Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns

Gardeners who seek an up-to-date, authoritative guide to the wealth of garden-worthy ferns available today will find none better than Sue Olsen. Drawing from four decades of experience as a fern specialist, Olsen leads the reader through every genus with horticultural merit, focusing primarily on the temperate species but also including tropical ones. The remarkably comprehensive plant directory presents succinct descriptions for nearly 1000 ferns from Acrostichum to Woodwardia, with habitat information, cultural recommendations, and help on plant identification. Chapters on the history, cultivation, propagation, and structure of ferns; a series of appendices highlighting plants most likely to thrive in various locations throughout the world and in special conditions; and lists (with contact information) of fern societies, places to see ferns, and specialty nurseries provide readers with everything they need to know to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of ferns. This expansive, well-organized reference is enriched with anecdotal insight and lavishly illustrated with 700 photographs.

Media reviews of this book:

"Olsen offers the perfect guide to garden-worthy ferns."

—Frank Ronan, BBC Gardens, December 2008

"Sue Olsen lays 40 years of experience with spores and fronds at our muckbooted feet with her Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns. The remarkably comprehensive plant directory presents succinct descriptions ... along with text on history, cultivation, propagation, and everything readers will want to know to expand their understanding and enjoyment of ferns."

—John Bagnasco, Garden Compass, November/December 2007

"If you're a fern expert, this is an essential purchase for your home library. If you're a fern enthusiast who wants to learn more, this is the book for you, too. The information included in [this book] is both concise and comprehensive, and extremely readable."

—Karen Preuss, Northwest Garden News, September/October 2007

"[Olsen] could have entitled her ... book Ferns for all Reasons and Seasons because you'll be convinced you need many more of these ultimate foliage beauties after reading Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns."

—Valerie Easton, Seattle Times, May 21, 2007

"If you think one fern looks pretty much like another, this tome comprehensively demonstrates just how varied, versatile, and valuable ferns can be to any garden scheme."

—Lynette Walther, Camden Herald, November 8, 2007

Customer reviews of this book:

"The best book on ferns for gardeners I have ever read. I own two copies and use them constantly. Excellent!"

—Joyce D. from Ocala, Florida, December 26, 2007

"Beautiful photos, comprehensive information, and a broad spectrum of ferns — well done!"

—Lynda C. from Albany, Oregon, November 12, 2007

"Nice photos, and lots of good advice and explanation. I'm very happy with this book."

—Anonymous from Middelburg, Netherlands, November 11, 2007

"Superb illustrations and presentation! This book is technically excellent."

—Wendy S. from Carlyon Bay, Canada, October 24, 2007

"A beautiful, very useful technical book!"

—Anita R. from University Place, Washington, October 19, 2007

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