100 Easy-to-Grow Native Plants for Canadian Gardens

Beryl Hamilton is a freelance writer in Thunder Bay who specializes in
home gardening.

As Lorraine Johnson explains, “A native plant is a plant that grew in
a region prior to European settlement.” This translates into a high
level of hardiness, an attractive feature for gardeners seeking to avoid
the long hours of maintenance and dependence on chemicals associated
with exotic species. The author’s “top 100” plants, selected for
their availability at most garden stores, show off the diversity and
versatility of native species. All the information needed to grow and
enjoy a native plant, from its blooming period to its exposure and
moisture preferences, is provided alongside glossy illustrations.

Johnson’s book responds to the rising interest in native plants among
novice and experienced gardeners alike. The clear layout of the material
makes it easy to track down the information one needs without getting
bogged down in irrelevant details. Plants are listed alphabetically by
common name, but anyone who knows the botanical name can track down a
plant through the index. Illustrations are large and vivid, and are
always placed immediately next to the relevant text. Particularly
helpful are the quick-reference charts at the end of the book, which
group plants according to preferred habitat and can assist one in making
decisions about what plants might go well together.

On the downside, the list of North American native plant nurseries is
rather short. In addition, there are no references to Web sites that
might provide more information on obscure topics or help one locate
others involved in this mode of gardening; interest in native-plant
growing is part of a larger ecological movement, and knowing how to
connect with this movement would be helpful.

But these are minor flaws. As a quick reference or simply a fun browse,
this book would be a wonderful addition to a gardener’s library.