Gardening with Less Water: Low-Tech, Low-Cost Techniques; Use Up to 90% Less Water in Your Garden

“We are running short on water in many parts of the world,” Bainbridge (A Guide for Desert and Dryland Restoration) states at the onset of his latest book, which outlines a clear and convincing approach to mitigating the problems of drought and the high costs of food and water. Aimed at gardeners, small-land holders, and homeowners, Bainbridge’s solution is based off an ancient method of plant irrigation, as described in a book written 2,000 years ago by Fan Shengzhi, an employee of the emperor of China hired to increase farm output. Bainbridge explains Fan’s method of buried clay pot irrigation in the first chapter and proceeds to outline the modern adaptation in detail in the following chapters. He also describes how to shelter trees and harvest rainwater, especially for gardeners in historically drought-riddled areas. He draws examples from all over the world, from Ghana to Arizona to Jordan; he presents statistics, tables, plans, and tips throughout. Bainbridge argues most passionately for water conservation in his last chapter, thoroughly convincing readers that this method is worth a try. (Jan.)