Gardening with Less Water

September 21, 2015
“We are running short on water in many parts of the world,” Bainbridge (A Guide for Desert and Dryland Restoration) states at the onset of his latest book, which outlines a clear and convincing approach to mitigating the problems of drought and the high costs of food and water. Aimed at gardeners, small-land holders, and homeowners, Bainbridge’s solution is based off an ancient method of plant irrigation, as described in a book written 2,000 years ago by Fan Shengzhi, an employee of the emperor of China hired to increase farm output. Bainbridge explains Fan’s method of buried clay pot irrigation in the first chapter and proceeds to outline the modern adaptation in detail in the following chapters. He also describes how to shelter trees and harvest rainwater, especially for gardeners in historically drought-riddled areas. He draws examples from all over the world, from Ghana to Arizona to Jordan; he presents statistics, tables, plans, and tips throughout. Bainbridge argues most passionately for water conservation in his last chapter, thoroughly convincing readers that this method is worth a try.

December 1, 2015

If there is no water, there can be no farms or gardens. Methods of water capture, low-water-use techniques, and land restoration and reclamation fill websites and bookshelves. The author's previous work, A Guide for Desert and Dryland Restoration, addresses the issues from a theory-into-practice, project management perspective. In the first part of his new book, Bainbridge (emeritus, sustainable management, Alliant Univ., CA) details seven specific methods of water retention and distribution that are low tech and low cost. Some, such as buried clay vessels called ollas, are quite old; others, such as porous hoses, are familiar landscaping tools. A shorter, second part of the book applies the water capture and use techniques to the backyard garden or small farm. Pictures and short descriptions combine to make even somewhat arcane methods approachable. The feasibility of buried clay pipes, deep pipes, and wick irrigation is better illustrated than described. VERDICT Beyond soaker hoses, the title offers a varied range of scalable options for growers of all types committed to the exploration and use of optimal water-sparing techniques.--Jeanette McVeigh, Univ. of the Sciences, Philadelphia

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