In this book, Charles Dowding shares the wealth of his experience, explaining his approach to soil and plants and revealing the range of techniques that have enabled him to grow healthy and vibrant crops for decades. His success is based on a key principle of no dig not digging. This enhances soil structure and encourages healthy growth, especially when soil life is encouraged and multiplied through the addition of good compost and manure. Based on this approach and his use of a system of permanent, slightly raised beds, Dowding shows, in this book, how to grow a delicious variety of fruit...

It is possible, with the help of this book, to enjoy an abundance of vegetables at the darkest time of year, whether stored or ready for harvesting when needed. It also covers growing for the hungry gap from April to early June. Not much grows in winter, but a well-organized plot may nonetheless be quite full. This book helps gardeners plan carefully, and well ahead, sowing and planting at specific times through the year. The main part of the book is an extensive month-by-month sowing, planting, and growing calendar. Further sections cover harvesting from garlic in July right through to the...

Conventional wisdom is difficult to question, even when it is misguided and contains many contradictions. Gardening has its share of such myths--some with discernible origins in history, others that have become established for no obvious reason--and they often obscure simpler and easier methods of working. This delightfully illustrated book reveals how common sense triumphs and crops are more successful when these "rules" are overturned. This fascinating and practical book will save the seasoned gardener time, money, and unnecessary effort and give new gardeners heart.