10 Best Garden Books 2025 in the United States

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.

"The New Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide" is a comprehensive resource highly suited for gardeners, especially those living in Western regions of the United States. With 768 pages, it covers a wide range of topics, offering practical tips, detailed plant information, and easy-to-follow projects tailored to local climates and soil types, making it valuable for regional gardening success.

The book’s 9th edition reflects updates and refinements over time, suggesting the authors have strong expertise and experience. It includes plenty of illustrations and photographs that help readers visualize plants and techniques, though some may find the print size and weight (over 2 pounds) less convenient for frequent handling.

This book is ideal for both beginners and experienced gardeners who want a detailed and region-specific guide, but those looking for the latest eco-friendly trends might want to supplement it with more recent resources, as some newer gardening trends or organic methods may be less emphasized due to the last update being from 2012.

'The Japanese Garden' is a well-presented book with 304 pages filled with illustrations, published by Phaidon Press. Its size and weight make it a substantial coffee table book rather than a quick read, suggesting it offers in-depth content. The book’s reputation and publisher imply a trustworthy source for anyone interested in Japanese garden design and culture.

The illustrations and photographs are a key strength, helping readers visualize traditional and modern Japanese garden elements. This makes it especially appealing for visual learners or those seeking inspiration for their own garden projects. However, the book may focus more on aesthetic and historical aspects than step-by-step gardening guides, so beginners looking for hands-on gardening tips might find it less practical.

Its regional relevance is global since Japanese gardens are appreciated worldwide, but readers outside Japan might want to consider how the plant choices and climate conditions apply locally. Those who appreciate garden books with rich visuals and cultural insight will find this a valuable addition to their collection.