Library Notes
Edward Hirst
If you have been in a grocery store over the last few months it will come as no surprise that prices are rising. One way to ease the crunch from a tight food budget and high prices at the store is to plant a garden. But, what if you live in an apartment or just don’t have much space to create a garden? You can create a small space garden, and at Rowan Public Library we have just the books you need to get started.

My favorite book on this subject is Sugar Snaps and Strawberries by Andrea Bellamy.
Bellamy writes that, “A movement to embrace home-grown edibles, whether propelled by economics or the hope for sustainability, is taking shape around us”.

Her introduction leads to the basics of creating a garden in a small space, in which beauty combines with functionality. Bellamy offers design tips as she discusses assessing space, common site problems, preparing containers, raised beds, and soil; sowing; growing; maintaining plant health; pruning; and harvesting. She highlights edibles from apples to zucchini, with details for the cultivation and enjoyment of each fruit and vegetable, including useful growing tips and information on the most popular varieties. Of particular intrest are Bellamy’s suggestions for “veggie patches” on balconies, patios, and the tiniest of city plots.

Other books at the library that you may find helpful on this subject are Lasagna Gardening for Small Spaces: a Layering System for Big Results in Small Gardens and Containers by Patricia Lanza; Raised-Bed Vegetable Gardening Made Simple: the Three-Module Home Vegetable Garden by Raymond Nones; Beds and Borders: Traditional and Original Garden Designs by Wendy B. Murphy.