Download or read book Plants for Profit written by Francis X. Jozwik and published by . This book was released on 2000 with total page 312 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A greenhouse and nursery businessman provides information on starting and operating a horticultural business; finding a job working with plants, trees, and flowers; and performing field studies in ornamental horticulture in order to evaluate real businesses and institutions in operation and scout for business opportunities.
Download or read book The Organic Farmer s Business Handbook written by Richard Wiswall and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2009-10-09 with total page 202 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Contrary to popular belief, a good living can be made on an organic farm. What’s required is farming smarter, not harder. In The Organic Farmer’s Business Handbook, Richard Wiswall shares advice on how to make your vegetable production more efficient, better manage your employees and finances, and turn a profit. From his twenty-seven years of experience at Cate Farm in Vermont, Wiswall knows firsthand the joys of starting and operating an organic farm—as well as the challenges of making a living from one. Farming offers fundamental satisfaction from producing food, working outdoors, being one’s own boss, and working intimately with nature. But, unfortunately, many farmers avoid learning about the business end of farming; because of this, they often work harder than they need to, or quit farming altogether because of frustrating—and often avoidable—losses. In this comprehensive business kit, Wiswall covers: Step-by-step procedures to make your crop production more efficient Advice on managing employees, farm operations, and office systems Novel marketing strategies What to do with your profits: business spending, investing, and planning for retirement A companion toolkit, available for download upon purchase of the book, offers valuable business tools, including easy-to-use spreadsheets for projecting cash flow, a payroll calculator, comprehensive crop budgets for forty different crops, and tax planners.
Download or read book Start a Community Food Garden written by LaManda Joy and published by Timber Press. This book was released on 2014-12-30 with total page 209 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Recommended by the American Community Gardening Association Community gardening enhances the fabric of towns and cities through social interactions and accessibility to fresh food, creating an enormously positive effect in the lives of everyone it touches. LaManda Joy, the founder of Chicago’s Peterson Garden Project and a board member of the American Community Gardening Association, has worked in the community gardening trenches for years and brings her knowledge to the wider world in Start a Community Food Garden. This hardworking guide covers every step of the process: fundraising, community organizing, site sourcing, garden design and planning, finding and managing volunteers, and managing the garden through all four seasons. A section dedicated to the basics of growing was designed to be used by community garden leaders as an educational tool for teaching new members how to successfully garden.
Download or read book Will Bonsall s Essential Guide to Radical Self Reliant Gardening written by Will Bonsall and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2015 with total page 402 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "Society does not generally expect its farmers to be visionaries." Perhaps not, but longtime Maine farmer and homesteader Will Bonsall does possess a unique clarity of vision that extends all the way from the finer points of soil fertility and seed saving to exploring how we can transform civilization and make our world a better, more resilient place. In Will Bonsall's Essential Guide to Radical, Self-Reliant Gardening, Bonsall maintains that to achieve real wealth we first need to understand the economy of the land, to realize that things that might make sense economically don't always make sense ecologically, and vice versa. The marketplace distorts our values, and our modern dependence on petroleum in particular presents a serious barrier to creating a truly sustainable agriculture. For him the solution is, first and foremost, greater self-reliance, especially in the areas of food and energy. By avoiding any off-farm inputs (fertilizers, minerals, and animal manures), Bonsall has learned how to practice a purely veganic, or plant-based, agriculture--not from a strictly moralistic or philosophical perspective, but because it makes good business sense: spend less instead of making more. What this means in practical terms is that Bonsall draws upon the fertility of on-farm plant materials: compost, green manures, perennial grasses, and forest products like leaves and ramial wood chips. And he grows and harvests a diversity of crops from both cultivated and perennial plants: vegetables, grains, pulses, oilseeds, fruits and nuts--even uncommon but useful permaculture plants like groundnut (Apios). In a friendly, almost conversational way, Bonsall imparts a wealth of knowledge drawn from his more than forty years of farming experience. "My goal," he writes, "is not to feed the world, but to feed myself and let others feed themselves. If we all did that, it might be a good beginning."
Download or read book A New Garden Ethic written by Benjamin Vogt and published by New Society Publishers. This book was released on 2017-09-01 with total page 217 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In a time of climate change and mass extinction, how we garden matters more than ever: “An outstanding and deeply passionate book.” —Marc Bekoff, author of The Emotional Lives of Animals Plenty of books tell home gardeners and professional landscape designers how to garden sustainably, what plants to use, and what resources to explore. Yet few examine why our urban wildlife gardens matter so much—not just for ourselves, but for the larger human and animal communities. Our landscapes push aside wildlife and in turn diminish our genetically programmed love for wildness. How can we get ourselves back into balance through gardens, to speak life's language and learn from other species? Benjamin Vogt addresses why we need a new garden ethic, and why we urgently need wildness in our daily lives—lives sequestered in buildings surrounded by monocultures of lawn and concrete that significantly harm our physical and mental health. He examines the psychological issues around climate change and mass extinction as a way to understand how we are short-circuiting our response to global crises, especially by not growing native plants in our gardens. Simply put, environmentalism is not political; it's social justice for all species marginalized today and for those facing extinction tomorrow. By thinking deeply and honestly about our built landscapes, we can create a compassionate activism that connects us more profoundly to nature and to one another.
Download or read book The Living Soil Handbook written by Jesse Frost and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2021-07-20 with total page 305 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Principles and farm-tested practices for no-till market gardening--for healthier, more productive soil! From the host of the popular The No-Till Market Garden Podcast—heard around the world with nearly one million downloads! Discovering how to meet the soil’s needs is the key task for every market gardener. In this comprehensive guide, Farmer Jesse Frost shares all he has learned through experience and experimentation with no-till practices on his home farm in Kentucky and from interviews and visits with highly successful market gardeners in his role as host of The No-Till Market Garden Podcast. The Living Soil Handbook is centered around the three basic principles of no-till market gardening: Disturb the soil as little as possible Keep it covered as much as possible Keep it planted as much as possible. Farmer Jesse then guides readers in applying those principles to their own garden environment, with their own materials, to meet their own goals. Beginning with an exploration of the importance of photosynthesis to living soil, Jesse provides in-depth information on: Turning over beds Using compost and mulch Path management Incorporating biology, maintaining fertility Cover cropping Diversifying plantings through intercropping Production methods for seven major crops Throughout, the book emphasizes practical information on all the best tools and practices for growers who want to build their livelihood around maximizing the health of their soil. Farmer Jesse reminds growers that “as possible” is the mantra for protecting the living soil: disturb the soil as little as you possibly can in your context. He does not believe that growers should anguish over what does and does not qualify as “no-till.” If you are using a tool to promote soil life and biology, that’s the goal. Jesse’s goal with The Living Soil Handbook is to provide a comprehensive set of options, materials, and field-tested practices to inspire growers to design a soil-nurturing no-till system in their unique garden or farm ecosystem. "[A] practical, informative debut. . . .Gardeners interested in sustainable agriculture will find this a great place to start."—Publishers Weekly "Frost offers a comprehensive, science-based, sympathetic, wholly practical guide to soil building, that most critical factor in vegetable gardening for market growers and home gardeners alike. A gift to any vegetable plot that will keep on giving."—Booklist (starred review)
Download or read book North Carolina Extension Gardener Handbook written by Kathleen A. Moore and published by NC State Extension. This book was released on 2022-02-15 with total page 728 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This national award winning book, now in its second edition, was developed especially for Master Gardener volunteers and home gardeners and is a primary source for research-based information on gardening and landscaping successfully in North Carolina and the Southeast. A fundamental reference for any seasoned gardener, the North Carolina Extension Gardener Handbook is also written to appeal to beginners just getting their hands dirty. It explains the "why and how" basics of gardening from soils and composting to vegetable gardening and wildlife management. Advice on garden design, preparation, and maintenance covers all types of plantings including lawns, ornamentals, fruits, trees, and containers. This handbook provides color images, detailed graphics, diagnostic tables, case studies, frequently asked questions, and specific management strategies for insects, diseases, weeds, and other pests. Written by a team of the state's leading horticulture experts, it contains a wealth of information to support you in creating and managing thriving gardens, lawns, and landscapes. The North Carolina Extension Gardener Handbook is an essential book for serious gardeners in North Carolina and the Southeast. Want to learn more? * Visit go.ncsu.edu/eg-handbook to view information contained in this book in an open access format. * Access free gardening resources from NC State Extension by visiting gardening.ces.ncsu.edu. * Find the Extension center in your county to speak with local experts by visiting www.ces.ncsu.edu/directory. * Become a Master Gardener volunteer and join an outstanding group of life-long learners working together to change the world. Learn how at ncemgv.org.
Download or read book Handbook of Horticulture written by Justin U. Ogbu and published by Exceller Books. This book was released on with total page 301 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 'The Handbook of Horticulture' provides comprehensive subject-based reviews of horticulture in Tropical African regions generally and west of the sub-Saharan region in particular. This book aims to provide essential and foundational courses in horticultural science, production and business (with particular emphasis on Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa sub-regions by extension) to the general reader. Its scope covered vital aspects of modern horticultural practices, ranging from production techniques of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, medicinal plants, edible mushroom cultivation, nursery and plant propagation techniques, post-harvest handling, ornamental horticulture and landscape gardening, in addition to extension methods and management principles of horticultural farm outfits. It will be useful for undergraduate students, teachers/lecturers, researchers, policymakers, extension agents, conservationists, NGOs for environmental protection, and others interested in the field of horticulture.
Download or read book Gardening Under Lights written by Leslie F. Halleck and published by Timber Press. This book was released on 2018-06-26 with total page 247 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: “If you want to grow plants indoors, you need this book.” —Niki Jabbour, author and staff writer at savvygardening.com Gardening Under Lights is a highly-detailed, accessible guide for seed starters, plant collectors, houseplant fans, and anyone who wants to successfully garden indoors any time of the year. You’ll learn the basics of photosynthesis, the science of light, how to accurately measure how much light a plant needs, and details about the most up-to-date tools and gear available. Also included are tips and techniques for helping ornamental plants (like orchids, succulents, bonsai, and more) and edible plants (arugula, cannabis, oregano, tomatoes, and more) thrive indoors. Whether you are a vegetable gardener who wants to extend the growing season, a balcony gardener short on outdoor space, or a specialty plant collector, Gardening Under Lights is a must-have.
Download or read book A Handbook for Horticultural Students written by Peter Dawson and published by Peter Dawson. This book was released on 1994 with total page 406 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book Straw Bale Gardens Complete written by Joel Karsten and published by . This book was released on 2015-02-15 with total page 179 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Provides information about how to use straw bales as planting containers for vegetable gardening.
Download or read book The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower s Handbook written by Andrew Mefferd and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2017 with total page 290 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower's Handbook shares best practices for both large- and small-scale production of the eight most profitable crops - tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, peppers, leafy greens, lettuce, herbs, and microgreens. Every year, more growers are turning to protected culture to deal with unpredictable weather and to meet out-of-season demand for local food, but many end up spinning their wheels, wasting time and money on unprofitable crops grown in ways that don't make the most of their precious greenhouse space. This book levels the playing field with decision-making framework that goes beyond a list of simple dos and don'ts. With comprehensive chapters on temperature control and crop steering, pruning and trellising, grafting, and more, Andrew Meffer's book is full of techniques and strategies that can help farms stay profitable, satisfy customers, and become an integral part of relocalizing our food system. From seed to sale, this book is the indispensable resource for protected growing.--COVER.
Download or read book Gaia s Garden written by Toby Hemenway and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2009 with total page 328 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This extensively revised and expanded edition broadens the reach and depth of the permaculture approach for urban and suburban gardeners. The text's message is that working with nature, not against it, results in more beautiful, abundant, and forgiving gardens.
Download or read book The Essential Horticultural Business Handbook written by Frank H. Crandall, III and published by CreateSpace. This book was released on 2011-01-14 with total page 244 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: I am finishing a business handbook for small horticultural companies; landscapers, nurseries, garden centers, design firms, college horticultural students, educators, and those involved in horticultural services. This book is a compilation of 38 years running an award winning landscape design, construction, and maintenance firm in Southern New England. Topics covered include developing a mission, completing a business plan, establishing a brand, marketing tips, creating an effective estimating and job costing system, how to attract, hire, and fire employees, computerizing for efficiencies, the importance of leadership, increasing sales, management tips, and the future of horticulture. The handbook contains proven forms, formulas, and templates that the reader can readily adopt and adapt to their company. An extensive bibliography and sources for additional information are included. Essential lessons learned from Wood River Evergreen,s experiences are summarized at the end of each chapter giving the reader practical advice that can be quickly incorporated into the operation of their firm. An easy reading format and comprehensive content will help this handbook to assist new companies just starting and established firms trying to improve their financial performance.
Download or read book The Fundamentals of Horticulture written by Chris Bird and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2014-04-24 with total page 475 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Essential reading for all studying horticulture and keen gardeners. This clear introduction to the principles underlying the practical applications of horticulture opens up the excitement of growing plants and garden development without readers wading through complex information. Written by a team of highly motivated and experienced horticultural tutors, the text supports the newly restructured RHS Level 2 qualifications with related Level 3 topics in boxes and signposting to Level 4 topics, together with other horticultural qualifications at these levels. Full colour images tied closely to the text and practical case study boxes inspire readers by making topics relevant to their own horticultural experiences. A comprehensive glossary helps build confidence in the use of classical horticulture language as well as new developing terms, and end-of-chapter questions encourage readers to apply what they have learnt. Extensive online supporting material includes mind maps showing the relationship of topics and aiding students in revision.
Download or read book The Big Book of Gardening Skills written by Garden Way Publishing and published by Storey Books. This book was released on 1993 with total page 360 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A comprehensive, generously illustrated guide for both beginners and advanced gardeners on how to grow flowers, fruits, herbs, vegetables, lawns, and shrubs.
Download or read book Horticulture Today written by Jodi Songer Riedel and published by Goodheart-Wilcox Publisher. This book was released on 2021-10-18 with total page 962 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Written by two dynamic agriculture educators who believe in learning by doing, Horticulture Today inspires students to develop an appreciation for the diversity of horticulture and participate in work-based learning, with numerous tools to plan their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). The text provides a contemporary overview of the horticulture industry, including leadership, communication, and business skills, plus thorough coverage of plant science, step-by-step horticultural practices, landscape design and maintenance, and integrated pest management. Abundant STEM Connections emphasize extra practice with mathematical and scientific strategies in horticulture, while hydroponics, aquaponics, and rooftop gardens are included as modern technologies that can be replicated within the classroom. This edition aligns to multiple industry-recognized credentials students can earn after a single course in their Plant Science pathway.
