Here's another great review of my sister Ruth Binney's new book 'The Allotment Experience' this time from Reckless Book Reviews. Judging from the coverage 'growing-your-own' and allotments are getting on outlets like SkyNews, she's in for some excellent sales! Here's the review:

"Recently, the National Trust announced that it is making available plots for conversion to allotments, no doubt a response to our ever growing desire to avoid rising food prices and produce our own fresh fruit and veg. Certainly, pressure for allotments has never been so great, and if you are thinking of starting to grow your own, perhaps on an allotment or a piece of your own garden, a new book by Ruth Binney may be just what you are looking for.

'The Allotment Experience' has everything you need to know about allotment gardening and comes direct from the plot – based on Ruth's first-hand experience. It also contains quotes and stories from other allotment enthusiasts. There are useful tips and techniques with information on practical considerations when looking for a plot and setting up. Ruth looks at all aspects of working on the plot, including composting, boundaries and paths, raised beds, sowing, watering and plant protection. There is a good chapter on growing vegetables, one on salads, herbs and flowers and of course fruit.

The book's easy format means you can find information quickly and the text is written in a straightforward and entertaining manner. Ruth is not afraid to include details of her failures either which is refreshing and useful to those who may be daunted by the first onset of pests or disease. "As well as giving us a chance to grow our own (and battle the weeds) tending our plot did wonders for mind and body, and was a welcome refuge from the claustrophobia of flat life," she says. Ruth and her late husband Donald, have been cultivating allotments for more than 25 years, in London and most recently in Dorset, where she now lives.

She is an editor and author and secretary of her local horticultural association, not to mention the occasional prize winner at its annual shows. 'The Allotment Experience' is her sixth book and is published by Spring Hill an Imprint of How To Books Ltd. ISBN 978-1-905862-26-9 - www.howtobooks.co.uk It is available at £10.99 in major bookshops and online retailers across the country. Purchase at Amazon today and save 30% of rrp, as going to print."

There you are then get reading....and digging!



Posted: 11 May 2009 at 05:26