Book excerpt: Master gardener Becky Homan explains in clear, user-friendly terms the different gardening conditions in each part of Missouri, so readers can identify which of the widely varying soils, temperature zones, and precipitation levels they are dealing with. These detailed regional descriptions make this book a standout. Gardeners and horticulturists from across the Show Me State contribute hands-on advice for each region, from when to start plants from seed to when to water in drought or where to get soil samples analyzed. This is the must-have garden bible for Missouri residents.