The Veggie Gardener's Answer Book

February 15, 2008
A lifelong gardener, Ellis ("Covering Ground") has exhibited her garden writing and editing talents in many books. Her latest effort packs organic gardening advice into a pocket-size format for Storey's "Answer Book" series. Like Yvonne Cuthbertson's lavishly illustrated "Success with Organic Vegetables", Part 1 of this book applies organic methods to planning and planting a vegetable garden, improving soil, and controlling pests and diseases. Part 2 is a crop-by-crop guide to starting, growing, and harvesting the most popular vegetables (with some, like brassicas, e.g., cabbages and broccoli, grouped together). While not quite as extensive in breadth or depth as Cuthbertson's directory, it is a quick reference for both novice and experienced gardeners. Entries begin with a bulleted list of tips for success and are followed by questions and answers about general care and harvesting. Within entries, the "Problem Patrol" alerts readers to typical quandaries and gives uncomplicated answers on prevention and treatment. Recommended for public libraries where the Q&A format is popular or where this series is in demand.Bonnie L. Poquette, Milwaukee

Copyright 2008 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2008
In this latest addition to Storeys popularAnswer Book series, veteran horticulturist and gardener Ellis usesthestraightforward Q&A format to furnish pithyresponses to the most basic, as well as the most esoteric, gardening questions. From the simple sowing of seeds to the complexities of crop rotation to the benefits of organic pest control, Ellis demystifies essential cultural techniques and practices, and profiles more than 20 popular garden crops. Helpful sidebars offer tips on such critical topics asweeding and harvesting, while appendixes cover crop-planting guidelines and a state-by-state breakdown of growing seasons. As global warming and natural disasters continue to impact the availability and affordability of commercially produced vegetables, the merits of growing ones own food become increasingly important. Knowing what to do, and when and how to do it, is made abundantly clear in Ellis handy, quick-reference guide.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)