The Complete Guide to Saving Seeds

November 15, 2011

Gough and Moore-Gough (coauthors, The Montana Gardener's Companion) are a married couple with 30 years of experience in gardening and saving seeds. The first part of their indispensable guide covers the biology, germination, sowing, harvesting, cleaning, and storage of seeds and includes information on breeding plants from seed and growing them for seeds. The second part is a handbook with instructions for saving the seeds of 322 vegetables, herbs, flowers, fruits, trees, and shrubs. Brimming with useful information and practical tips, the guide translates plant science into clear language, with instructions that all gardeners can follow. Nicely laid out and illustrated with dozens of photographs, drawings, and charts that enhance the text, this is not only a solid reference source but a persuasive argument for saving seeds--it saves money, ensures cultivation of plants ideally suited to the conditions of your own garden, and helps preserve the genetic diversity of nature. A glossary, lists of resources and references, and an index round out the volume. VERDICT This comprehensive guide for novice and experienced gardeners alike is highly recommended to all interested readers.--Donna L. Davey, New York Univ. Lib.

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