Product 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.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #589599 in Books
• Published on: 2000-05-01
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 330 pages

Review
"A valuable reference."
—American Gardener, September/October 2001

"Magnolia growers, particularly those living in cooler climates, will find this ... a valuable reference."
—American Gardener, September/October 2001

"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, December 2000

A recommended pick for any serious horticultural library." -- The Gardening Shelf, August 4, 2000

Altogether this new book should be high on the wish list of every magnolia gardener. -- — Eileen Wheeler, The Rhododendron, Camellia and Magnolia Group Bulletin, May 2000

Fine and abundant color photographs. -- SciTech Book News, September 2000

For magnolia lovers who don’t or can’t grow them, Jim Gardiner’s monograph yields vicarious pleasure very nicely indeed. -- Homeground 2000

Magnolia growers, particularly those living in cooler climates, will find this... a valuable reference. -- The American Gardener, September/October 2001

There can be no more welcoming introduction to the great genus Magnolia than this beautiful and gracefully written volume. -- Pacific Horticulture, Fall 2000

This admirable volume contributes in a positive and original way to the rich tradition of magnolia literature. -- Mark Flanagan, The Garden, November 2000

From the Publisher
Jim Gardiner is president of the Magnolia Society and curator of the renowned Royal Horticultural Societys Garden at Wisley, Great Britain, so is well suited to write such a handbook. A skilled photographer, Gardiner has assembled a collection of more than 150 breathtaking color photographs from his own and others collections. Gracious line drawings and maps also complement his text. For all its beauty, however, the chief strength of Magnolias: A Gardeners Guide is its detailed examination of the charms and challenges of growing the variety of magnolias available to contemporary gardeners. Full treatment is given to all significant species and hybrids, and particular attention is paid to cultural concerns such as siting and selecting, propagation methods, and coping with pests and diseases. Where to see and buy magnolias, who to contact, and a guide to selecting the best magnolias complete the book. No keen gardener will want to be without this vital information on such an esteemed family of garden shrubs and trees.

From the Author
Jim Gardiner is currently president of the Magnolia Society and curator of the Royal Horticultural Society's Garden at Wisley.

Customer Reviews

Outstanding Magnolia References
This is a fabulous reference for owners of magnolia trees and all persons considering planting a magnolia at any time in the future. This book will give you detailed information on habit, growth rate and hardiness that is a level of specificity well above most nurseries. My only wish was for more pictures, there seem to be multiple pictures of a few select species but none for the majority of those listed in the book. However, the title includes "A gardener's guide" rather than "Encyclopedia" so I did not feel misled.

Everything you need to know
The book is a very thorough examination of the genus magnolia, both species and hybrids, with chapters on history, cultivation, propagation, pests and an excellent section on which species and hybrids to choose for your garden.

While not for the casual gardener, I found much to recommend to any serious gardener considering an ornamental tree.

This is no doubt the authoriative text on the subject and a very interesting read.

A "must" for the serious horitculturalist and home gardner.
Gardeners interested in an in-depth coverage of magnolia hybrids, species, and their care will find this offers all the detail they require, charting the magnolia's culture, characteristics, and history. Magnolias isn't for the casual gardener, but for those devoted to the magnolia in particular and horticulture in general: a recommended pick for any serious horticultural library.