What could be better than freshly harvested asparagus from your own garden or the aroma of a sun-ripened, home-picked tomato? These are taste experiences known only to a gourmet gardener! This beautifully designed handbook vividly and knowledgeably presents over 60 old and new vegetable varieties and explains how you can grow them in your own plot. Many of the described plants have a long and fascinating history - Simon Akeroyd shares how they made their way into our gardens and onto our plates. Additionally, he provides numerous practical tips on cultivation and storage, as well as recipes and advice for subsequent preparation. The individual vegetable portraits are complemented by explanations of overarching topics such as composting, sowing methods, or gardening in small spaces. Practical tips for growing over 60 vegetable varieties.