The Essential Guide to Bulbs - a book review
by Jenny Rose Carey
Timber Press, 2005
This is a good reference to have on hand when you have questions about growing bulbs. Jenny Rose Carey is the former director at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's Meadowbrook Farm in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. She has gardened in England and (currently) on the East Coast. Her book is based on her experiences and observations.
A brief introduction discusses the history of bulbs, particularly the various "bulb mania" periods. The different types of bulbs are explained (corms, tubers, rhizomes). The major bulk of the book profiles individual bulbs, arranged by "fall planted" and "spring planted" bulbs. For each bulb, information on planting and maintenance, design ideas and species and cultivars is covered.
Other topics covered include:
- How to use bulbs in the garden
- Color schemes
- Planting in containers
- Using bulbs inside the house during winter
- How to shop for bulbs
- Staking
- Deadheading
- Fertilizing
- Troubleshooting
This is a great guide for learning how to plant and care for specific bulbs, as well as introducing you to other bulbs that you would like to try.
This book was published on October 14, 2025 and now available at Amazon and other booksellers.
Comments