Starting from Seed

The latest installment in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden's 21st Century Gardening series assembles an impressive group of botanists, horticulturists, seed merchants and other experts who not only explain the specifics of propagating plants from seed but also make a compelling case for the importance of seed preservation and genetic diversity. Geared for the natural gardener, the book takes an organic approach and includes essays by contributors such as Shepherd Ogden, founder of the well-known seed company The Cook's Garden, and MacArthur fellowship grantee Kent Whealy, each of whom tackles a different aspect of the topic, from the how-tos of planting to specific information on edibles and heirloom flowers. Splendidly designed and visually enlivened by full-color photos and illustrations, sidebars and an eye-pleasing sprinkling of topical quotes from such diverse sources as Persian poetry, Arthur Miller and the Bible, this handbook is packed with information, including a list of seed sources. By selecting writers passionate about their subject, the editors ensure both a literate format and a lively read (Peter Loewer's thumbnail overview in the chapter entitled ""Seed Specifics,"" for instance, will snare the interest of even the botanically impaired). This eminently useful book is a steal and should be snapped up by every gardener, serious or novice. (Dec.)