Building soil A down-to-earth approach : natural solutions for better gardens and yards

Many gardeners treat their soil like dirt, and then they wonder why they have such trouble growing things. Fortunately, Murphy, a soil scientist and blogger, has written a practical guide that instructs gardeners on how properly to care for their soil as the living, breathing organism it is. After breaking down the various types of soil, the author covers information that both novice and expert gardeners need to understand, including the necessary nutrients soil can require and what types of ground covers (mulch, etc.) are best for developing and maintaining a healthy growing environment. This title is a wonderful, easy-to-use resource for either those planning a new plot or anyone updating an existing landscape. It will especially be appreciated by people whose ultimate goal is an environmentally friendly, sustainable garden that will require less water and maintenance. Verdict Libraries that don't already own Keith Reid's Improving Your Soil or Elizabeth Stell's Secrets to Great Soil will want to snap up this book for their green-thumb patrons.-John Charles, Scottsdale P.L., AZ © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.