The Resilient Gardener: Food Production and Self-Reliance in Uncertain Times

paper, 324 pp., $29.95

Increasing interest in growing one’s own food, whether for economic or health reasons, has motivated author Carol Deppe to encourage readers to consider gardens that promote serenity despite environmental disasters and personal problems. A scientist and plant breeder, the author aims for better foods through improving the quality of crops that provide the most nutrition for the effort involved. She urges the development of a gardener’s techniques to garden efficiently. Writing as one gardener to another, she presents detailed instructions on growing, harvesting, and storing her favorite crops. Deppe also promotes raising fowl in the backyard. This comprehensive guide to gardening contains a bonanza of gardening tips, based on science.

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