QBARS - v31n1 Book Review

Book Review
by Fred C. Galle
Vice President and Director of Horticulture, Callaway Gardens
Pine Mountain, Georgia

HOW TO GROW WILDFLOWERS AND WILD SHRUBS AND TREES IN YOUR OWN GARDEN, Harold Bruce, Alfred A. Knopf, N.Y., 1976, $12.95.

The author has given us an interesting book, making us aware of our ever changing landscape, due to our rapidly developing society. While the book is more applicable to the East, it is delightful reading and makes us review the development and expansion of our communities. The author suggests we learn to recognize and appreciate our native plants and include them in our own gardens.

Harold (Hal) Bruce is a native of Delaware. He served for six years as taxonomist at Winterthur Gardens and is now Professor of English at the University of Delaware. Using his native Delmarva Peninsula, he helps us to comprehend the ever changing landscape throughout the seasons of the year and the effects of 'progress.' He initiates an awareness to spot interesting native plants in our surrounding countryside.

While I found the entire book interesting, two chapters will be of interest to the rhododendron enthusiasts: Woodland Wildflowers and Wild Azaleas. Many of our beautiful native herbaceous and woody plants are excellent additions to the rhododendron garden.