Product Description

Drought resistant, hardy and available in a range of rich colors and textures, succulents are a staple of gardens everywhere. Here is a complete guide to growing cacti, aloes, jade plants and many exotics. The information is perfect for beginners, yet comprehensive enough for experts, and supplemented by dozens of full-color photographs and illustrations. Topics include choosing the right succulent for your soil and climate, planting, propagation, disease, pest control, and more.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1786476 in Books
• Published on: 2006-07-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 160 pages

Review
Specifically evolved to be drought-resistant, succulents are a lazy gardener's dream. Tolerant of long periods without water, they are more than happy to sit unattended in a sheltered spot during summer, many offering flowers in addition to attractive foliage. From spiny barrel cactus and statuesque cleistocactus to the spiky yuccas and agaves, downy kalanchoes and rough aloes, their form is wide and diverse. Whether planted in borders, sunk in pots or placed in an attractive trough on the patio, their uses in the garden are endless, requiring only a little care during the UK's cold and wet winter months to live for yet another season. And even if plants do succumb to our bad weather, they are one of the easiest groups of plants to propagate. Cactus expert and nursery owner Terry Hewitt offers a wonderful introduction to the uninitiated and an informative, knowledgeable read to those already hooked by this captivating bunch. Part of the RHS Wisley handbook series, this is a comprehensive and concise look at garden succulents, fully illustrated and clearly written. Aimed at both the amateur and professional grower, this is an invaluable addition to any serious horticulturalist's bookshelf. - Lucy Watson

About the Author
Terry Hewitt has been growing cacti and succulents for more than 40 years. He owns and runs the Holly Gate Cactus Nursery and Holly Gate Cactus Garden in Ashington, West Sussex.

Customer Reviews

Great for Beginners
This book is definitely great for beginners, very good at giving all the essential detail, without overwhelming the reader. Keep in mind the book is directed at those in the UK, and refers to growing conditions there.

I've been growing succulents for almost a decade and run a succulent business ([...]). I was personally looking for more information and was disappointed with the knowledge level and UK references, as I am in Southern California.

If you are a beginner, I would recommend it as an introduction, with some great pictures.