Creating a forest garden Working with nature to grow edible crops

The essence of the concept of the forest garden is that, through planting and managing a lightly shaded landscape, one can grow a variety of plants that can also be used as food. This work is a unique how-to guide for creating such a garden. Crawford (Agroforestry Research Trust, UK) does not discuss tomatoes and other sun-loving annual vegetables, but rather the fruits, nuts, leaves, and flowers of primarily perennial plants. Introductory chapters outline the concepts and lay the groundwork for planning and design. Chapters are organized around the basic structural elements and the plants best used within a particular structural category. For example, a chapter on species that can be planted in the canopy is followed by a chapter on canopy design. These design chapters consider layering, density, and sun exposure. Similar chapter pairs cover the shrub layer and ground cover. Crawford suggests plant species and provides lists of cultivars, if available. One finds pertinent information on plant size, flowering time, growing conditions, culinary uses (both primary and secondary), propagation methods, and general comments on maintenance. Appendixes augment the text. The focus is on the UK, but the concepts outlined are broadly applicable to other geographic areas. Summing Up: Recommended. Two-year technical program students, graduate students, professionals/practitioners, and gardeners. D. H. Pfister Harvard University