Horticulture Guide

"A boon to all those who plant, care for, and love trees."--Nina Bassuk, author of Trees in the Urban Landscape   The Tree Book is the go-to reference to more than 2,400 species and cultivars, from two of the biggest names in horticulture--Michael A. Dirr and Keith S. Warren. The featured trees include those widely available in the nursery trade, some new and promising choices, and a selection of overlooked options that deserve renewed interest. Each tree profile includes the common and botanical names along with details on foliage; flowers, seeds, fruits, and cones; native range; adaptability; and popular uses in landscapes. The Tree Book is a must-have resource for landscape architects, city foresters, horticulturists, and enthusiastic home gardeners.    

Trees not only add beauty and value to property but also enhance the physical environment by providing shade, reflecting heat, and blocking wind. Choosing the right trees for the right location and conditions, however, is not always easy: each species has its own requirements for sunlight, water, drainage, and protection. Landscaping with Trees in the Midwest: A Guide for Residential and Commercial Properties describes sixty-five desirable tree species, their characteristics, and their uses. More than 325 color photographs illustrate the appearance of each species through the seasons--including height, shape, bark, flowers, and fall colors--as well as other factors that influence selection and siting in order to help the landscape professional or homeowner make informed choices. This guidebook also considers trees as a factor in overall environmental health and gives special consideration to the effects of the emerald ash borer, which continues to wreak havoc in wooded areas of the Midwest, offering replacement alternatives for vulnerable areas. In addition to the text and photos, the book includes a table of growth rates and sizes, a map of hardiness zones, and other valuable reference tools.

3500 photographs. Over 380 genera. More than 3700 species and cultivars. Dirr's Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs is the most comprehensive visual reference to more than 3700 species and cultivars. From majestic evergreens to delicate vines and flowering shrubs, Dirr features thousands of plants and all the essential details for identification, planting, and care. Color photographs show each tree's habit in winter, distinctive bark patterns, fall color, and more. Dirr's Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs is a critical addition to any garden library.

Many common native trees are just as beautiful as cultivated exotics. Since they have evolved with local conditions and are well adapted to their climate, they often require less maintenance and won't escape to invade a balanced ecosystem. The authors' extensive horticultural knowledge is distilled in this comprehensive cross section of trees native to North America, from the Atlantic to the Rockies and from northern Canada to the Gulf Coast. The main section of the book is divided into tree profiles, each describing flowers and fruit, native and adaptive range, culture, and problems. The authors also list the best seasonal features -- whether a tree has striking bark in winter, for example, or bright fruit in fall. In all, more than 650 species and varieties, and more than 500 cultivars, are discussed.