Liberty Hyde Bailey's "The Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture" establishes American gardening and small-scale agriculture as equal to or superior to practices worldwide, detailing conditions, plants, and procedures. The work is notable for its in-depth descriptions of gardening techniques from a pre-industrial era, before motorized vehicles, widespread electricity, and modern pesticides and fertilizers. This historical perspective makes the volumes valuable for individuals interested in "greener" gardening practices.
The cyclopedia is a comprehensive reference, part of a larger body of work by Bailey including "Cyclopedia of American Horticulture" and the "Hortus" series. While scientific plant names may require updating, the procedures described remain of significant interest. The volumes offer an engaging reading experience, with random page access capable of substantially increasing a reader's knowledge.
Key concepts
- American gardening and small-scale agriculture — The subject matter of the cyclopedia, presented as equivalent to or better than global standards.
- Procedures for effective gardening — Detailed instructions on cultivation methods from a pre-industrial period.
- "Greener" gardening — A potential application for readers drawn to the historical, low-tech cultivation methods described.
- "Hortus" series — A related body of work by Liberty Hyde Bailey, including "Hortus," "Hortus Second," and "Hortus Third."