A Reading List for Diehard Gardening Enthusiasts!

With the advent of global warming and climate change, this book on growing plants that will survive even in dry landscapes seems more important now more than ever. Author Beth Chatto is noted for her expansive gravel gardens and her philosophy of ‘right plants, right places’ is definitely one that many could benefit from.

‘All bugs aren’t bad’ is the message behind this book that is all about ‘in with the good bugs and out with the bad ones’. Walliser teaches gardeners all about the importance of pollinators and carnivorous insects in their garden to keep the harmful pests at bay to ensure a fruitful and healthy harvest, sans any pesticides. This book which won the 2015 American horticultural society award is especially if great help to organic gardeners who are just starting out in the field.

Messner enlists the help of artist Christopher Silas to bring her lyrical prose to life with his cute illustrations. This book is great to teach kids about the coexistence of plants and creatures big and small in the garden- from lurking skunks, slithery snakes and burrowing worms which live in harmony with the greenery, sprouts and ripening fruit and veg.

 Potted plants were the third biggest guilty pleasure during the pandemic, alongside the infamous Dalgona coffee and banana bread. In this book, Catherine Horwood revisits their popularity as well as fluctuation in how they’ve been perceived over the years- From humble beginnings in the 17th century to becoming a permanent fixture in Edwardian and Victorian society to our current fascination with the same. The latest edition is also updated to fit with the modern day green revolution that they’ve given rise to. I told you, the potted plants are definitely taking over (step aside, AI).

Psychiatrist and psychotherapist Sue Stuart Smith delves into the power of gardens in nurturing mental well-being and easing symptoms of stress, depression and addiction. The book features personal and family experiences of the author, as well as international case studies.

This book doesn’t just feature an interesting and eye catching title, but also covers up to 100 + questions and answers on topics ranging from sustainable gardening to harmfulness of garden lights and store bought compost and is your guide to growing pest proof veggies. It also explores the evolution of gardening and where the future of gardening is headed. You’ll be pleased to know that it’s also packed with fun DIY projects to keep your busy in quarantine and low budget ideas as well.

The author speaks about her mycologist father’s archive collections which are considered as the world’s biggest, about the historical importance of gathering botanical data as well as the pivotal role played by the same in the field of conservation and for future generations. The book features in depth analysis which are further made interesting and visually appealing with the help of colourful and arresting illustrations, maps and materials gathered from the New York botanical gardens.

If you live in an urban apartment or only have a tiny balcony, then this book is for you! It emphasizes the positives of compact plots and the ease as well as affordability of small city gardens. It consists of ideas and real-life case studies, so you can now boast of your own little calming green space within the confines of that tiny balcony and indulge in your green thumb sans any restrictions!