People tend to shy away from cuttings preferring instead to buy new plants rather than propagate their own. The misconception of being difficult and time-consuming will soon be dispelled by this clear guide to the subject. Part of the excellent RHS Practicals series, it is a clear, well-illustrated guide to this satisfying and rewarding aspect of gardening. From indoor plants and cacti to perennials, shrubs and trees, author Alan Toogood presents a factual, easy-to-understand guide to all aspects of cuttings. Equipment, techniques and aftercare are carefully explained and a directory of plants that can be grown from cuttings rounds the book off nicely. Make your own hedge from just one plant, create a heady concoction of flowers in the border by multiplying your favourites, gifts for others, plants to sell, plants to swap with other gardeners. You'll soon find a satisfying - if not addictive - new side to gardening here. - Lucy Watson
