Gardening

In his influential A Sand County Almanac, published at the beginning of the environmental movement in 1949, Aldo Leopold proposed a new ecological ethic to guide our stewardship of the planet. In this inspiring book, Sarah Hayden Reichard tells how we can bring Leopold’s far-reaching vision to our gardens to make them more sustainable, lively, and healthy places. Today, gardening practices too often damage the environment: we deplete resources in our own soil while mining for soil amendments in far away places, or use water and pesticides in ways that can pollute lakes and rivers. Drawing from cutting edge research on urban horticulture, Reichard explores the many benefits of sustainable gardening and gives straightforward, practical advice on topics such as pest control, water conservation, living with native animals, mulching, and invasive species.

The book includes a scorecard that allows readers to quickly evaluate the sustainability of their current practices, as well as an extensive list of garden plants that are invasive, what they do, and where they should be avoided.

In recent years, vegetable gardening has made a comeback as a popular pastime in America. Yet, gardeners are creating vegetable gardens with a difference; they are intended to be pleasing to the eye as well as a source for fresh produce. In an effort to beautify traditional vegetable gardens, landscape architects and amateur gardeners are finding inspiration in the elaborate European vegetable gardens of the seventeenth century. Feast Your Eyes examines the historical antecedents of this modern movement as well as the changing perceptions of the beauty of vegetable gardens over time and among different cultures. Generously illustrated with over one hundred historical and contemporary photographs and artwork highlighting material from the Smithsonian Institution's Archives of American Gardens, this book provides a fascinating and wide-ranging discussion of such topics as the vegetable garden at Versailles, Ming dynasty vegetable gardens, the war gardens of World War I, World War II victory gardens—including those of the Japanese American internees—and vegetable still lifes. As the boundary between vegetable garden and flower garden has become blurred, the same is true for vegetables. Horticulturists have developed popular garden ornamentals from kale, chili peppers, sweet potato, and eggplant. Pennington provides "biographies" of these vegetables and describes new varieties that are being developed for their aesthetic qualities. She shows how this is not a uniquely modern phenomenon but is rooted in the introduction of exotic vegetables to Europe starting as early as the thirteenth century. Published in association with Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service

Every year Americans use a staggering five hundred million pounds of toxic pesticides in and around their homes, schools, parks, and roads—a growing health risk for people and the environment. But are these poisons really necessary? This book, appealing to the hunter in us all, shows how to triumph in combat with pests without losing the war to toxic chemicals. Tiny Game Hunting, written in a lively and entertaining style and illustrated with detailed drawings, gives more than two hundred tried-and-true ways to control or kill common household and garden pests without using toxic pesticides.

Western Fruit Gardening is a comprehensive and practical handbook designed to help home gardeners across the western United States grow fruit successfully and enjoyably. Written for both beginners and experienced horticulturalists, the book combines foundational knowledge of plant growth, climate adaptation, and soil and water requirements with clear guidance on everyday practices such as fertilizing, watering, and pruning. The emphasis is on proven methods drawn from commercial orcharding but adapted to the scale and realities of the home garden, allowing readers to select the right fruit varieties for their conditions and cultivate them with confidence.

The book is organized into three parts for ease of use. Part I introduces the basics of fruit plant growth and care, including cultural practices and practical propagation methods suitable for home experimentation. Part II provides detailed entries on individual fruits—trees, vines, and bushes—outlining their growing needs and harvesting potential so that even a single backyard tree can be managed effectively. Part III addresses diseases and pests, offering essential information on prevention and treatment, with recommendations tailored to regional conditions and resources available through local extension agencies. With its emphasis on practical techniques, efficient use of small garden spaces, and long-term productivity, Western Fruit Gardening equips gardeners to turn their yards into thriving fruit gardens that yield abundant harvests season after season.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1953.

Since the 1890s, providing places for people to garden has been an inventive strategy to improve American urban conditions. There have been vacant-lot gardens, school gardens, Depression-era relief gardens, victory gardens, and community gardens—each representing a consistent impulse to return to gardening during times of social and economic change. In this critical history of community gardening in America, the most comprehensive review of the greening of urban communities to date, Laura J. Lawson documents the evolution of urban garden programs in the United States. Her vibrant narrative focuses on the values associated with gardening, the ebb and flow of campaigns during times of social and economic crisis, organizational strategies of these primarily volunteer campaigns, and the sustainability of current programs.

People have always grown food in urban spaces—on windowsills and sidewalks, and in backyards and neighborhood parks—but today, urban farmers are leading an environmental and social movement that transforms our national food system. To explore this agricultural renaissance, brothers David and Michael Hanson and urban farmer Edwin Marty document twelve successful urban farm programs, from an alternative school for girls in Detroit, to a backyard food swap in New Orleans, to a restaurant supply garden on a rooftop in Brooklyn. Each beautifully illustrated essay offers practical advice for budding farmers, such as composting and keeping livestock in the city, decontaminating toxic soil, even changing zoning laws.

Modern Weed Control explores the transformative evolution of weed management from a minor agricultural practice to a cornerstone of contemporary agribusiness. Since its inception in 1942, the field has expanded exponentially, with a growing body of chemists, agronomists, plant physiologists, and researchers contributing to advancements that now span the globe. Herbicides, once a limited toolset, have multiplied to over 200 varieties, with innovations like glyphosate introducing novel mechanisms for combating weeds. This volume underscores how the science of weed control has become integral to modern agricultural strategies, enabling the efficient cultivation of crops to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population.

Amid growing environmental concerns, including pollution and pesticide misuse, Modern Weed Control addresses the increasing regulatory landscape surrounding herbicides. Despite these challenges, the development of selective and environmentally considerate chemicals continues, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of agricultural science. The book also highlights innovative solutions such as integrated applications combining herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers, underscoring agriculture's dynamic efforts to sustain productivity. As a comprehensive resource, this text captures the advancements, challenges, and future directions of weed control, offering essential insights for agronomists, policymakers, and environmental advocates alike.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1975.

This study examines the agricultural practices and decision-making processes of a small Tai-Lue village in northern Thailand, focusing on the period from 1959 to 1961, with a follow-up visit in 1965. Conducted through anthropological fieldwork, the research involved living among villagers, learning their language, and participating in their daily life. The primary aim was to understand how villagers in Ban Ping made farming decisions, with a specific interest in their adoption of new agricultural technologies, such as tractors, which had significantly changed rice cultivation by 1960. By concentrating on the local, culturally-informed perspectives of the villagers, the study seeks to provide insights into the factors that influence farming choices within the community.

The analysis explores the complexities of farming decisions through two perspectives: rational decision-making processes related to technology and broader social factors tied to the village’s extracommunity relations. The methodological approach involves a detailed, systematic examination of how decisions were made in 1960, with subsequent insights from the 1965 field trip reserved for the study's final chapter to maintain the integrity of the initial analysis. By doing so, the research attempts to reveal the processes through which farmers select among different agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding localized decision-making in efforts to improve agricultural development and economic policies.

This work is intended not only for ethnographers studying agricultural practices but also for those involved in economic development, offering a grounded perspective on the technological and social dynamics of rural communities. The study reflects the author's engagement with development work in Thailand, drawing on experiences with various international and Thai organizations. The research benefits from the support of local Thai officials, community members, and academic institutions, whose cooperation made it possible to document the nuanced interactions between tradition, technology, and economic change in Ban Ping.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1968.

Western Fruit Gardening is a comprehensive and practical handbook designed to help home gardeners across the western United States grow fruit successfully and enjoyably. Written for both beginners and experienced horticulturalists, the book combines foundational knowledge of plant growth, climate adaptation, and soil and water requirements with clear guidance on everyday practices such as fertilizing, watering, and pruning. The emphasis is on proven methods drawn from commercial orcharding but adapted to the scale and realities of the home garden, allowing readers to select the right fruit varieties for their conditions and cultivate them with confidence.

The book is organized into three parts for ease of use. Part I introduces the basics of fruit plant growth and care, including cultural practices and practical propagation methods suitable for home experimentation. Part II provides detailed entries on individual fruits—trees, vines, and bushes—outlining their growing needs and harvesting potential so that even a single backyard tree can be managed effectively. Part III addresses diseases and pests, offering essential information on prevention and treatment, with recommendations tailored to regional conditions and resources available through local extension agencies. With its emphasis on practical techniques, efficient use of small garden spaces, and long-term productivity, Western Fruit Gardening equips gardeners to turn their yards into thriving fruit gardens that yield abundant harvests season after season.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1953.

Western Fruit Gardening is a comprehensive and practical handbook designed to help home gardeners across the western United States grow fruit successfully and enjoyably. Written for both beginners and experienced horticulturalists, the book combines foundational knowledge of plant growth, climate adaptation, and soil and water requirements with clear guidance on everyday practices such as fertilizing, watering, and pruning. The emphasis is on proven methods drawn from commercial orcharding but adapted to the scale and realities of the home garden, allowing readers to select the right fruit varieties for their conditions and cultivate them with confidence.

The book is organized into three parts for ease of use. Part I introduces the basics of fruit plant growth and care, including cultural practices and practical propagation methods suitable for home experimentation. Part II provides detailed entries on individual fruits—trees, vines, and bushes—outlining their growing needs and harvesting potential so that even a single backyard tree can be managed effectively. Part III addresses diseases and pests, offering essential information on prevention and treatment, with recommendations tailored to regional conditions and resources available through local extension agencies. With its emphasis on practical techniques, efficient use of small garden spaces, and long-term productivity, Western Fruit Gardening equips gardeners to turn their yards into thriving fruit gardens that yield abundant harvests season after season.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1953.

This study examines the agricultural practices and decision-making processes of a small Tai-Lue village in northern Thailand, focusing on the period from 1959 to 1961, with a follow-up visit in 1965. Conducted through anthropological fieldwork, the research involved living among villagers, learning their language, and participating in their daily life. The primary aim was to understand how villagers in Ban Ping made farming decisions, with a specific interest in their adoption of new agricultural technologies, such as tractors, which had significantly changed rice cultivation by 1960. By concentrating on the local, culturally-informed perspectives of the villagers, the study seeks to provide insights into the factors that influence farming choices within the community.

The analysis explores the complexities of farming decisions through two perspectives: rational decision-making processes related to technology and broader social factors tied to the village’s extracommunity relations. The methodological approach involves a detailed, systematic examination of how decisions were made in 1960, with subsequent insights from the 1965 field trip reserved for the study's final chapter to maintain the integrity of the initial analysis. By doing so, the research attempts to reveal the processes through which farmers select among different agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding localized decision-making in efforts to improve agricultural development and economic policies.

This work is intended not only for ethnographers studying agricultural practices but also for those involved in economic development, offering a grounded perspective on the technological and social dynamics of rural communities. The study reflects the author's engagement with development work in Thailand, drawing on experiences with various international and Thai organizations. The research benefits from the support of local Thai officials, community members, and academic institutions, whose cooperation made it possible to document the nuanced interactions between tradition, technology, and economic change in Ban Ping.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1968.

This study examines the agricultural practices and decision-making processes of a small Tai-Lue village in northern Thailand, focusing on the period from 1959 to 1961, with a follow-up visit in 1965. Conducted through anthropological fieldwork, the research involved living among villagers, learning their language, and participating in their daily life. The primary aim was to understand how villagers in Ban Ping made farming decisions, with a specific interest in their adoption of new agricultural technologies, such as tractors, which had significantly changed rice cultivation by 1960. By concentrating on the local, culturally-informed perspectives of the villagers, the study seeks to provide insights into the factors that influence farming choices within the community.

The analysis explores the complexities of farming decisions through two perspectives: rational decision-making processes related to technology and broader social factors tied to the village’s extracommunity relations. The methodological approach involves a detailed, systematic examination of how decisions were made in 1960, with subsequent insights from the 1965 field trip reserved for the study's final chapter to maintain the integrity of the initial analysis. By doing so, the research attempts to reveal the processes through which farmers select among different agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding localized decision-making in efforts to improve agricultural development and economic policies.

This work is intended not only for ethnographers studying agricultural practices but also for those involved in economic development, offering a grounded perspective on the technological and social dynamics of rural communities. The study reflects the author's engagement with development work in Thailand, drawing on experiences with various international and Thai organizations. The research benefits from the support of local Thai officials, community members, and academic institutions, whose cooperation made it possible to document the nuanced interactions between tradition, technology, and economic change in Ban Ping.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1968.

Modern Weed Control explores the transformative evolution of weed management from a minor agricultural practice to a cornerstone of contemporary agribusiness. Since its inception in 1942, the field has expanded exponentially, with a growing body of chemists, agronomists, plant physiologists, and researchers contributing to advancements that now span the globe. Herbicides, once a limited toolset, have multiplied to over 200 varieties, with innovations like glyphosate introducing novel mechanisms for combating weeds. This volume underscores how the science of weed control has become integral to modern agricultural strategies, enabling the efficient cultivation of crops to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population.

Amid growing environmental concerns, including pollution and pesticide misuse, Modern Weed Control addresses the increasing regulatory landscape surrounding herbicides. Despite these challenges, the development of selective and environmentally considerate chemicals continues, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of agricultural science. The book also highlights innovative solutions such as integrated applications combining herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers, underscoring agriculture's dynamic efforts to sustain productivity. As a comprehensive resource, this text captures the advancements, challenges, and future directions of weed control, offering essential insights for agronomists, policymakers, and environmental advocates alike.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1975.

Modern Weed Control explores the transformative evolution of weed management from a minor agricultural practice to a cornerstone of contemporary agribusiness. Since its inception in 1942, the field has expanded exponentially, with a growing body of chemists, agronomists, plant physiologists, and researchers contributing to advancements that now span the globe. Herbicides, once a limited toolset, have multiplied to over 200 varieties, with innovations like glyphosate introducing novel mechanisms for combating weeds. This volume underscores how the science of weed control has become integral to modern agricultural strategies, enabling the efficient cultivation of crops to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population.

Amid growing environmental concerns, including pollution and pesticide misuse, Modern Weed Control addresses the increasing regulatory landscape surrounding herbicides. Despite these challenges, the development of selective and environmentally considerate chemicals continues, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of agricultural science. The book also highlights innovative solutions such as integrated applications combining herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers, underscoring agriculture's dynamic efforts to sustain productivity. As a comprehensive resource, this text captures the advancements, challenges, and future directions of weed control, offering essential insights for agronomists, policymakers, and environmental advocates alike.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1975.