As more people become concerned with food safety as well as the environment, growing vegetables at home is becoming more advantageous. Not everyone has the time, money, or energy to take on the challenge of starting a vegetable garden, however, in Circle Gardening, Dr Ken Spaeth provides impetus, a fresh approach and thorough guide to growing vegetables for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. Circle gardening, an ancient method “as old as agriculture,” is not only efficient, but an aesthetically pleasing way to grow vegetables. By planting and arranging them in a concentrated circle rather than in rows, gardeners are able to conserve more garden resources such as fertilizers, compost, and water. Planting in circles can also save time and be less physically demanding. Once the circle plots are established, there is no need for tilling up the entire garden. The rationale for planting your veggies in a circle is also scientific—in nature, many plant species are found growing in clumps due to reproductive strategies. Planting in circles actually mimics natural plant distribution.

There are many questions that may challenge beginner as well as advanced gardeners. What is the difference between nitrogen and other nutrients in organic and chemical fertilizers, and how do plants utilize them? What is the difference between organic and conventional gardening methods? What are the significant pros and cons to each? How is soil flora and fauna related to soil health, and how is organic matter cycled in the soil?

Dr. Spaeth provides clear answers to these complex questions. The book also includes personal and scientific notes; quick vegetable guides; garden site indicator and soil health score cards; information about organic matter, nitrogen ratios, and composting; climate tools to assist in understanding local climate, and how to calculate fertilizer rates for circle plots or any size garden. Many photographs in the book were taken in Dr. Spaeth’s garden.

Dr. KENNETH E. SPAETH JR., a plant-soil scientist with the USDA, is a well-published expert on water and soil conservation as well as an adjunct and honorary professor. He and his wife also operate a small dairy goat farm and have won ribbons for their cheeses at American Dairy Goat Association competitions.

W. L. Moody Jr. Natural History Series

$36.00 flexbound. 384 pp. 85 color photos. 4 line art. 7 maps. 38 figures. 42 tables. 4 appendixes. Bib. Index. Also available in ebook edition.