Book: Garden on the Verge: A New Approach

We can turn a niche activity into the mainstream change needed to transform our cities.

Local action creates the hope and optimism needed for sustained action.

This strategic framework makes it scalable.

Table of Contents

Introduction

PART ONE: WHAT, WHERE, WHY

Chapter 1. The Promise

Chapter 2. What is a Verge?

PART TWO: HOW DO WE MAKE IT HAPPEN?

Chapter 3. Understand the Space

Chapter 4. Design for People and Planet

Chapter 5. Manage Your Expectations

PART THREE: WHAT’S NEXT

Chapter 6. Nurture Ecosystems

Conclusion

What Others Say

A small book with the goal to change the way we see what’s in front of our eyes and our homes. It asks us to consider making a small change, with potentially enormous benefits, both to prepare for increasing heat in our lives, and for developing deeper community connections. It is a joyful book, with both climate and civic benefits.

from When the world is so dark and so noisy, take some time to look down. Annabelle Lukin, Professor of Linguistics, Macquarie University.

The book is consciously sparing, refreshing, informative, optimistic, wise, grounded and gives a holistic view of the benefits, risks and how-to of nature strip gardening. It’s a framework for collaboration between individuals, councils and communities for the benefit of all.

from Short books, big impact. Anna Featherstone, author of Honey Farm Dreaming and Small Farm Success Australia, plus author mentor and publisher of Look-It’s Your Book! guide to self-publishing in Australia

What struck me most? Verge gardening isn’t just about plants, it’s about conversations. It’s about creating civic ecosystems where councils, residents, and community groups collaborate for greener, cooler, more connected streets.

from LinkedIn post Laura Aston, Wayfinder Labs.

How to Get the Book

Check your favourite independent bookstore or Council library. This information sheet (PDF) has all the details they need for ordering if they don’t already have it.

Buy direct from author (both paperback and ebook)

Online retailers

See Booktopia(AU) and Barnes & Noble (US).

Bulk Orders

Please contact me for bulk orders (20+), conference packs, and reselling opportunities.

See also Essential Skills in a Networked World, a guide for running community-based groups and networks, including verge garden projects.