Upper South
July, 2004
Regional Report
Web Finds
Organic Information
For in-depth information on growing organically, visit the Web site of the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, funded by the Department of Agriculture and managed by the National Center for Appropriate Technology. Although the site is designed to provide information and other technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, extension agents, educators, and others involved in sustainable agriculture in the United States, backyard gardeners will also benefit from the compehensive publications available. The Soils Page includes information on soil management, testing and fertilization, manures, compost, and green manures as well as extensive links.
Books
Better Soil
In a straightforward, practical style, Elizabeth P. Stell presents Secrets to Great Soil: A Grower's Guide to Composting, Mulching, and Creating Healthy, Fertile Soil for Your Garden and Lawn (Storey Books, 1998; $28.95). Lots of line drawings, charts, and sidebar features makes the wealth of infomation in this book readily accessible to both beginning and experienced gardeners. The book not only provides information on the obvious, such as how to identify soil types and how to remedy deficiences, but also has information on hand and power tools plus six different composting methods.
