There's not much reason behind the names if you aren't schooled in Latin....and sometimes even if you are.
I say just start with the plants in your garden.....then branch out.
Linda C

Julia 123 - Try this link for one book that may help you. You don't have to be an expert in Latin to understand how useful a basic knowledge of the common terms is to any gardener. Also, on-line at the Fine Gardening magazine's website is a pronunciation guide with excellent definitions, both Latin and English plant names.

Here is a link that might be useful: Latin for gardeners

Wonderful! I will get it from the library to start. :) And I will also start with learning what I have in my own garden!

Hi Julia,

Here's a link to a site that may help you. It doesn't tell you what the combining forms mean, but it does give you pronunciations. Click on any word to actually hear it. But---A LOT of people have different pronunciations, so as long as people can figure out what you're looking for, don't worry about it too much. As the intro at this site says, "...if you can't remember the preferred pronunciation of a plant name, just say a chosen interpretation with conviction." I don't have it, but the book Meldy recomends looks really excellent.

Good Luck,
Skybird

Here is a link that might be useful: Fine Gardening Pronunciation Guide