learn how to link....any help will be greatly appreciated. For instance, I'd love to put a picture of the book here...but is that legal?....and how do I do it anyway? )

Posted by Gotta Garden at 12:08 PM

4 comments:

Stuart said...

Hi Gotta Garden To find a picture for this book go to Google Images and type "$64 Tomato" in the search field. Select an image that you like and click on it until it brings up the full-size image.

Then right click on the image and select "Copy Link Location" (in Firefox) or "Copy Shortcut" (in IE).

In your blog post use the following code; (replace the '[' with '<' and the ']' with '>')

[a href="post link here that you copied previously"][img src="post link here that you copied previously"][/a]

This will ensure that the site that originally held the image is linked and subsequently honoured, and you get a copy of the image on your blog.

1:10 AM

CoastalCAGardener said...

I really liked your review. This book has been further down on my reading list and now I'm putting it on "read next".

You might also like "The Curious Gardener" by Jurgen Dahl. I loved it.

I too am a MG volunteer in California. If you want any tips re: linking, contact me and I'll try my best to help.

C.C.

1:57 PM

Petunia's Gardener said...

Thanks for the recommendation. I heard him on NPR and after listening, wondered if it might be a good read. Sounded like I shouldn't go by first impressions. Doesn't everyone have something they've taken a little too far?

Thanks for visiting Petunia's Garden too.

9:27 PM

Mary said...

How to link: when writing a post, in the Compose tab of the Create Post window, type the text you wish to become a hyperlink, and then click and drag your mouse over top of that word or phrase to highlight and select it. At the top of the Compose tab there's a little icon of a globe with a chain link on top of it. If you hover your mouse pointer over that (and it becomes a hand), it will display the tooltip "Link". Click it, and type or paste the desired website's URL in the field there, then click OK. You have now added hyperlinked text to your blog post.

As far as I know, I don't think it's illegal to post a picture of the book you're reviewing, but I'm no expert. I suppose if you put a link behind the picture to a site (Amazon.com, for example) where the book can be purchased, I can't imagine the author or publisher would object to that. But I can't speak for their lawyers. I do know that many people do it, but that doesn't necessarily make it right.

11:33 AM

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Garden Reading: The Bookshelf

You're looking at my garden books. Sort of. I mean, they're mostly on the shelves, but they're also by my bed, around this computer and a couple are on the counter, etc. You get it.

As you can tell, organization isn't my strength. I know I'm not alone. Some of you out there are nodding your heads. Good news! There's help out there for us. It's called Library Thing.

Here, you can have assistance with that organizing! You enter your books and presto, they're arranged and categorized for you. Plus, you can see who else has your book and get suggestions for others (just what we need, but hey, we like our garden books!).

I didn't discover this site. Like a lot of you, I look around at other blogs and I noticed some of you are already onto this idea. It's such a cool thing! I'm still learning about it and, well, I've only put a few of my books on there...but, I'm making progress. It will be terrific when I get them all on there. Just imagine....they'll be all neat and tidy, I'll actually be able to find one when I want it...and best of all, they won't fall off the shelves!