Harvest

November 7, 2016
Bittner and Harampolis, owners of the Homestead Design Collective, a landscape design firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, expand the sense of possibility for practical use of typical plants while showing readers how to increase the bounty of the harvest. For example, lavender is often predictably consigned to the sachet or dried arrangements when, as noted in the book, it goes fabulously with chocolate mint for an invigorating tea. Salt-preserving herbs is another little-known and easily executed project that introduces year-long longevity for seasonal culinary delicacies. Whether for culinary purposes or home design, each project includes advice for optimal growing and cultivation of the relevant plants, followed by tips for proper harvesting. Arranged according to seasons, and accompanied by dramatic and intimate color photos, these creative and eclectic projects make a great resource for the earth-minded lover who relishes nature’s gifts but needs new ways of cultivating them and deriving their bountiful benefits. Color photos.

November 1, 2016

Many gardeners feel conflicted about whether they should grow their gardens for food or beauty. Bittner and Harampolis, owners of a landscape design firm in San Francisco, explore both approaches as they show readers how to harvest fruits and flowers--and eat them, too. Arranged seasonally, with a design ethos that is naturalistic and unforced, all of the projects in this volume use edible plants; some are for food and drink, but many employ these plants in other ways, including as decorations and personal grooming products. Each project highlights a plant and includes cultivating and harvesting advice. While there is a slight bias for plants that are ideal for growing in Northern California, alternatives are suggested for other climate zones as well. The strategy here is to use what you have and love, rather than follow a strict recipe or rule. Projects are thoroughly photographed, and many will intrigue readers, including huckleberry shrub, lilac flower cream, blueberry dye, and flowering basil arrangement. VERDICT An attractive and inspiring collection good for gardeners of any type.--Devon Thomas, Chelsea, MI

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