Subtitle: 26 Herbs Everyone Should Grow and Enjoy by Charles Smith (ISBN: 9781603425285)
Another book picked from the library shelf based on its title and availability - and a great find! For anyone looking to learn about herbs this is a well put together book. Most of the book focuses on the 26 herbs, though the concise introduction written by Edward Smith (author of "The Vegetable Gardener's Bible) covers basic growing information. This really is a focused guide for beginners. Mixed in with the individual herb listings are many recipes to incorporate these herbs into your kitchen. Each herb listing has a description, photo, guides to growing and harvesting, uses and preservation. The author even includes commonly accepted companion planting information (when available)and culinary connections.
The herbs features are not specific to the Midwest, the USA, or even N. America. They were chosen because of the frequent occurrence of the herb in our kitchens or plant nurseries. A possible negative of this book is that it may not contain the herb you're interested in growing. But with so many books suffering from too many listings and not enough individual information, this book is a refreshing change.
Pros: Great introduction in growing and using these 26 herbs.
Cons: Only covers 26 herbs.
Bottom Line: If you're looking for a quick guide to what herbs to focus your energy on, pick up this book. It's exactly right.
Would I buy this for my library? Yes. The information is concise, well presented, and detailed. It's now on my list.
Which 26 herbs are in this book? These: anise hyssop, basil, bay laurel, bee balm, borage, calendula, caraway, catnip, chives, cilantro, dill, fennel, garlic, hyssop, lavender, lemon balm, lemon verbena, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme.
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