The Modern Homestead Garden: Growing Self-Sufficiency in Any Size Backyard

Homesteading requires “actively engaging in a more self-sufficient lifestyle within the everyday demands of modern life,” advises Pilarchik, creator of the blog and YouTube channel the Rusted Garden, in his encouraging, practical debut. Pilarchik shows readers how to make the grocery store their “second stop” for food; to that end he describes three types of gardens (containers, raised, and earth beds) and offers tips for sunlight, soil (warning against a pursuit of perfection in this area), composting (which he calls “nature’s pH regulator”), and contending with pests and diseases. A sizable section on seeds addresses the best time to plant, along with profiles on various crops, such as warm weather favorites peppers, squash, and tomatoes, and cool weather varieties such as cauliflower, kale, and peas. He also provides instructions on canning, pickling, and freezing, along with a recipe for tomato sauce and advice on drying herbs. Pilarchik details a thorough, sensible approach to cultivating food and gardening in general: “We’re just helping Nature along.” This is a must-have for gardeners looking to deepen their connection with nature and with what they eat. (Feb.)