Inspired by the local-food movement, many Americans are turning their yards into miniature orchards, growing apples, kiwis, peaches, and strawberries. Discerning gardeners—tired of the common blackberry—want something new. Jujube, juneberry, maypop, pawpaw, and shipova are just a few of the uncommon—and absolutely tasty—fruits that can be easily grown in the home garden. Lee Reich has chosen 23 fruits that offer mouthwatering rewards to anyone willing to veer off the beaten path. As useful as it is inspiring, this new paperback edition emphasizes the practicalities of plant selection, cultivation, propagation, and maintenance. All plants were carefully chosen for their ease of care, ability to withstand cold, and flavor. Tips for using the fruits in the kitchen are also included. After reading this delightful book, all gardeners will want to grow and enjoy these uncommonly delicious fruits.
Lee Reich, PhD started out pursuing an academic career, a trajectory that came to an abrupt halt during his second year in graduate school while studying quantum chemistry. He dropped out, moved to Vermont to ponder, and, after a year, immersed himself in the study and practice of agriculture: reading popular and academic works, entering graduate school, and gardening like a madman.
After three graduate degrees, work work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Cornell University, and much dirt under his fingernails, he went off on his own as a freelance horticultural writer, consultant, and lecturer.
Out in the backyard, the garden developed and garnered awards ("Prettiest Vegetable Garden: from Organic Gardening magazine, "Best Vegetable Garden" from National Gardening magazine), and was featured in the New York Times and Martha Stewart Living. The garden also grew: Lee now considers himself a farmdener (more than a gardener, less than a farmer), tending his farmden in a small river valley in New York's beautiful Hudson River Valley.
