Gardening in Ireland is completely different from gardening in England.
Our climate is considerably milder, so spring is earlier, winter is later and a greater variety of plants grow here without cold-weather protection. Yet most gardening books come from across the Irish sea, and are not tailored for our balmy, soft climate.
Limerick gardeners Phyl and Dick Boyce have addressed this in a new paperback, Irish Gardening for all Seasons (Mercier, €14.99). It covers a multitude of plants including herbaceous perennials, trees and shrubs, bulbs, climbers, architectural and exotic specimens, and a small selection of vegetables. Design, pests and diseases, and plant propagation are also covered.
Phyl and Dick Boyce's garden at Mountrenchard, Foynes, Co Limerick, is open every day from May 1st to October 31st, 10am to 6pm. Admission: €5 (069-65302; www.boycesgardens.com)