The Beginner's Guide to Growing Vegetables, House Plants, Flowers, and Herbs Without Soil

by Richard E. Nicholls

Library Journal: ''An excellent nontechnical work for the beginner' is what LJ 's reviewer called the first edition of this book (LJ 2/15/78). Here, Nicholls updates information on the methods of soilless gardening, which include raising plants in containers of water, gravel, sand, rocks, brick, and even styrofoam. He discusses the particular problems of soilless gardening in terms of pest control and weather and light conditions. New to this edition is a list of manufacturers and suppliers of greenhouses and greenhouse accessories; hydroponic materials; lighting equipment; and seeds; as well as a suggested list for further reading on the subject.'

A reader: 'After finishing the first skim through, I was intrigued enough to go out and buy a growing unit. I ordered the one and planted the seeds they included. Then I reread the book again so I knew what to watch for and what to do. It was amazing! Here in California in the middle of winter and el nino and almost freezing temperatures the seeds sprouted in 11 days...outside on our patio. I highly recommend hydroponic gardening to everyone!!!'

Paperback - 127 pages