Rodale's basic organic gardening : a beginner's guide to starting a healthy garden

<p>When the inspiration hits to start an organic garden, many novices could benefit from a guidebook that speaks directly to their enthusiasm, their goals, and, of course, their need for solid information that speaks a newbie's language―from the most trusted source for organic gardening methods.</p><p>In <i>Rodale's Basic Organic Gardening</i> by Deborah L. Martin<i>,</i> general garden-building skills (from "Do I need to dig?" to "Where do I dig?") and specific techniques (from "How do I plant a seed?" to "How much should I water?") are presented in growing-season order―from garden planning and planting to growing and harvesting. Many other need-to-know topics like soil, compost, seeds, pest control, and weeds are explained in simple language to ensure success, even on a small scale, on the first try. More than 100 common garden terms are defined, and Smart Starts sidebars offer doable projects to build confidence and enthusiasm for expanding a garden when a gardener is ready. A flower, vegetable, and herb finder highlights easycare plants with good track records. Plus, there are no-dig garden methods, simple garden layouts, and tips and hints inspired by the most popular page views on OrganicGardening.com.</p><p>With a "no question is unwelcome" approach, a troubleshooting section lessens frustrations and encourages experimentation. <i>Rodale's Basic Organic Gardening </i>is everything a beginning gardener (or one who's new to gardening organically) needs to get growing and keep a garden going strong all season.</p>