Down to Earth: Practical Thoughts for Passionate Gardeners

by Margot Rochester

Down to Earth is about gardening for exerting minimal effort for maximum results. So many gardening books make America's favorite hobby seem both mentally and physically laborious. They are full of esoteric advice on color theory, plant combinations, and nutrient requirements, as well as stern admonitions to double-dig, weed, and color coordinate. Rochester encourages readers to garden for self-gratification. No hoeing, no tilling, no turning of piles. No chemical insecticides or herbicides, either. The author's goal is to encourage and enable gardeners to simplify tasks, saving time and money, while making their gardens their own. Addressing soil preparation, plant selection, propagating, seed starting, mulching, on-the-spot composting and so much more, Down to Earth is an entertainingly wry book of gardening throughout the seasons.

Genres: Gardening

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

While filled with many good gardening tips, one especially that just may save my back, this book is more of a reflection on the act and art of gardening. Written by a freelance journal writer, it is the type of reading that you can take up or put down without losing your spot. Just open up and meander with the author awhile longer. It is very supportive in the sense that novice gardeners are encouraged to try new things without overdue rhyme or reason. Expect to fail, but also to be pleasantly surprised. No need to follow "the rules." A nice gentle read.