When I’m not gardening, I’m thinking about gardening! If you love to dream, scheme and then make an actual plan over the winter, here are 5 informative and inspirational books.
Xeriscape Colorado by Connie Lockhart Ellefson and David Winger is my go-to book for plant water requirement ratings. The book expounds on the basic xeriscape principles and includes extensive plant lists.
Pretty Tough Plants is the sequel to Durable Plants for the Garden compiled by the Plant Select program. Beautiful, color pictures, and detailed maintenance information for plants tested and proven in our specific environment.
Sunset’s Western Garden Book set the standard for beginning gardeners. The original book was published in 1954; the 9th edition was published in 2012. It reads a bit like a textbook, but well presented. Plenty of illustrations and real-world applications.
The Truth about Organic Gardening by Jeff Gillman covers everything from soil amendments to insecticide to repelling deer. Just because a substance is organic doesn’t mean it’s a good idea or even that it’s safe. With a good dose of humor, Gillman covers the benefits, drawbacks and bottom line on both organic and synthetic options.
The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben is a fascinating book exploring how trees feel and how they communicate. After reading this book, I wondered if perhaps the plants are actually sentient.
