The Gardener's Iris Book
   William Shear
  1998 Taunton Books & Videos Newtown CT USA
   ISBN: 1561582409


With fabulous photography by Roger Foley et al, this is an indispensable reference on irises for newcomers to these flags or old-times iris lovers. All the essential care needed for a spectacular display of these moving flowers.

Irises remind me of Impressionist paintings or swarms of butterflies sunning themselves. Their tall stiff stems & leaves glow green, especially when sunlight shines through them. Set atop, like flags, like fireworks, like butterflies or bows are the glossy, bright iris flowers.

Perhaps it is the usually blue color of this particular genus that makes them so eye catching beside a pond, so spectacular bordering a bed or jostling among other flowers. There is an erotica to their lush falls of pouring colors, their beards, horns & lacey edges all proclaiming sensuality & elegance.

The Gardener's Iris Book is a wonderful way to learn how to tend your new crop of these amazing & historic plants. This is a book I've often re-read, returning to browse again & again & not only for Roger Foley et al's fabulous photos. The information I keep gleaning comes just at the right time.

You are introduced to the Bearded, Pacific Coast, Siberian, Japanese, Louisiana Irises & many more. You'll find out about English irises & learn which irises thrive where. You'll be shown how to grow your own in clear, simple language - yes there is terminology with good step-by-step instructions.

A purely fine book & a superb gift for any gardener on your list.

William Shear is a biologist & an iris enthusiast. His writing has been published in Natural History; American Scientist; Flower and Garden & Fine Gardening
(01/30/00)

Rebecca