So it’s getting to be that time of year again.  You’ve seen your neighbor puttering around in his backyard, preparing to plant this year’s garden, and it’s got you thinking maybe you’d like to start one of your own.  Gardening certainly is a relaxing and enjoyable pastime.  So much so, in fact, that over 80% of Americans participate in some form of gardening each year.  And if you’re wondering just where to start, checking out a few gardening books at your local library or book store will certainly help you get on your way.  Below, we’ll take a look at a few that you might enjoy.

Flower Gardening Books

Eileen Powell’s The Gardener’s A-Z Guide to Growing Flowers from Seed to Bloom is an excellent reference for both novice and seasoned gardeners.  In her book, Powell covers everything you need to know when it comes to growing flowers from seed. Within its 528 pages, the book ranges from giving detailed information on each of the over 500 plants covered, to including both a photo gallery of each plant and tips on seeding, growing, propagation, germination and care. 

Another of the many wonderful flower gardening books out there is Perennials for Every Purpose: Choose the Right Plants for Your Conditions, Your Garden, and Your Taste by Larry Hodgson.  In this 512 page book, Hodgson gives clear and easy to follow advice that every beginning gardener will want to know.  The information he presents on picking plants, designing a garden, and caring for it all is done in a very personal and inviting manner.

Vegetable Gardening Books

The Vegetable Gardener’s Bible: Discover Ed’s High-Yield W-O-R-D System for All North American Gardening Regions by Edward C. Smith is an excellent gardening book written in a step-by-step and common sense approach that is perfect for both experienced and beginning gardeners alike.  Over 300 pages cover the W-O-R-D system that Smith designed (W-O-R-D stands for: Wide rows, Organic methods, Raised beds, and Deep soil).  Smith also discusses what to grow, what varieties offer a better yield, and the individual growing time of each plant.

Fern Marshall Bradley’s Vegetable Gardening: From Planting to Picking - The Complete Guide to Creating a Bountiful Garden is another wonderful vegetable gardening book that provides a general guide for the new gardener.  Bradley discusses how to plant each individual type and gardening using both organic and non-organic methods.  She also gives step-by-step instruction on planning, getting your garden spot ready for planting, and basic garden maintenance such as weeding and watering.

Conclusion

These are but a few of the gardening books available on the market.  If you need assistance choosing a book that fits what you’re looking for, ask your local gardening center or take a trip to the local book store.  No matter what your gardening preference, you’ll be sure to find hundreds of books to choose from on any number of plants and planting methods.

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