By Staff
July 2, 2003
Small towns and rural gardens are filled with colorful plants that don't require constant attention.
And gardening expert and nationally-known author Felder Rushing has written a handy book about them, "Tough Plants for Southern Gardens."
Rushing writes about perennials, bulbs, annuals, vines, shrubs, trees, potted plants, roses and many more plants that have been deemed "hardy" across the South without a lot of expert knowledge.
Throughout the book, readers will find fast-reference lists of plants for unique growing conditions, in addition to plants on Rushing's "Kinda Tricky" and "Best for Beginners" lists. Quick tips and shortcuts abound, so that the reader can quit reading and get gardening.
Rushing, a 10th generation Southern gardener, is one of the most sought-after lecturers in the South.
A national director of the Garden Writers Association and member of the board of directors of the American Horticulture Society, he lectures coast-to-coast, sharing his gardening knowledge at nurseries and garden centers, flower shows, and trade shows.
Rushing's garden has been featured in Garden Design magazine, Southern Living magazine, House and Garden magazine and The New York Times.
Also a photographer, his images and articles have appeared in National Geographic, Country Living Gardener, Better Homes and Gardens, and Organic Gardening magazines.
Rushing recently retired after nearly 25 years as Mississippi's consumer horticulturist with the MSU Extension Service.
Book: "Tough Plants for Southern Gardens"
How to order: Available in stores
Publisher: Cool Springs Press
The price: $24.99
If you are a Mississippi author and would like your book featured in this column, send book and background information to Penny Randall, The Meridian Star, P.O. Box 1591, Meridian, MS 39302; call: (601) 693-1551 or e-mail: prandall@themeridianstar.com.