Chicago Botanic Garden

Education — Lenhardt Library

Current Books & Book Reviews

PHOTO: bookcover

Editors of Storey Publishing.
The Vegetable Gardener’s Book of Building Projects.
North Adams, Mass.: Storey Publishing, 2010.
Paper, 151 pp., ISBN 978–1–603–42526–1, $18.95.

This practical guide pulled together by the editors at Storey contains ideal instructions for beginners who wish to embellish their grounds. The emphasis of the book is on structures that relate to planting, growing, harvesting, and preserving of garden produce. Among the 39 projects listed, there are also plans for garden furnishings: garden arbors, gates, picnic tables, chairs, swings, as well as birdhouses and feeders to attract wildlife. Each venture includes the materials and supplies needed, the tools required in construction, specific direction for construction, and builder’s tips. Plans come with directions on cutting the lumber and putting the pieces together.

— Marilyn K. Alaimo, garden writer and volunteer, Chicago Botanic Garden.