Magnolias a Gardeners Guide

Description

Revered by gardeners since ancient times, when they were brought into cultivation in Asia, magnolias have lost none of their allure. In fact, a steady supply of new magnolias has become available in recent years, from both newly discovered species and newly created hybrids, making the genus a source of greater horticultural excitement than ever before. Though loosely based on the author's 1989 book of the same name, "Magnolias" is so extensively revised and expanded as to be considered an entirely new book. This highly illustrated survey of the genus includes species and hybrids, extensive information on cultivation and propagation, and more than 150 fine photographs. The appendices list societies, plants for specific landscape situations, plants that have received awards, and places to see and buy magnolias.

Jim Gardiner began his career in horticulture at the age of 18 as a trainee at the Royal Gardens and Great Park, Windsor. Today he is the curator of the Royal Horticultural Society at Wisley. Equipped with a National Diploma in Horticulture from Askham Bryan College in York, he has previously worked at several other botanic gardens, including the Hillier Gardens and Arboretum and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. His botanical interests extend beyond his job as curator. In addition to being the president of the Magnolia Society and a Fellow of the Institute of Horticulture, Jim continues to lecture and write articles for such publications as The Garden Magazine, The New Plantsman and Reader's Digest. He is also the author of several books, including Magnolias: A Gardener's Guide. Jim says his interest in magnolias "originated when I first saw the majestic tree magnolias in the Valley Gardens, Windsor." In addition to his horticultural activities, Jim enjoys golf, music, cycling, walking, fishing and bird watching. He has two children and resides in Guilford, England.

Altogether this new book should be high on the wish list of every magnolia gardener. -- Eileen Wheeler Rhododendron, Camellia, and Magnolia Group Bulletin 20000501 A browse through the pages of the new book Magnolias by expert Jim Gardiner makes you realize how many varieties there are, and how few we know. -- Adrian Higgins Washington Post 20000420 Fine and abundant color photographs. SciTech Book News 20000910 A superbly produced, beautiful book, with more than 150 superb color photographs, immaculately printed on coated paper. HortIdeas 20000810 A recommended pick for any serious horticultural library. Gardening Shelf 20000804 There can be no more welcoming introduction to the great genus Magnolia than this beautiful and gracefully written volume by a gardening expert. Pacific Horticulture 20001019 This admirable volume contributes in a positive and original way to the rich tradition of magnolia literature. -- Mark Flanagan Garden (Peterborough) 20001113 In addition to detailed descriptions and growing information, you'll enjoy delving into the historical and botanical background of these fascinating trees. -- John Van de Water Newark Star-Ledger 20001105 For magnolia lovers who don't or can't grow them, Jim Gardiner's monograph yields vicarious pleasure very nicely indeed. -- Allen Lacy Homeground 20000115 The charm and beauty of magnolias are shown in the 155 color photographs offering a wider variety of exquisite cultivars than we usually see grown. -- Joanne S. Carpender National Gardener 20001217 Magnolias: A Gardener's Guide ... features much historical information, which makes the book most interesting. -- Marty Figley Michigan Observer and Eccentric 20010125 The gloriously illustrated account of the species and hybrids that will brighten a winter's evening and have you planning to fit in at least one of these magnificent trees. -- Vanessa Berridge English Garden 20010326 You will find Magnolias: A Gardener's Guide a very helpful resource for selecting one, or more, of these aristocrats for your garden. -- Natalia Hamill Garden Center Association of Greater Kansas City 20010327 Opened my eyes to the many species of Magnolias available to us today. -- Diana Pederson Suite101.com 20010608 Magnolia growers, particularly those living in cooler climates, will find this... a valuable reference. American Gardener 20011003 A valuable reference. American Gardener 20011016 A fully illustrated survey of the genus with information on cultivation and propagation. Wisley Bookshop 20020528 A must for magnolia lovers worldwide. -- Emily Gaither Book World 20020821 When I have a question about which yellow magnolia to buy for a client, I check Magnolias. The book will tell me which is most floriferous while young, which is toughest in the landscape and which is most suited to the exposure. -- Donna Williamson HortResources Newsletter 20040121 A detailed guide to the genus. Gardens Illustrated 20040309