What if the green world around you held secrets that could transform how you live and connect with nature? Plant life isn’t just background scenery; it’s a dynamic force shaping ecosystems, health, and even art. Today, more people are turning to plants for food, medicine, beauty, and healing, making it vital to explore the best sources of knowledge available.
Among those guiding this exploration are figures like Emma Watson, who champions sustainable living and plant-based wisdom, and Ron Fournier, whose reflections on forest life reveal profound ecological insights. Herbalists Stephen Harrod Buhner and Jennifer Jewell add depth with decades of experience, each uncovering unique facets of plant science and practice. Their endorsements highlight books that offer practical, thoughtful, and well-grounded perspectives.
While the expert-curated selection below offers proven frameworks and inspiration, those seeking a custom approach tailored to their growing experience, goals, or garden specifics might consider creating a personalized Plant book. This option builds on expert insights but adapts to your learning style and interests, accelerating your botanical journey.
Stephen Harrod Buhner, author known for exploring plant communication, praises Kat Maier’s work as a vital step forward in American herbalism sophistication. He highlights how the book deepens understanding of plant energies, integrating traditions in a way that felt necessary for herbalists refining their craft. The balance of scientific knowledge and spiritual reverence in this book reshaped his view of herbal practice. Similarly, Matthew Wood, founder of the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism, describes it as an almost speechless experience, noting its broad appeal from beginners to seasoned herbalists and its embodiment of plant wisdom through Kat's decades of practice.
Kat Maier RH, (AHG) is the founder and director of Sacred Plant Traditions, a center for herbal studies in Charlottesville, Virginia. One of her greatest accomplishments has been to train many clinical herbalists who have gone onto to begin other schools, apothecaries or open their own practices. In clinical practice for over 30 years, Kat teaches internationally at universities, conferences, and herbal schools. She is a founding member of Botanica Mobile Clinic, a nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible herbal medicine to local communities. The Botanica clinic arose out of her school’s free clinic which was one of the first on the East Coast and served as a template for other herbalism schools. She began her study of plants as a Peace Corps volunteer, and her training as a Physician’s Assistant allows her to weave the language of biomedicine into her practice of traditional energetic herbalism. She is coauthor of Bush Medicine of San Salvador Island, Bahamas. As a passionate steward of the plants, Kat also served as president of United Plant Savers and was the recipient of the organization’s first Medicinal Plant Conservation Award.
2021·392 pages·Plant, Herbalism, Plant Medicine, Ayurveda, Chinese Medicine
Drawing from over 30 years of clinical herbalism and a background as a Physician's Assistant, Kat Maier offers a unique perspective in this book that bridges traditional energetic herbalism with biomedical understanding. You’ll explore how Ayurvedic doshas, Chinese Five Element Theory, and Western Vitalism interconnect, gaining a nuanced grasp of plant energies and their healing applications. The book goes beyond listing herbs—it focuses deeply on 25 essential plants, teaching you how to assess imbalances using the six tissue states and how to cultivate a personal relationship with plants. Whether you're an aspiring herbalist or seeking thoughtful, sustainable natural care, this guide provides a grounded framework for integrating sacred plant traditions into your daily practice.
Nautilus Book Award Gold Medal Winner: Health, Healing & Wellness
Jill McSheehy, host of the Beginner’s Garden Podcast and author of Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, endorses this book for gardeners at every level. She highlights how the system benefits both small-space novices and experienced cultivators alike, saying, "Gardeners of all levels—from the first-time small-space gardener to a gardener like me with experience and space—will find more success in their gardens after getting their hands on this book and implementing this easy-to-understand system." Her perspective comes from years helping others start gardens, and she appreciates how Nicole Johnsey Burke’s approach simplifies gardening into manageable parts. Following Jill’s recommendation, Ashlie Thomas, known as The Mocha Gardener, also praises the book’s personalized coaching style, reinforcing its broad appeal and practical guidance.
“Gardeners of all levels—from the first-time small-space gardener to a gardener like me with experience and space—will find more success in their gardens after getting their hands on this book and implementing this easy-to-understand system.”
Nicole Johnsey Burke, the founder of Gardenary, Inc. and the author of Kitchen Garden Revival, is on a mission to bring back the kitchen garden and make it an ordinary part of life for everyone, no matter their level of gardening experience. Since starting her own kitchen garden business in 2015, Burke and her company have built hundreds of kitchen gardens, taught thousands of students to create their own through her online courses and Gardenary 365, and trained hundreds of garden consultants through the Garden Coach Society. Her work has been featured by Southern Living, This Old House, Modern Farmer, and the Garden Club of America. She believes kitchen gardens are a step that everyone can take to create positive change.
Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder of Gardenary, Inc., draws on years of hands-on kitchen gardening experience to shift your approach from intimidating to intuitive. She breaks down organic gardening into three manageable plant groups—leaves, roots, and fruit—each with tailored guidance on setup, care, and harvest, helping you match your space, sunlight, and time to the right crops. The book equips you with practical know-how to grow fresh food year-round, whether you have a sprawling backyard or a modest balcony, making sustainable gardening accessible and achievable. While it’s ideal for beginners, even seasoned gardeners will find Burke's system clarifies how to optimize yields and enjoy the process more fully.
This AI-created book on plant cultivation is crafted based on your gardening background, skill level, and specific areas of interest. You share what gardening topics most intrigue you and your personal goals, and the book is designed to address exactly what you want to learn and achieve. Customizing this book makes sense because plant care involves diverse techniques that vary widely depending on your environment, experience, and objectives. This tailored approach helps you focus on the aspects most relevant to your journey, making your learning more efficient and rewarding.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores the art and science of plant care and cultivation, focusing specifically on your interests and background to enhance your gardening success. It examines key principles of plant biology, soil health, and environmental factors while providing a customized pathway through cultivation techniques suited to your goals. By bridging established expert knowledge with your unique learning needs, it reveals how to nurture healthier plants and design thriving gardens. This personalized approach ensures the content matches your experience and priorities, making complex botanical concepts accessible and actionable for your gardening journey.
Jeff Lowenfels, a respected author on cannabis cultivation, praises this handbook as an indispensable resource, cautioning, "WARNING: Do not lend out this book, you won’t get it back! If there is an OG of cannabis, it is Ed Rosenthal." Lowenfels appreciates how the book’s thorough approach and expert knowledge helped refine his own understanding of growing techniques. Alongside him, Tommy Chong recognizes Ed's work as the definitive guide for growers facing challenges from pests and diseases, reinforcing its status as a staple in cannabis horticulture literature.
by Ed Rosenthal, Dr. Robert Flannery, Angela Bacca, Tommy Chong··You?
About the Author
Ed Rosenthal is the world’s leading cannabis horticulture authority, author, educator, and a pioneering legalization activist. As one of the cofounders of High Times Magazine, Ed writes the much loved and long-running cannabis column “Ask Ed,” which is published internationally. Ed Rosenthal’s Marijuana Grower’s Handbook has been the definitive resource for cannabis and hemp cultivation, inspiring growers, innovators, breeders, and enthusiasts worldwide. Ed has advocated for cannabis law reform for over 50 years. He was a key member of the coalition that passed the world’s first legalization laws in California in the 1990s and continues to advocate internationally. Ed resides in Oakland, California.
Ed Rosenthal, a pioneering cannabis horticulture expert and legalization advocate, teamed up with botanists and industry consultants to deliver this extensive guide on marijuana and hemp cultivation. You’ll learn detailed methods for setting up indoor and outdoor gardens, selecting high-THC and CBD strains, and using advanced LED lighting and regenerative gardening techniques. The book also covers integrated pest management and efficient drying and curing processes, making it relevant for both newcomers and experienced cultivators. Whether you want to start your first home grow or optimize a commercial operation, this handbook offers clear insights grounded in decades of practical and scientific experience.
Niki Jabbour, author and co-founder of SavvyGardening.com, leans on her deep gardening expertise to recommend this book for anyone struggling with vegetable garden challenges. She highlights its role as a trusted companion for managing problems from seed to harvest, saying, "There’s no such thing as a problem-free vegetable garden, but you’ve got no need to worry if you’ve got a copy of The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver at hand." Gardeners facing persistent issues will find Susan Mulvihill’s insights invaluable. Kevin Espiritu adds that Susan’s ability to explain problems from their root causes elevates gardeners from good to great, reinforcing the book’s practical value.
“There’s no such thing as a problem-free vegetable garden, but you’ve got no need to worry if you’ve got a copy of The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver at hand. This book by Susan Mulvihill is the essential guide to troubleshooting problems and guiding your crops from seed to harvest.”
Susan Mulvihill is a long-time garden columnist with The Spokesman-Review, a Master Gardener, and author of the blog, Susan’s in the Garden. Susan and her husband, Bill, live in Spokane, Washington, where they tend five acres. Susan is known for her down-to-earth approach to teaching and writing that appeals to beginning and experienced gardeners alike. Her humor and enthusiasm for gardening are evident in the hundreds of how-to-garden videos found on her YouTube Channel. In 2019, Susan was the recipient of the Media Award given by the Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State. Susan is passionate about vegetable gardening and following organic practices. She is co-author of Northwest Gardener’s Handbook and author of The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook. In addition to being a prolific writer, Susan is also a garden photographer.
What happens when a seasoned Master Gardener and prolific garden writer tackles vegetable garden woes? Susan Mulvihill, drawing on her extensive experience and popular YouTube channel, delivers clear guidance on diagnosing and managing diseases, pests, and physiological disorders without harsh chemicals. You’ll learn to identify issues like powdery mildew, blossom end rot, and critter damage through detailed quick-reference charts and chapters dedicated to natural, effective solutions. Whether you’re frustrated by fruit cracking or battling groundhogs, this book arms you with practical knowledge to keep your edible plants healthy and productive. It’s especially useful if you want a no-nonsense, organized approach to common garden problems.
2024 American Horticultural Society Book Award Winner
Tieghan Gerard, a New York Times bestselling cookbook author known for her creative approach to food, found herself captivated by this book’s rich visuals and detailed guidance. She shared, "It’s beautiful and has left me wanting to have a full-bloomed dahlia farm by the end of summer. Such an inspiring and beautiful read if you love flowers as much as I do." This passion reflects how the book bridges gardening expertise with aesthetic inspiration, helping both enthusiasts and professionals rethink their floral practices. Additionally, Publisher's Weekly highlights the book's thorough coverage of advanced growing techniques, making it a trusted resource for experienced gardeners.
“It’s beautiful and has left me wanting to have a full-bloomed dahlia farm by the end of summer. Such an inspiring and beautiful read if you love flowers as much as I do.”
by Erin Benzakein, Julie Chai, Jill Jorgensen, Chris Benzakein··You?
About the Author
Erin Benzakein is a world-renowned flower farmer known for her lush, vibrant floral designs. She is the author of Floret Farm's A Year in Flowers, a New York Times bestseller, and Floret Farm's Cut Flower Garden, winner of the American Horticultural Society Book Award. Her work has been featured in Martha Stewart Living, Better Homes & Gardens, Sunset Magazine, the New York Times, Magnolia Journal, and Country Living. She lives in Mount Vernon, Washington, with her husband, Chris, and their two children.
What started as Erin Benzakein's deep passion for cultivating flowers evolved into this detailed guide on dahlias, reflecting her expertise as a celebrated flower farmer and bestselling author. You’ll gain precise knowledge about planting, harvesting, and classifying over 350 dahlia varieties, alongside step-by-step instructions for creating striking floral arrangements. Chapters dedicated to propagation techniques and hybridizing offer valuable insights for experienced gardeners aiming to deepen their practice. If you love flowers and want to master the art of growing and arranging dahlias, this book offers a rich blend of inspiration and practical detail tailored to both novices and seasoned growers.
This AI-created book on gardening is crafted based on your background and interests to help you fast-track your skills. By focusing on what you care about and your current knowledge, this tailored guide offers clear, actionable steps that fit your garden’s needs. It’s designed to cut through the noise and help you see quick, meaningful progress where it matters most.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
2025·50-300 pages·Plant, Gardening Basics, Soil Preparation, Plant Selection, Pest Management
This tailored book explores the art and science of fast-tracking your gardening skills through a personalized, focused approach. It covers essential horticultural principles alongside practical steps designed to match your background and gardening interests. By concentrating on areas that align with your goals, the book reveals how to rapidly improve your garden’s health and productivity without wading through unrelated content. The personalized guidance helps you navigate planting techniques, soil management, pest control, and seasonal care with clarity and confidence.
The book’s approach encourages hands-on learning and adaptation, emphasizing how tailored advice supports quicker results in your specific environment. It harnesses collective gardening knowledge and distills it into a journey crafted just for you, making the complex world of plants accessible and actionable.
Erin Benzakein, author of Floret Farm's Cut Flower Garden, brings a wealth of expertise in cut flower cultivation and design. She praises this book as "thoughtfully organized and beautifully designed," noting how it holds its own among her favorite flower books. Her endorsement signals the book’s reliability for anyone serious about integrating gardening with floral artistry. Tricia Guild, Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, adds that Clare Nolan’s style captures a carefree spirit that transforms home décor, highlighting the book’s creative inspiration alongside its gardening guidance.
Clare Nolan is a renowned expert in gardening and floral design, known for her ability to inspire others to cultivate beautiful gardens. With a passion for flowers and a keen eye for aesthetics, she has authored several books that guide readers through the art of growing and arranging flowers. Her work emphasizes practical advice and stunning visuals, making her a favorite among gardening enthusiasts.
Unlike most gardening books that focus solely on cultivation, Clare Nolan combines growing flowers with artful arranging to bring the joy of homegrown blooms indoors. She guides you through selecting plants that fit both your garden’s conditions and your home's aesthetic, then lays out how to plan your cutting patch for a continuous, colorful harvest. One chapter breaks down the art of arranging flowers without complicated techniques, offering inspiration for creating stunning displays that fill your living space with natural beauty and fragrance. This book suits gardeners who want to deepen their connection to flowers beyond planting, extending into creative floral styling.
Richard Evans Schultes, Director of the Harvard Botanical Museum and a leading authority in plant science, praised this book for its lasting value to researchers. He highlighted Robert Clarke's in-depth work, stating, "Robert Clarkes splendid effort will be widely appreciated. His Marijuana Botany will be constantly consulted by a wide variety of researchers in the years to come." Schultes’ expertise in ethnobotany lends weight to his endorsement, showing the book’s significance beyond casual cultivation. Similarly, Carlton Turner, who directed the National Institute of Mental Health Marijuana Research Project, called it "a compact guide for interested scientists and breeders," underscoring its practical focus and appeal to professionals in the field.
“Robert Clarkes splendid effort will be widely appreciated. His Marijuana Botany will be constantly consulted by a wide variety of researchers in the years to come.”
Robert Connell Clarke is a renowned expert in cannabis botany and propagation techniques, with extensive experience in the field. His work has been widely recognized and appreciated by researchers and enthusiasts alike.
After studying cannabis genetics and breeding for years, Robert Connell Clarke developed Marijuana Botany to share detailed knowledge on preserving rare Cannabis strains and enhancing plant propagation. You’ll gain a solid understanding of the scientific principles behind Cannabis breeding, including genetics and horticultural techniques, with practical insights that support both research and cultivation. Chapters explore how to improve plant quality and multiply distinct varieties, making it a resource for professionals and enthusiasts alike. If you want to deepen your expertise in marijuana propagation or contribute to plant improvement, this book offers a focused, technical foundation without unnecessary jargon.
Matt Candeias holds an M.A. in community ecology from SUNY Buffalo State and a PhD in ecology from the University of Illinois. As host of the In Defense of Plants Podcast and contributor to Flora: Inside the Secret World of Plants—a collaboration between the Smithsonian and Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew—he brings authoritative insight to his work. Driven by a lifelong fascination with plant restoration and houseplants, Candeias offers a unique perspective that bridges scientific rigor with accessible storytelling, making this exploration into plant life both engaging and educational.
Matt Candeias holds an M.A. in community ecology from SUNY Buffalo State and a PhD in ecology from the University of Illinois. He is the host of the In Defense of Plants Podcast and one of seven authors on Flora: Inside the secret world of plants, a joint publication between the Smithsonian and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. When he’s not tending to his houseplants, find him at yearly botanical talks in garden groups, museums, clubs, and more.
What happens when a community ecologist turns his passion for houseplants into a detailed exploration of plant life? Matt Candeias, drawing on his PhD in ecology and hands-on experience with plant restoration, invites you to see plants not as static background but as dynamic organisms engaged in survival and competition. From the evolutionary strategies plants use to thrive, to personal stories woven through chapters on botanical histories and symbolism, you’ll gain a fresh appreciation for flora’s complexity. Whether you’re nurturing a windowsill garden or studying plant ecology professionally, this book offers insights that reshape how you understand the natural world around you.
Matthew Wood, founder of the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism, recommends this book as a cornerstone for anyone serious about herbal medicine. He highlights it as a "phenomenal addition to the herbal bookshelf," praising its comprehensive coverage that spans from wild-harvested plants to clinical formulations. This guide reshaped his approach by bridging traditional herbal knowledge with practical medicine-making techniques. Alongside him, Paul Bergner, director of the North American Institute of Medical Herbalism, recognizes it as the go-to textbook for herbal medicine schools, noting its clear explanations and rich content on herbal energetics. Their endorsements underscore the book's authority and depth, making it invaluable for herbal professionals and enthusiasts alike.
“This is a phenomenal addition to the herbal bookshelf. It fills the need for a large, comprehensive herbal formulary—the likes of which we have not seen for a hundred years—yet it is so much more than that: a complete guide to the serious use of herbs from the field and forest to the single remedy or formula in clinic.”
Thomas Easley is a prominent figure in herbal medicine, known for his expertise and contributions to the field. He has authored several works on herbalism and is dedicated to educating others about the benefits of natural healing. His passion for herbal medicine is evident in his writings and teachings, making him a respected voice in the community.
When herbal medicine expert Thomas Easley teamed up with Steven Horne to write this guide, their shared goal was to demystify the process of making herbal remedies at home. You’ll learn how to prepare over 250 herbal medicines, from tinctures to topical applications, and understand which extraction methods best suit different plants and ailments. Chapters break down complex concepts like percolation and fluid extracts into manageable steps, while also covering safety considerations and herbal energetics. If you’re serious about herbalism or natural medicine, this book offers detailed knowledge that supports both beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
The Atlantic, recognized for curating the 20 best books annually, highlights Tristan Gooley’s talent for revealing nature’s hidden stories. They emphasize how this book transforms getting lost into an opportunity: "We would be lucky to be lost in a forest with Tristan Gooley. Not just to find our way out—something he could surely help with—but to find our way in: to see what the trees are telling us about the Earth we all find ourselves a part of." Their endorsement reflects Gooley’s deep outdoor experience and knack for making complex natural clues accessible. Alongside, The Wall Street Journal praises Gooley’s detective-like approach to interpreting the wild, encouraging those who want to unravel nature’s mysteries to follow his lead.
“We would be lucky to be lost in a forest with Tristan Gooley. Not just to find our way out—something he could surely help with—but to find our way in: to see what the trees are telling us about the Earth we all find ourselves a part of.”
Tristan Gooley is the New York Times–bestselling author of How to Read Water, How to Read Nature, The Natural Navigator, The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs, The Secret World of Weather, and The Nature Instinct. He has led expeditions on five continents, climbed mountains in three, and is the only living person to have both flown and sailed solo across the Atlantic. His more than two decades of pioneering outdoor experience include research among tribal peoples in some of the remotest regions on Earth.
When Tristan Gooley realized trees communicate volumes about their environment, he set out to decode their language. Drawing from over two decades of outdoor expertise, this book teaches you to read signs from bark texture to leaf patterns, revealing details about nearby water, growth struggles, and even weather conditions. Specific insights, like how pale leaf streaks hint at water presence or reddish bark signals fresh growth, equip you with practical skills to interpret nature’s subtle messages. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an outdoor guide, this book enriches your understanding of trees far beyond simple identification.
Greg Green, the bestselling author known for his expertise in cannabis horticulture and breeding, channels his formal education and worldwide experience into this definitive guide. His extensive travels and studies shape a resource packed with practical knowledge, aimed at both beginners and professionals eager to master marijuana cultivation. This book reflects his passion and authority in the field, making it a trusted manual for anyone serious about cannabis growing.
Greg Green is the best selling author of The Cannabis Grow Bible and The Cannabis Breeder's Bible. He grew up in Ireland, and has travelled around the world learning about the cannabis plant. His formal education in advanced botany and plant horticulture has allowed him to become the foremost expert on cannabis horticulture and cannabis plant breeding techniques. His legions of readers are eagerly awaiting the new edition of his beloved book, The Cannabis Grow Bible.
The Cannabis Grow Bible emerges from Greg Green's extensive background in botany and global cannabis cultivation experience, offering you a deep dive into marijuana horticulture. You’ll gain detailed knowledge on everything from lighting setups to cannabinoid extraction, supported by over 700 pages of vivid photos and methodical guides. Whether you’re just starting or refining your grow operation, chapters like the quick start guide and advanced breeding techniques deliver practical insights. This book suits anyone invested in both recreational and medicinal cannabis growing, though casual hobbyists might find its depth quite intense.
Rosemary Gladstar, a best-selling author and herbalist widely respected in the plant medicine community, praises this book for its depth and beauty. She says, "I was intrigued and captivated from the very first paragraphs. Beautifully written, Wild Remedies abounds with plant lore, wisdom, and instruction." Her endorsement carries weight, given her decades of experience teaching herbalism. Gladstar highlights the book’s rich illustrations and recipes that bring the plants to life through the seasons, making it a practical guide for both identification and culinary use. Following her, Sajah Popham stresses how this book reconnects us with the earth’s healing intelligence, offering a holistic view of plants beyond just their medicinal properties.
“I was intrigued and captivated from the very first paragraphs. Beautifully written, Wild Remedies abounds with plant lore, wisdom, and instruction. The authors have created a deeply thoughtful, insightful, and interactive book that enables readers to not only identify and forage wild foods but also to create a deepening relationship with nature and the world of plants. As an added bonus, the book is gorgeously illustrated with several photographs of each plant, making it easier to identify them through the seasons. And the recipes provided with each plant are out-of-this-world good!”
Rosalee de la Forêt is passionate about helping people discover the world of herbalism and natural health. She is a Registered Herbalist with the American Herbalists Guild, and as an herbal consultant she helps people find natural solutions to their chronic health problems. She also teaches extensively about herbalism internationally and as the Education Director at LearningHerbs. Rosalee is the author of Alchemy of Herbs: Transform Everyday Ingredients Into Foods and Remedies That Heal, as well as numerous articles, e-books, and two online courses: The Taste of Herbs and Herbal Cold Care.
Drawing from her extensive background as a Registered Herbalist and Education Director at LearningHerbs, Rosalee de la Forêt teams up with Emily Han to explore the overlooked healing potential of common wild plants. You gain detailed knowledge on identifying and harvesting two dozen medicinal plants, complete with botanical illustrations and seasonal cues that prevent misidentification. The book goes further than simple recipes, delving into crafting herbal oils, salves, and teas while nurturing a deeper relationship with nature’s pharmacy. Whether you're foraging in the wild or cultivating a medicinal garden, this guide equips you to transform everyday weeds into nourishing foods and remedies.
Martha Stewart Living, a leading lifestyle publication, highlights this book for its detailed guidance on houseplant care, praising it as "Brimming with insights on living with houseplants, including how to feed, water, pot, and style them." Their endorsement speaks volumes for anyone looking to blend plant health with stylish interiors. Meanwhile, The New York Times notes its accessibility, offering tips on how anyone — even a novice — can incorporate plants into their lives. Together, these voices underscore Hilton Carter's expertise and the book’s practical value for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.
Hilton Carter is a director, editor, and fine artist, who loves making things with his hands. He is passionate about plants—his apartment is filled with over 200—and has a loyal following on Instagram (@hiltoncarter) where he shares his knowledge of plant care and styling. Hilton is based in Baltimore, MD. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Hilton began his passion for the arts at an early age, eventually earning a BFA from The Maryland Institute College of Art and an MFA from Art Center College of Design. His freelance work as a filmmaker and editor has allowed him to travel around the US. Hilton's journey with plants began with a fiddle-leaf fig named Frank, and he has since become a well-known plant stylist and author.
What if everything you knew about indoor plant care was missing the key to style? Hilton Carter, blending his fine arts background with a passion for plants, invites you into his Baltimore apartment filled with over 200 thriving specimens. You’ll learn to harmonize different leaf textures and sizes, master propagation techniques like growing succulents from leaf cuttings, and understand how plant placement influences both aesthetics and air quality. Whether you're arranging a fiddle leaf fig next to a monstera or crafting air plant displays, this book shows you how to make plants integral design elements in your home. It's ideal if you want to elevate your urban jungle beyond mere greenery into living art.
The New York Times, a definitive voice in literature and science, highlights how Cesare Leonardi and Franca Stagi dedicated their spare time to obsessively sketching trees through every season, culminating in this English edition that weighs six and a half pounds and pairs precise quill-pen drawings with poetic insights. Their work reshaped the way you might think about tree identification, especially with the glossary that clarifies terms like "epicarps" and "flabellate" foliage. This book isn’t just a catalog; it’s an invitation to see how nature experiments within the limits of tree forms. Following this, The Wall Street Journal emphasizes the book's value for landscape architects, particularly appreciating the foliaged plates and shadow diagrams, which offer practical tools alongside artistic beauty.
“The Italian designers Cesare Leonardi and Franca Stagi spent their spare time obsessively sketching trees in all seasons for editions of The Architecture of Trees. The book is newly available in English, and expanded into a sumptuous format weighing six and a half pounds. It combines quill-pen outlines of leafed and leafless specimens - as varied within strict parameters as Bernd and Hilla Becher’s factory photos - with bare-boned but poetic texts. Captions and a glossary shed light on how to identify epicarps (fruit skins) and flabellate (fan-shaped) foliage. An essay by Ms. Stagi meditates on how “nature experiments in infinite ways” within the confines of trees that “grab on to the planet” and thrive only where it suits them.”
Cesare Leonardi (1935–2021) was an Italian architect and landscape designer known for his meticulous botanical illustrations. He co-authored 'The Architecture of Trees' with Franca Stagi, showcasing over 550 detailed drawings of trees, a culmination of more than two decades of research. Leonardi's work has been influential in landscape architecture, emphasizing the importance of trees in design.
What started as a meticulous botanical study by Italian architect Cesare Leonardi and landscape designer Franca Stagi became an extensive visual and scientific exploration of trees across seasons and forms. You gain precise insights into tree morphology, seasonal color shifts, and shadow projections, all rendered through over 550 quill-pen illustrations at a 1:100 scale. The book offers detailed identification tools for leaves, branches, and fruit, making it invaluable for anyone involved in landscape architecture or botany. If you seek to deepen your understanding of tree structure and seasonal dynamics beyond basic field guides, this work will enrich your perspective and practical knowledge.
Good Morning America, a widely trusted morning lifestyle program, praises Hilton Carter as "The LeBron James of plant styling... definitely a man you want to follow." Their endorsement highlights Hilton’s unique blend of interior design expertise and deep plant knowledge, which transforms how you see greenery in your home. This perspective is echoed by Rachael Ray, who calls Wild Interiors "a stunning book" that's impossible to put down. Together, their recommendations underline how Hilton’s styling advice and plant care tips inspire both novices and enthusiasts to elevate their living spaces with plants.
Hilton Carter is a plant and interior stylist and fine artist, who loves making things with his hands. He is passionate about plants—his apartment and studio are filled with over 300—and has a loyal following on Instagram (@hiltoncarter) where he shares his knowledge of plant care and green interiors. Hilton is based in Baltimore, USA. He has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, HGTV and BuzzFeed, to name a few.
While working as a plant stylist and fine artist in Baltimore, Hilton Carter noticed that bringing plants indoors was about more than just decoration—it was about creating a living connection. In Wild Interiors, he guides you through selecting plants tailored to different home environments, like humidity-loving greenery for bathrooms and resilient species for kitchens. You’ll learn not only how to care for your plants but also how to integrate them stylishly, using techniques like layering with hanging baskets and statement plants to craft focal points. This book suits anyone eager to blend interior design with plant care, offering inspiration across budgets and spaces.
David Hoffmann, Fellow of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, praises this book as a heartfelt and scientifically informed resource that every herbalist should have. His endorsement comes from deep expertise and a commitment to herbal education, and he envisions its use in schools across California. "A wonderful book that all herbalists need," he says, highlighting how it blends passion for herbalism with clear scientific insight, making it an invaluable guide for anyone eager to learn about natural healing with plants.
“A wonderful book that all herbalists need. It embodies a heartfelt love of herbalism combined with clearly articulated scientific insights. I plan to get some schools here [California] using it and will promote it as much as possible.”
Julie Bruton-Seal was born in Australia and grew up in Africa and other wild places. She graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biology from Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she lived for many years. Julie also trained as an herbalist with Christopher Hobbs, renowned California herbalist, acupuncturist, and author. Julie's photographs have been published in books and magazines, including National Geographic, and she contributes regularly to the journal The Herbalist. Julie's interest in health led her to train in herbal medicine, iridology, and energy medicine. As a practicing herbalist, she grows and collects many of her own herbs and makes her own essences. She also teaches workshops on herbal medicine making, and is the author of Backyard Medicine, Backyard Medicine for All, and The Herbalist's Bible.
Julie Bruton-Seal draws on her extensive background in biology and herbal medicine to reconnect you with the natural healing power growing just outside your door. This guide details over one hundred plants, such as dandelion and willow, explaining their historical, botanical, and medicinal uses with vivid color photos and clear instructions for creating remedies at home. You’ll gain practical knowledge about identifying and preparing herbs for various health needs, from inflammatory relief to digestive support. If you’re interested in hands-on, plant-based wellness and reclaiming traditional remedies, this book offers a detailed, accessible foundation without relying on complex jargon or overselling.
Jennifer Jewell, creator and host of the Cultivating Place Podcast, brings a deep understanding of gardening’s broader environmental role. She highlights how this book helped her navigate the anxiety around climate change and pollinator decline by shifting perspective on gardening’s purpose. "New Naturalism is a companion for us in cultivating a caring consciousness… Kelly provides just enough of a tweak in perspective on how we approach our gardening impulse to grant us easier access into this conversation about the role of gardeners," Jewell reflects. This book reshaped her thinking about ecological gardening and inspired a more intentional connection to nature through home landscapes.
“New Naturalism is a companion for us in cultivating a caring consciousness… In a gardening moment where there is a lot of potential anxiety around the urgency of the biggest concepts like climate change and pollinator decline, Kelly provides just enough of a tweak in perspective on how we approach our gardening impulse to grant us easier access into this conversation about the role of gardeners through the fortitude and best intentions of our already established gardening passions and habits.”
Kelly D. Norris is an award-winning author and plantsman, and the former director of horticulture and education at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a revitalized public garden in Des Moines, Iowa. Over his career, his work has been featured in The New York Times, Organic Gardening, Better Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart Living, Garden Design, and in numerous local and regional media appearances. As a writer and photographer, he regularly contributes to popular gardening magazines like Country Gardens, Fine Gardening, The American Gardener, and a variety of industry trade publications. As a speaker, he has garnered acclaim for his high-energy, zealous presentations on the national stage, leading many to call him one of the rising stars of American horticulture. Kelly has been fortunate to earn recognition for his work from a variety of organizations, including three awards from Iowa State Horticultural Society (2009–2011) for his service and contributions to horticulture in Iowa; early career and young professional awards from the Perennial Plant Association (2011), GardenComm (2018) and the American Horticultural Society (2018); the Iowa Author Award for Special Interest Writing (2013), the youngest Iowan to be recognized in the history of the awards program; and a fellowship from the Chanticleer Foundation (2015) for his curatorial and plant exploration work at the Botanical Garden.
Kelly D. Norris, an award-winning plantsman and former horticulture director at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, offers a fresh vision for home gardens shaped by nature's own principles. You’ll learn to design landscapes that mimic wild ecosystems such as meadows and prairies, using plant layers and palettes based on ecological relationships rather than traditional formal gardening. The book guides you through transforming urban and small spaces into resilient, biodiverse environments that nurture wildlife and reduce reliance on chemicals. Chapters detail practical planting recipes and ways to reimagine foundation beds and shady retreats, making this a thoughtful resource for anyone aiming to create ecologically vibrant and sustainable gardens.
Ron Fournier, president of Truscott Rossman and former journalist, appreciates this book deeply for how it reshaped his experience of nature. He shares, "One of my favorite things to do in the northern Michigan woods is to stop on the Au Sable river with a cigar and this beautiful book that I keep in the glove box of my ATV. Among other things, it’s taught me to hear the trees (no shit)." This connection to the forest highlights the book's ability to change how you perceive trees and their communication. Tracy Chou, a startup advisor and investor, also values the illustrated edition for its blend of beauty and substance, making it a standout on any coffee table.
“One of my favorite things to do in the northern Michigan woods is to stop on the Au Sable river with a cigar and this beautiful book that I keep in the glove box of my ATV. Among other things, it’s taught me to hear the trees (no shit)” (from X)
by Peter Wohlleben, Jane Billinghurst, Tim Flannery, Suzanne Simard··You?
About the Author
Peter Wohlleben spent over twenty years working for the forestry commission in Germany before leaving to put his ideas of ecology into practice. He now runs an environmentally-friendly woodland in Germany, where he is working for the return of primeval forests. He is the author of numerous books about the natural world including The Hidden Life of Trees, The Inner Lives of Animals, and The Secret Wisdom of Nature, which together make up his bestselling The Mysteries of Nature Series. He has also written numerous books for children including Can You Hear the Trees Talking? and Peter and the Tree Children.
Drawing from over two decades as a German forester, Peter Wohlleben challenges the traditional view of forests by revealing trees as social beings that communicate and support each other. You’ll learn about nutrient sharing, warning signals, and the family-like structures within forests, supported by scientific insights and a forester’s intimate observations. Chapters explore how sick trees receive help and how forests regenerate, changing how you perceive nature’s complexity. If you’re curious about ecology or want a fresh perspective on plant life, this book offers a thoughtful look beyond conventional botany, though it may be less suited if you seek purely technical forestry methods.
The Hampstead and Highgate Express, a respected local publication with deep roots in lifestyle coverage, highlights this book as a treasure trove from two Hampstead designers and plant stylists sharing their extensive knowledge on houseplants. They emphasize how the guide’s blend of care advice and styling inspiration brought fresh ideas to their own approach, especially in urban settings where greenery needs to be both hardy and beautiful. Their endorsement underscores the book's value to anyone wanting to nurture leafy companions with confidence. Similarly, Period Living praises the straightforward projects and nurturing tips that make succulents, air plants, and cacti not just plants, but living decor enhancements, enriching your home environment.
“Two Hampstead based designers and indoor plant stylists share their knowledge of houseplants in the beautiful and comprehensive guide to caring for your leafy friends.”
Rose Ray and Caro Langton run a successful 'green interior' company called Ro Co, which is dedicated to transforming urban spaces with purifying tropical planting designs. They are the authors of the international hit, House of Plants, and the first indoor plant propagation handbook, Root Nurture Grow, both of which have been translated into multiple languages, continuing to help urbanites choose, nurture and style their cacti, succulents, air plants and tropical plants.
Unlike most plant books that focus purely on botanical facts, House of Plants channels the expertise of Rose Ray and Caro Langton, who bring years of experience running a green interior design company to this guide. You learn not only how to care for succulents, cacti, and air plants but also how to creatively arrange them in your living space, with chapters detailing watering, soil types, and propagation techniques. Their hands-on approach makes it clear who will benefit: urban dwellers seeking to bring nature indoors with style and care. The book’s practical tips on making terrariums and stylish displays set it apart from basic care manuals.
Martha Stewart, with her extensive background in lifestyle and gardening, praises this guide for its beautiful photography and expert advice, calling it an accessible primer that makes harvesting and processing cannabis approachable even for home growers. Her enthusiasm is clear when she says, "I need two copies—one for me and one for Snoop." This endorsement speaks to the book’s ability to demystify cannabis cultivation. Additionally, Ed Rosenthal, cofounder of High Times magazine, highlights how the book empowers gardeners to realize what’s possible in their own yards, though he wryly notes the addictive nature of growing itself. Together, these voices underscore the book’s practical value and appeal to both novice and experienced gardeners.
“Beautifully photographed and with clear, expert advice, this very good primer for growing grass makes it easy to harvest and process a fine crop at home. I need two copies—one for me and one for Snoop.”
Johanna Silver is a James Beard Award-winning author who writes mostly about plants and people. Her first book, The Bold Dry Garden: Lessons from the Ruth Bancroft Garden (Timber Press) is available everywhere books are sold. Johanna is a contributing editor at Better Homes & Gardens, and her work has been featured in Martha Stewart Living, The San Francisco Chronicle, and Alta Journal of California. Previously, Johanna spent ten years at Sunset Magazine, beginning with a shovel in her hands and culminating as head of the garden department. In 2016, she oversaw the creation of new editorial test gardens as part of the brand's historic move from Menlo Park to Oakland and Sonoma.
Johanna Silver's experience as a James Beard Award-winning garden writer shines through in this detailed guide that brings cannabis cultivation into the backyard garden with ease. You learn not only how to select seeds or plants suited for outdoor growth but also practical techniques for harvesting, drying, curing, and even making tinctures and oils. Chapters filled with step-by-step photography and clear explanations make it approachable whether you are new to gardening or seasoned but curious about cannabis. This book suits anyone interested in integrating weed cultivation into their existing garden setup or exploring it as a standalone project, with an emphasis on blending beauty and functionality.
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Conclusion
This collection of 20 Plant books reveals a rich tapestry of knowledge—from the spiritual energies of herbs in "Energetic Herbalism" to the intricate social lives of trees in "The Hidden Life of Trees." Whether you’re tackling garden pests, mastering cannabis cultivation, or styling your home with succulents, these works provide reliable guidance backed by experts.
If you’re facing specific challenges, like diagnosing vegetable garden problems, start with Susan Mulvihill’s approachable handbook. For rapid skill-building, combining "Leaves, Roots & Fruit" with "Wild Remedies" offers both cultivation and medicinal plant wisdom. Those drawn to ecological gardening will find Kelly Norris’s "New Naturalism" inspires sustainable design.
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Plant book to bridge the gap between these general principles and your unique situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and deepen your connection with the green world.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with "Leaves, Roots & Fruit" for a clear, step-by-step guide into organic kitchen gardening. It's approachable for all skill levels and sets a solid foundation before diving into more specialized topics.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Plant?
Not at all. Many, like "The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook" and "Wild at Home," are designed for beginners, offering practical advice with accessible language and inspiring visuals.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with foundational guides on gardening and plant care, then explore specialized topics such as herbal medicine or cannabis cultivation. Mixing practical and ecological perspectives enriches understanding.
Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?
You can pick based on your interests—whether indoor styling, herbal remedies, or tree ecology. Each book stands alone but together they offer a comprehensive view of plant life.
Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?
"In Defense of Plants" and "The Hidden Life of Trees" delve into plant ecology theory, while "The Modern Herbal Dispensatory" and "Cannabis Grower's Handbook" emphasize hands-on methods and applications.
How can a personalized Plant book complement these expert selections?
Personalized Plant books tailor expert insights to your unique background, goals, and environment, bridging broad knowledge with practical steps you can apply. Consider creating your own Plant book to get targeted guidance that fits your journey perfectly.
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