how is it different than the old one?

Well, in general, new plants, some new and updated advice, updated climate zone maps, new "plant finder" section, new garden photos, etc. Pretty much how it was updated last time, but with some new sections.

Patty S.

Is the bay area still just z's 15,16,and 17?

Yes, Stan. Most of our coastal California zones have not changed. The changes are mostly in the interior, as they adjust the zones based on the updated USDA zone changes. Since those of us right on the coast have so much moderation from the ocean I think, our temp changes have been less dramatic, thus, no significant zone adjustments for us.

Patty S.

The newer editions are useful (the ones with the color drawings of the plants), but what has struck me is how little some of the plant descriptions have changed over the years. I have some old editions (like the one with the sprial binding) and the wording of some plant descriptions has not changed since that time. Of course many more plants have been added along with new information and I just point this out as an interesting sidelight in general. The book is a valuable resource for gardeners. My copies usually have dirt smudges on some pages.

Thanks Patty..and DR? I have those old Sunset books too-lol..I like they list plants like Ficus bengahlensis and other rare tropicals that the newer books never mention.

I prefer the 1995 edition which has several features not seen since. The paperback editions fall apart from use and I watch for them in estate sales. I like to keep one ahead. I keep hoping to find a hard cover edition. Al

I still have mine, too, Al. That was my last edition I got for quite a bit, since I ended up moving to Indiana in 1996. I kept mine for posterity :-)

Patty S.

One edition had some diagrams on how to prune grapes, first year, 2nd year, etc. I thought it was really helpful. Then it seemed to disappear from following editions.

My Sunset Western Garden Book is dated 1979. I bought it used from Duttons Used Books when they were still in business! I think I'm going to breakdown and buy a new book!