Something Pretty Clever

I am madly, passionately in love with this book, "Growing Vegetables West of the Cascades" by Steve Solomon. It is one I've known about for a long time, but it is thick, with almost no pictures and sort of intimidated me. Finally I checked out a copy at the library and 3 days later ordered my own, it is that good.

Now I just wish I had 1,000 sq ft to garden instead of 72 sq ft. (actually I've always wished that) His techniques are perfect for a larger garden, but will translate somewhat to the tiny one I have. The best part is that his techniques actually make the 1,000 sq ft seem possible. He is all about saving time & finding the most effective ways to use your time & energy. And all his writing is backed up by science, his own years of extensive trialing and is very particularly suited to our climate here. (west of the cascades) Did I mention it is also all organic?

This could be an overwhelming book for complete beginners, but if you are really excited about growing lots of veggies for food, year round and have no idea where to start, give it a go. If its just overwhelming, try getting a few years under your belt first and then go back to it. Or just skim to his charts to give you an idea of where to begin & skip all the nitty gritty details.

I could go on and on about how this book challenges everything I thought I knew about growing vegetables, but I think you should just read it for yourself.