10 Best Garden Books 2025 in the United States

The Old Farmer's Almanac Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook is a handy guide for both novice and experienced gardeners. It offers step-by-step advice on growing over 30 types of vegetables, making it versatile for any gardening zone. The book covers essential topics like soil testing, seed-starting, and saving methods in a simplified manner, which could be very helpful for beginners.

It also includes tips on growing alternatives to traditional raised beds and provides useful information on companion planting. One of its strengths is the inclusion of more than 150 full-color photographs, which can make the learning process more visual and engaging. This handbook also features space for gardeners to note their observations and experiences, adding a personal touch to the learning journey. Additionally, it promises enlightening and humorous anecdotes from fellow gardeners, making the reading experience more enjoyable.

While it offers a wealth of information and practical advice, it might not cover region-specific gardening nuances extensively, which can be a drawback for those looking for highly localized guidance. The book's compact size and weight (6.75 x 0.75 x 8.75 inches, 1.18 pounds) make it easy to handle and reference while working in the garden. Published by the Old Farmer's Almanac, the handbook is backed by a reputable source, adding to its credibility. This book is ideal for general vegetable gardening enthusiasts looking for a blend of practical advice and engaging content.

Plantopedia: The Definitive Guide to Houseplants is a comprehensive and visually appealing book designed for both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. The content is rich, focusing on a wide variety of houseplants, which helps readers to identify and care for many different species. The author, who is well-versed in the subject, provides reliable and expert advice.

The high-quality illustrations and photographs stand out, making it easy to recognize plants and understand the care instructions provided. The book also offers practical tips and projects that are easy to follow, allowing readers to apply what they have learned directly to their own indoor gardens.

However, the book's regional relevance might vary depending on where you live, as it doesn't fully tailor advice to different climates. Weighing nearly 4 pounds and spanning 416 pages, it's a hefty book—great for detailed study but less so for quick reference. 'Plantopedia' is best suited for houseplant enthusiasts seeking a thorough and visually enjoyable guide.

Bunny Williams: Life in the Garden is a comprehensive guide that offers both inspiration and practical advice for garden enthusiasts. Written by Bunny Williams, a renowned garden designer with extensive expertise, the book showcases her wealth of knowledge and experience in gardening. This hardcover book is beautifully presented with 408 pages of rich content, including stunning illustrations and photographs that bring the gardens to life and provide visual inspiration for readers.

The book is substantial in size, measuring 10.3 x 1.8 x 12.3 inches and weighing 5.9 pounds, making it more suited for a coffee table than for carrying around. The publication by Rizzoli, a reputable publisher, adds credibility to the book's quality and content. While the book excels in showcasing beautiful garden designs and offering practical tips, its regional relevance may be a consideration for some readers.

Depending on where you live, some of the gardening advice may need to be adapted to your local climate and conditions. If you have an interest in garden design, appreciate detailed illustrations, and seek advice from an expert in the field, this book will likely be a valuable addition to your collection. However, if you are looking for a lightweight, portable guide or something very specific to your region, you might want to consider additional resources.