Nowhere do I claim to be a totally organic gardener, or that the books are about organic growing. I do believe in minimising chemical inputs, especially herbicides and pesticides so have offered the choice between conventional methods and organic methods throughout.
In fact I strongly disagree with some of the recommendations of the organic movement now. For example, the use of plastic sheeting to suppress weed growth and clear a patch. It strikes me that masses of torn bits of plastic made from hydrocarbons is not a green environmental solution.
I'm afraid I can't accept that use of glyphosate for an initial clearance of a site is "irresponsible". I make the point about using all chemicals strictly in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
The vast majority of scientific evidence is that glyphosate is safe for gardeners when used like that.
I cleared my first allotment manually and it was hard and lengthy work - having seen would be organic growers take on plots when they have neither the time or the energy to do it that way leads me to the conclusion they'd be better using a spray and actually coping with the plot rather than leaving a mess behind as they give up in despair.
In the 33 years since I met Lawrence D Hills, the founder of the HDRA and joined the HDRA, I've seen 'organic' gardening develop from a practical experimental method to a theological philosophy which is why I gave up my membership last year.
I appreciate your post, Rangerkriss, but I've nothing to hide and am quite happy to address criticisms.