Review by Choice Review
It may sound strange, but after reading this book, this reviewer felt that it seemed overdue. Written by a host of well-respected horticulturists, it addresses important and current topics of not only American horticulture but topics related to the environment and agriculture in general; untangling them is impossible, after all. The authors are an interesting blend of academics, prominent landscape horticulturists, nursery workers, and designers. They lead readers through a diverse discussion of how sustainability can enter and improve gardens. For example, the water chapter addresses not only the obvious shortages, but also the pollution of groundwater by homeowners and the overwhelming of stormwater systems. Editor/chapter author Christopher (gardening and environmental issues reporter) suggests methods by which homeowners can ameliorate these problems. Contributors appropriately explore the highly relevant discussion of native and exotic species and their place in garden landscapes as well. Yet another chapter addresses the soil and its microorganisms in scientific ecological terms. A discussion of physical soil problems is followed by practical solutions that should be useful for homeowners and instructive for university students. The color photographs imbue the book with striking examples of solutions from around the country and are a nice touch. Summing Up: Recommended. Students of all levels and general readers/gardeners. M. J. Stone Western Kentucky University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Bringing together some of the top writers in sustainable gardening and landscaping, this is a comprehensive introduction to current thought in this field. Much of the book covers the theoretical underpinnings of sustainable gardening, such as system design and site planning, but there are also practical instructions for specific techniques. Particularly interesting are closer examinations of issues such as native plants versus exotics (the latter may in some cases be a more sustainable approach) and introductions to lesser-known edibles appropriate to the climates of much of North America. Also covered are understanding potential effects of climate change on gardening; meadows in yards; green roofs; and an extremely in-depth yet easy-to-understand introduction to the science of soil health. Readers will come away with some challenges to their preconceived notions about sustainable gardening and a new set of tools for practicing sustainability. Verdict A good choice for gardeners with a wide range of experience-new growers and veterans alike will be able to learn something-and suitable for gardeners anywhere in North America.-Margaret Heller, Dominican Univ. Lib., River Forest, IL (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
