Perennial Vegetable Gardening with Eric Toensmeier

From the cloud-forest highlands of Mexico to the lowlands of Florida to his own Massachusetts backyard, Eric Toensmeier introduces viewers to dozens of edible perennials (many of which will likely be unfamiliar to viewers) in this program based on his 2007 book Perennial Vegetables. Toensmeier extols perennials as a labor-saving way of providing a steady supply of vegetables for the table or for sale, while also exploring new plants and tastes. He ranges far beyond the familiar asparagus and rhubarb, describing species such as air potatoes and Chinese yams, both of which grow above ground; good King Henry, a spinach substitute; sea kale (tastes like broccoli); water mimosa (your taste buds might think it's cabbage); fuki (parts of which have a celery-like flavor); and edible mulberries with high-protein leaves. Toensmeier also offers advice on soil preparation, site design, polyculture (combining different plants), weed and pest control, and pruning, while also presenting nutrition information and cooking tips. Especially impressive are his examples of inter-planting, which will make even a small plot super-productive. DVD extras include the downloadable PDF file “A Global Inventory of Perennial Vegetables.” Serving up a thorough exploration of the topic, this is highly recommended. Aud: P. (F. Gardner)