There is more to the care of outdoor plants than simply

fertilizing, hydrating and tending to them. Researching within a

plant encyclopedia allows you to gather the data you need, and

ensure you have the know-how you need to keep a broad range

of plants alive, ranging from medicinal herbs, common flowers

and rare plants.

An excellent plant encyclopedia categorizes information on each

type of plant it documents. A common lacking is the aspect of

how the plants are named. Depending on region, may be

addressed differently. A good encyclopedia will provide the most

common names for each plant, so you can use that book to

purchase your plants as seeds from the internet, and ensure that

you are buying the correct type of plant.

In addition, the plant encyclopedia should have tending

information for every plant, as well as whether or not it is

suitable for outdoor growth. A good plant encyclopedia includes

legends showing the grow zones of plants, the temperature

ranges they survive in, and how the plants react to changes in

the temperature. Watering information, required exposure to sun,

tolerance, scale of hardiness, as well as difficulty of keeping

should also be included. This is all knowledge that is needed to

protect the long life of your plants.

Referencing a plant encyclopedia will not be enough to

guarantee the survival of your plant. Knowing how to use the

information once you have it is required. Many people use these

plant encyclopedias after they have acquired the plant. However,

their proper usage is in referencing before you buy. A few

species of plants, like uncommon varieties orchids, that are only

suitable for those who are willing to tolerate and tend to fickle

plants prone to wilting.

More information that is useful in a plant encyclopedia is the

history and breeding aspects of the plants. As there are many

hobbyists interested in the breeding of plants, as well as the

possible discovery of new varieties, having this information at

your fingertips is particularly valuable. If you are interested in

cross-breeding, the resources that cover this data should provide

information on what types of plants can be bred against your

plant, and the process of breeding.

In the case of herbs, a plant encyclopedia should include how

they are used, information on the proper use of the herbs, and

any risks that may be linked with improper usage of the herb. If

there are plants that are poisonous listed in the plant

encyclopedia, data on the toxicity of the plant should be

referenced.

The Garden Plant Encyclopedia The Garden Plants Encyclopedia is filled with practical, up-to-date information that will help garden enthusiasts choose the plants best suited to their individual gardening needs. Each entry is accompanied by a color photograph and details on growing requirements and hardiness, with both US and Canadian figures. The Garden Plants Encyclopedia is a must-have reference. Hardbound, it will be useful for years.