cover image Pruning

Pruning

Christopher Brickell, Christopher D. Bickell. Simon & Schuster, $13.95 (96pp) ISBN 978-0-671-65841-0

This guide and Plant Propagation, both British imports, are published in cooperation with the Royal Horticultural Society. Methodically arranged and accessible, garden writer Brickell's text opens with information on the satisfying effects of pruning cultivated plants according to their various needs. The author describes the necessary tools, from small knives to long-handled shears and double-edged saws. There are specific instructions for trimming and shaping roses of all habits; decorative shrubs; wall plants; and fruit trees and evergreens. Each page contains strong line drawings with major points of reference emphasized in bright green. Illustrations also facilitate the identification of plants, procedures and other topics in the glossary of this exceptionally helpful guide. (March)