Keith Reid is a soil scientist who works assessing and advising growers about soil issues.
Improving Your Soil features a reader-friendly discussion,
organization and format -- feats indeed, considering the wealth of
scientific information included in this book. I don't think the
topic of soil can be covered better than Keith Reid has managed
here.--William Scheick "Seeds" (5/7/2014 12:00:00 AM)
(starred review) Reid, a soil scientist for more than 30 years,
leads the reader through a detailed discussion of the subject at
hand. In 13 chapters, the author covers soil analysis, the basics
of soil chemistry, soil structure and the implications of both,
water and irrigation issues, exploiting biological cycles in
service of gardening and the all-important issue of how improve and
manage long term fertility in gardens and fields. Also provided is
a guide to the warning signs of common soil deficiencies and how to
troubleshoot common problems.... The author conveys a complex topic
in a straightforward and well organized manner, using a clear
writing style to good effect. Although this is not a long book, it
is a surprisingly complete book, one that avoids both obfuscation
and oversimplification. Intended for avid gardeners, it can also
stand as an example of how to write popular science books.--
"Publishers Weekly" (4/11/2014 12:00:00 AM)
Before you order that load of topsoil or begin stockpiling compost,
I recommend reading (this) excellent book by Keith Reid, a soil
scientist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada with over 30 years'
experience.... In it, the author explains all aspects of soil and
how it works. He begins by relating what's going on beneath our
feet as each seasonal cycle passes, how heat, cold and moisture
affect the microscopic life in the soil. He shows how to identify
the kind of soil in your garden, explains how it feeds plants, and
describes the structure and texture of soil. There's much, much
more, including a bit on soil chemistry, too, but don't let
scientific references deter you. The author's stated goal is to
demystify soil and offer practical methods that will allow you to
grow a better garden. It's a fascinating read and I'd consider it
essential reading for the serious gardener. It should convince
anyone that the answer really does lie in the soil.--David Hobson
"Guelph Mercury--Waterloo Region Record" (3/29/2014 12:00:00
AM)
If you have ever wondered how your soil makes on impact on your
home garden, this title is the perfect primer. After a discussion
of what happens underground as each season passes, the author
breaks down how soil is structured and what you can do to manage it
successfully. Identifying soil type, creating a proper irrigation
system and conquering common soil problems just scratch the surface
of what is contained in this comprehensive guide. Reid, who has
more than 30 years of experience in soil management, has written a
highly readable and practical book for avid gardeners.-- "Green Bay
Press-Gazette" (3/22/2015 12:00:00 AM)
Improving Your Soil delves deeply into the intriguing mysteries of
the foundation, and soul, of the garden. For such a detailed and
technical book, (it) is remarkably inspiring as it explains how
soil works to maintain healthy plant life... (Includes) an
extensive roster of tips on assessing soil, along with realistic
steps for improvement.--Helen Chesnut "Victoria Times-Colonist"
(5/1/2014 12:00:00 AM)
Soil scientist Keith Reid reveals the steps to take to achieve the
perfect soil base in which to grow plants... Improving Your Soil
shows gardeners how to improve the soil in their garden to
encourage good seed bedding and a strong root system for proper
nutrient disbursement throughout various soil depths. The detailed
information is complemented with line drawings, diagrams and
illustrations that demonstrate various soil issues and how to
resolve common problems.-- "Calgary Sun" (7/1/2014 12:00:00 AM)
This book is great source of information that is easily understood
and applied in the home garden.... Whether we realize it or not,
identifying your specific type of soil, the importance of the
content of the soil, and how it functions are all crucial to any
home gardener or landscaper. Not understanding the soil that you
are working with could become a growing challenge.... Soil health
translates into healthier plants and a happier homeowner....This
was a terrific book and I would highly recommend it to the
homeowner who wants to build a strong, healthy foundation of soil
to grow in.--Teresa Speight "Washington Gardener" (4/1/2015
12:00:00 AM)
This book is so comprehensive, it would make an excellent textbook
for an entry level college course on soils... Improving Your Soil
will not only give you a better understanding of soil in general
and how it works, but also will help you make more informed choices
to improve and manage its performance in your own garden.--Jeff
Lowenfels "American Gardener" (8/1/2014 12:00:00 AM)
|
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
|
