Book suggestions for a complete Newbie?

[jenniet]

We recently bought our first home in central NY state. We live in a small city but have a good-sized lot and I would love to plant a garden in the spring. However, I have no idea where to begin. I have never even owned a house plant and dh is equally clueless. I would love to grow tomatoes, peas, cucumbers, squash, lettuce, etc. Does anyone know of a book or two I could read over the winter to teach me how to garden? I'm pretty excited.

[elanorh]

My "Bible" is The Garden Primer (Damrosch) - a master encyclopedia of everything from lawn to trees, perennials to veggies. Covers pests, composting, and more - from an organic perspective.

Square Foot Gardening is another book to consider reading; I've friends who do it (I do a modified version of it) and it's really supposed to be very effective and especially manageable if you're starting from the beginning and not having to 'unlearn' other gardening methods.

Four Season Harvest is also interesting, from a sustainability perspective - Coleman is the author.

The Bountiful Container is also good, if you're thinking about maybe starting small ... good information about container gardening for veggies, herbs, and more.

I would also suggest that you see if your local extension office has Master Gardeners -- they can be helpful with gardening questions.

HTH!

[jenniet]

Thank you so much! I will look into getting those books. Thanks again.

[FarmerCathy]

My fave recommendation is a good book for newbs or seasoned gardeners as a reference: The Gardener's A-Z Guide to Growing Organic Food

Learning how to garden successfully is a process. Just remember to not get too frustrated if things go wrong. Also remember that good compost makes the world go round. I also do cover crops a.k.a. green manure. Hope this helps.