A-B-C of Vegetable Gardening

by Eben E. (Eben Eugene) Rexford

"A-B-C of Vegetable Gardening" by Eben E. Rexford is a practical gardening guide written in the early 20th century. This manual provides accessible advice for amateur gardeners, emphasizing the belief that anyone with a small plot of land can successfully grow a variety of vegetables with proper preparation and care. The book aims to dispel common misconceptions about the challenges of gardening, asserting that with the right knowledge and tools, anyone can cultivate a thriving garden. The opening of the book begins with a foreword that invites would-be gardeners to reconsider their apprehensions about starting a vegetable garden. Rexford argues that gardening does not require special training and encourages readers to embrace the enjoyment and benefits of growing their own food. He highlights that even small spaces can yield a significant amount of produce through effective techniques, such as intensive gardening and the use of labor-saving tools. The author also reinforces the idea that families can reap health benefits, economic savings, and satisfaction from cultivating their own vegetables and emphasizes the importance of engaging children and women in gardening activities. The initial chapters focus on preparation steps for a garden, including managing soil and understanding proper planting techniques to ensure a successful harvest.