Micro Food Gardening: Project Plans and Plants for Growing Fruits and Veggies in Tiny Spaces

McGuinness, founder of the blog FrauZinnie, applies as much practicality as imagination to gardening in her clever, energetic debut. In 30 projects, McGuinness focuses on growing edible plants in small spaces, insisting that “a lack of land does not mean you cannot grow any food.” She advises readers on growing spaces: outdoors, look for a spot on a porch or balcony that’s protected from the rain but open to sun (and if natural light isn’t available, try a grow light); for indoors, find places for plants that aren’t accessible to pets. She also offers tips for buying seeds (they must be microvarieties) and choosing containers (whether plastic, terra cotta, or recycled coffee cans and glass jars). Her projects make use of a bicycle basket for lettuce, window boxes for fingerling potatoes, and coffee mugs for baby bok choy. Each includes well-illustrated instructions, as well as plant-specific tips for light and water requirements. McGuinness’s plan for microgardening is approachable, and her guidance cheerful: “Whether you live in an apartment... or a small home, there is a plant to fit your space.” New and experienced gardeners alike will find their imaginations spurred. (Mar.)