This bestselling title was the first book written about gardening using the Biointensive method as taught by famous horticulturist Alan Chadwick. Following several years of apprenticeship with Alan, John Jeavons put all of the essential points of this sustainable gardening technique together in one comprehensive book. This simple, practical and ecologically sound method of gardening, which increases yields by up to four times, is now being used in over 130 countries worldwide. Proper composting, soil aeration, close and companion planting form the cornerstone of the Biointensive method. A detailed chart provides essential information on virtually all possible crops that one can grow, including grains and legumes, in order to produce strong, healthy soil from which crops feed.