Eco-Yards Book Review

I was sent Eco-yards to review its obvious from the title word "yard" this is an American writing, however the book easily does the crossover to our side of the fence.

I found that I learnt so much about soil and the science of composting, about how to water wisely. Its seem a little wordy at times but its worth the time to read and reread. Just by learning the biology of the brown stuff I put my plants into and how to keep it good, will be worth the time in results. 

How wrong I have been my slapdash watering and with the forecasted drought this summer, I have a head start on caring for my garden.

How to care for a lawn was a surprise chapter as I came to the book thinking it was all about getting rid of the lawn!! I imagined  an allotment style back yard.  Its more about replacing or making the lawn work well and be low maintenace and I think a lot of us curse the constant mowing and trimming.

The theme of the book for me was how to garden in a money saving, earth saving and actually time saving style. So in the long run, just having the right planting and lawn that will still be around in 10 years and be right for the climate and surrounds will ensure a more enjoyable outside room.

Many urban yards are essentially unproductive patches of grass, requiring constant attention for no return. Through sustainable, organic landscaping, these small or large plots of land can become part of the solution to today's environmental challenges.

This book supports the vision of a healthy, abundant planet in which beautiful, richly varied urban yards contribute to restoring the natural ecosystem. This inspiring and practical, well-illustrated manual includes clear, easy-to-follow instructions for: designing and maintaining an eco-yard; making your yard water-wise; understanding basic soil science; replacing your lawn with tree, shrub and flower beds or hardy, low-maintenance grass; growing vegetables in the eco-yard.

Visionary, hopeful and encouraging, this is a must-read for anyone who wants to use environmentally sound practices when they garden, whether in a residential yard or on the balcony of a condo or high-rise apartment. If you're sick of the backyard battle, this book will show you how to work with nature instead of fighting it, using simple steps that apply practically anywhere to turn your yard into an eco-friendly sanctuary.

Published by New Society Publishers at £13.50, ISBN 9780865716827.



Available from all good booksellers, Amazon.co.uk or direct from Gazelle post-free - email sales@gazellebooks.co.uk