Homegrown Berries

December 15, 2014
The idea of berry picking can evoke the nostalgia of childhood quests in areas ranging from wild bushes tucked back from two-lane blacktop and gravel roads to patches bordering backyard stands of corn. In this guide to growing berries, which draws on portions of Barbara L. Bowling's The Berry Grower's Companion (2000), all major typesstrawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberriesare spotlighted, with details on cultivar choices, including such varieties as Sparkle strawberries and Northblue blueberries, as well as instructions for siting, planting, maintaining, and harvesting. Specialty berries (elderberries, gooseberries) are also included in this reader-friendly title filled with full-color photos, boxed text for key information, and easily understood line drawings of plant anatomies and DIY wooden support structures for growing bramble plants. From Berry Basics to the listings of recommended cultivars by region, suggested reading, and resources, this comprehensive guide will inspire and instruct everyone interested in homegrown berries.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)