Companion planting (aka intercropping) is a form of polyculture---planting species of plants together for mutual benefit. Although they cannot explain exactly why, scientists know that some of these relationships are due to the chemical secretions at the roots or the plant releasing certain gases. Mayer takes the reader through the required steps to establish a garden and begin companion planting. He supplies detailed information regarding picking partners--with herbs, vegetables, annuals, perennials, wildflowers, bulbs, shrubs, and fruits. Chapters are: getting started; how to start companion planting; critters in your garden; nourishment for every garden; garden maintenance; companion herbs; description of vegetables; annuals for your garden; companion perennials; wildflowers and weeds; bulbs, tubers, and rhizomes; shrubs, bushes, and vines; companion fruits. Annotation ©2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)