The Garden Tool Handbook

232 pages. Temps de lecture estimé 2h54min.
Level up your growing with the right tool for every job Searching for effective, economical ways to level up your growing? The Garden Tool Handbook is the essential guide to choosing the right hand tool for the right job at the right time, and maximizing quality, efficiency, and profitability on your farm, homestead, or market garden. This richly illustrated, full-color resource is a must-read for serious gardeners, professional growers, edible landscapers, and anyone who wants to grow better. Carefully selected garden equipment is the first line of defense against pests, weeds, and drought; a helping hand at all stages of cultivation; and your greatest ally in crop management. Edible ecosystem expert Zach Loeks reveals the valuable information you need to optimize productivity including: How to ensure a smooth workflow and prevent labor bottlenecks by understanding the garden operation cycle from planting to harvest The advantages of tackling repetitive seasonal tasks with hand tools, such as ergonomic benefits, increased output, and more enjoyment Multifunctional equipment and professional tool systems for every operation from start-up to pro grower How smart, timely tool acquisitions can provide a high return on investment and improve your bottom line Case studies, farm use scenarios, maintenance and storage guidelines, pro tips, and more. The future of food is small-scale agriculture, and innovative, affordable garden implements adapted to specific crops, environments, and production styles are the key to revolutionizing our food system.PART 1: THE TOOLS The Beginning Extending Human Power All about Tools Tool Types Tool Design DIY or Buy Garden Operation Cycle Tool System Design Scale-Based Decision-Making Scaling-Up Tool Systems Scaling-Up Your Avatar PART 2: YOUR GARDEN OPERATION CYCLE Chapter 1: Site Analysis and Sampling Chapter 2: Garden Design and Crop Planning Chapter 3: Garden Starts Chapter 4: Primary Land Preparation Chapter 5: Plot and Permabed Forming         Case Study: Container Gardening Chapter 6: Fine Seedbed Preparation Chapter 7: Seeding and Planting Chapter 8: Irrigation Chapter 9: Garden Crop Maintenance Chapter 10: Crop Weeding Chapter 11: Garden Harvest Chapter 12: Season Extension Chapter 13: Post-harvest Handling and Curing Chapter 14: Cold Storage Chapter 15: Marketing Chapter 16: Cleanup and Maintenance Conclusion Resources List of Tool Companies and Suppliers Index About the Author Praise About New Society Publishers