I really should give 5 stars for this 1986 edition of Sunset’s classic Western Garden book ... I have an old-pre-ISBN-era copy from the 1970's. This updated edition is delightful and very useful in additional layout designs for problem gardening situations. The ½-star off is due to the poor coverage of the British Columbia area of the Pacific Northwest. Why stop at the 49th parallel?!!

In comparison, I subsequently found a copy of the 8th (2007) edition, and decided not to keep it. It is not nearly as user-friendly. Sections in what were previously landscaping designs for specific situations are so embellished with glossy photographs and plant cultivar close-ups as to render this information less detailed. As well, opening spreads are glossy postcard layouts, reminiscent of coffee table books emphasizing pretty views. Rather than this edition being a solid reference, these additions have reduced the book to a more general overview. So I'm preferentially keeping the 1986 edition (and my earliest Western Garden edition from the 1970's). ( )

My go to gardening book ( )

I like this edition better than the older one. The photos are a great improvement. ( )