Just in time for reveling in the abundance of summer, Collins & Brown offer two large-format guides. In The Ultimate Herb Book: The Definitive Guide to Growing and Using Over 200 Herbs, Antony Atha introduces a broad range of useful plants. Alongside dozens of photographs, Atha traces the history of herbs, describes the various types and then covers 200 individually, supplying vital statistics and medicinal and culinary uses as well as discussing ease of cultivation. Recipes are included where appropriate, and warnings of potential dangers are prominent. A glorious stand-alone companion volume, The Ultimate Flower Arranging Book, by Judy Spours, illustrates this venerable art. She covers methods of flower selection and preparation, the color spectrum, choosing containers and techniques for drying and preserving flowers and making wreaths and topiary. More than 800 lovely large photos showcase individual blooms and beautiful arrangements. (July)
