book growing vegetables in drought, desert, and dry times, 10th anniversary edition

growing vegetables in drought desert and dry times 10th anniversary edition book by maureen gilmer

in an era where water conservation is more critical than ever, \growing vegetables in drought, desert, and dry times 10th anniversary edition\ emerges as an indispensable guide for the modern gardener. this timely book offers a wealth of knowledge on how to cultivate a thriving vegetable garden while being mindful of our planet\s precious resources. it\s a comprehensive manual for anyone looking to achieve a bountiful harvest in challenging, low-water conditions.

about the author maureen gilmer

maureen gilmer is a seasoned horticulturist with over three decades of experience in landscape design. she has penned 18 books on gardening and is a respected voice in the horticultural community. gilmer\s extensive experience gardening in diverse and challenging climates, from the sierra nevada mountains to the high desert where she currently resides, infuses her writing with practical, real-world wisdom.

growing vegetables in drought desert and dry times 10th anniversary edition summary

this 10th anniversary edition is more than just a gardening book; it\s a complete guide to sustainable, low-water organic gardening in our changing climate. the book is meticulously structured to guide you through mastering vegetable gardening in four different low-water environments: high and low desert, drought, and voluntary water conservation. gilmer\s approach is a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern innovation, incorporating techniques from native traditions of the american southwest and the middle east alongside the latest in conservation technology. readers will find practical advice on everything from assessing their local soil and climate conditions to choosing the right drought-tolerant vegetable varieties. the book is enriched with over 100 full-color photos, maps, and diagrams, making it an accessible and visually engaging resource for gardeners of all levels. whether you are a seasoned gardener in an arid region or a beginner looking to create a more sustainable garden, this book offers the tools and knowledge to grow healthy, organic vegetables without wasting water.

key features of the book:

• comprehensive guidance: learn to master organic vegetable gardening in four distinct low-water conditions.

• visually rich: features over 100 full-color photos, maps, and diagrams to illustrate key concepts.

• ancient wisdom meets modern tech: combines age-old farming techniques with contemporary conservation methods.

• site-specific advice: provides detailed information on assessing your unique gardening site and modifying your climate.

• practical resources: includes a resource list, checklist, and glossary to support your gardening journey.

frequently asked questions

1. who is this book for?

   this book is ideal for home gardeners, especially those in the western united states, including california, nevada, arizona, new mexico, and texas, who are dealing with drought, desert conditions, or simply want to conserve water. however, the principles and techniques discussed are valuable for any gardener worldwide who wishes to practice sustainable, low-water gardening.

2. what kind of information can i find in this book?

   inside, you\ll discover a wealth of information, including over 100 full-color photos, maps, and diagrams. the book covers assessing your specific site and climate, water-wise gardening methods like in-ground, container, and raised-bed gardening, soil science, efficient watering techniques, and pest control. it also provides guidance on selecting drought-tolerant and desert-hardy vegetable seeds with a seasonal crop guide and recommended varieties by region.

3. does this book only cover traditional gardening techniques?

   no, this guide beautifully marries age-old farming wisdom with modern innovations. it draws from native traditions of the southwestern united states and the middle east while also incorporating the latest in water conservation technology to provide a comprehensive approach to dry-time gardening.

4. what are the four low-water conditions discussed in the book?

   the book masterfully breaks down organic vegetable gardening into four distinct low-water scenarios: high desert, low desert, drought conditions, and voluntary water conservation. this allows gardeners to tailor their approach to their specific environmental challenges.

5. is this a new book?

   this is the 10th anniversary edition of the highly regarded guide, updated to be even more relevant in the face of climate change. this edition includes a new foreword from fred hoffman of \garden basics with farmer fred\.