The Vegetable Gardener’s Container Bible- E.C.Smith
4 stars

“I do like a good garden book” Amelia Maugery -The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie society

Me, too. I like a good gardening book. Until recently, I didn’t progress much beyond reading books and seed catalogs. But, now that I have some time…. I was looking for some practical advice. Realistically, I’m unlikely to do any gardening that involves heavy labor. I live in a standard suburban tract that is encroaching on Southern California chaparral habitat. (Mea culpa.) Also, I don’t need to feed a family, but I like fresh vegetables. Add a pair of marauding dogs and a severe drought to the picture. Container gardening is perfect for my needs.

This book is full of excellent advice, step by step instructions with clear diagrams and beautiful photographs. Divided into three sections; part one introduces the rationale for container gardening along with advice on self-watering containers, soil requirements and other tools and accessories. Part two walks through the steps of gardening from seed to harvest along with trouble shooting advice. The third section is the most fun to read and look at. It is basically an alphabetized reference of vegetables, herbs and edible flowers that will thrive if planted in containers.

I tried the free sample of this book on my paperwhite, but black and white pictures did not inspire me enough. I’m enjoying the paper copy with its gorgeous pictures. It’s fun to thumb through when I’m not out playing in the dirt.
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The Vegetable Gardener's Container Bible: How to Grow a Bounty of Food in Pots, Tubs, and Other Containers (2011)

by Edward C. Smith

softcover reference

"plentiful organic vegetables from small spaces."

We can be assured the Ed and Sylvia Smith have planted, tested, tasted and finally submitted some exciting ideas either to begin or expand your existing gardening.
There are excellent photos, suggested readings, list of suppliers and discussion of hardiness zones.

5★ reference. ( )

Lots of great ideas and instructions for growing vegetables in containers. Easy to follow, lots of pictures, well written. ( )