annieb123
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Complete Guide to DIY Greenhouses 3rd Edition is a reformat and a re-release update of the classic reference by the editors of Black & Decker. Due out 13th June 2023 from Quarto on their Cool Springs Press imprint, it's 240 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats (ebook format available now). Originally published in 2011, this is the third edition and is updated with some new photography and new code/construction/materials.
One thing that characterizes these Black & Decker reference guides is the uniform logical layout. The books are streamlined and information is grouped thematically in chapters - so relevant info is easy to find and easy to use. The introduction includes a solid overview over safety, project design and materials choices, siting, and more. The following chapters build on one another: project tutorials, upcycling materials and building cold frames, and companion project tutorials. The editors have also included resource lists, metric equivalence charts, and a useful cross referenced index.
The emphasis throughout is on clearly written information which is correct, up-to-date, and safety conscious. Tutorials are accompanied by step by step instructions and photos. Materials and tools are clearly labeled and listed in bullet lists throughout the text. Measurements throughout (as well as standards for code-work) are given in imperial (American standard) units.
Five stars. This is a great resource for DIYers, homeowners, and would be a good choice for school and public library acquisition. All the books in this series are well written, accessible, and safety conscious.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.