Slow Down and Grow Something

Book excerpt: Backyards, rooftops, courtyards and balconies are sprouting with herbs, ballooning with fruit and bursting with veggies across our urban landscapes. Slowly but surely people are embracing the joy of gardening, and the more relaxed lifestyle it brings. If the 24-hour social media cycle and fast-paced working week is dulling your shine, Slow Down and Grow Something is your doorway into the completely addictive world of urban growing, where you can pocket a slice of country life in the city, even if just for a few minutes a day. Growing your own mint for a mojito or rhubarb to make jam isn't just about producing food, rewarding as it is. It's an antidote to the relentless pursuit to 'do it all'. It doesn't matter the size of your space, or your skill, the garden is a place for anyone and everyone. Expert horticulturalist Byron Smith has created urban food oasis in even the tiniest of plots and, in this book, Byron and partner Tess Robinson give you the know-how to grow your favourite ingredients, and amazing recipes to make the most of your harvest from lemon, courgette and rosemary cake and potato, sage and pecorino tarts to cucumber and ginger smoothie and English spinach and chive pancakes. So tuck this book under your arm and grab a drink – the time to slow down and grow is now. The good life is waiting for you.