Home > Books > Book details

The Beginner's Guide to Growing Heirloom Vegetables: The 100 Easiest-to-Grow, Tastiest Vegetables for Your Garden

By Marie Iannotti

Heirloom vegetables often have a great story behind them, but it's really all about the flavor.

Why did Angela Nardello sew pepper seeds into the hem of her skirt before setting sail from Italy bound for America? It wasn't so that she would have a tale to tell her grandchildren. It was because 'Jimmy Nardello', which she named after her son, is a one-of-a-kind pepper with a fresh, fruity sweetness that resembles ripe cherries. Or what about 'Aunt Molly's', the ground cherry tomato that traveled all the way from Poland? With its sweet blend of pineapple, strawberry, and citrus notes, it's perfect for making a delectable tomato jam.

Heirloom expert Marie Iannotti brings us the fascinating stories, but more importantly, she tells us which varieties are the easiest to grow and the tastiest to eat, and how to cultivate each one successfully.

If you've never tasted the meaty and mellow 'Lacinato' kale or the unexpected sweetness of 'Apollo' arugula — or if you have tasted them and want more — The Beginner's Guide to Growing Heirloom Vegetables is your guide to growing the best vegetables.

Filed under: beginner, food plants, new books, plant directory, vegetables, cultivation, nuts and seeds

Format: Paperback
Pages: 252 pp.
Book dimensions: 7½ x 9½ in. (240 x 190 mm.)
Images: 108 color photos
ISBN-10: 1604691883
ISBN-13: 9781604691887
Product code: 689188

Media reviews

"Ideal for beginners, but it will also appeal to experienced gardeners and every cook interested in securing the most luscious and alluring vegetables."

—Booklist

"A friendly introduction to the vast world of heirlooms which are good for the palate and great for the planet. ... Iannotti will hold the garden gloved hands of those who are new to the old reliables."

—Publishers Weekly

About the author

Marie Iannotti

Marie Iannotti writes the gardening guide for About.com. Marie's garden writing has been featured in newspapers and magazines nationwide, and she has been interviewed for Martha Stewart Radio and National Public Radio.