Success with Small Fruits

"Success with Small Fruits" by Edward Payson Roe is a horticultural guide written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the cultivation of small fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, and currants, emphasizing the importance of techniques and conditions necessary for successful gardening. Roe aims to inspire readers to return to gardening and relish the joys of growing their own fruits, harkening back to the primordial connection humans share with nature. The opening of the book sets the tone for Roe’s passionate advocacy of gardening by making a compelling case for the personal and societal benefits of cultivating small fruits. He discusses the neglect of fruit gardening in contemporary society, highlighting the simple joys and health benefits these endeavors can bring. He artfully reflects on the historical context of gardening and alludes to both personal anecdotes and interactions with other horticulturists to ground his advice. Furthermore, Roe establishes a conversational and engaging narrative style throughout the opening, inviting readers to join him on a journey through the pleasures and practicalities of fruit gardening as he lays the foundational concepts for the chapters that follow.