KPOV the Point

KPOV – The Point Gardening: Get Good At It “What’s on My Bookshelf?” February 14, 2017

Why do gardeners have so many books? For me, that answers pretty easy – I’ve always love to read and acquire general knowledge about things I’m interested in. I have a variety of garden books on selecting plants, how-to books on landscaping, books by authors I’ve heard speak and even books someone suggested I needed.

 When I became a MG I needed lots of research books because I became more curious about the how and why things were happening in my own garden. The book, What’s Wrong with My Plant? (And How Do I Fix It?), addresses one of the most asked questions of Master Gardeners in our plant clinic. This book helps you answer this question as well as how to fix the problem. The book uses a step-by-step method to diagnose and treat diseases, disorders and pests of the plants. What’s especially good is you don’t need to have a Ph.D. to use and understand the book.

 Often a problem in the garden is caused by or made worse by an insect. But how do you know what to look for and how to take care of the problem? Good Bug Bad Bug – Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to manage Them Organically may help you. It has a nice introduction which includes how to use the book accompanied by great photos of the insect and the potential plant damage. The author covers important steps including: Proper ID of pest and plant host and preventive and cultural measures to solve the critter problem. Just remember – there are no quick fixes to problems in the garden. Every problem requires patience and thought before actions.

 Sometimes a book’s title grabs your attention and in this case, I actually attended a lecture by the author at the Northwest Flower Show in Seattle. The Green Gardener’s Guide – Simple, Significant Actions to Protect & Preserve Our Planet should have a place on your bookshelf. It’s an interesting and inspiring read on gardening to make a difference. Topics covered include conserving water (especially important in Central Oregon), reducing garden chemicals and turning waste into gardening gold.

 The Pruner’s Bible is a step-by-step guide to pruning every plant in your garden. The book starts with an intro about why we prune and the essential tools to do a good job. Alphabetical listings by common and botanical name take you to a photo and illustration showing where and when to prune making it easy to keep your plants looking good and staying healthy.

 Some time ago, I gave a series on buying and using a greenhouse. If that idea is still on your wish list you will certainly want to have the Greenhouse Gardener’s Companion. The author discusses everything from the actual structure to starting the seeds, pollination and when things go wrong. I still consult this book even after 18 years working in my greenhouse. Just remember: Plants don’t read the books and sometimes do as they please but it’s the unpredictability that makes it fun to be a greenhouse gardener in Central Oregon. For answers to all your garden questions, please visit our website: www.gocomga.com and click on the KPOV tab on the orange bar. This has been Gardening: Get Good At It. Thanks for listening.

Resources:

THE BOOKS AND AUTHORS:

 What’s Wrong With My Plant” (And How Do I Fix It?) - David Deardorff and Kathryn Wadsworth

 Good Bug Bad Bug – Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to Manage Them Organically - Jessica Walliser

 The Green Gardener’s Guide – Simple, Significant Actions to Protect & Preserve Our Planet – Joe Lamp’l

 Greenhouse Gardener’s Companion – Shane Smith

 The Pruner’s Bible – A Step-by-Step guide to pruning every plant in your garden – Steve Bradley

 Sagebrush Country – A Wildflower Sanctuary A great backpack book for enjoy wildflowers when hiking in the high desert– Ronald J. Taylor

 Terrarium Craft – Create 50 Magical, Miniature Worlds – Amy Bryant Ajello and Kate Bryant

 The Wreath Recipe Book – Year-Round Wreaths, Swags, and Other Decorations to Make with Seasonal Branches - Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo

The Green Gardener’s Guide by Joe Lamp’l

Top 10 most significant concepts for creating an eco-friendly garden

1. Garden to reduce water usage.

2. Garden to reduce pollution of soil and water.

3. Keep plants healthy to reduce the need for pesticides and chemicals.

4. Practice Integrated Pest Management. 5. If using chemicals, apply them safely, responsibly and effectively.

6. Landscape to reduce soil erosion and runoff.

7. Garden to reduce waste through recycling and composting.

8. Garden to reduce nonrenewable energy consumption and protect air quality.

9. Landscape to protect biodiversity and ecosystems.

10. Plant the seeds of change beyond the boundaries of our gardens.