Kew Gardener’s Guide to Growing Cacti and Succulents

Rees, the tropical nursery supervisor for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, has penned a beautiful, informative guide to growing cacti and succulents. Volume 10 of the “Kew Experts” series (after The Kew Gardener’s Guide to Growing Trees) begins with an engaging introduction to cacti and succulent features, habitats, and adaptations. The book informs readers of how to purchase and grow them. There are also plant profiles that provide the scientific and common names, plant family, height and spread, possible pests to watch for, native habitats, best pot types and soil mixtures, light and watering requirements, propagation techniques, and additional growing tips. Also featured are lists of notable related species or cultivars. Twelve projects—creating a succulent wreath or green wall, for example—are interspersed throughout, and there are step-by-step instructions and photos for each. The book concludes with information about pests and diseases. This lovely title is illustrated with a mixture of delicately colored drawings and beautiful color photos.