The history of container gardening spans many centuries, but has acquired a new lease of life as an exciting design feature in today's gardens. This handbook offers practical advice, including such topics as the choice of containers and the pros and cons of different materials, as well as a step-by-step guide to the preparation and cultivation of plants in pots and their routine maintenance. The detailed alphabetical directory, with most plants illustrated in colour, enables them to be readily identified when choosing and purchasing. Each directory entry contains a description, comments on different varieties, suggestions for their successful cultivation and data on size, suitable soil conditions and ideal sites. Helpful checklists group plants according to varying requirements and locations, and there is a list of suppliers.