All gardeners know the disappointment of discovering that their bedding plants have been nibbled, their prized fruits and vegetables riddled with rust. "The Garden Pests & Diseases Specialist" is the essential guide to identifying the likely culprits and banishing them from the garden. The book starts with the basics, introducing common pests and diseases that afflict ornamentals, vegetables, fruits and houseplants, and looking at the best ways of dealing with them. Biological controls, which are garnering growing interest in the gardening world, are covered, in addition to the better-known organic and chemical methods. At-a-glance, checklists explain which ailments commonly afflict various plant types, from roses and rock-garden plants to soft fruits and vegetables. Armed with this practical, easy-to-use guide, experienced and novice gardeners alike will never need to make excuses for patchy borders or unshapely produce again.

The Propagation Specialist

by David Squire

Published 1 February 2007
Buying individual plants can be expensive, so many people attempt to raise their own, both to save money and for the incredible satisfaction the whole process brings. "The Propagation Specialist" covers every aspect of the art of propagation, from the philosophy behind creating plants, to the easiest ones to grow and the best materials and equipment to have to hand. In-depth explanations of the various propagation methods - including seeds and cuttings, division and layering, and budding and grafting - are included, as well as an at-a-glance A-Z listing of ideal propagation plants for the home, garden and allotment. Pitched at both novice and experienced gardeners, this book will prove to be a valuable reference resource time and again.