FOR THE GARDENER
NO DIG
Charles Dowding, Dorling Kindersley, $59.99
Dowding’s first book came out decades ago and it was about gardeners’ myths; the theories that soil scientists have since exposed as false. For his 12th book, the publishers have done him proud. The book is beautifully bound in linen with ultra-stylish woodcuts.
Dowding’s satisfaction shines forth in every photo as he builds the layers – “you don’t have to weed first”, and mulches with compost – no extra nutrients needed because they’re there in the soil, which you leave undisturbed so that fungi and bacteria can do their alchemy.
Who knew that the efforts of the virtuous with their spades could be superfluous to requirement? Healthy vegetables and sturdy flowers grow with minimal energy expended. There are detailed instructions for 80 species.
