ROOTS, SHOOTS, BUCKETS AND BOOTS is a delightful introduction to gardening for children and the people who cherish them. The book is grounded on the idea that gardening should be shared with kids at a young age, the better to nurture a lifetime of healthy pleasure and respect for nature: therefore, learning how to grow things should be a fun experience, without a lot of restrictions, rules and long waiting to see results. Every project is scaled for children -- with a little help from parents - to be quick, do-able and fun.
Parents will appreciate that the theme gardens in RSB&B will not send them running to the local garden center to charge up a small fortune in tools and materials. In keeping with organic horticultural practices, the author explains simple, homemade composting techniques and recipes to build soil and feed plants. Whenever possible, readers are encouraged to use found objects around the house and garage for cultivating and planting: she gives "permission" to dig and work the soil with spoons and forks, pot up potatoes in colanders and herb gardens in old gardening boots, and find new purpose for rusty old wagons as movable feasts of annual flowers.
Kids can't help but learn quite a bit from their experiences in sowing and growing. The author opens up a world of wonderment that tantalizes kids to learn from the changes and growth taking place. She subtly encourages kids to watch for all the insect and animal life their gardens will attract. RSB&B is densely packed with fun factoids like, "Run your fingers over the pumpkin vines. Farmers use them to protect the plots of other crops" and "If you like the taste of licorice, you won't be able to pass your fennel without nibbling. Fennel is called the weight-watcher's herb because it satisfies an appetite."
Designed with humor and illustrated with charm, RSB&B will prompt people of all ages to rediscover why they love playing outside in the sun, fresh air and dirt.
Great for beginning gardeners to the seasoned gardeners - helps you plan your garden from start to finish with tips on how to get your kids involved and enjoying it. I highly recommend this book.