Jekka's Complete Herb Book

Jekka McVicar

This is one of the all-time classic gardening bestsellers with over 350 varieties of herb to grow and over 200 delicious and inventive recipes. It is a spread-by-spread reference work bringing together all aspects of an individual herb - history and folklore, species to grow and cosmetic, medicinal and culinary uses. Chapters on propagation, harvesting and making herb oils are complemented with ideas for 10 different designs for herb gardens and a yearly calendar. Accurate colour photography means that identification for the reader is simple as well as making the book a glorious companion - the only book on the subject the reader will ever need.

Summary by Waterstones

Media Reviews:

“A joy to read”

So far this book has delivered instructions on all that I have needed. Some of my herbs didn't seem to be doing so well so I have consulted Jekka and found instructions on how to remedy the problems. All is neatly and logically set out with the common and latin names given, being in alphabetical order using the latter. It's a joy to use. I had never used composted fine bark before but this seems to be useful in breaking up John Innes composts that have been based on clay type soils. Most of my herbs are in containers for which Jekka gives full instructions if appropriate. This book is an excellent investment.

Garden Fiend

GrowMad Book Review Reviewed by

I would definitely agree with the rave reviews this book has achieved. It is so comprehensive and set out in an accessible and consistent way. It is good to have actual photogrpahs instead of illustrations. This helps with identification. I especially liked the introduction of each herb and the history behind them- so interesting. I have come across many plants that are already in the garden that I would not have realised could be classified as herbs.

A great book, either for growing herbs, or purely for general interest. The only thing I would note is that the herbs are listed in alphabetical order on their Latin names, rather than common names- so I did need to go to the index rather than flicking through to find a particular plant. 

I feel another trip to the garden centre is approaching to increase my herb collection!

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