From a rugby hero’s garden to herbal remedies; from wood carving to backyard photography. This blog features loads of activities you can do to become a backyard genius.

Kiwi backyard : inspirational landscape design ideas and plans for your own backyard / Ellis, Andy
“This book features a wide range of backyards from Kiwi heroes Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Sir Graham Henry, Wayne Smith, Wyatt Crockett, Sir Richard Hadlee, Izzy Dagg, George and Kayla Whitelock, Jason Gunn, Razor Robertson, Dan Carter’s folks, Al Brown, Matt Watson and Jason Kerrison. Themes including the inner-city sanctuary, the native haven, the Kiwi kid’s playground, and the entertainer’s utopia” (Adapted from the Catalogue)

Wildlife photography at home : take great photos in your own backyard / Peters, Richard
This book is illustrated by the author’s professional work; his clients include National Geographic & Time amongst others. This book reveals more world-class image on a practical approach for taking stunning wildlife photographs. It comprehensively introduces natural-history and wildlife photography techniques alongside truly useful tips about what gear you’ll need in your pursuit of perfection.” (Adapted from the catalogue)

How to whittle : 25 beautiful projects to carve by hand / Nava, Josh
“Whittling, an age-old woodworking technique, is growing in popularity. This book presents 25 beautiful whittling projects to make, ranging from polished butter knives to custom-made coat hooks and serving boards. Full-color photography and step-by-step instructions guide whittling newbies through the process, from selecting and maintaining carving knives to mastering luxurious finishing techniques, ensuring success as they learn this craft.” (Adapted from the Catalogue)

Medicinal herbs for family health & wellness : 123 trusted recipes for common concerns, from allergies & asthma to sunburns & toothaches / Pursell, J. J.
“The bestselling author of The Herbal Apothecary and a trusted naturopath, shares 75 recipes for whole family health. Covers everything from asthma, allergies, and heart health, to pregnancy, lactation, cradle cap, and colic. The recipes include capsules, salves, teas, tinctures that are easy to create. You will also find value in a primer focused on powerful herbs.” (Adapted from the Catalogue)

Homesteading : a backyard guide to growing your own food, canning, keeping chickens, generating your own energy, crafting, herbal medicine, and more
“Wherever you live: farm, suburb, or even city – The Homesteading Handbook will show you how to embrace a more self-sufficient lifestyle. Learn to plan, plant, and harvest your own organic garden. Enjoy fruits and vegetables year-round by canning, drying, and freezing. Build and install alternate energy devices such as solar panels or geothermal heat pumps.” (Adapted from the Catalogue)

Natural cures & remedies : kitchen cupboard recipes and solutions for your health and home
“Heal and prevent common ailments and maintain a healthy, clean home using herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients that are already in your cupboard. In this beautifully illustrated guide, discover centuries-old recipes and methods to treat a whole range of conditions, from soothing teas to settle upset stomachs to simple homemade salves for burns and itchy skin.  ” (Adapted from the Catalogue)