Amazon.com (ISBN 0789441543, Paperback)

Full of solid, practical advice and plenty of how-to pictures, Gardening in Shade is an ideal title for those wanting to maximize their success with this particular growing condition. Focusing on possible combinations with different styles, space and zone considerations, and special plant collections, you may find yourself wishing that every inch of your lawn was covered with deep shade. With so much detail on one particular condition, 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--proper soil preparation is an essential beginning, and without intelligent placement and pruning, your shady areas will never look their best. The listings by size, foliage color, and zonal tolerance 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 lush and mysterious shade garden, you'll find options for all your projects involving these lovely and versatile plants. --Jill Lightner