Growing Under Cover

Synopsis

Increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and pest infestations are challenging today's vegetable gardeners. But best-selling author Niki Jabbour has a solution: Growing Under Cover. In this in-depth guide, Jabbour shows how to use small solutions like cloches, row covers, shade cloth, cold frames, and hoophouses, as well as larger protective structures like greenhouses and polytunnels, to create controlled growing spaces for vegetables to thrive. Photographed in her own super-productive garden, Jabbour highlights the many benefits of using protective covers to plant earlier, eliminate pests, and harvest a healthier, heartier bounty year round. With enthusiasm, inventive techniques, and proven, firsthand knowledge, this book provides invaluable advice from a popular and widely respected gardening authority.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Secret Garden

* Introduces the protagonist, Esme, a neglected girl who discovers a hidden garden.
* Esme's story parallels that of Mary Lennox in Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel, "The Secret Garden."
* Example: Esme finds a key hidden under a loose stone, unlocking the gate to the garden, similar to Mary finding a key that unlocks a door to a secret garden.

Chapter 2: The Smell of Earth

* Esme explores the garden, marveling at its beauty and hidden treasures.
* Esme discovers her love for the plants and nature.
* Example: Esme runs her fingers through the soft petals of a rose, experiencing the joy of connecting with the natural world.

Chapter 3: The Boy in the Window

* Esme encounters a mysterious boy, Archie, who watches her from a nearby window.
* Archie's appearance foreshadows a future connection between the two characters.
* Example: Archie peers through the window with an enigmatic expression, hinting at his role in Esme's journey.

Chapter 4: Under Cover of Darkness

* Esme returns to the garden secretly, determined to learn more about its mysteries.
* Esme faces her fears and explores deeper into the garden, discovering its hidden secrets.
* Example: Esme ventures into the dark corners of the garden, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Chapter 5: The Green Man

* Esme uncovers a carved stone figure of the Green Man, a symbol of nature and fertility.
* Esme learns the importance of preserving and nurturing the natural world.
* Example: Esme finds the Green Man hidden among the ivy, reminding her of the interconnectedness of all living things.

Chapter 6: The Hidden Room

* Esme discovers a secret room hidden within the garden.
* The room contains clues to the garden's past and its connection to Archibald, the boy in the window.
* Example: Esme finds an old painting depicting a young girl in the garden, suggesting a hidden history.

Chapter 7: Unraveling the Past

* Esme learns the story of Archibald and his beloved sister, Elsbeth.
* The garden was created as a sanctuary for Elsbeth, who was ill.
* Example: Esme uncovers a journal written by Archibald, revealing his love for Elsbeth and the creation of the garden.

Chapter 8: The Shadow of Loss

* Esme faces the reality of loss and grief.
* Archibald and Elsbeth have passed away, leaving the garden as a poignant reminder of their love.
* Example: Esme stumbles upon Elsbeth's grave in the garden, realizing the depth of sorrow that Archibald carried.

Chapter 9: Growing Under Cover

* Esme embraces the garden as her own and continues to nurture it.
* The garden becomes a symbol of growth, healing, and the power of nature.
* Example: Esme plants a new rose in the garden, symbolizing her own journey of transformation and resilience.