Old-Fashioned Flowers

Old-fashioned flowers have proven to be more rugged and disease- and pest-resistant than their modern hybrid counterparts. In this lively book, six preservation specialists discuss classic bulbs, old garden roses, vintage climbers, antique annuals, historic perennials and biennials and period flower arranging. The authors explain that knowing the story behind plants and their habitat of origin enables gardeners to select plants most adaptable to specific environments. They give thanks to a persistent handful of preservationists who allow old-fashioned flowers to survive, although it is a sometimes precarious existence. The authors argue that the current trend toward plant uniformity and more spectacular colors has come at the expense of fragrance, individuality and plant variety. Each section contains plant lists, and a comprehensive nursery source completes this practical and entertaining book. The text concludes with a brief history of houseplants, which actually are miniature domesticated forms of tropical trees and shrubs that were adapted for indoor environments after window glass became more affordable, thus providing the necessary indoor light. (Mar.)