Organic Gardening readers are divided among those who love Mike McGrath (former editor and present essayist) and those who don't understand what the big deal about Mike McGrath is. I admit that I'm in the latter category. I find his essays to be scattered and poorly written, devoid of information that's useful to me. I also don't read gardening magazines for their humor, as I find gardening jokes to be one of the lowest forms of humor, barely above puns. I read gardening magazines for information, not joviality.
By the way, I do enjoy Mike McGrath's new radio show You Bet Your Garden on WHYY out of Philadelphia. You can listen to the most current show by visiting www.whyy.org.
Great for Beginners
For those who are new to gardening or have just decided to switch from unnatural gardening practices, Organic Gardening is perfect. The articles in the magazine provide information on the basics of good growing and do it in an attractive format. On this level, there can be no complaints.
As the Seasons Wear On...
As a reader matures and becomes more comfortable with the basics, however, Organic Gardening may begin to feel a little bit skimpy. The magazine isn't that thick to begin with, and the same old ideas are presented year after year. There isn't much nuance or creativity to the articles. In fact, after a few months they begin to feel somewhat formulaic. The insightful reader will also recognize a strident tone in the magazine's defenses of Organic Gardening practices. The editors take the benefits of organic methods as a matter of faith, and this lack of objectivity does not always serve them well. If you begin to tire of Organic Gardening, I suggest moving on to a more sophisticated publication such as Horticulture. No, it isn't pure organic, but you can read between the lines.
All in All...
Basically, Organic Gardening is a quality magazine. It sure is refreshing to read a gardening publication that doesn't recommend a spray for every problem. I can't give an unequivocal recommendation, but I'd suggest buying a copy from the newsstand. If the issue appeals to you, you'll most likely enjoy what a year's subscription will provide.
6 issues - Since 1942, Organic Gardening Magazine has been delivering well-researched, practical and timely information and useful products and servic...More at SuperMagDeals.com
6 issues - Since 1942, Organic Gardening Magazine has been delivering well-researched, practical and timely information and useful products and servic...More at Subscription Addiction
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