The Greenhouse Gardener’s Manual

The benefit of greenhouse gardening becomes self-evident in even a casual perusal of Marshall’s new book. His seasonal guides, lighting expertise, heating and cooling advice, and watering tips all set up new levels of possibility for the average gardener who is game to explore new techniques for plant cultivation and extend the growing season. He covers a wide range of topics, from choosing a spot to placing the structure; framing and building it; seeding and propagating plants; growing herbs, veggies, flowers, fruit trees, orchids, bromeliads, and cacti. One of the most fascinating chapters, “Growing Without Soil,” looks at hydroponics: growing plants without soil, the way the Aztecs grew food on rafts floating on dredged canals. “The Aztecs would hardly recognize the extent to which their systems have evolved,” Marshall writes. “Hydroponics has become a commercial greenhouse staple.” This invaluable tool will serve as an inspiring blueprint for gardeners ready to embark on the adventure of gardening for even more months in the year. (July)