The Field and Garden Vegetables of America

The Field and Garden Vegetables of America describes approximately 1100 different species and subtypes of vegetable native or introduced to the North American continent, and tells the reader how to grow them.


We find here a stunning and detailed compendium of vegetable types rich in information and tireless in its detail. Reprinted several times and a frequent sight in the American kitchen or farmstead during the late 19th century, this text was applauded for its dedication to detail and methodology.


Many of the vegetable types within this book will appear unusual to the modern reader; as standards normalized across the food industry, the more unusual forms of vegetables - such as carrots or turnips - were excluded. As such, these subspecies have become obscure and known only to those with intimate experience in vegetable cultivation and farming. Frequently, the modern supermarket aisle or even farmer's markets will contain only one or two varieties of a given vegetable crop - in reality scores will exist, each with different tastes and nutritional profiles.


Each entry contains detailed instructions on how to plant, propagate and tend to respective vegetables. The type of soil necessary for optimal growth and hardiness, and the methods of picking or harvesting each species, is detailed. Burr simply names the varieties, discusses their appearance, and any deviations from the growing methodology peculiar to a respective type of vegetable.


Fearing Burr was an experienced farmer, merchant and horticulturist who developed an encyclopaedic knowledge of North America's vegetable species in his private time. This book represents the culmination of decades of research and time spent discovering and categorizing the vegetable life of his nation. Although a businessman, he was a quiet and contemplative character who conducted his affairs with wisdom and steady caution.