McClure not only compiles lists from several regional experts, she includes down-to-earth quotes from them that lends a lot of authenticity to their recommendations.

She's upfront about what grows well in our alkaline clay soil and what plants can honestly handle the extremes of heat, humidity, drought, rain, cold and wind charactistic of this area.

Another excellent reference for those of us in zones 5 & 6 is Ezra Haggard's Perennials for the Lower Midwest. It's more conversational than a list book, but the accessible text is packed with advice and never rambles. The format gives each plant a page of text with a full-color photo on the facing page.


Excellent reference for the experienced gardener   February 16, 1999
 4 out of 5 found this review helpful

Saves oodles of time for the gardener who knows "I know there's a plant that works there, but I can't remember its name." Great for taking to the plant store, and for designing the new (or refurbishing the existing) garden. And you know the plants will reliably grow in your zone, which is nice for the novice.