The Productive Garden

The Productive Garden Synopsis

Swap your trolley for a trug in this self-sufficiency bible. Written by No Dig guru Stephanie Hafferty, and photographed by Jason Ingram.  Self-sufficiency needn't be something you dream of as you shuffle down the supermarket aisles. It's far easier than you think to grow your own, save money, reduce your consumption, increase your resilience and care for the planet - all from your own back garden. Stephanie Hafferty does it every day, growing the food she needs to eat and the plants she needs to help her produce everyday household essentials. With more than 30 years of experience, she knows how to make a harvest stretch further, and how to feed the earth so that it can give back, year after year.In this book, Stephanie introduces you to everything you need to grow abundant and useful crops, and teaches you what to do with them. This beautiful book covers: Part One: In the GardenPlanning a self-sufficient gardenEffective techniques for making compost, storing water, protecting crops and improving your soilWorking with nature to increase biodiversity and control 'pests'Creating a planting plan unique to your spaceSowing and propagatingPart Two: Seasonal Produce A complete guide to Stephanie's tried-and-tested plants and unique varieties, covering vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowersPart Three: In the HouseRecipes for a homegrown larder - including preserves, oils, ferments, vinegars, cordials, and moreChemical-free cleaners - including fragrances, soaps, and food wrapsUsing produce to improve wellbeing - such as making body care products and herbal remediesGarden crafts - including preserved flowers and flower-pounding techniquesAs a leading No Dig expert and teacher, Stephanie can show you sustainable methods of cultivating a generous and abundant garden that brings together affordable homesteading with the reality of modern life. Whether you want to start small, have already embarked on a journey to self-sufficiency or are looking for a complete lifestyle change, this will become your go-to book and essential guide.