Book Review: The Community Gardening Handbook

The Community Gardening Handbook, The Guide to Organizing, Planting, and Caring for a Community Garden by Ben Raskin

Community gardening is a revolution that is taking root in towns and cities all over the world. As neighbors come together to get their hands dirty in the name of taking steps toward more sustainable living, camaraderie is blossoming and knowledge is growing right along with the flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Horticulture and community-supported agriculture (CSA) specialist Ben Raskin shares his expertise and experience with those interested in joining an existing community garden or starting a new one.

Available in Paperback format, 144 pages.
ISBN: 1620082551
Buy on Amazon.com

We received this book from Fox Chapel Publishing for our review.

Our Review: The Community Gardening Handbook by Ben Raskin brings a wealth of important information to any group wishing to organize and construct a community garden. While initially the amount of information seems daunting, the book is carefully and logically organized in a chronological way to enable the reader to engage at any point in the process.

“Gardening nourishes our minds as well as our bodies,” says Raskin. “It is part physical workout and part therapy and meditation.” The author’s insights throughout the book give the feel of having a personal conversation with him as you survey the proposed garden project.

The author draws on community gardens from around the world, demonstrating the techniques that work for any particular situation. Basic sections of the book include brainstorming and planning, the needs and resources for funding such a project, and finding land on which to build the garden. Once the planning groundwork is complete, the book delves into the essentials for growing a successful garden: site exposure, soil health, water needs, maintenance, and crop choices.

The final section of the book includes detailed information on 45 varieties of crops that are suitable for a community garden. Photographs, a casual page layout, and an index enhance the content. For any group or organization thinking about launching a community garden, this book has everything needed to do the job right.

About Ben Raskin
Ben Raskin is the head of horticulture at the Soil Association in the UK. He launched the Soil Association’s Flagship Organic Apprenticeship Scheme in 2007. Ben helped to set up and run Community Farm near Bristol, UK and is on the board of the Community Supported Agriculture Network UK.

About Fox Chapel Publishing
Fox Chapel Publishing inspires and informs readers who enjoy a wide variety of hobbies, crafts, and lifestyle interests. The company specializes in illustrated non-fiction with a focus on artisan and high-quality books. Fox Chapel publishes more than 1,200 book titles and three quarterly magazines, including DO Magazine, the #1 coloring magazine in its class. For more information, please visit foxchapelpublishing.com.