Gaia's Garden, Second Edition: A Guide To Home-... Apr 2026

Toby Hemenway describes how to create a self-sustaining backyard ecosystem without chemical fertilizers or intrusive technology. Blackwell's Why you're seeing this ad unit

In Gaia's Garden, Second Edition: A Guide To Home-Scale Permaculture , Toby Hemenway challenges the idea that ecological gardening is only for large-scale properties, offering a practical framework for creating self-sustaining "backyard ecosystems" in urban and suburban settings. Core Philosophy and Themes

A preferred "no-dig" technique for building healthy, living soil by layering organic materials. Gaia's Garden, Second Edition: A Guide To Home-...

Emphasizing that a diverse range of species prevents waste and provides natural pest control through the presence of beneficial insects and birds.

Often available at retailers like Target , Half Price Books , and Barnes & Noble for roughly $15.00 to $29.95. Toby Hemenway describes how to create a self-sustaining

Groups of plants that support one another, often centered around a fruit tree to maximize yield and soil health.

Using swales (shallow ditches on contour) and ponds to catch and store water directly in the landscape. Emphasizing that a diverse range of species prevents

Designing layered, perennial gardens that mimic the structure of a young forest while producing fruits, nuts, and herbs. Shopping and Availability