This is a reference book for gardeners, with over 1800 plants described and illustrated. It covers the various groups of plants, including annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, bulbs, climbers, lawns, vegetables, and herbs. The arrangement is alphabetical, with information on the origin of each plant, its appearance, how to grow it, propagate it, and any other special requirements. The descriptions are complemented by informative colour photographs. The introductory section of the book shows how to choose and use the plants described to create a variety of gardens to meet different needs, whether it is seasonal colour, a more formal landscape, a lawn and ground cover, or a vegetable and herb garden that is required. Seasonal calendars provide hints on planting times, flowering seasons and other essential gardening information.