A Rich Spot of Earth - Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello by Peter Hatch

Illustrated Book Beautifully Details One Of The Most Famous Gardens In Plow & Hearth's Native State

Graced with nearly 200 full-color illustrations, "A Rich Spot of Earth" is the first book devoted to all aspects of the Monticello vegetable garden. Author Peter Hatch guides the reader from the asparagus and artichokes first planted in 1770 through the horticultural experiments of Jefferson's retirement years (1809-1826). He also explores topics ranging from labor in the garden, garden pests of the time, and seed-saving practices to contemporary African American gardens. In addition, Hatch discusses Jefferson's favorite vegetables and the hundreds of varieties he grew, the half-Virginian half-French cuisine he developed, and the gardening traditions he adapted from many other countries. A must for garden lovers and history buffs alike!

As Director of Gardens and Grounds at Monticello since 1977, Peter J. Hatch has been responsible for the maintenance, interpretation, and restoration of its 2,400-acre landscape. He has written several previous books on Jefferson's gardens and is an advisor for First Lady Michelle Obama's White House kitchen garden. He lives in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Thomas Jefferson, our first epicurean President, championed vegetable cuisine, plant experimentation and sustainable agriculture. Our shared central Virginia heritage and mutual joy of gardening make an association with Monticello a natural connection. Join us at our booth as we celebrate Jefferson's legacy on gardening at the Heritage Harvest Festival at Monticello, in Charlottesville VA, September 14-15, 2012.

• "A Rich Spot of Earth" by Peter Hatch
• Hardcover book by the Director of Gardens and Grounds at Monticello
• Foreward by Alice Waters, owner of Chez Panisse, author and food activist
• Contains 201 full-color illustrations
• 288 pages

Size
Approx. 10-1/4" x 8-3/4" x 1"