One of my favorite books in my library is a copy of the Sunset - Western Garden Book from 1967. It is identical to my father’s copy which I was “reading” before I had learned to read. Although I also have more contemporary editions, I often refer to the older copy. It is much more interesting now that I know how to read.

Although some of us would be perfectly satisfied with the older editions, Sunset Publishing Corporation periodically updates the Western Garden Book. New publications includes everything found in older editions, but also includes information concerning new gardening tools, materials and techniques as well as varieties of plants which have been introduced within the last six years since the previous edition was compiled.

Those who are not familiar with the Western Garden Book should be. It has been a standard in the horticultural industries since long before my time. It is perhaps the most comprehensive encyclopedia of plant species used in western gardens. It also includes a guide to plant selection, a guide to gardening and a description of the west’s 32 climate zones.

The encyclopedia of the newer edition includes more than 2,000 additional entries for newly introduced varieties of plants. The plant selection guide has been modified to accommodate the many new introductions. The climate zone maps have been expanded to include recently available geographical and weather data and now include Alaska, Hawaii and western Canada. Many color illustrations and a photograph gallery have been added as well as a care instructions for major plant groups.

Those who do not yet posses a copy of the Sunset - Western Garden Book should seriously consider acquiring one. Those who have an older edition may also want to consider acquisition of this more contemporary edition.

Another publication which may be of interest is the Conservation Trees Booklet which is made available by the National Arbor Day Foundation. This booklet uses color illustrations and simple instructions to help even the less than proficient garden enthusiast plant and care for trees. Topics include: use of shade trees and windbreaks to save energy in the home, trees which attract songbirds, protection of trees during construction, selection of “the right tree for the right place”, correct planting procedures, correct pruning procedures, where to get help caring for trees, and how to acquire conservation trees for planting.

The Arbor Day Foundation’s Conservation Trees program is designed to encourage planting and management of trees to conserve energy, soil, water, wildlife, and the atmosphere. The booklet has been developed to promote this educational project.