John Bradshaw (2) (1916–1991)

Seems like a good guide. Vegetable by vegetable, Bradshaw tells something about the background (often with history) and then gives a succinct description of how to grow it. He also reviews and recommends varieties. On opening the book randomly to "brussels sprouts", I was impressed by immediately finding at least two ways to improve my growing technique. I'm looking forward to next year's sprouts!

On the downside, the book was published in 1982. Varieties recommended are not necessarily available in the 21st century, and contrary to gardeners' current attitudes, Bradshaw is solely focussed on taste. Taste is important, but if varieties are lost to the vagaries of the marketplace, that taste may be gone forever. The question of hybrid vs open pollinated seed is not on Bradshaw's radar, unless to exclaim over a variety's "hybrid vigor", and seed saving is not considered. Every time a seed seller closes its doors, more varieties are lost; the number of varieties in this book no longer available attest to this problem. Gardeners in the 21st century are realizing that the quality of our garden produce is of great importance, but we need to take control of the seeds which we grow in order to secure quality food for the future.… (mais)