Book Review: The Houston Garden Book.

Overall impression: Excellent.

Pros: Specific advice for the southeast corner of Texas in which Houston is located, and the unique soil and climate issues that affect us here. This book tells you exactly what will grow here, and when and where and how to plant it. Lots of plant descriptions and recommendations, lists of plant species that thrive in this region, plant care tips, pest control info, and many pretty pictures to inspire you. The section on edible plants was very helpful, and listed what is in season during what part of the year, so you can plan your food-related planting accordingly. It made me want to run outside and start an herb garden.Another awesome feature is that it includes suggested organic gardening methods and common synthetic chemical methods of plant care, so you can use either or both.

Cons: Not enough pictures! While the lists of plants are helpful, I have no idea what they look like, which means I need to either get another book, or search for them online if I want to be sure a listed plant is right for my vision for my garden. A few more illustrations in the pest chapter would be useful as well. Also, no info on antique roses, though it has an entire chapter dedicated to more recent varieties that can survive here. I ended up getting a second book for that.

Summary: Nearly everything you need to know about gardening here, you can get from this book.