A gardeners' guide to the most popular spring bulbs, covering narcissus, hyacinths and tulips - the most widely planted and, arguably, the most useful of spring garden bulbs. This book cuts to the quick of the subject, offering solid horticultural advice and practical information on plants that are readily available and relevant to gardeners. Full background details on the plants and their cultivars are given along with advice on what to choose, how to plan their use, and what to plant them with. Additional details on breeding and commercial production will help demystify the subject for gardeners. The book is fully illustrated with over 100 stunning images of the most beautiful spring flowers. Additional information includes an overview of the historical development of each type of spring bulb; guidance on tulips as cut flowers; daffodils for showing and pots; and the expansion of colours for Hyacinths.
There are lots of books on spring bulbs with glorious photos of tulips and daffodils, but finally here is a book that treats hyacinths as something other than a brief afterthought. If you thought hyacinths come only in light pink, white, or blue prepare to be amazed. There are soft orange, almost black purple, yellow, lilac, and wine hyacinths. Most are single flowers but some have frilly double florets. Chapter 6 (20 pages) is nothing but hyacinths--photos of florets from different cultivars in side by side comparison, descriptions of over 100 species and cultivars, and history and cultivation tips. For those with an interest in old Victorian varieties, Geoff Stebbings gives the introduction date, the introducer and even the parents where known. He does the same excellent job for daffodils and tulips in other chapters, but there are other books that cover them. However, if like me you have been enchanted by the sweet smell of hyanciths and want to know more, this is the book to get.
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