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4 out of 4 stars
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The Grow System by Marjory Wildcraft is an informative growing guide. Everything sounded great when the author led a project to source locally-grown groceries for a small elementary school in a nearby rural area. Then it was discovered that all of the county farms put together could not supply enough goods to provide even part of what was needed. Hence, the idea of growing one's own food became a passion for this author. To find out more about how this can be done, you must read this book!
More than just a simple gardening guide, this book is about a way of life. It can change a person's way of thinking or viewing the world in which we live today. It applies to all climates and walks of life. It covers gardening in the field, backyard, or containers in an urban setting. There is valuable knowledge shared herein for anyone who wishes to learn about the amazing skill of growing things. It also covers foraging in the wild and raising animals such as chickens and rabbits for food. The benefits of homegrown meat and eggs sound fantastic.
This book is divided into three parts. Each section deals with different aspects of how to begin doing things independently, from growing your groceries, making herbal medicines, saving seeds, and continuing the process into the future. A summary at the end of each chapter makes it easy to remember the key points.
The narrative is written in a friendly style that lends to the book's appeal. It often felt like reading advice from a friend who cared. I loved the occasional humor that appeared in the book's language. The thought that there should be therapists that specialize in helping us get over gardening trauma when plants die made me smile. Sadly, I can relate to that.
What I loved best about this book is the author's unique connection to the history and legacy of gardening. She teaches the concept of gardening in a way that transcends the occupation of growing. The value of heirloom seed and its importance to our planet is explained. The beauty of spending time in a garden each day to benefit one's outlook and health, both physically and mentally, is recommended. But most of all, the new gardener is welcomed to a community of growers who love the earth and encourage others to learn.
Having been raised on a remote Alaskan homestead, I am a gardener, hunter, and forager. I still live a practical homestead life, and I always watch for new ways to improve food crops. I can say from experience that this author is both well studied and thorough in her writing and instruction. Her explanations are simple and include all the details necessary for anyone needing this invaluable information.
This book will be a good reference source throughout any gardening season. I recommend this growing guide to anyone who has never gardened and wants to learn how it is done. It is an excellent place to start.
In short, I found nothing negative to mention about this book. It is an immense source of knowledge and information about growing in a time when it is absolutely essential that everyone learn this skill to help with food supply. I can't think of anyone that it would not appeal to somehow, but it will appeal most to those wishing to study the art of a green thumb. It is exceptionally well edited and free of errors. It has more than earned the rating of a shining 4 out of 4 stars!
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The Grow System
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