Full of solid, practical advice and plenty of how-to pictures, Annuals and Biennials is an ideal title for those looking to maximize their success growing this astonishing variety of plants. Focusing on appropriate uses for different varieties, and exploring all kinds of options for dealing with a number of climates and growing conditions, you'll find direction for growing healthy plants and creating your own unique haven. Designed to be a complete do-it-yourself guide, don't let the small format of this book fool you--it's absolutely jam-packed with ideas for all styles of gardens, and as always, publisher Dorling Kindersley manages to take fairly complicated projects and reduce them to a manageable size that even the gardening novice can handle. Practical considerations are dealt with firmly--no skipping such detail work like proper seed sowing or biennial over-wintering. The listings by color, size, use, and scent are very specific. New gardeners will find all kinds of useful tips. Inspirational ideas are plentiful--the garden photographs are lush and detailed, and provide all kinds of unusual notions for creating a truly unique gardening space. Whether you're looking to design a series of formal containers or a colorful home for local butterflies, you'll find options for all your projects involving these inexpensive and colorful plants. --Jill Lightner