Grow twice the fruits and vegetables in half the space on the farm, in the backyard, or even in your window!

Have you noticed the extraordinary flavors and yields emanating from even a small garden when the soil is just right? If you've ever been envious of your neighbor's dirt or just curious about homesteading, then The Ultimate Guide to Soil is the perfect fit for you.

This first volume in the series walks new and experienced gardeners through fun and easy personality tests for their soil. You'll measure carrots, play with mud pies, and assess your weeds to get a big-picture idea of what's right or wrong with your dirt. Then follow Hess's tips to figure out which professional soil tests —- if any —- are necessary to bring your garden to the next level of ecosystem health.

With an emphasis on simple techniques suitable for the backyard gardener, The Ultimate Guide to Soil gives you the real dirt on good soil. Maybe next year your neighbor will be envious of you!