Grow better not bigger with proven low-tech, human-scale,
biointensive farming methods
Les Jardins de la Grelinette is a micro-farm located in Eastern Quebec,
just north of the American border. Growing on just 1.5 acres, owners
Jean-Martin and Maude-Helene feed more than 200 families through their
thriving CSA and seasonal market stands and supply their signature
mesclun salad mix to dozens of local establishments. The secret of their
success is the low-tech, high-yield production methods they've developed
by focusing on growing better rather than growing bigger, making their
operation more lucrative and viable in the process.
The Market Gardener is a compendium of La Grelinette's proven
horticultural techniques and innovative growing methods. This complete
guide is packed with practical information on:
- Setting-up a micro-farm by designing biologically intensive cropping
systems, all with negligible capital outlay;
- Farming without a tractor and minimizing fossil fuel inputs through
the use of the best hand tools, appropriate machinery and minimum
tillage practices;
- Growing mixed vegetables systematically with attention to weed and
pest management, crop yields, harvest periods and pricing approaches.
Inspired by the French intensive tradition of maraichage and by iconic
American vegetable grower Eliot Coleman, author and farmer Jean-Martin
shows by example how to start a market garden and make it both very
productive and profitable. Making a living wage farming without big
capital outlay or acreages may be closer than you think.
