Seeds: The Definitive Guide to Growing, History, and Lore

By Peter Loewer

Book Overview

Much of life on earth begins and ends with seeds. From the practical concerns of seed savers and collectors to the ancient lore, history, and biology of seeds, this is a must read for anyone interested in preserving seed biodiversity. Detailed advice on buying, storing and germinating, sterilizing soil, indoor to outdoor transplanting -- even building cold frames, is included. Blending science and hands-on experience, Seeds is fascinating, practical, and useful.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0881926825
• ISBN13: 9780881926828
• Release Date: January 2005
• Publisher: Timber Press (OR)
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.78 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.1" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Great source of information about seeds

"Seeds, The Definitive Guide to Growing, History & Lore" contains great information for the gardener about seeds - what a seed is, its anatomy, different types of seed, the history of seed, pollination, disperal, longevity - need I go on? It's obvious that Loewer has covered all the basics (and not-so basics), educating his readers about seeds. What I particularly like about this book is how Loewer disperses the history and lore of seeds throughout his book. Makes for an interesting and educating read. Although the book is not written specific to any certain specific type of seed, it goes into great detail about seeds in general. Using his information (esp in the chapter titled 'Soil Mixes, Equipment, and Planting Out), one should have no problems starting any type of plant from seed. A seed is a seed, afterall. Yes, some seeds require mechanical treatments for germination. I recommend to the grower that when planting a certain type of seed, go to the internet and research to see if that seed requires any mechanical treatment. Most seeds do not. A few of my favorite topics Loewer writes about in his book are the chemistry of seeds, seed heredity, the buying and selling of seeds, and the history and lore of storing and saving seeds. Also included in the book is an excellent listing of seed sources, including detailed information about the company (or source). I highly recommend this book as an addition to your gardening library. Other good sources for growing seeds are: "Seed to Seed" by Suzanne Ashworth, 'Seed Sowing and Saving' by Turner, and 'Saving Seed' by Rogers.