Gardening Books for going Deeper

Gardening Books for going Deeper. June 24, 2025. It has been a while since I shared some book selections, but lately I have stumbled onto some gardening books put out by the University of Chicago Press. These gardening books are best described as “going a little deeper”. I have read many lovely gardening books that are great for the hobby gardener who wants to learn how to garden. However, if you wish to build on the stores of your practical knowledge with a bit of science and history and advice then you may these books helpful. If your garden is where you spend all your extra time and you are a full-fledged member of the geek society who happens to enjoy collecting books as well then you may enjoy these books.

Most of these are not available at the free library. However, Amazon or Thrift Books is a great place to look for new/used copies. There is also the library.

Gardening Books for going Deeper

• Lessons from the Great Gardeners by Matthew Biggs. This book is a collection of small articles on different gardens and gardeners in history who have had an impact on gardening culture. It is more about design than anything else, so if the history of garden design and origins interests you this book might be worth a look.

• Thoughtful Gardening by Robin Lane Fox. Contrary to what the title implies this book is a humorous and lighthearted look at the ups and downs of gardening with Robin Lane Fox, historian and gardener. The British wit comes through in a way reminiscent to Beverly Nichols Down the Garden Path. There is value in reading through the lens of mistakes because rarely are things perfect in the garden. Many of the current books I have read are beautiful and I love to look through. However, many are missing the element of trial by fire that has embedded wisdom into the gardening greats. It is also good for keeping our own wits and sense of humor in this endeavor. I am filling my own storehouses with humorous stories at Hidden Bluff.

• The Illustrated Dictionary of Gardening by George Nicholson. This book published in 1884 is exactly what is says it is. It is a plant reference guide filled with gardening terms and tips. However, I only recommend this for the truly scholarly who will appreciate its historical value as well.

• Plant Families by Ross Bayton and Simon Maughan. This book gives an easy-to-read look at the many plant families and the characteristics that separate them. This is for those who would like to grow their skills in plant identification.

• Practical Botany for Gardeners by Geoff Hodge. This book I have recommended before, but it is worth recommending again. Another book for the serious gardener who wants to grow their scientific knowledge of plants to aid your gardening skills. This book looks in detail at the structure of plants and how they function both externally and internally.

• Herbs for the Gourmet Gardener by Caroline Holmes. This is a wonderful resource with profiles for many different herbs that include some history along with tips for growing and using.

• Vegetables for the Gourmet Gardener by Simon Akeroyd. Another resource covering vegetables with an eye towards the unique palate. This book also has profile of many unique vegetables including tips on growing and using along with a bit of history. You will also find good basic gardening tips here as well. Can be read for free here.

Perhaps you are one of those who twiddles your thumbs waiting for Spring. This stack of books is more than enough to keep your gardener’s mind occupied during the winter as you wait for Spring!

Have a beautiful day!