Herbs for the Home: A Definitive Sourcebook to Growing and Using Herbs

Rating:
Summary: comprehensive and easy to use gardening book
Review: Easily one of the best gardening books i own. This book is thoughtfully organized to be useful and intuitive to everyone - even those who have never grown a plant before in their life. The herbs are indexed in both common, family and latin names, with descriptions and numerous photos of many varieties of each herb. Propogation and growing tips (focusing on a natural, organic approach whenever possible) are included for all plants, all of which are specific and helpful. Like whether or not a specific plant grows well in containers; what type of soil and moisture an herb prefers; if the herb flowers beautifully for a week and then gets leggy, ugly and topples over; if it reseeds aggressively; or if it is plagued by one particular pest or another. There are also wonderful histories and descriptions of common uses - whether they be for culinary use, medicinal, fragrancing, or fabric dying - as well as any possible usage warnings. Also included are sections devoted to proper soil preparation - with several soil "recipes" for different plant needs, tips on pruning and starting from seed. There are also several garden plans set up by theme and space available (dying garden, kitchen garden, bath garden, etc.) If you grow - or would like to grow - herbs, this book is indespensible for seasoned gardeners or novices.