Amazon.com (ISBN 0789441578, Paperback)

Full of solid, practical advice and plenty of how-to pictures, Flowering Shrubs is an ideal title for those wanting to maximize their success with this large and versatile plant grouping. Focusing on possible combinations with different varieties, training possibilities, containers, and growing conditions, you may be tempted to edge every inch of your lawn with gorgeous shrubbery. With so much detail on one particular type of plant, you'll find plenty of direction for growing healthy blooms and foliage, no matter what your specific needs may be.

Designed to be a complete do-it-yourself guide, don't let the small format of this book fool you--it's absolutely jam-packed with ideas for all styles of gardens, and as always, publisher Dorling Kindersley manages to take fairly complicated projects and reduce them to a manageable size that even the gardening novice can handle. Practical considerations are dealt with firmly--choosing healthy plants is an essential beginning, and without intelligent placement and pruning, your bushes will never look their best. The listings by size, bloom shape, foliage color, and optimal conditions are very specific, and new gardeners will find all kinds of useful tips.

Inspirational ideas are plentiful--the garden photographs are lush and detailed and provide all kinds of unusual notions for creating a truly unique gardening space. Whether you're looking for a low-maintenance choice for a difficult spot, or a complete row of evergreen fencing, you'll find options for all your projects involving these lovely and versatile plants. --Jill Lightner