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Gardening For Everyone: Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and More at Home
A guide to creating and growing a backyard garden simply and sustainably—from planning to planting to harvest, with profiles of essential vegetables and herbs, ecological tips, and fun and creative projects
Growing food in your backyard (or even on a porch or windowsill!) is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to nourish yourself, be self-sufficient, and connect with nature in a hands-on way. Here sustainability expert Julia Watkins shares everything you need to know to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs (as well as wildflowers and other beneficial companion plants). The book covers all the nuts and bolts of creating and caring for your garden—planning, building, planting, tending, and harvesting—followed by a deeper dive into the plants demystifying annuals vs. perennials, cold-weather vs. warm-weather veggies, and profiles of favorite crops. Throughout, Julia offers tips for creating an eco-friendly and sustainable garden (such as vermicomposting, no-till “lasagna” gardening, and attracting pollinators), plus some fun and unexpected hands-on projects like how to build a bean teepee, make wildflower seed paper, and enjoy refreshing herbal lemonade ice pops.
Growing food in your backyard (or even on a porch or windowsill!) is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to nourish yourself, be self-sufficient, and connect with nature in a hands-on way. Here sustainability expert Julia Watkins shares everything you need to know to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs (as well as wildflowers and other beneficial companion plants). The book covers all the nuts and bolts of creating and caring for your garden—planning, building, planting, tending, and harvesting—followed by a deeper dive into the plants demystifying annuals vs. perennials, cold-weather vs. warm-weather veggies, and profiles of favorite crops. Throughout, Julia offers tips for creating an eco-friendly and sustainable garden (such as vermicomposting, no-till “lasagna” gardening, and attracting pollinators), plus some fun and unexpected hands-on projects like how to build a bean teepee, make wildflower seed paper, and enjoy refreshing herbal lemonade ice pops.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published March 8, 2022
46 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 6, 2022
Gardening for Everyone by Julia Watkins is subtitled Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and More at Home, which encapsulates this fine gardening aid. With an introduction and its chapters on planning, tending, building and playing in the garden, there are lots of useful tips for beginners and all level of experienced gardeners. It also has a most useful section on plant profiles for your veggie garden, if sadly remiss of personal favourites -pumpkin and potatoes. A delightful how to book with colourful photos and helpful advice that has a four-and-a-half-star rating. Hopefully, it will inspire readers in their own garden adventures. With thanks to Mariner Books and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given, without influence.
January 15, 2024
Was so good I bought it!
November 21, 2022
Usually I find all gardening books a plethora of knowledgeable, but I really liked this one over the other ones I’ve read in the past. It had me sharing a lot of facts with my mom who I garden with often about things we can do next year.
I am thinking about getting the hard cover of this book, I think it would be useful to have to flip through during the summer.
I am thinking about getting the hard cover of this book, I think it would be useful to have to flip through during the summer.
March 5, 2022
The excitement I feel now when I see a gardening book is real; the emotion rising up when I get my first look at the cover and the photographs inside. That’s my first impression - before I actually read a gardening book, I skim through looking at photos and pertinent information that fits my gardening wants.
We recently moved to a new-to-us home on nearly 2 acres; I made notes while reading this and I’m looking forward to putting this new-found wisdom to good use once I get my garden going. I consider myself new to gardening (the last time I gardened was more than ten years ago and it was in an entirely different region of the country), and this title goes into many of the issues that concern me.
This book is a keeper, and one I’d suggest buying in physical book form.
eARC kindly provided by Mariner Books and NetGalley. Opinions shared are my own.#bookstagram
We recently moved to a new-to-us home on nearly 2 acres; I made notes while reading this and I’m looking forward to putting this new-found wisdom to good use once I get my garden going. I consider myself new to gardening (the last time I gardened was more than ten years ago and it was in an entirely different region of the country), and this title goes into many of the issues that concern me.
This book is a keeper, and one I’d suggest buying in physical book form.
eARC kindly provided by Mariner Books and NetGalley. Opinions shared are my own.#bookstagram
April 16, 2024
Who knew a gardening book could be such a delight to read? I loved this! The author’s voice is helpful, informative, and compassionate. She often nudges you toward organic and sustainable options without bad-mouthing those who choose differently. The information is incredibly well organized, with just the right amount of stories dispersed. I actually feel so much less overwhelmed about gardening after having finished this book. The process is broken down step by step, with enough information given that the gardener can make their own decisions, but not so much information to cause analysis paralysis.
I’ll admit that I didn’t read every single “fun” recipe/craft nor did I read every plant profile, as I’m not growing every plant. I will probably put this on my wish list to buy because I think it would be an excellent reference book!
I’ll admit that I didn’t read every single “fun” recipe/craft nor did I read every plant profile, as I’m not growing every plant. I will probably put this on my wish list to buy because I think it would be an excellent reference book!
March 8, 2022
Gardening for Everyone: Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and More at Home by Julia Watkins is currently scheduled for release on March 8 2022. It is a guide to creating and growing a backyard garden simply and sustainably—from planning to planting to harvest, with profiles of essential vegetables and herbs, ecological tips, and fun and creative projects. Growing food in your backyard, porch, or windowsill can be one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to nourish yourself, be self-sufficient, and connect with nature in a hands-on way. Here sustainability expert Julia Watkins shares everything you need to know to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs (as well as wildflowers and other beneficial companion plants). The book covers all the nuts and bolts of creating and caring for your garden—planning, building, planting, tending, and harvesting—followed by a deeper dive into the plants themselves: demystifying annuals vs. perennials, cold-weather vs. warm-weather veggies, and profiles of favorite crops. Throughout, Julia offers tips for creating an eco-friendly and sustainable garden (such as vermicomposting, no-till “lasagna” gardening, and attracting pollinators), plus some fun and unexpected hands-on projects like how to build a bean teepee, make wildflower seed paper, and enjoy refreshing herbal lemonade ice pops.
Gardening for Everyone is a book that has something for everyone that is interested in growing their own food- regardless of the amount of land or time you may have at your disposal. Growing up my parents had a huge garden and most of our produce for the year come from it. I have fond memories of the fresh food, less fond memories of the work involved, and less land and time to invest in the process now than when I was a kid. What I love about the book and the author is that they meet the reader where they are. Information on how to do just about everything in the most sustainable way possible is offered, along with the understanding that not everyone is up for everything. The text is accessible and well written and organized while the included images are well chosen and brighten up the book. I think the reference style of the book offers readers the chance to explore all of the information they are interested in and the chance to explore options they might not have thought available to them, with no judgement about gardening style. For instance, I am a well intentioned gardener- I plant a garden with full intention of a great harvest and doing better than last year every year, but end up sharing the majority of my harvest with bunnies and birds every single year. The fact that the author admitted to having been that type of gardener at one point themselves made me feel much better. I loved that she covered every topic that I might have gone looking for, and included some that I had never considered. The recipes, crafts, and gardening projects included were interesting to me, and I might be trying some oft hem out this year to get the kids more involved. I also liked that some resources for supplies and further information was included at the end of the book.
Gardening for Everyone is a well written and useful book that I would recommend for public libraries and a spot in personal libraries for those with space for more.
Gardening for Everyone is a book that has something for everyone that is interested in growing their own food- regardless of the amount of land or time you may have at your disposal. Growing up my parents had a huge garden and most of our produce for the year come from it. I have fond memories of the fresh food, less fond memories of the work involved, and less land and time to invest in the process now than when I was a kid. What I love about the book and the author is that they meet the reader where they are. Information on how to do just about everything in the most sustainable way possible is offered, along with the understanding that not everyone is up for everything. The text is accessible and well written and organized while the included images are well chosen and brighten up the book. I think the reference style of the book offers readers the chance to explore all of the information they are interested in and the chance to explore options they might not have thought available to them, with no judgement about gardening style. For instance, I am a well intentioned gardener- I plant a garden with full intention of a great harvest and doing better than last year every year, but end up sharing the majority of my harvest with bunnies and birds every single year. The fact that the author admitted to having been that type of gardener at one point themselves made me feel much better. I loved that she covered every topic that I might have gone looking for, and included some that I had never considered. The recipes, crafts, and gardening projects included were interesting to me, and I might be trying some oft hem out this year to get the kids more involved. I also liked that some resources for supplies and further information was included at the end of the book.
Gardening for Everyone is a well written and useful book that I would recommend for public libraries and a spot in personal libraries for those with space for more.
February 7, 2022
"I tend my garden and my garden tends me." What a beautiful and relatable quote and sentiment! Gardening for Everyone is a very apt title...the author writes about gardening for every skill level. As a master gardener myself, I feel this is an excellent book particularly for beginners or those who find starting from scratch daunting. However, there are new ideas for experienced gardeners, too. Gardening constantly changes and there is always something to learn or improve upon.
Julie Watkins describes her happy gardening memories as a child and is passing her knowledge and passion to her own children who also enjoy tending plants and harbouring "traveling fairies". My gardening memories as a child really stand out in my mind, too, especially shelling rows and rows of peas in rapt attention to Mom telling us stories. Watkins details the many benefits of kitchen gardens, climate, frost-free dates (we only have 85-90 frost-free dates a year which is incredibly restrictive; however, the sun shines hotly in summer so what we have grows quickly), the joy and peace gardening gives, health benefits, gratification, gardening in small spaces (containers, bags, vertically), succession planting, pathways, raised beds, soil, sowing seeds, watering, fertilizing and composting. She also describes plants which repel the bad guys and attracting the good, edible flowers, creating seed tapes and growing herbs. And so much more. Many often ask how to preserve herbs...well, it's all here. The latter part of the book contains information on specific plant profiles including family, growing season, sun needs and so on.
Amongst my favourite projects in this book are making clay garden markets...brilliant idea...and the citronella-lemon bowl candles. The flower lollipops and summer bouquet ice pops look too pretty to eat! My plans are to make the Lilac Scones and Botanical Shortbread.
Reading this on a -30C day, it is hard to believe that in a few months we will see green growing things outside! But it is very inspirational no matter the season or weather, including the charming and lovely photographs.
My sincere thank you to Mariner Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this absorbing and informative book.
Julie Watkins describes her happy gardening memories as a child and is passing her knowledge and passion to her own children who also enjoy tending plants and harbouring "traveling fairies". My gardening memories as a child really stand out in my mind, too, especially shelling rows and rows of peas in rapt attention to Mom telling us stories. Watkins details the many benefits of kitchen gardens, climate, frost-free dates (we only have 85-90 frost-free dates a year which is incredibly restrictive; however, the sun shines hotly in summer so what we have grows quickly), the joy and peace gardening gives, health benefits, gratification, gardening in small spaces (containers, bags, vertically), succession planting, pathways, raised beds, soil, sowing seeds, watering, fertilizing and composting. She also describes plants which repel the bad guys and attracting the good, edible flowers, creating seed tapes and growing herbs. And so much more. Many often ask how to preserve herbs...well, it's all here. The latter part of the book contains information on specific plant profiles including family, growing season, sun needs and so on.
Amongst my favourite projects in this book are making clay garden markets...brilliant idea...and the citronella-lemon bowl candles. The flower lollipops and summer bouquet ice pops look too pretty to eat! My plans are to make the Lilac Scones and Botanical Shortbread.
Reading this on a -30C day, it is hard to believe that in a few months we will see green growing things outside! But it is very inspirational no matter the season or weather, including the charming and lovely photographs.
My sincere thank you to Mariner Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this absorbing and informative book.
March 4, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Gardening for Everyone is an exuberant newbie-friendly general gardening guide by Julia Watkins. Due out 8th March 2022 from HarperCollins on their Mariner imprint, it's 304 pages and will be available in print and ebook formats.
This is an appealing book absolutely full of instagram worthy color photos of vegetables, herbs, and flowers bursting with health and undamaged by insects or covered in dirt/grime/who-knows-what. I've been gardening a long long time and am pretty realistic when it comes to yields and cosmetics of the plants I grow. I know that some years I'll get so much zucchini that my neighbors pretend they're not home when I come 'round. Some years, I fight vine borers and birds (!?) for enough to pickle to last through winter. This book is the equivalent of the winter-dreams perfection of the pictures on the seed packets and descriptions in the Thompson & Morgan plant catalogues which get us through winter blahs whilst waiting for springtime. How realistic they are, I'm not sure.
I fear that actual beginning gardeners will have unrealistic expectations and possibly give up because of the unrelenting expectations of perfection. That being said, this *is* a good general guide to gardening simply and effectively. Information is grouped thematically and sensibly in chapters: planning/assessing/execution, building (semi- and permaculture things such as raised beds and containers), planting (with a good general guide to seed starting and other essential skills), tending, and harvesting/using crops. The next section was the highlight of the book for me. It includes a nice selection of useful fun mini-tutorials for garden related crafts such as origami seed envelopes, citronella candles, hand scrub, syrups, treats, upcycled items, and more.
The final section of the book includes an herbal with good general plant suggestions. Plants listed include herbs and popular vegetables, but no strictly decorative plants. Basic info for each plant is given in bullet point lists in a highlighted text bar and includes common name, general botanical info (Latin nomenclature is not included), hardiness, best practice for selection and planting, culture needs (light/water) and rotation info. Each listing is also accompanied by a line drawing of the plant and short general essay on starting, growing, harvesting, and use.
This is a good basic book with easily accessible text. Graphically it's a beautiful book, full of really superlative color photos of plants bursting with health and vigor. The text is high contrast and easy to read. The author has included resource lists with retailers who are responsible and ethical with regard to organic & heirloom seed strains who focus on diversity and quality. I really liked that.
Four and a half stars. This is a good starter book. It would be a nice choice for gifting, perhaps bundled with a gift card to one of the seed sources in the back of the book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Gardening for Everyone is an exuberant newbie-friendly general gardening guide by Julia Watkins. Due out 8th March 2022 from HarperCollins on their Mariner imprint, it's 304 pages and will be available in print and ebook formats.
This is an appealing book absolutely full of instagram worthy color photos of vegetables, herbs, and flowers bursting with health and undamaged by insects or covered in dirt/grime/who-knows-what. I've been gardening a long long time and am pretty realistic when it comes to yields and cosmetics of the plants I grow. I know that some years I'll get so much zucchini that my neighbors pretend they're not home when I come 'round. Some years, I fight vine borers and birds (!?) for enough to pickle to last through winter. This book is the equivalent of the winter-dreams perfection of the pictures on the seed packets and descriptions in the Thompson & Morgan plant catalogues which get us through winter blahs whilst waiting for springtime. How realistic they are, I'm not sure.
I fear that actual beginning gardeners will have unrealistic expectations and possibly give up because of the unrelenting expectations of perfection. That being said, this *is* a good general guide to gardening simply and effectively. Information is grouped thematically and sensibly in chapters: planning/assessing/execution, building (semi- and permaculture things such as raised beds and containers), planting (with a good general guide to seed starting and other essential skills), tending, and harvesting/using crops. The next section was the highlight of the book for me. It includes a nice selection of useful fun mini-tutorials for garden related crafts such as origami seed envelopes, citronella candles, hand scrub, syrups, treats, upcycled items, and more.
The final section of the book includes an herbal with good general plant suggestions. Plants listed include herbs and popular vegetables, but no strictly decorative plants. Basic info for each plant is given in bullet point lists in a highlighted text bar and includes common name, general botanical info (Latin nomenclature is not included), hardiness, best practice for selection and planting, culture needs (light/water) and rotation info. Each listing is also accompanied by a line drawing of the plant and short general essay on starting, growing, harvesting, and use.
This is a good basic book with easily accessible text. Graphically it's a beautiful book, full of really superlative color photos of plants bursting with health and vigor. The text is high contrast and easy to read. The author has included resource lists with retailers who are responsible and ethical with regard to organic & heirloom seed strains who focus on diversity and quality. I really liked that.
Four and a half stars. This is a good starter book. It would be a nice choice for gifting, perhaps bundled with a gift card to one of the seed sources in the back of the book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 8, 2022
This book warms my heart. I really want to grow a big garden out back, but as a working mom I don’t feel like I have the time to figure out how to do it myself.
Sure I can Google for tips, and then quickly get lost or overwhelmed. Or I could get one of several dozen tomes from the library that either tell you too much or nothing at all. Been there. Done that. No thanks.
Gardening for Everyone, from the creator of one of the most lovely and authentic Instagram accounts out there — @simply.living.well — strikes an ideal balance between detail and inspiration.
It offers a clearly structured, well-organized guide to building the garden I’ve had in my heart for years, from planning all the way through to harvesting. It lays out where to start and how to carry it forward in clear, clean prose — with delightfully illustrated steps and all manner of ideas and tips.
It even has an entire chapter all about playing in the garden, with activities for kids big and small. This chapter could be its own book. It should be its own book. It made me want to dig a garden out back and go live there all summer long with my children. These are simple, fun, artistic, old fashioned activities that I cannot wait to do with my kids every summer, making each one a part of our family’s traditions.
The chapter on plant profiles is also great. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen this kind of information so carefully curated and gathered in one place. Basically, if you want to know what to grow, just consult the plant profiles and pick and choose as you like, depending on your climate and your size and type of garden. It’s an essential resource for a beginning gardener, and even I imagine for those who’ve been around the block a few times.
Plus the photographs are stunning. Each one an invitation into the author’s absolutely beautiful garden. Honestly just flipping through and looking at the pictures is enough to make me want to buy a pair of overalls and a trowel and start digging up something wholesome.
Most of all, here’s what I appreciate: the author clearly loves to garden. “I tend my garden and my garden tends me,” Julia writes. I got the sense she wrote this book as a heartfelt gesture to other gardeners. She talks about her great-grandparents and grandparents teaching her to garden, and then teaching her own children to garden. She’s the real deal. And so is this book!
Sure I can Google for tips, and then quickly get lost or overwhelmed. Or I could get one of several dozen tomes from the library that either tell you too much or nothing at all. Been there. Done that. No thanks.
Gardening for Everyone, from the creator of one of the most lovely and authentic Instagram accounts out there — @simply.living.well — strikes an ideal balance between detail and inspiration.
It offers a clearly structured, well-organized guide to building the garden I’ve had in my heart for years, from planning all the way through to harvesting. It lays out where to start and how to carry it forward in clear, clean prose — with delightfully illustrated steps and all manner of ideas and tips.
It even has an entire chapter all about playing in the garden, with activities for kids big and small. This chapter could be its own book. It should be its own book. It made me want to dig a garden out back and go live there all summer long with my children. These are simple, fun, artistic, old fashioned activities that I cannot wait to do with my kids every summer, making each one a part of our family’s traditions.
The chapter on plant profiles is also great. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen this kind of information so carefully curated and gathered in one place. Basically, if you want to know what to grow, just consult the plant profiles and pick and choose as you like, depending on your climate and your size and type of garden. It’s an essential resource for a beginning gardener, and even I imagine for those who’ve been around the block a few times.
Plus the photographs are stunning. Each one an invitation into the author’s absolutely beautiful garden. Honestly just flipping through and looking at the pictures is enough to make me want to buy a pair of overalls and a trowel and start digging up something wholesome.
Most of all, here’s what I appreciate: the author clearly loves to garden. “I tend my garden and my garden tends me,” Julia writes. I got the sense she wrote this book as a heartfelt gesture to other gardeners. She talks about her great-grandparents and grandparents teaching her to garden, and then teaching her own children to garden. She’s the real deal. And so is this book!
January 5, 2022
Quite simply, this is an ultimate resource and handbook for any gardener--wannabe, beginner or seasoned--and takes you through every element of how to create and sustain a beautiful garden of any size. Because it has thorough details of how to create a container garden or indoor kitchen garden (for those who have little to no space) right up to a large plot of land, it truly is for anyone who wants to grow beautiful or edible plants.
What makes this book differ from other gardening books is the detail; I've learned about gardening through TV shows and other books over time, but the specific detail here is what I have never come across, for e.g. exact NPK ratios for many fertilisers, reference tables for companion planting, how to test your soil, how to make your own compost tea, etc. It really is jam-packed with so much knowledge that it feels like a gardening yoda has taken you under their wing and shown you everything you need to thrive and make your garden a success. Bonus: the pictures are quite stunning and have that Pinterest / Instagram worthy feel.
And as the author points out in the intro, you don't need to read cover to cover (although I did, and lapped it all up!). It's a gorgeous reference book to keep on the well-used book shelf or coffee table and you can flip to the section you need most at that particular point of time. For this reason, I would keep this on my side coffee table to reference and flick through again and again during the seasons while sipping on tea. And, this book would be top of mind for any family and friends who love gardening or thinking of starting (even a perfect homewarming party gift). It's a gift to oneself or loved ones, that would prove useful for years to come!
What makes this book differ from other gardening books is the detail; I've learned about gardening through TV shows and other books over time, but the specific detail here is what I have never come across, for e.g. exact NPK ratios for many fertilisers, reference tables for companion planting, how to test your soil, how to make your own compost tea, etc. It really is jam-packed with so much knowledge that it feels like a gardening yoda has taken you under their wing and shown you everything you need to thrive and make your garden a success. Bonus: the pictures are quite stunning and have that Pinterest / Instagram worthy feel.
And as the author points out in the intro, you don't need to read cover to cover (although I did, and lapped it all up!). It's a gorgeous reference book to keep on the well-used book shelf or coffee table and you can flip to the section you need most at that particular point of time. For this reason, I would keep this on my side coffee table to reference and flick through again and again during the seasons while sipping on tea. And, this book would be top of mind for any family and friends who love gardening or thinking of starting (even a perfect homewarming party gift). It's a gift to oneself or loved ones, that would prove useful for years to come!
January 9, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for providing an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I grew up helping in the small garden out back, where we grew potatoes, tomatoes & green beans mostly. After years of dorm and apartment living, I'm excited to finally be back in a situation where I can garden outside and am prepping and planning for my first vegetable garden at my first house this year.
This book is chock full of information - especially if you're new to gardening, getting back to gardening after many years (like myself), or maybe even if you've been thinking about expanding an existing garden.
The reason I gave it 4 starts instead of 5 is that, while the title is Gardening for Everyone, it kind of glosses over those that live in apartments or otherwise don't have a yard in which they can garden. It does offer a few suggestions for container gardening inside, but it's such a small portion of the book that if I were still in an apartment, it would have made me grumpy & feel misled by the title.
It also doesn't talk about the accessibility of gardening for disabled folks or people with chronic pain conditions. I have a few different conditions that mean I don't have reliable amounts of energy every single day -- While there are certainly some methods in here that can lend to more accessibility (like raised garden beds to prevent back/hip/knee pain), I think it's a worthwhile topic to ponder on.
All in all, seems like a fantastic resource & I'd quite like a physical copy for myself once released.
I grew up helping in the small garden out back, where we grew potatoes, tomatoes & green beans mostly. After years of dorm and apartment living, I'm excited to finally be back in a situation where I can garden outside and am prepping and planning for my first vegetable garden at my first house this year.
This book is chock full of information - especially if you're new to gardening, getting back to gardening after many years (like myself), or maybe even if you've been thinking about expanding an existing garden.
The reason I gave it 4 starts instead of 5 is that, while the title is Gardening for Everyone, it kind of glosses over those that live in apartments or otherwise don't have a yard in which they can garden. It does offer a few suggestions for container gardening inside, but it's such a small portion of the book that if I were still in an apartment, it would have made me grumpy & feel misled by the title.
It also doesn't talk about the accessibility of gardening for disabled folks or people with chronic pain conditions. I have a few different conditions that mean I don't have reliable amounts of energy every single day -- While there are certainly some methods in here that can lend to more accessibility (like raised garden beds to prevent back/hip/knee pain), I think it's a worthwhile topic to ponder on.
All in all, seems like a fantastic resource & I'd quite like a physical copy for myself once released.
December 23, 2024
Julia Watkins’ Gardening for Everyone is a beautifully crafted guide that makes the world of gardening accessible, inspiring, and deeply rewarding for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. As with her first book, Watkins’ signature warmth and mindfulness shine through every page, inviting readers to connect with the earth and grow their own food and flowers, no matter their level of experience or the size of their space.
The book’s layout is as stunning as it is practical, with clear instructions paired with gorgeous, earthy photographs that evoke a sense of calm and connection to nature. Watkins covers everything from soil health and companion planting to composting and pest management, presenting the information in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming. Her advice is grounded in sustainable practices, with a strong emphasis on working with nature rather than against it.
What I found especially delightful are the creative projects and recipes woven throughout the book. From building raised beds to making herbal teas and garden-inspired decor, Watkins provides ideas that celebrate the joys of a thriving garden. Her focus on the joy and therapeutic aspects of gardening makes the book feel as much about cultivating well-being as it is about cultivating plants.
Gardening for Everyone is a gentle yet empowering reminder that gardening is not just about growing plants—it’s about nurturing a relationship with the earth and ourselves. Julia Watkins has given us another timeless, inspiring resource that is both practical and soulful.
The book’s layout is as stunning as it is practical, with clear instructions paired with gorgeous, earthy photographs that evoke a sense of calm and connection to nature. Watkins covers everything from soil health and companion planting to composting and pest management, presenting the information in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming. Her advice is grounded in sustainable practices, with a strong emphasis on working with nature rather than against it.
What I found especially delightful are the creative projects and recipes woven throughout the book. From building raised beds to making herbal teas and garden-inspired decor, Watkins provides ideas that celebrate the joys of a thriving garden. Her focus on the joy and therapeutic aspects of gardening makes the book feel as much about cultivating well-being as it is about cultivating plants.
Gardening for Everyone is a gentle yet empowering reminder that gardening is not just about growing plants—it’s about nurturing a relationship with the earth and ourselves. Julia Watkins has given us another timeless, inspiring resource that is both practical and soulful.
March 10, 2022
Gardening for Everyone
Amazing, approachable reference book for any gardener- from beginners to those looking to expand their gardening practice. Julia Watkins walks us through the entire process from planning to harvesting, including helpful information about improving soil and selecting plants based on individual circumstances.
I loved hearing about the author’s history with gardening and how her gardening evolved over time depending on her situation. As a new mother I especially enjoyed her mentions of gardening with her children as they were small, something I hope to do with my children.
She makes a point to stress that each garden should reflect the gardener- there is no right or wrong way to do it.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves gardening, or who is curious about starting but feels intimidated/doesn’t know where to begin.
*I received an Advance Digital Copy of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Amazing, approachable reference book for any gardener- from beginners to those looking to expand their gardening practice. Julia Watkins walks us through the entire process from planning to harvesting, including helpful information about improving soil and selecting plants based on individual circumstances.
I loved hearing about the author’s history with gardening and how her gardening evolved over time depending on her situation. As a new mother I especially enjoyed her mentions of gardening with her children as they were small, something I hope to do with my children.
She makes a point to stress that each garden should reflect the gardener- there is no right or wrong way to do it.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves gardening, or who is curious about starting but feels intimidated/doesn’t know where to begin.
*I received an Advance Digital Copy of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
March 14, 2022
Julia Watkins has a wide variety of gardening experience, beginning with her grandparents' garden, gardening in a variety of jobs and in various sized backyards, even gardening as a Peace Corp worker in West Africa. Gardening for Everyone is a resource book organized by stages: planning, tending, building, planting, harvesting, and playing. She supplies plant profiles for many common kitchen garden plants. Watkins is definitely not a one size fits all gardener. She inspires gardeners with lots of options for creative use of space, even indoors. Her fun and practical ideas for playing will bring out the creative child in all of her readers. The photographs in this book are particularly beautiful and inspiring.
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Gardening for Everyone from Mariner Books via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Gardening for Everyone from Mariner Books via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
March 13, 2022
I am a total sucker for beautiful books and books about gardens, so what can be better than a beautifully illustrated book about gardens?
This book is meant to be a guide, but I did read it cover to cover, with plans to return to spend more time with various sections. There are craft instructions, plant guides, but most importantly, pretty pictures. Although the easy to follow instructions make gardening seem easy, I am still constrained by poor soil, inadequate sunlight, and a black thumb. But I can still dream and this book is perfect for bringing gardening dreams to fruition. #GardeningforEveryone #NetGalley
This book is meant to be a guide, but I did read it cover to cover, with plans to return to spend more time with various sections. There are craft instructions, plant guides, but most importantly, pretty pictures. Although the easy to follow instructions make gardening seem easy, I am still constrained by poor soil, inadequate sunlight, and a black thumb. But I can still dream and this book is perfect for bringing gardening dreams to fruition. #GardeningforEveryone #NetGalley
March 23, 2022
Thank you to the author, Mariner Books and NetGalley, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fantastic resource for those that are embarking on gardening, giving a lot of practical advice on everything involved in gardening, whether you have just a small balcony or a plot of land - and at the same time, tips and advice of experienced gardeners is included as well. The author covers a lot of ground, but does it in a structured and helpful way. Although I loved the gorgeous photographs, I did find them a bit too instagram-worthy and a bit unrealistic in terms of raising expectations - but that is the only quibble I have.
This is a fantastic resource for those that are embarking on gardening, giving a lot of practical advice on everything involved in gardening, whether you have just a small balcony or a plot of land - and at the same time, tips and advice of experienced gardeners is included as well. The author covers a lot of ground, but does it in a structured and helpful way. Although I loved the gorgeous photographs, I did find them a bit too instagram-worthy and a bit unrealistic in terms of raising expectations - but that is the only quibble I have.
December 29, 2021
Aptly titled since if your a beginner to expert your sure to find something in here for everyone. Compost ideas, pest control, diy homemade projects and a glossary of gardening vegetables! This is the most extensive and helpful gardening book I’ve read in awhile. Five huge stars! I really enjoyed it and will definitely be flipping through it when I start planning my garden.
I received a complimentary copy to look at and voluntarily left my opinion!
I received a complimentary copy to look at and voluntarily left my opinion!
March 25, 2022
I loved Julia’s first book, Simply Living Well, and immediately added this one to my cart the day she announced its release. As a beginner gardener I know I will refer to this book religiously and I admire the appreciation and love she has for gardening. If you aren’t following her on Instagram or her blog you are missing out- she makes even the coldest mid-western winter days look dreamy instead of dreary.
January 27, 2025
The information was organized so each section was pretty concise! I especially loved the plant profiles, which are super helpful to have all in one place. Based on other research, I think this author might have a tendency to suggest more materials and steps than are really necessary to have a successful garden. However, this is a great book to have on hand and quickly reference back to when you forget something.
March 6, 2022
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As the title states, this book is a gem for anyone already food gardening at home or for anyone wanting to start out in this satisfying endeavor. From sustainability to detailed looks at the plants themselves, this is a great book for any gardener.
As the title states, this book is a gem for anyone already food gardening at home or for anyone wanting to start out in this satisfying endeavor. From sustainability to detailed looks at the plants themselves, this is a great book for any gardener.
November 21, 2022
Awesome book for beginners at sustainable gardening but even pros could learn a lot of details about what works best for specific plants!
Includes tips for gardening in different climates indoors & outdoors, companion planting, composting & keeping healthy soil, and a section with plant profiles👩🌾
Includes tips for gardening in different climates indoors & outdoors, companion planting, composting & keeping healthy soil, and a section with plant profiles👩🌾
April 19, 2023
I grabbed this from the library and fully intend to purchase a copy for myself. This book is full of beautiful photos, crafty ideas and knowledge/education about all things gardening. I really liked the layout and the way everything was presented. I found great value in this over other gardening books I checked out the same day.
March 20, 2024
No matter your skill level, beginner or expert, a gardener is always looking for tips and tricks to make your garden more abundant and the weeds fewer. Julia Watkins shares her experience with different varieties and gives clear and easy to understand how they respond to full sun, shade, fertilizer and watering. I learned many new steps to make sure my garden produces enough to share.
April 18, 2022
Detailed on what to do and not do. What to use and not use!
I read the parts that I needed more information on and learned a lot more about having a raised garden. I’m excited to start planting for this year!
I read the parts that I needed more information on and learned a lot more about having a raised garden. I’m excited to start planting for this year!
April 20, 2022
Wow what a wonderful plethora of information. Planned my entire gardening season with this and will have to check back with how it went! I’m a complete newbie to this, but found the info accessible and something I will reference for years to come.
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January 12, 2023I didn't read EVERY chapter of this book, but it has gorgeous photography, beautiful matte pages, and well-organized, easy to understand explanations. It would make a lovely gift or excellent tome to page through now and again.
August 9, 2023
For my first book on gardening, this one is perfect for the basics, tips & tricks, and sustainable ideas for using herbs and ways of using up what you might already have around the house to use for your seedlings and compost 🙂
May 20, 2024
Great for people who have never gardened and want to get into it! She provides info for those making a whole gardening area to those just doing it in pots (like me) or in the kitchen. I read this mostly for herbs but will reread it again if I decide to grow vegetables !
December 6, 2021
First of all, the photography is simply stunning. Lots of information including gardening basics, species information, recipes and even crafts. This is a gem of a book for all gardeners.
July 24, 2022
A great reference book for those interested in gardening, sustainability, and nurturing the home. It is a classic. Gorgeous images as well.
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