RHS Encyclopedia of Plants & Flowers – Review

The eagerly awaited sixth edition of the RHS Encyclopedia of Plants & Flowers has now been published and with over 3 million copies sold since its first publication 20 years ago, it has definitely earned its reputation as a bible for gardeners and plant lovers.

Now updated with more than 1,400 new plants including all the newest and most popular cultivars, it is set to inspire a new generation in their garden creation and provide an up-to-date indispensable reference guide for all those who work in the industry or garden for pleasure.

Writing in the Preface, Dr Tim Upson, Director of Horticulture, Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) comments that what makes this encyclopedia so special is the breadth of its appeal to both beginners and experienced gardeners. He points out that garden plants continue to increase in diversity and that these advances are especially important today as the increasing impact of climate change presents both challenges and opportunities: “This new edition is updated with some of these recent introductions, and reflects our most recent knowledge about our changing world,” he says.

With the benefit and expertise of the RHS, the book features a photographic catalogue showcasing more than 4,000 plants and flowers, all organised by colour, size and type making selection easy and enjoyable.

The layout is clear and easy to follow, the photography excellent and the at-a-glance plant choice perfect for inspiration. At the back of the book is an extensive plant dictionary where you can look up more than 8,000 plant varieties and the best growing conditions for them.

There is a section on inspirational styles, assessing your site and soil and designing with plants. Colour and basic techniques are also included as well as the detailed Plant Selector.

This lavish publication is written by a team of over 15 top horticultural specialists under the guidance of the RHS and internationally renowned plantsman Christopher Brickell.

This is one reference book the gardening bookshelf should not be without and the new updated edition is just the most perfect present for any gardener. Published in hardback by www.dk.com – the RHS Encyclopedia of Plants & Flowers is priced at £40.00.

A copy of this publication was kindly supplied for review by the publishers.