I’ve learned from so many extraordinary gardeners, it’s hard to know where to begin saying thank you. I appreciate every tip, every piece of advice, every seed or seedling, and especially every taste I’ve so graciously been given over the years. It would be foolhardy to tell you there is only one way to garden in the Northeast. Gardening is an ongoing experiment in speculation, and nature is constantly changing the rules. A seasoned gardener is made from hands-in-the-soil experience and give and take with other gardeners. In this book, I share what I’ve learned from both.
Books don’t get written in isolation, either. I follow on the heels of authors Lorene Edwards Forkner and Ira Wallace, who got this series of books joyfully underway. I’d be remiss in not mentioning my gratitude for my wonderful agent, Barb Doyen, who saw a book in me before I did (and for her Southwest gardening updates while my garden is still cloaked in snow). Once again, I am amazed by the team at Timber Press, especially Mollie Firestone and Juree Sondker, for their patience, skill, and unfailing guidance. And I was delighted to have another chance to work with Lisa Theobald, who can make sense of my thoughts, even when I’m fumbling for them.
And, as always, huge thanks to my incredible husband, Michael, for never questioning my sanity as deadlines approach, in print or in the garden.