THE GARDEN JUNGLE OR GARDENING TO SAVE THE PLANET
by Dave Goulson Jonathan Cape, £16.99 ISBN 978-1787331358
Written in Dave Goulson’s quirky style, this response to habitat destruction and the resulting loss of biodiversity is a wonderful read.
Reviewer Hannah Gardner is a garden writer and horticulturist.
A science book that begins each chapter with a homely recipe is certainly different. Chosen, I’m sure, to inspire readers to engage with nature, and forage or grow their own food. I enjoyed the recipes, but this distinctive book stands alone as a well-informed and persuasive narrative that clarifies and explores the avoidable environmental damage inflicted on the natural world and the ongoing devastation of the countryside.
Dave Goulson wears his considerable academic authority lightly. As Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Sussex, he has spent decades studying bumblebees. Undoubtedly a call to arms, the focus of Garden Jungle may be backgarden in scale, but the wider context is agricultural and horticultural practices worldwide, and the shortfallings that have to change.
Myriad complex environmental subjects are
unravelled. Scientific studies are drawn upon, revealing fascinating detail and giving perspective. Twelve diverse chapters highlight what is happening and how we can contribute to positive change.
The value of meadows, the harm of pesticide use, destruction of peat lands and attitudes to invasive species are all considered. The life cycles of beetles, ants, moths and all-important earthworms are explored and from this the reader gains knowledge on how to garden with greater sensitivity to the planet. Further resources and helpful pointers for wildlifefriendly plant selection are listed at the back of the book.
Goulson reveals the stark choices that face gardeners, encouraging them to turn away from harmful, unsustainable horticultural practices and instead create a network of insect-friendly, pesticide-free, species-rich habitats that protect soil fertility and provide food.