To learn all you need to know about gardening in Texas, you could collect a whole shelf full of specialized books on topics ranging from soil preparation to tree care. But all you really need is Howard Garrett's Plants for Texas. In this one book, you'll find a virtual encyclopedia of over 500 Texas plants—trees, shrubs, flowers, vines, grasses, vegetables, fruits, weeds, and cover crops—along with complete, easily understood instructions for planting and maintaining them.

Gardening expert Howard Garrett draws on years of landscaping experience to provide "all-you-need-to-know" about each plant:

• Latin and common names
• sun or shade requirements
• mature height, spread, and recommended spacing
• type of bloom and fruit
• propagation
• habit and culture
• recommended uses
• problems
• tips and notes

To help gardeners avoid costly mistakes, Garrett also specifically notes which plants grow very well or very poorly in Texas.

In addition to the species descriptions (which are beautifully illustrated with color photos), the book includes reliable, easy-to-follow instructions for planting design, soil preparation, planting techniques, and plant maintenance. Garrett advocates a sensible organic gardening program that works with nature to create healthy yards and gardens.

Whether you're a first-time homeowner planting a new yard or a seasoned gardener looking for new ideas and information, Howard Garrett's Plants for Texas is the book you need.