This exciting project book for children aged 7-14 combines creative play with eco-awareness, while supporting STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, art, maths). Thirty fun ideas range from building a wind turbine and a go-kart to creating light, growing vegetables, making green gifts, and more. By cleverly combining creativity with eco-awareness, this timely book encourages children aged 7-14 to put down their mobile devices and get involved. From building a wind turbine and a go-kart to creating light, growing vegetables, and making green gifts, Eco Kids Self Sufficiency Handbook offers a wide range of ways to capture the imagination and make a positive contribution to the world around us. Thirty exciting projects support integrated STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, art, maths). With easy to follow step-by-step instructions and photographs, no project is too difficult for children to complete with adult supervision.

Allotment gardening is becoming increasingly popular as people discover that growing their own organic vegetables, fruits and herbs is an attractive and achievable option. Allotment gardening also has additional benefits: it's an excellent way to take exercise and be sociable, and it can be therapeutic. "The Allotment Specialist" is crammed with practical information on every aspect of growing produce on an allotment. Beginning with the basics, it includes tips on choosing a plot, preparing the soil, crop rotation, planting the beds, and weed and pest control. Year-round calendars provide at-a-glance information on key tasks and give pointers on keeping allotments productive all year round. Comprehensive, A-Z directories of vegetables and fruits guide readers through the most popular varieties, their soil and site needs, and the best times and methods for sowing, planting and harvesting. With reliable, practical information and an easy-to-use format, this is the perfect companion for every current or prospective allotment owner.

For those without the time or stamina to spend hours maintaining a garden, well-known experts Alan and Gill Bridgewater offer an easy-care method with minimal digging and weeding. They show how to make raised beds, build up soil with mushroom compost, cover weeds with mulch, and protect plants with nets and plastic--all using organic methods whenever possible. A must for every gardener.

Ponds and water features have been popular in gardens for thousands of years. This book is aimed at anyone who is thinking of building a pond, anyone who has bought some of the materials but doesn't know how to start or anyone who has a pond and needs to know how to keep it at its best.The book starts with the basics of assessing the garden, checking the site, planning and preparation, tools and materials and electrical wiring and safety. With the basics established the authors introduce the many different types of pond and how they can be created, maintained and enhanced.From split-level ponds to wildlife ponds, plant and fish and adding sculptures, bird houses, stones and bridges, each subject is presented in a clear way with box features, lists and questions and answers. The final chapter looks at water features - a rock pool or stream for a large garden or a small wall mask or trough for a tiny back garden.

One of the special joys of having outdoor space is the wildlife it attracts and this Specialist volume helps gardeners turn their little plot of land into an animal-friendly haven. Concise and easy to use, It gives expert advice on planning and planting to create an ideal environment for birds, butterflies, reptiles, and mammals a place where these wild creatures will find everything they need to survive and thrive. There s pond-building guidance, instructions for assembling and siting nesting boxes and feeders, ideas for both town and country gardens, and advice on making the area pet- and child-safe."

All about building entrances to the home. Detailed charts for identification of parts and joints, steps for constructing and hanging, exercises for perfecting building skills, and dozens of designs.

Novice gardeners and experts alike will appreciate this practical advice on virtually every aspect of gardening-from choosing a plot to selecting flowers and water features. The instructions and advice encompass plans and proven techniques for planting traditional English, Japanese, herb, and rock gardens, and building structures such as fences and walls, arches, pergolas and trellises, as well as decking and pathways. More than 300 colour photographs, illustrations and diagrams ensure that anyone can create a glorious garden.

From the decorative to the practical, Brickwork Projects for Patio & Garden offers a range of projects for all levels of expertise. Sixteen original projects range from a simple garden wall to a beautiful raised herringbone patio. Each project has been photographed step-by-step during construction and the finished piece is shown in its garden setting. Clear construction diagrams and concise text accompany every project. A comprehensive techniques section provides expert advice and information on designing, planning, tools, materials, foundations, concrete, mortar and cutting and laying brick. This attractive and accessible DIY book is full of ideas for creating practical garden features using this simple and traditional material.

16 stylish outdoor projects, from trellises and planters to decking, fences, chairs, benches, tables, sheds, pergolas and more. Each project includes easy to follow step-by-step instructions, colour photographs, clear construction diagrams, and materials lists. Wood is the ideal material for creating fabulous garden features. Whatever the size or style of your garden, this book will provide a wealth of inspiring ideas for enhancing your outdoor space. Authors and renowned DIY experts Alan and Gill Bridgewater also provide comprehensive advice on cutting and preparing wood, fixing joints, finishing and maintaining outdoor wooden structures.

What could be a more refreshing addition to a garden than the sight and sound of bubbling, gurgling, flowing water? This lushly illustrated guide gives an overview of various exquisite styles, with advice on planning, construction, oxygenation and filtration.Inspirational pictures and diagrams showcase a willow pattern, castaway island and Japanese water gardens. In addition to information on stocking ponds with plants, fish and other aquatic life, there is full coverage of maintenance, improvements and troubleshooting.

Patios is the essential guide to enhancing outdoor spaces with attractive patios, divisions, levels, seating areas, walkways, and more. From city backyards to country gardens, nothing adds distinction like a well-constructed patio. Here you'll find advice, inspiration, and hundreds of achievable designs to develop the patio you've always wanted. Build a barbeque area, create a cozy nook, or restore an existing patio to its original elegance. This all-in-one reference is perfect for beginners and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Global warming. Rising fuel prices. Dependency on foreign energy. Never have so many Americans been more motivated to invest in renewable energy right in their residence. Leaving the technical jargon and contractor's lingo behind, this book offers clear, practical solutions that any homeowner can put to use right now.
Cutting through the confusing requirements and costs, the book allows average homeowners to find solutions that best fit their set-up, lifestyle and budget by explaining each possible energy solution with clear, practical illustrations and straight-forward descriptions.
From which type of solar panel fits your roof and sun exposure to finding the most efficient part of your yard to set up a small wind turbine to determining if geothermal energy is an option, Renewable Energy for Your Home is packed with hints, tips and do-it-yourself instructions to reduce carbon footprints and save on ever-rising energy bills.