Rhs Encyclopedia of Gardening

This completely revised and updated encyclopedia offers expert RHS advice on the entire range of gardening techniques. It has been expanded to include new plants and gardening styles, and the latest horticultural developments. Part one, "Creating the Garden", is a complete guide to garden planning and all aspects of plant cultivation and care, including pruning and propagation. This section opens with a chapter on planning design, full of ideas and practical information to help you to achieve an ideal garden for your site and lifestyle. This is followed by chapters focusing on the main plant groups and areas of the garden - from ornamental trees and perennials to water gardening and the fruit garden. Each chapter offers in-depth coverage of every aspect of soil preparation and panting, creating effective garden features, and the routine care of your plants. Part two, "Maintaining the Garden", helps you to choose the garden equipment and materials, provides a practical guide to building a framework for the plants and sets them in the context of their environment. Annotated diagrams and photographs make every task easy to grasp, from how to select and equip a greenhouse to laying paving, putting up fencing or building a pergola, and all the tools, equipment and materials needed for each garden project are covered. Separate chapters show how climate and soil combine to affect your garden, and there is guidance on improving the soil and frost protection, with extended coverage of issues such as water conservation and organic practices.