In the introduction, Maria Rodale, granddaughter of organic gardening pioneer J.I. Rodale, says her book is a “season-by-season guide to covering all the basics, the beauty, and the fun”. And it is that, but more so it’s a lovely book to be savored and perused over time.
Accompanied by beautiful photographs, Rodale begins her book with exercises that send you out in to your space: your proposed garden. By page 53, if you’ve been paying attention, you have spent time in your space, dreamt, and planned. You’ve been educated, entertained, and inspired.
Moving forward, each chapter has a seasonal calendar with action items, but also includes interviews with experts in the field, supply lists, recipes (for food and compost), and always colorful pictures.
If you love having coffee table books around that are both beautiful and informative, Maria Rodale’s Organic Gardening will certainly fit the bill. But don’t be put off by the pretty pictures; this book is full of knowledge and perfect for serendipitous browsing.