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November 22nd 2022

Floret’s Favorite Books

Written by
Floret

I have been obsessed with books and the library ever since I was a little kid. All of the librarians knew me by name and would go to great lengths to help me find new books I hadn’t read or gather my long list of special requests and order them in for me. 

Before the internet was the amazing search tool that it is, books and first-hand experience were the only ways to learn about something new. I was so curious about so many things and the library fed that curiosity. I was always apologizing to the librarians for having such a long request list, but they never made me feel bad about being so curious and always helped me on my quest to find as much information as possible on my latest obsession. 

Closeup of Floret's favorite books on a shelfI definitely passed my love of reading on to our kids. When they were small we visited the library at least once a week and had to have two library cards so that we could check out as many books as we wanted. I can’t remember a time when we didn’t max out the limit of 100 books per library card! I was always trying to make a deal with the librarian to sneak in a couple more. 

Even now, I am still just as obsessed with books, and any time I find a bookstore (which sadly is becoming so rare), I can’t leave empty-handed even though my home library is overflowing to the point of having books stacked on the floor and in every corner of the house. 

I have always had such gratitude for people who take the time to share their wisdom, experience, and gifts with the world through books. But it wasn’t until I became an author myself that I realized what an undertaking it is to make a book. Now every time someone I follow or admire writes a book I pre-order multiple copies and try to spread the word in every way that I can. 

My personal library is a bit out of control and I know not everyone has the appetite or space to collect books like I do so I thought I would try and narrow down my very favorite books by category if you’re looking for some new titles to add to your own collection. 

Overhead of Floret's favorite books surrounded by mumsTop books for gifting

If you’re looking for a great book to give as a gift, these are my go-to’s. I bet I’ve gifted two dozen copies of each this year alone. Each one of these titles has such rich storytelling, stunning photography, and something to offer for everyone (activities, recipes, and inspiration) no matter their experience level. 

An American in Provence: Art, Life and Photography by Jamie Beck

I first started following Jamie Beck on Instagram after discovering her through a mutual flower friend and have been completely obsessed with her work ever since. For those of you not familiar, Jamie Beck is a photographer and visual artist who lives and works in Provence. In 2016, Jamie left her busy life in New York City for a one-year sabbatical in the south of France and never turned back. In her first book, An American in Provence, she documents this cultural experience and her journey of self-discovery—all through heartbreakingly beautiful photos, essays, and even French recipes. What I love most about Jamie’s work is that it has the ability to transport you into another world. It’s like falling down the most beautiful rabbit hole, getting lost in an entirely different universe. This book will change you—there’s no way around it and I can’t recommend it highly enough!

Life in the Studio: Inspiration and Lessons on Creativity by Frances Palmer

If you’re looking for some serious inspiration, this book is a must have! Frances Palmer is a renown East Coast potter who has lived an extraordinarily rich life and has grown a very intentional business centered around creativity. Frances opens up her life to readers and shares the most beautiful collection of essays, photographs, recipes, tutorials, and life lessons. Every single person I have given this book to has read it cover to cover in one sitting. It’s one of my top five favorite books and will leave you changed. In addition, Frances has just released two new jigsaw puzzles featuring her beautiful flower photographs which would make lovely gifts. Be sure to visit her website to see all of her incredible creations including her coveted handmade pottery, signed books, photo prints, and more.

Five Marys Ranch Raised Cookbook: Homegrown Recipes from Our Family to Yours by Mary Heffernan

I’ve been a fan of Mary Heffernan of Five Marys Farms for many years after discovering her on Instagram, and we’ve since become real-life friends. Mary, her husband, and their four daughters, all named Mary, have a ranch in northern California where they raise Black Angus cattle, Navajo Churro lambs, and Berkshire heritage pigs. They sell their pasture-raised meats and other farm-produced products direct-to-consumer. We’ve been Farm Club members since discovering Mary and her family and are always thrilled with the quality of their meat. Mary is an incredible businesswoman and a wealth of information. Mary released her first cookbook in 2020 and it has fast become one of the most used cookbooks on my shelf. All of the recipes we’ve made have been delicious and the stories and photography give this book so much depth and interest. If you want to learn more about Mary and her incredible business, you can read my past interview with her here

A Year Full of Flowers: Gardening for All Seasons by Sarah Raven

I credit Sarah Raven with inspiring me to start growing cut flowers nearly 20 years ago. I first discovered one of her books at my local library in the very early days of my flower farming journey. At the time, I was looking for any information I could find on selecting the best varieties for cutting, growing super long-stemmed blooms, and germinating a handful of difficult-to-grow flowers. From the first moment I opened her book, I was mesmerized. Sarah’s books, award-winning website, products, and videos continue to inspire me today. Sarah’s latest title might be my very favorite of all the books that she’s written. A Year Full of Flowers is filled with so much helpful information including Sarah’s favorite varieties across so many different plant categories and the photographs by Jonathan Buckley are out of this world. If you’re looking for gardening inspiration, this is the book to get. 

In Bloom: Growing, Harvesting, and Arranging Homegrown Flowers All Year Round by Clare Nolan

I had the pleasure of meeting Clare when we visited England a few years ago shortly after her book came out. I have been a fan of her work for so long and finally getting to connect in person was a dream come true. This book is one of my very favorites and I have gifted it to every single gardener in my life. In addition to covering everything you need to know about growing and enjoying homegrown flowers all year long, the abundance of beautiful photos will keep you glued to the pages from beginning to end. This book is a must add to your flower library!

The Complete Gardener: A Practical, Imaginative Guide to Every Aspect of Gardening by Monty Don 

Monty Don has such a gift for teaching and storytelling and I’ve looked to him as a mentor since I first started growing. He has authored 18 books on gardening and is probably the most well known and respected gardener in the world for good reason. The Complete Gardener is hands down, my all-time favorite gardening book ever! This book has been my go-to source of information and inspiration for nearly 20 years. One of the most comprehensive gardening books available, it’s packed with everything you need to know to garden organically, including composting, soil health, hedges, perennials, growing your own food … this book covers it all. In 2021, Monty released an extensively revised new edition that is even better than the original. 

Overhead of Floret's favorite books surrounded by dahlias and rosesFloral design books

Arranging Flowers by Martha Stewart (Best of Martha Stewart Living Series)

An oldie, but a goodie! This book has stood the test of time. Organized seasonally, each page is filled with gorgeous photographs of flowers harvested from Martha’s garden at Turkey Hill. 

The Art of Wearable Flowers: Floral Rings, Bracelets, Earrings, Necklaces, and More by Susan McLeary

Sue is one of the most talented, innovative, and generous floral designers I’ve ever met. Her beautiful book is filled with so many helpful tutorials for creating wearable floral art. 

The Flower Hunter: Seasonal flowers inspired by nature and gathered from the garden by Lucy Hunter

This book just arrived in the mail and I dropped everything to sit down and pore over its pages. It is overflowing with gorgeous photography, wonderful step-by-step tutorials, and beautiful essays. 

Floret Farm’s A Year in Flowers: Designing Gorgeous Arrangements for Every Season by Erin Benzakein with Jill Jorgensen and Julie Chai

My second book teaches you how to create beautiful arrangements using flowers from your garden or those grown close to home any time of the year. To our shock and delight, A Year in Flowers became an instant New York Times best-selling book, which helped shine a spotlight on the local, seasonal flower movement and the incredibly hardworking people behind the blooms. 

Flowers for the Table: Arrangements and Bouquets for All Seasons by Ariella Chezar

Even though 15 years have passed since its publication date, this beautiful little book has inspired more florists than perhaps any other book on floral design, myself included. Ariella’s focus on fresh, seasonal blooms has helped make important changes in the flower industry to include more local and seasonal flowers and foliage.

The Flower Workshop: Lessons in Arranging Blooms, Branches, Fruits, and Foraged Materials by Ariella Chezar

Ariella’s second book is filled with heartbreakingly beautiful designs in a wide range of complex color palettes. It is Ariella’s exquisite approach to color that distinguishes her work from any other designer, and has influenced my own designs tremendously. 

Seasonal Flower Arranging: Fill Your Home with Blooms, Branches, and Foraged Material All Year Round by Ariella Chezar

Like everything she touches, this book by Ariella Chezar is pure magic. Her latest book offers even more inspiration for connecting more closely with nature through seasonal floral design.  

On Flowers: Lessons from an Accidental Florist by Amy Merrick

Amy approaches floral design with an artist’s lens, taking ordinary blooms and helping us see them in a completely unique way. Her book feels like an intimate look into the pages of her scrapbook, tracing her love of flowers through her career as a florist in New York City and beyond, as she travels the world. 

Overhead of Floret's favorite flower growing books surrounded by dahliasFlower growing books

A Year Full of Flowers: Gardening for All Seasons by Sarah Raven

Sarah’s latest title might be my very favorite of all the books that she’s written. A Year Full of Flowers is filled with so much helpful information including Sarah’s favorite varieties across so many different plant categories and the photographs by Jonathan Buckley are out of this world. If you’re looking for gardening inspiration, this is the book to get. 

The Cutting Garden: Growing & Arranging Garden Flowers by Sarah Raven

This was the first book I ever discovered on growing cut flowers and has been a source of inspiration for nearly 20 years. I credit Sarah and this book for inspiring me to get my start in flowers. 

Grow Your Own Cut Flowers by Sarah Raven

If I had to pick, this is probably my favorite book on growing flowers and I’ve referenced it so many times over the years that the spine is broken and almost every page is smudged with dirt. I love the way that this book is organized because Sarah crammed so much helpful information into the pages, but in a really easy to understand and reference way. While out of print now, if you can find a used copy, it’s worth whatever you have to pay.  

Dahlia Breeding for the Farmer-Florist and the Home Gardener: A Step by Step Guide to Hybridizing New Dahlia Varieties from Seed by Kristine Albrecht

I’ve been a fan of Kristine’s incredible dahlias for many years and have sought her advice on breeding my own new varieties many times. If you want to try your hand at dahlia breeding and learn from the best, this wonderful little book has everything you need. 

Dahlias: Seed to Bloom: The Dahlia Grower’s Companion by Kristine Albrecht

Kristine’s second book covers everything you need to know about growing dahlias, including soil preparation, planting in raised beds and containers, pests, common diseases and viruses, and growing dahlias in hot climates. The book also profiles nine dahlia growers from five continents who share tips and tricks for their particular climates.

Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden: Grow, Harvest & Arrange Stunning Seasonal Blooms by Erin Benzakein with Julie Chai 

My first book covers everything you need to know about growing flowers on a small scale and is the perfect jumping-off point for beginning gardeners. It includes detailed growing instructions for more than 175 different flower varieties and is overflowing with so many beautiful photos. Cut Flower Garden won the American Horticultural Society book award, which was such an incredible honor.

Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias: A Guide to Growing and Arranging Magnificent Blooms by Erin Benzakein with Jill Jorgensen and Julie Chai 

This book does a deep dive into one of the most beloved cut flowers—dahlias. In addition to sharing all of my secrets to successfully growing dahlias, this book also features 360 of my very favorite varieties organized by color and also includes a chapter on breeding your own new dahlias, plus how to save your seed.

The Flower Farmer: An Organic Grower’s Guide to Raising and Selling Cut Flowers, 2nd edition, by Lynn Byczynski

There’s good reason this book is considered the bible for beginning flower farmers: it includes everything you need to know to become a flower farmer. If you are considering getting into the business, you’ll want to read this book–twice!

Grow and Gather: A Gardener’s Guide to a Year of Cut Flowers by Grace Alexander

This delightful new book is filled with reflective essays, journal entries, and growing advice. The beautiful photographs provide a window into Grace’s lovely world and offer inspiration for gardens of any size. 

In Bloom: Growing, Harvesting, and Arranging Homegrown Flowers All Year Round by Clare Nolan

This book is one of my very favorites and I have gifted it to every single gardener in my life. In addition to covering everything you need to know about growing and enjoying homegrown flowers all year long, the abundance of beautiful photos will keep you glued to the pages from beginning to end. This book is a must-add to your flower library!

The Cut Flower Sourcebook: Exceptional Perennials and Woody Plants for Cutting by Rachel Siegfried

I am so happy that Rachel wrote this book! She is a true expert when it comes to woody shrubs and perennials and her work provided loads of inspiration when I was working on the design for the new farm. If you’re interested in adding perennials and shrubs to your garden, this book is a must-have. My favorite section is The Plant Directory which includes 128 of Rachel’s favorite bulbs, perennials, climbers, grasses, trees, and shrubs.

Overhead of Floret's favorite gardening books surrounded by dahliasGeneral gardening books

The Bold and Brilliant Garden by Sarah Raven 

I remember the first time I opened this book and was blown away by Sarah’s fearless use of color, combining bright, rich, saturated hues in ways I had never seen before. It inspired so many gardeners, myself included, to push the boundaries and really think outside the box when it comes to plant and color combinations.

The Complete Gardener: A Practical, Imaginative Guide to Every Aspect of Gardening by Monty Don 

Hands down, my all-time favorite gardening book ever! This book has been my go-to source of information and inspiration for nearly 20 years. One of the most beautiful and comprehensive gardening books available, it’s packed with everything you need to know to garden organically, including composting, soil health, hedges, perennials, growing your own food … this book covers it all. In 2021, Monty released an extensively revised new edition that is even better than the original. 

Martha Stewart’s Gardening: Month by Month by Martha Stewart 

While this book is nearly 30 years old, it has stood the test of time. This massive photo-filled resource takes you through an entire year in Martha’s garden and kitchen at Turkey Hill. Whenever I see copies at used bookstores I always grab them because they make the best gifts. If you’re looking for a book to get lost in over the winter as you plan out your garden, be sure to add this to your stack. 

Organic farming books 

On Good Land: The Autobiography of an Urban Farm by Michael Ableman and Alice Waters
I read this book shortly after Elora was born and I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. When I finished the last page I sat up in my chair and declared to Chris that we needed to leave the city as soon as possible and start a farm. This beautiful memoir tells the moving story of a small farm that is nearly swallowed up by development but becomes the heart of a community. 

The New Organic Grower: A Master’s Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener by Eliot Coleman

It is hard to pick just one of Eliot Coleman’s books because they are all fantastic, but I find myself referencing this incredible resource the most often. Eliot is the godfather of organic vegetable farming and his production techniques and generous sharing have revolutionized the way many small farms operate.  

The Market Gardener: A Successful Grower’s Handbook for Small-Scale Organic Farming by Jean-Martin Fortier

This brilliant book is a must-have for anyone interested in organic farming. Like Eliot Coleman’s books, this volume is focused on vegetable farming, but many of the principles are transferable to flowers. Both authors beautifully detail how it is possible to farm on a small scale without big tractors or other fancy equipment.

Other flower-related books

Lost & Found: Discover Hidden Treasures Amongst the Blooms by Zoë Field

This book is like nothing I’ve ever seen before—it’s like the seek-and-find books I loved as a kid, but made for flower lovers! Lost & Found features 15 beautiful flatlays with hidden objects tucked in between the flowers and foliage. This sweet little book is overflowing with Zoë’s breathtaking photography, an abundance of incredible flower varieties, and essays that read like poetry. Kids will love it, too.

Farm & Folk Quilt Alchemy: A High-Country Guide to Natural Dyeing and Making Heirloom Quilts from Scratch by Sara Larson Buscaglia

This book offers a detailed introduction to working with natural dyes and quilt making using garden-grown flowers, and with its beautiful photography, it is a piece of art in its own right. The first half of the book is all about natural dyes (plus 20 tried-and-true color formulas) and the second half is devoted to quilt making, including seven full-size quilt patterns. If you’re interested in natural dyeing, this book is a must-add to your library.

Overhead of Floret's favorite books surrounded by mumsBusiness & personal development books

The Fire Starter Sessions: A Soulful + Practical Guide to Creating Success on Your Own Terms by Danielle LaPorte 

Hands down, one of the best books I’ve ever read in this genre. Part sermon, part therapy, and part ass-kicking … this book will blow you out of the water and into action towards the life and business of your dreams. 

Turning Pro: Tap Your Inner Power and Create Your Life’s Work by Steven Pressfield 

More than any other book, this one changed my life the most. I remember when I finished the last page of the book and realized how much of my life I had been making excuses for not going after my dreams. The very next day I sat down and wrote the proposal for Cut Flower Garden. If you feel like you have something inside of you that you want to share with the world, this book will be the spark you need to take the next step. 

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

This book really helped me shift my perspective around business and pursuing creative, meaningful work. Rather than focusing on what you do and how you do it, Simon challenges readers to get to the heart of why they do what they do and from there, everything else follows. 

StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath 

I remember the first time I read this book I had such a breakthrough around focusing on my strengths rather than trying to change my weaknesses. The theory behind this book is that when we embrace the way that we are naturally wired and pour our energy into areas of strength we find more satisfaction in life and work. We’ve used this book to grow our team and it has been an absolute game-changer. 

Shelf of Floret's favorite books

In the comments below, I’d love to hear what some of your favorite books are and why you love them.


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3,374 Comments

  1. Celeste on

    Please, Oh Please, compile and share a book list from all those contributed in these 3,000+ comments! It’s all I want for the rest of Christmas eternity…and my 2 front teeth ;) But seriously, what a list it would be!

    Reply
  2. Cynthia Boyd on

    Thank you Floret and Erin for your wonderful favourite book listing. I have enjoyed reading this as well as the many fascinating selections by your readers. I love anything by Elizabeth Lawrence, who wrote a whole host of gardening tomes mostly Southern gardening in nature (which is hard to follow given my northern climate in Newfoundland). Still, her works are fascinating. As well as anything by Allen Lacey. One of my favourite gardening books is Martha Stewart’s earliest one On Gardening (not sure if this is the title) and Smith & Hawken’s The Book of Outdoor Gardening. I also love Katherine S. White, whose Onward and Upward in the Garden is pretty wonderful material. Louise Rich’s quirky gardening books always mention herbs and flowers in addition to roses and vegetables; in addition, Thalassa Cruso was a special garden writer as well. Margaret Roach’s A Way to Garden is a fabulous book, as is anything by Tovah Martin. Gertrude Jekyll always had an eye for flowers that work well in a sturdy ceramic vase, so her gardening books are particularly appropriate. Marion Cran, a little known garden writer, wrote extremely interesting gardening books that had quirky titles, such as The Garden of Ignorance and The Garden of Experience (she was heavily influenced by Jekyll and was near her, in Surrey), she was also near Vita Sackville-West, when Cran moved to her inter-war garden in Kent. Moving ahead sixty years, I love and have been influenced by the garden writing of C.Z. Guest in her book: First Garden; it’s an overlooked gem no matter if you are indeed a beginning gardener or an advanced die-hard gardener. Guest writes beautifully. Constance Spry was not only a floral arranger par excellence she also wrote beautiful treatises on gardening in general; sadly all out of print I suspect. I bought a massive collection of these books years ago from my public library’s discard sale. I think that Spry’s Flower Decoration; Flowers in House and Garden (in particular), as well as Garden Notebook, Summer & Autumn Flowers, Winter & Spring Flowers, and two cookery books she wrote all had a profound effect on me as a gardener. Significantly, Floret’s incredible books are all inspiring and will be enduring classics in the same vein as Sarah Raven’s works, and those of Martha Stewart. Enjoy all – and a Merry Christmas Erin and family and Floret Team.

    Reply
  3. Kristi Hein on

    Thank you for the glorious, enticing list. The Anacortes Library (in Skagit County, same as Floret Farm) has all three Floret books as ebooks, but are missing Discovering Dahlias as a hard copy! I shall speak to them about this. ;^) They have just one Monty Don title, “Down ­to Earth: Gar­den­ing Wis­dom” — as an audio book! Wait, what? Surely this one needs to be seen! (Surprising, because the library has an extensive garden collection.) They do have Sarah Raven’s “The cut­ting ­gar­den: ­grow­ing and ar­rang­ing ­gar­den flow­ers,” so I’ve reserved it.

    Reply
  4. Sarah F. on

    I also absolutely love the book Grow and Gather by Grace Alexander, it is definitely one of my favorites. She also sends out a weekly newsletter you can sign up for and a separate membership where she publishes beautiful seasonal guides and sells seeds for both the UK and the U.S. :)

    Reply
  5. Robin May on

    The Dirty Life by Kristen Kimball is the gritty well written story of one’s couples life as they nurse a farm into life in upstate New York. This is no romantic romp about the life of a land owner but the unvarnished truth about what it really takes to create and sustain their lives.

    Reply
  6. Anna on

    Can’t forget to add “From Seed to Bloom” by Milli Proust! Loved your author interview with her, I immediately went out and bought it. It’s one of the most gorgeously assembled and photographed books.

    Reply
  7. Christine on

    I love watching and learning from Monty Don on Gardener’s World! He has such a down to earth nature and his love for gardening really comes through. He is a true master of gardening and love everything he does!

    I also have a number of great garden books on gardening for natives in the southeast and Doug Tallamy and his books and web info is extremely valuable as a resource for organic and native gardening, soil health, etc.

    Mt. Cuba Center, not a book per se but their trails on plants free online resources are invaluable for everyone wanting for garden organically and sustainably. Highly recommend!

    Lady Bird Johnson’s website is another invaluable tool for organic and native plants and has so much information on just about every plant imaginable.

    Reply
  8. Crystal Bailey on

    I’m truly, The biggest fan of Gardeners World and Monty Don. I Love the gardens and love if gardening that the UK residents have.

    Reply
  9. m on

    love this, you did it a few years ago and I added 5 from your list to my bookshelf. I tend to buy your books for gifting and also my favourite New Zealand gardner/writer. the date/month by month books I struggle with as we are 6months ahead/behind.

    Reply
  10. Laura Black on

    I have Monty Don’s Complete Gardener checked out from my library right now and I’m enjoying it.

    Because i live in central Florida, i find Southern Living books helpful. Also Pamela Crawford’s books (i hope i have remembered her name right) in which she reported and photographed the results of extensive trials of the best plants for Florida and the south.

    Reply
  11. Nicola on

    I think this has to be one of the most useful blogs ever! It is so helpful to have recommendations from someone who has been on the journey and has the well used books to prove it. I can’t wait to get my hands on some of these for Christmas. We have just brought 3 acres of land in Cornwall and to have these books as my guides and companions feels reassuring. Thank you

    Reply
  12. Rachel Below BELOW on

    Kristine Albrecht’s Dahlia Breeding for the Farmer-Florist and the home Gardener: A Step- by- Step Guide to Hybridizing New Dahlia Varieties From Seed is an absolute must for anyone interested in pursuing that field. Discovering Dahlias is also an invaluable resource. KA ‘s book from Amazon is laid out more like a magazine simply because when you purchase it, they print the e-book. This does not affect the value in any way.

    Reply
  13. Amelia on

    So excited! Just bought 5 of these! Can’t wait to read and learn more. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  14. Jack Williams on

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  15. Lisa Wharton on

    This list is great fun in finding new books. I’d like to add three that have been favorites for a long time, and an ongoing inspiration. Why We Garden, by Jim Nollman (an extended meditation on gardening one piece of land over years); Paradise Gardens, by Arnaud Maurieres and Eric Ossart (gardening from an Islamic culture); Monet’s Garden, by Vivian Russell (self-explanatory! – visit the gardens!)

    Reply
  16. Susan Wachtel on

    My favorite book right now is Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Zigler. I learned about her book and the information that she teaches about cool season hardy annuals. Some of the hardy annuals can be sown directly in the garden in the fall and even early winter. The flowers are able to get a good start and are blooming come springtime. It’s been a game changer for me. I still do seed starting inside, but the seeds that will do well by direct sowing get an early start in the garden. What’s even better are the plants that self seed.

    Reply
  17. Amanda DeCesaro on

    I don’t have a favorite book 🥺 but one book I’ve reread several times is Why Revival Tarries by Leo Ravenhill. Not a plant book but I also love plant books, anything about anything I love 🥰

    Reply
  18. Shannon Martin on

    How do you choose a favorite book? One of the reasons I bought my house is because of the 3 built in bookcases down the hallway, some of which I have books stacked 2 deep. When trying to decide which ONE book to choose, I looked around my living room chair as I am sitting here. The books that I keep close to my chair are used the most. The book that reach for time and time a again is The Rodale Herb Book, Ninth Printing 1976. Not only do I use this book often, it was gifted to me by my great grandfather from his shelf when I was 9 years old. He was an avid gardener and one of my personal inspirations for gardening. I have many memories with him in the garden. He signed his name on the inside cover of every book he ever purchased. I reach for this book time and time again for herb advise. It is tried and true. Please don’t tell the other books.

    Reply
  19. Carol Cobb on

    Erin,

    Thank you for your generosity i sponsoring the give away! Wishing you and all your followers a beautiful and magical holiday
    filled with all good things—especially flowers!

    Reply
  20. Stéphanie Marcotte-Côté on

    Jean-Martin Fortier just blew my mind with the possibilities to do lost and live well on a small piece of land. And it’s the story of one of his student here in Québec that inspired me to grow flowers!

    Reply
  21. Andrea DiMatteo on

    While this is not a gardening book exactly, I love this book for many reasons. Watership Down is my favorite. I read it out loud to my young son years ago. It sparks the imagination in so many ways and creates a vivid life that takes place outside in the woods, fields and gardens. This is in part why I love to be in my yard and garden. It is a place to dream to imagine and witness the wilds of mother nature.

    Reply
  22. Rohimah Sarpin on

    I love Natural Companions by Ken Druse. A combo of beauty and intelligence. The gorgeous coffee-table book is filled with intelligent profiles of plants & planting combinations.

    Reply
  23. Emily on

    I love Eliot Coleman’s book…the ideas and techniques have helped to improve our garden planning , stewardship and soil.

    Reply
  24. Krista Schmidt on

    My favorite gardening books at the moment are The Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust and Michael Dirr’s Manual of Woody Landscape Plants—both of which were indispensable while I completed my garden design certificate at the New York Botanical Garden this year. For fiction, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini has stuck with me for several years after reading it. And for nonfiction, Devil in the White City by Erik Larson is a page-turner. Thank you for the opportunity to enter this giveaway!

    Reply
  25. Jaime Looney on

    Right now I am enthralled by heirloom veggies and flowers in Baker Creek’s 2022 Whole Seed Catalog. I have also been reading and referencing Floret’s Cut Flower and Dahlia books via kindle app.

    Reply
  26. Lesley Sico on

    My favorite book on flowers is your ‘Cut Flower Garden’ – it’s a resource I’ve turned to countless times these past few years as I’ve gotten deeper and deeper into growing flowers.

    Reply
  27. Penny Warner on

    One of my very favorites, second to The Holy Bible, is Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson.

    Reply
  28. Richard B on

    One of my recent favorites is “The Language of Flowers” by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. It is a compelling, heart wrenching read and ultimately a story of hope as the main character (a young adult in the foster care system) finds her voice by communicating her feelings through the use of flowers. It’s a story that I find myself thinking about often.

    Reply
  29. toni murray on

    The book I’m most drawn to lately, my current ‘favorite’, is the oversized
    Classical Natural History Prints PLANTS.
    Published in 1990, it’s full of pages & pages of
    photographs of artistic botanical renderings.
    The authors, Eve Robson & Norman Robson
    include detailed information about the renderings as well as the artist & significance to both science & art.
    Beautiful, informative & inspiring.
    Thank you Erin & Floret for the beauty, information
    & inspiration of your list of favorite books!

    Reply
  30. Stephanie T on

    Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson. It’s a really beautiful exploration on loss and identity.

    Reply
  31. Taylor Grandfield on

    I have been thinking about this question all week! One favorite book is hard to pick, but right now my favorite book is Bread Baking for Beginners by Bonnie Ohara. I have spent the past two years practicing making bread from this book and it has been really wonderful to watch flour, yeast, salt, and water turn into a beautiful loaf of bread that you can share with those you love.

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  32. Gunner on

    My favorite book is Flower Confidential by Amy Stewart. I liked all the interesting stories in it like how the ‘Stargazer’ lily was created and about the flower industry as a whole.

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  33. Elizabeth Lundblade on

    My favorite flower books are your three and Growing Flowers by Niki Irving. I spent a year in NC and began following her flower farm and purchased the book as a memory of my year in that beautiful state! Now I am back in Texas where half our year is summer!😂 As an empty nester, I am hoping to expand my gardening more into flowers and not just vegetables. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge with us! 💕

    Reply
  34. Jen Doucette on

    It’s really a series but I loved the Chronicles of Narnia when I was younger. I have always loved reading series as opposed to one off books because I would connect to the characters so much and would hate to say good bye to them! Recently I read the first 3 books of the Game of Thrones series and had SO many emotions reading those books! I did end up watching the series and loved it too. I was happy reading the books because reading is fun, I was happy for characters, sad for them, I laughed with them.. a lot of these emotions we as gardeners (or crazy flower ladies as me and my mom say) have together.

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  35. Joanne on

    This blog post is certainly one of my favorites as I’m getting so many new titles to read.
    I have too many favorite books to list, but my most useful, practical gardening book, if I could only choose ONE,
    it would be Seattle Tilth’s THE MARITIME NORTHWEST GARDEN GUIDE: Planning Calendar for Year-Round Organic
    Gardening. It’s full of timely tidbits for both the vegetable and flower gardener. I used it for our school garden and I recommend it for all NW gardeners.

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  36. Christina on

    One of my favorite books is Wherever You Go There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn. I appreciate the insight, tools and resources Jon offers in a simple and understandable and applicable way. Thank you, Erin, for offering this blog! Oh, and I have been finding Daniel LaPorte’s book Fire Starter Sessions to be helpful! I discovered it from reading your list of books last year, so thank you!

    Reply
  37. Susanna Jolly on

    Thank you to Erin and Team Floret for sharing your flowering wisdom and inspiring so many of us. To that end, while I too love books and our house is testament to that fact with its towers of books in nearly every corner, a book that captured my heart a couple of years ago remains “The Boy, The Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by the wonderful British artist Charlie Mackesy. And if you thought this book was just for kids, think again. Its infinite wisdom is timeless and for all. The illustrations and text exhibit a sheer love of animals, a joy in the natural world, and reminders of our place in it and alongside it – how it nurtures us if we nurture it and others we walk alongside. The book and characters captured my heart and do not let go. The book lives on my bedside table whenever I need little reminders. Thank you for this fabulous blog post and the wisdom of the Floret community and their favorite books – Happy Holidays and Happy Reading to all.

    Reply
  38. Mike MacDonald on

    So hard to pick a favorite! I have to go with The One-Straw Revolution, by Masanobu Fukuoka. This was one of the first agriculture books I ever read, and it was instrumental in shaping my future. Fukuoka’s intense spiritual drive to work with plants, and his deep reverence for and desire to learn from nature were an inspiration to me. I revisit that book frequently, and it helps keep me calibrated.

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  39. Sasha on

    My favorite book is the Little Prince 🤴. I love how it is at the same time profound yet very simple. But I’m also a huge fan of every cookbook and gardening book I can get my hands on!

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  40. Tiffany Covell on

    Probably the first gardening book that I ever purchased and one I have referred to many times throughout the years is Sunset Western Garden book. It is a comprehensive book covering the many plants and varieties that grow throughout the western United States. It taught me about the many plants we inherited when we purchased our home plus many more that I added. With this book, I learned all the basics of plant maintenance, planting, pruning, propagation, natural pest and disease management and more, before the internet became such a useful resource. Whenever I revisit this book, I’m still filled with appreciation for its wealth of helpful information.

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  41. Betty on

    My copy of the Peterson Field Guide to Wildflowers (Northeastern/North Central North America) has traveled to many places with me for over 40 years. It has some loose pages though I have taken good care of my treasured book that taught me so much about flowers and how to identify them.

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  42. Debbie on

    The book that instantly came to my mind is The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett! This was the book that started my love of gardening. How can anyone read this book and not want to get out and plant some seeds and experience the joy of flower gardening!

    Reply
  43. Heidi Guinn on

    The Winterthur Garden, Henry Francis du Pont’s Romance with the Land, book is a must read. Doesn’t the name say it all? This book has it all; history, story telling, plants and flowers, planning, design and beautiful photos. You must get it on your bookcase. Let me know how you like it.

    Reply
  44. Lissa on

    My love affair with books started with a robust copy of Audubon’s Birds of America. Too large to carry, I would spend hours nestled into the coffee table as a child, poring over its striking pages and marveling at a world beyond my comprehension. Only upon viewing an original, three foot tall volumn as an adult, did a once larger than life book seem quite small in comparison.

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  45. Kait Spears on

    Favorite book: Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard. I found a old copy of this book in some of my mother’s possessions after she passed away when I was in college. It would be several years later before I actually picked it up to read it, but the timing was perfect. It was just the story I needed at just the right time, and knowing it was my mom’s book made it feel even more special. The physical book, and message it contains, will always be special possessions 💕

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  46. Holly Ferrette on

    My favorite book is “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver. It is a fictional story of an American missionary family serving in the Belgian Congo in the 1950’s. As someone who has moved to a new country every few years as part of my job, I feel Kingsolver captures so well the feelings that one has when one is dropped into another culture, language and context, e.g. the way you try to understand something through the lens that you know but often find that your own lived experience is insufficient to the task. She accurately portrays how political and economic events at a national and global scale touch down with real consequences in the lives of people who have no say in the matters. She also describes so well the naivety, hubris and sometimes even distain for local practices that expats with the best of intentions carry with them to these places as exemplified by the way the father in the family wants to plant a vegetable garden but turns up his nose at local planting methods and seed varieties in favor of using the little packets of seeds he brought from the States, a decision that of course, ends with disaster. Kingsolver wrote this book nearly 25 years ago but the observations she made then are just as true today and are ones that are finally being able to be talked out more openly and honestly.

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  47. Mary Mae Hardt on

    One of my favorite books, My Ántonia, by Willa Cather, places us into the immigrant experience of the late 1800s in Nebraska. Cather is among my favorite writers as she is a master of sense of place descriptions and her characters are developed within these places. She wrote in the early 1900s, setting her novels primarily in the Midwest. However, my introduction to Willa Cather was her novel, Shadows on the Rock placed in Quebec in the late 1600s. While living in the Midwest, I scoured used book stores and collected copies of most everything she wrote. (Though during a recent visit to a local store, Seaport Books in LaConner, I discovered yet another short novel.) Cather’s writing transports me into place and time through her landscape narratives and fascinating characters.

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  48. Holly Haynes on

    Well, I keep coming back to this blog post because I want to jot down all of the books mentioned above. So, I am here to just say thanks for sharing everyone!!!

    Reply
  49. Kristel on

    Thank you for inspiring each of us to share our favorite books! What a wonderful way to find books that encourage one another in learning more about flowers and life.

    – Local Dirt by Andrea Bemis has been my tried and true cookbook for the past year. Andrea created seasonal recipes using simple obtainable ingredients with delicious results. Her cooking style has made life simpler and fostered a deeper connection to local farm grown food. The recipes offer substitution ideas. With an ease in cooking I have more time outside focusing on growing cut flowers & edible flowers!

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  50. Christine K. Thomas on

    Hi! Thank you for all of these amazing resources!! I am a newbie and am collecting, reading and taking notes on how to grow flowers to sell at our local farmers market. I have two of your books and love to look at all of the beautiful pictures!! I am moving into a house in January and can’t wait to start working in the yard. I would have to say that my all time favorite book is called Integrity by Dr Henry Cloud. I have read it several times and have gifted it to new graduates. I try to live my life with integrity. Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year!!

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  51. Clarissa on

    This is such a great giveaway! My all-time favorite book is Adam Bede by George Eliot. It is absolutely brimming over with thoughts on beauty, virtue, & Truth, & I especially love it for what it has taught me about meaningful work.

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  52. Rachel E. on

    I love this list! Thank you so much for sharing. My favorite gardening books to date are The Garden Primer by Barbara Damrosch (I worked for Barbara and Eliot years ago and now live in their community. Barbara’s flowers are a constant source of inspiration!), Tasha Tudor’s Garden, Cottage Gardens by Claire Masset, Monty Don’s The Complete Gardener, and of course, Cut Flower Garden (my first book on flower production and arranging) and my more recently acquired A Year in Flowers. Your books really have been with me since the start of my love affair with flowers! I also regularly visit our local Cooperative Extension website, which offers a wealth of information on food production, ornamental plants, soil health, invasive species, and more.

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  53. Andrea Garro on

    I am soooooo passionate about life and I want to maximize my experience while I am here. Books allow me to travel anywhere, to explore a different time period, they inspire me to cook and bake nourishing foods for my family, to learn about nutrition and health and to improve, enhance and enrich and brighten my life. For an absolute book lover it is so challenging to pick a favorite. I am now intrigued by all of your favorites and quite literally can not stop thinking about holding them and learning from them and planning a cut flower garden to plant alongside my vineyard. But one book that comes to mind as being transformative to me is the Novel the Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. In it the main character introduced me to the meaning of different flowers and how she used it as a way to communicate feelings, emotions and sentiments as she thoughtfully communicated to her customers through the bouquets she would make for them. I think of this book everytime I see a flower, or build an arrangement. It is no longer just a colorful grouping of beauty but it is full of sentiment and a prescription for more joy, compassion, peace and empathy. It is whatever the recipient needs more of. I highly recommend this book. You don’t have to love flowers to enjoy it but it sure is a treat if you do. 🌸🌼🌻💐🌷🌾🌱

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  54. Jo Anna Mortensen on

    My favorite book is Tistou of the Green Thumbs, a beautifully illustrated story for all ages about a boy who secretly helps others in astonishing ways with his magical green thumbs. If you haven’t read it, Erin, I will gift it to you, because Tistou is The Little Prince of flower growers! Written by Maurice Druon, a French author, the book is not easy to find, but well worth the search – enchanting, moving and deep!

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  55. Sophie Brantley on

    The Harvester, by Gene Stratton Porter.
    Because who doesn’t love a good romance , especially one filled with flowers and nature <3

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  56. Deborah Lemmer on

    My favorite book is The Cut Flower Garden by Erin Benzakein because the combination of the story, the information and the dazzling photos sparked something in me to begin to grow a cut flower garden and more. It was inspirational and when I browse though the book – each time- I feel a sense of presence that it therapy for me.

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  57. Jessie D on

    So many books! —- The Outsiders ! Hehe the first book as a tween that got me reading. What a great floral & gardening collection you’ve curated!

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  58. C Burks on

    My favorite book is the ancient one by St. John, called by his own name. The language is unbelievably beautiful, especially considering it was written in a different time, place and language. Every time I read it I see something new.

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  59. Gao on

    The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman. It’s a story about the collision of two different cultures coming together to try and save a little girl. The story means a lot to me because it describes my culture and what we all experienced as citizens of a new country in the early 80’s.

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  60. Janet on

    So many amazing books to read. You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay. This book has been so so helpful. It’s a book I always return to and you can read one line of it to feel inspired or encouraged for the day.
    Louise is such a lovely lady and her books can apply to anyone at anytime in their life.

    I don’t want to forget children books though. Those can be the simplest, but the best.

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  61. Hilda E Medina on

    My all time go to book is “The Beginner’s Guide To Flower Arranging” Rosemary Batho, Judy Kay and Bernice Waugh. As a florist, this book is full of so much information and the photographs are amazing. I love floral designing and would like to grow blooming flowers to use for my arrangements.

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  62. Jane DeAngelis on

    It’s hard to pick a favorite but recently I acquired a copy of Starr Ockenga’s Amaryllis. Exquisite.

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  63. JASMINE LEWIS on

    The language of flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a book that I connected to on every page. When I started making bouquets I was told it was about appropriate color and shape and texture and I always felt I was falling short. To me flowers have always been about showcasing emotion, this book solidified that feeling, gave me more confidence in the flowers I wanted to grow and the reasons I wanted to share them. This book brought even more personality to flowers ( which I didn’t think was possible) I love this book so much.

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  64. Beverly Soltero on

    Braiding sweet grass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. She’s a Native American Arthur and a Professor of Environmental Biology! I love reading about plant care and growth but it’s even better when it comes for generations of wisdom! I love learning about how connected they are to the land it’s just so inspiring! Plus there’s a lot of history l, good and bad. My mother in law always donates to the natives where her family originated from and I feel like reading and learning about other native cultures is my way of donation. Passing their knowledge of plants to my future children or even just telling my husband what I learned in the chapter lol.

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  65. Rachael Sammartino on

    My favorite book that I’ve come back to several times is Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. The fundamental thing I’ve learned and relearned from this book is to slow down my pace and enjoy the moment. To sit with a book and savor each line,  to spend time “toiling” in the garden as its not toiling if its what you love.  There can be too much of a good thing but spending time to cultivate oneself is just as important as all the other tasks that are lined up before us. 

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  66. Lizzie on

    Discovering Dahlias: Definitely a must have if you like dahlias. It gives you tips on how to grow, divide, and store your dahlias, so you can have beautiful flowers for years to come. And if you have to many you can always gift some to a friend. Really like the book as it tells me most everything I need to now about my favorite flower.

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  67. Laura Clarey on

    My favorite gardening book is actually yours…Cut Flower Garden. Even though I’ve done my own landscaping for years, this past summer was the first time I ever considered growing flowers for the purpose of cutting. I read your book last winter/spring and was so inspired. I failed 100% to grow all the seeds that came with my Discovering Dahlias book, but I am excited to try again this year!

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  68. Carissa on

    What a great collection of books! Thank you for sharing.

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  69. Beth Immell on

    The Flower Farmer: An Organic Grower’s Guide to Raising and Selling Cut Flowers. I love this book! It has opened my eyes to a whole new world.

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  70. Sarah Barg on

    Vita Sackville-West’s Sissinghurst – The Creation of a garden by Vita Sackville-West and Sarah Raven!

    The first gardening book I ever bought and the book that opened my mind to the wonderful world of gardening – especially British- gardening books!
    It introduced me to complex ideas, creating your own accidental rosemary variety, garden rooms, climbers wherever you csn fit a climber. It allowed me to dream of roses climing through fruit trees and suggested a nuttery wasn’t a waste of time.
    I csnnot thank this book enough for what it gave me in terms of never thinking your dreams too extravagant to reach for!
    xx

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  71. Libby on

    “A Gentle Plea for Chaos” by Mirabel Osler is one of the gentlest, sweetest, most inspiring books I have ever read. It’s perfect for reading chapter by chapter at bedtime and feels to me like reading it is taking deep breaths. One of my favorite aspects (other than her gorgeous writing!) is that it is actually an argument to impose a little less order in the garden. It’s a gorgeous read in a quiet and lovely way.

    Monty and Sarah Don’s “The Jewel Garden” is a different kind of wonderful. I like it because it’s the story behind one of the world’s most famous gardeners. I also really love his down to earth, practical voice. Reading it felt like the back story to watching Gardener’s World.

    “The 3,000 Mile Garden” by Leslie Land and Roger Phillips is a book I couldn’t put down. When I’d describe it to my friends they were confused that a book that consisted of letters between two friends could be that gripping. It was. I loved their curiosity about each others gardens and how much they each felt they could learn from the other. The juxtaposition of his public gardening and her private gardening was also fascinating. Who knew I could tear through inventories of plants with such interest? It was wonderful.

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  72. Elizabeth Kingsley on

    My favorite book is My Herbal encyclopedia. I use it for identification of herbs, uses for them and i use it to dry flowers and herbs by pressing them in the pages.

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  73. Tracy Smolsnik on

    My favorite book that inspired me is Celestine Prophecy…. Great book….

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  74. Cindy Hatella on

    Hinds Feet in High Places by Hannah Hurnatd. It is an allegorical tale of Much-Afraid, a woman searching for guidance from God to lead her to a higher place. A classic. Having gone through a difficult trial in my life when I read the book, it greatly impacted me, my future and my relationship with God!

    Thank you for this amazing opportunity. I am very curious and have always loved books. I love books about organic gardening, flower gardening, bread, cookbooks, Christian growth, bible studies and more! I think we have 100+ cookbooks between my husband and I.

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  75. Jenny Prax on

    I have recently gotten into growing my own flowers- my husband and I just bought our first house a couple years ago and I’m slowly grooming the yard into flower beds. My favorite book that I re-read during the winter is “Growing Perennials in Cold Climates”. It lets me plan and dream about spring and starting my seeds.

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  76. Nancy M. on

    I can’t think of a specific favorite book but I like just about any “how to” books. It is just so much nicer to have a book in your hands that you can page through and have it sit there for reference. So much easier than having your electronic device go to sleep while you still need it to stay awake.

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  77. Michelle Christopherson on

    My favorite is Vita Sackville-West’s Garden Book. Thank you for this opportunity to win such a neat prize.

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  78. Deborah Ziegler on

    Your Cut Flower Garden is my favorite ! It inspired me to start a neighborhood cut flower garden. My husband and I have a mutual love of growing flowers and started a flower garden to share flowers with neighbors and family. We find so much pleasure in sharing our flowers and delight in seeing the wonder on their faces as we hand them a bouquet of beautiful, colorful Dahlias ! They are one of everyone’s favorites. I love books since my childhood and fondly remember school book fairs and the delight of choosing a new book with my mom ! I am soo excited to enter this book give away !

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  79. Cynthia on

    Thank you Erin You are an inspiration. I’m enjoying your books and have gifted them..
    I have enjoyed , and found so helpful The Complete Gardener, by John Brookes.
    It is Comprehensive, full of how To,’s. very well organized
    I refer to it for answers to problems, garden planning .
    To plan during the Cold upstate ,shore of Lake Ontario winters…
    It is the joy of turning pages of wonderful photos, and losing myself to possibilities .
    This book covers outdoor , indoor gardening. Drying. Arranging, .and it is in a practical order.
    I’m fond of old children’s books too. Books..are magical…

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  80. Lisa Smith on

    Your Cut Flower Garden book is my favorite! It was gifted to me on Christmas morning 2019, by my daughter. 2020 was quite tough, with the spread of COVID and having to work from home. I had it prominently displayed in my home office and I would thumb through it weekly. It inspired me to add Zinnias and Dahlias to my 2020 garden. Then in 2021, I attempted to add Lisianthus , but it was not as successful as I would have liked. This winter I will be reading your book again, to gather more information about Lisianthus and to identify additional varieties of flowers to add to my 2022 garden. Thank you for all that you do and for inspiring us to be better gardeners.

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  81. Laura Turner on

    Favorite book? That is impossible! But because this is a gardening blog, I will say “The Secret Garden.” I loved it as a child, and want to revisit it … maybe this winter? We bought a VERY run down property that is taking years to “tame” (I hope to get rid of the invasive weeds and plant a meadow garden of native flowers and grasses). I chuckle when I remember that Mary Lennox uncovered her secret garden almost magically, while I seem to have found every noxious rash-producing weed in the northeast in my own backyard! Oh well, to be a gardener is to be an optimist, so maybe next summer will be when I finally see my meadow garden …

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  82. liz on

    With two little kids, right now pretty much all of my books are about parenting and trying to learn how to raise people well. I recently started a book called Everyday Blessings, The Inner Work of Mindful Parenting. So far it is phenomenal. I am a work in progress, and am so grateful for these resources that continuously encourage us to keep moving forward, trying, and seeing the beauty.

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  83. Lauren on

    My favorite gardening book is your cut flower garden book! I’ve read it cover to cover each year since you published it before I start my season. I’m starting your course this winter and have already started reading through the book. ❤️

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  84. Jaime on

    I am reading again Lisa Ziegler’s book Cool Flowers. I am getting ready for some cool flowers….Can’t wait for Spring!

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  85. Roberta on

    I enjoy all books on gardening, growing and flowers. Because most of our property is in shade that is what I am reading about.
    The New Shade Garden by Ken Druse is my latest and very informative. Great pictures and a lot of inspiration for me. Even the blip on good old garlic mustard weed gives me the encouragement needed to deal with this weed!!
    Now, if only deer could read books and decide they don’t like to munch on anything in the garden!!!

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  86. Jennifer on

    My favorite book right now is Lisa Ziegler’s book Cool Flowers. This winter I’m overwintering flowers for the first time, and am very excited for all of the new possiblities with season extension.

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  87. Monique Allen "Nicky" on

    Books, books, books. I love books and have thousands in my personal library. There’s nothing like holding a book in your hands and finding joy! My current favorite book is by a Maine herbalist – Deb Soule. How To Move Like A Gardener – Planting and Preparing Medicine From Plants. Deb is an amazing woman, herbalist, healer, gardener and medicine maker.

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  88. Annie on

    It’s impossible to pick a favorite! But some of mine are “Anne of Green Gables,” “Fahrenheit 451,” and “The Pendwerwicks.”

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  89. June Everson on

    It is always so hard for me to choose a favorite book when someone asks me. I’m a book nerd and my favorite book changes as to what season I am in my life. My most recent favorite reads are: Angry Housewives Eating Bob Bons, The Language of Flowers, and it Ends With Us. All of those are books I couldn’t put down!

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  90. Kayla Cryer on

    I love gardening books and would like to be a wonderful gardener like my mom. She has inspired me with gardening all my life. Now it’s my turn to create my own space

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  91. Liana on

    I also love books. Whenever we visited Powell’s bookstore in Portland, OR, I’d head straight to the gardening section. I loved sitting on the floor in front of the bookshelves and spending literally hours thumbing through the pages of someone else’s old book traded for cash. I could never get rid of any of my books! One of my favorite finds is The Ward Lock Encyclopedia of Gardening simply because it introduced me to Salvia Patens. My favorite color is blue, and I’m sure many gardeners know flowers listed as blue are usually a violet or a periwinkle. Most blue flowers are never true blue; however, Salvia Patens is a true blue. The truest blue I’ve seen in nature. I spent forever searching for the flower I saw in this book finally locating it at a small nursery in Long Beach, Washington. My garden has never been without patens since, and I take seeds from it every year to guarantee I will continue to have that flower in my garden. It’s a simple story about a typical gardening encyclopedia, but having that flower in my garden brings a uniqueness to it. I would’ve never known the flower existed had I not found the book.

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  92. Shaun on

    Wow! So hard to decide! I love all the beautiful books and so many other genres! The book I’ve gone to the most this year, so probably my favorite right now, is Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest. It has helped me a TON as I learn all about the flora & fungi growing in the wooded piece of land my husband & I were gifted recently.

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  93. Jenni Campbell on

    Ah! There are so many good books!! Right now, my favorite book is The Music of Bees, by Eileen Garvin. In this books, she tells the story of a woman who has a bee yard and how two boys begin to work for her. They all have unusual circumstances. Ms. Garvin tells us through this story about keeping bees and how gentle they are. She explains beekeeping in layman’s terms so that you can understand what she is explaining as the story unravels! It is quite good and kits home for me because I just ordered bees for my first year of beekeeping this coming year.

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  94. Marie on

    My favorite book is the Bible. Every time I look at these amazing flowers, I am at awe at the beauty; the colors, the varieties, the fragrances, the intricate details of design. All for the pleasure of mankind. I cant help but thank Jehovah for an amazing gift of this creation. Not only does the Bible tell us why were given these beauties, but answers all the important questions in life. No other book can do that!.

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  95. Karen on

    One of my favorite books is Reader’s Digest, A Garden for all Seasons. I strive to have color and texture in my gardens all year long, This book has beautiful color photos, many ideas for each season, and detailed information about the plants which to help me plan and reach that goal.

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  96. Denise B Sirotta on

    Well this is almost impossible to answer …The Family of Man , edited by Edward Steichen for the Museum of Modern Art. As a child I would frequently look through the photos, all 503.
    Intuitively I learned about life and the world through these images.
    And then there is Frederick by Leo Lionni. I relate to this field mouse. To brave the winter, Frederick gathers sun rays, colors and words that he shares with his fellow mice as winter drags on. “And how about the colors, Frederick?” They asked anxiously. Close your eyes…he told them of the blue periwinkles, the red poppies in the yellow wheat and the green leaves of the berry bush…”
    I garden because it fills me with good life energy. I try to share flowers and vegetables to bring joy to others.

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  97. Suzanne Marie Sherman on

    I was gifted The Cut Flower Garden for my birthday and I was thrilled to learn of Erin and Floret Farms. I refer to this book often to browse through the lovely photos, learn gardening techniques, and pique my imagination! I also love The Garden Awakening, by Mary Reynolds, a very wholistic approach to gardening that I, and most likely many, can relate to. I love many herbal books as well but I have already gone overboard and will leave those for another time.

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  98. Brooke on

    My favorite book is Anne of Green Gables because of the way LM Montgomery describes Prince Edward Island. Her poetic language of landscapes made me appreciate nature from an early age.

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  99. Heather Mingus on

    Oh I had no idea there were so many books out there! My go to for years is a 1997 signed copy of Lynn Byczynski’s The Flower Farmer. But right beside it is Floret’s Cut Flower Garden full of sticky tabs and notes. A big move has me on round three of a cut flower venture and I am thinking much more info is needed.

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  100. Sushmitha Sundararaman on

    Have you read the Irish plantswoman Helen Dillon’s Down to Earth book? It is one of the rarest books where the writing engages you so much that pictures become secondary. She is quite plain talking about her failures and at ease of her successes all the while providing wealth of information – it makes you want to try them yourself. She is so witty it will make you laugh out loud and forget you are actually reading a gardening book. Such an entertaining read! It is one of my favorite gardening books.

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  101. Leah on

    The book I return to again and again is Edible Landscaping by Rosalind Creasy. After checking it out from the library several times, I finally bought it! It continues to be an inspiration as I try to grow food and flowers in my landscape.

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  102. RUTH L on

    The Market Gardener by Jean Fortiet. Two and a half years ago my husband and I moved from the city to a rural town in Tennessee. We both wanted a simpler life and we’re tired of traffic, congestion and crime. We have 2 acres on the top of s hill overlooking a beautiful valley where we can sit on the back porch and watch the sunset each evening. I started reading organic gardening books and my little garden grows each year. I have also started adding flowers- mostly bulbs and perennials (planning on adding dahlias this year) and love the color and texture they add! Eating organic produce and having gorgeous cut flowers in the house has enriched our lives!

    Reply
  103. Taylor Barry on

    My favorite would have to be a tie between the Floret Farms Cut Flower Garden & Martha Stewarts Gardening Month by Month….the are the first two books I go when I began flower farming and are still the ones I reference the most when I’m not sure of my next step. They also have beautiful photos to support the text which helps remind me why I love flower farming so much. Absolute must haves!

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  104. Karen on

    The one book I not only read but deeply contemplate every day is A Course in Miracles. I’ve been working with this book for decades and never feel finished with it — passages I have read a dozen times still somehow offer something fresh and new to catalyze soul-awakening. It is a living transmission of the energy and consciousness of the Christ that elaborates on everything Jesus taught as captured in the New Testament. The Course is basically a manual on how to go beyond the limits of the separated ego and live more fully from the true, eternal Self, which is one with God. It delineates the mechanisms by which the ego keeps us in illusion and reminds us of what is real and true, beyond all ego-voices of fear and judgment. If you are ready to experience freedom from suffering, this book leads the way to the peace and love that passeth understanding.

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  105. Kristina on

    I love Monty Don’s book. The combination of all the elements really needed to create a healthy ecosystem, and therefore garden, were eye opening. It’s completely changed the way I look at my garden. And I think I enjoy it even more.

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  106. Anne VanOsdol on

    Here’s a book that once you open, you’ll be hooked, and you’ll go back to it again and again – Robert Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs, or his Hardy Trees and Shrubs, or his The Tree Book. I could go on…

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  107. Lisa on

    My favorite is Floret Farms: Cut Flower Garden. I love to pick up the book, read, look at the pictures. I have learned so much.

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  108. Shivaun Korfanta on

    My favorite book, so far, is “Branches and Blooms” by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo of Studio Choo. I don’t have a lot of cutting flowers in my yard (something I plan to change this Spring!) and this book shows you, recipe-style, how to make a big impact with just a few branches and some flowers. The photos are amazing, too!

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  109. Andrea Abel on

    My favorite book of all is the Bible. Written so long ago and still useful for life and holiness.

    In addition to that, I LOVE beautiful books and would adore this collection!

    Reply
  110. Lori Gross on

    My favorite book to inspire new gardening practices is Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas Tallamy. Whenever I am getting discouraged about making a difference for pollinators, wildlife and plant diversity, his book and practical advice get me inspired to keep working. To accomplish those goals another favorite is Pollinators of Native Plants by Heather Holm. It is packed with information about native plant choices and the species that utilize these plants. I refer to it almost every week!

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  111. Ellie on

    Favorite (non gardening) book is Birds of a Feather from the Maisie Dobbs series by Jacqueline Winspear. Female detective in post WWI London who’s processing her time as a nurse in the war and solving mysteries simultaneously. Favorite (gardening) book is Kristine Albrecht’s Dahlia Breeding for the Farmer-Florist and the Home Gardener; I am not a plant breeder, at least not yet, but I love learning more about the science of dahlia breeding!

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  112. Carol Sapp on

    My favorite gardening book is Martha Stewart’s Gardening. Such a joy to browse through. Second choice is Martha’s Flowers.

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  113. Abigail Miller on

    I can’t narrow it down to ONE favorite, so I’ll mention A favorite, which is Farm City by Novella Carpenter. I’m a farm girl and gardener myself, but Novella shows us that you can garden anywhere. You just have to use what you have.

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  114. Kristin K on

    Tasha Tudor’s Garden, beautiful pictures and inspiring for keeping year round interest in the garden. Thanks for this post, I love a good book list!!

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  115. Christina L. on

    The oldest gardening book on my shelf is Reader’s Digest New Illustrated Guide to Gardening. It has been a great starting resource for my gardening learning over the last 10 years since it covers everything from vegetables and flowers to trees and grass.

    Otherwise, the Little House and Harry Potter series have maintained spots on my bookshelf over the years. I am looking forward to reading and sharing them with my kids.

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  116. Patty Swartzbaugh on

    Like you I have been a book-a-holic my entire life. One I read over and over (so it must be a favorite) because it holds amazing wisdom, is Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. It was my grandmother’s favorite and she passed on her love of it to me. It is a beautiful gift for friends in all stages of life.

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  117. DaNelle Jenkins on

    The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is one of my most favorite books. I love to read and to gain understanding of timeless wisdom across cultures, time, and space. He wrote this guidebook of navigating life based on the Toltec tradition, his lineage. These “agreements” are reminders that allow me to stay centered (or return to center) as life is ever-changing. Returning to these insights help to anchor me. The four agreements are: “Be impeccable with your word”, “Don’t take anything personally”, “Don’t make assumptions”, and last but definitely not least, “Always do your best.” Simple, yet actionable and clear, this is a guidebook for our times as we forge our creative paths.

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  118. Melissa Burford on

    OMG, trying to only pick one favorite book is simply not doable, not even if I narrowed it down by genre, LOL. I read a lot, always have, all types of books so I’ll pick one, for this giveaways sake, and name _Bird_by_Bird_ by Anne Lamott because I go to it, in my head, whenever I feel even slightly overwhelmed and always take it “one bird at a time.”

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  119. Julie H. on

    25 years ago a dear friend gave me Martha Stewart’s Gardening: Month by Month, for my birthday. As a beginning gardener I was inspired by the beautiful photography and practical information. I have lost touch with my friend over the years, but her gift has remained close to my heart. Thank you Debra for a lasting foundation to the gardener I have become!

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  120. Janet Grant on

    It’s impossible to pick only one book, so I will tell you my first favorite, read to my second grade class by my favorite teacher, Miss Deiss. It’s Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. Everyone should have this book read to them!

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  121. Lydia Reading on

    A new book I have yet to read, but is on its way, I am greatly looking forward to The Dawn of Everything, A New History of Humanity. Taking a look at how we got to where we are in the world, and offering an alternative vision of “vast networks of hospitality and trade, rather than conquest, war and hierarchy.” Sifting thru 200,000 years of history to find out how inequality began. Sounds like a large read in front of the fire with a cup of hot cocoa to while away the winter. That and plan my garden for next year using my new paper pot maker for seedlings, also on its way.

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  122. Judith Vasquez on

    One of the favorite book that I have recently read and I love it; Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach. Great book that I find interesting for its message about never give up to pursue your dreams, and use all your potential to make them happen.

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  123. Susan Gilligan on

    One of my all time favorites is a children’s book by Andrew Clements titled Double Trouble in Walla Walla. It’s a funny, rhyming story about a girl at school and she can’t stop talking weird. My kids loved it as well!
    Erin, You are such an inspiration to so many, thank you, thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise! It pushes me to do more in my garden and to try new things!

    Reply
  124. Patricia Louise Pavlich on

    Tasha Tudor’s Garden. I fell in love with cottage gardening after I read this book. I enjoy the wild and nature ways that are simple and that there is something new each day when I go out to the garden

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  125. Gabrielle Mancy on

    Your books!! And I’m being honest. Started a small cut flower farm in my side yard with your books as my guidance. 202y1 had a booth at our local Farmers Market and sold market bouquets each Wednesday from May-October. A ton of work but extremely rewarding. Everyone was thrilled with my arrangements. A few even said, “These bouquets and Dahlias you have remind me of this woman in Oregon”. What a compliment. I love my hands in the dirt- thats for sure. Mother of 4 children, restaurant owner, but I still find time to grow my flowers.
    Thank you.

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  126. Bridget on

    When I want to laugh uncontrollably I reach for David Sedaris. Number one story teller who without fail has you laughing until your sides hurt. Since the holidays are here, start with Holidays on Ice. Lisa See’s books are so incredible. Her storytelling makes you feel like you are right there with the characters. Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is my favorite but they are all great!

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  127. Amy on

    Love in the Time of Cholera – I know people cite it all the time, but it’s still one of my absolute favorites.

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  128. Terri Russick on

    Pilgrims Progress! Beautiful allegory that always has some new detail to offer with each read.

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  129. Jerri on

    my favorite garden-related books from a Landscape Architect’s point of view:

    – Designing a Garden: Monk’s Garden at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, by Michael Van Valkenburgh
    – Hummelo: A Journey Through a Plantsman’s Life, by Piet Oudolf, Written with Noel Kingsbury
    – Latin for Gardeners: Over 3,000 Plant Names Explained and Explored, by RHS

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  130. Beth on

    Anything by David Sedaris! He makes me laugh out loud without fail. And Harry Potter books 1-7 have been my before-bed readers for years; they take my mind off the day but I know what happens so I don’t stay up wanting to find out what happens next.

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  131. Rhonda N on

    My favorite book is The Genus Lavandula by Tim Upson. I used to borrow my friends copy and finally was able to find a copy of my own. I ordered it from an Australian bookstore. It’s like an encyclopedia about lavender. I am just fascinated with the amazing plant. I started a small lavender farm with help from the friend who’s book I borrowed. If my house were on fire I would grab this book first!
    I’m thinking of growing some peonies next to my lavender patch. My two favorite flowers.

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  132. Lori Bell on

    I found a fun vintage book from 1959 called “Janine is French” by Lloyd Alexander. It is one I have read over & over because it’s just such a sweet story.

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  133. Sue Dempsey on

    Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People” changed my life in my middle school years. The title sounds like a master manipulator handbook, but it’s really about how to listen, speak and act with understanding, acceptance, optimism, and respect. It’s an explanation of human nature with specific instructions on just how to accomplish the generic “love one another,” when you don’t feel like or know how to love some of them. It even covers how to gently nudge people to expand into the greatness you see in them, when they lack direction or confidence. I wish everyone could have this treasure in their personal library.

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  134. Tracy R on

    My favorite book is A Time To Keep. It is the first book I asked my parents to get me. The illustrations are beautiful.

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  135. Brooke Simonson on

    I love my Cut Flowers by Floret farms! So much good info and stunning photos!!

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  136. Kristen on

    My favorite book right now is Chasing Eden by Jack Staub and Renny Reynolds. I get lost in its pages and the writing takes you through their gardens. 🥰

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  137. tanya w on

    Living in the high desert of the southwest gardening is much trial and perhaps even more error, and the book I relate to most is “The Undaunted Garden” by Lauren Springer.

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  138. Crystal on

    Narrowing down to a favorite book is HARD! Haha For this moment I’ll go with Start with Why. I actually own three of the four books listed in the business and personal development section. :) For years I’ve had this deep burning that I’m supposed to be doing something more with my life and my land (of which I’m a fourth generation owner of and super proud of). About four years ago I had a business idea that immediately went on the back burner since my then husband and I were building his business and working to get it off the ground. Three short years later after a heart shattering divorce and having nothing left to lose I started reading….and I read some more. Last year I picked up Start with Why after hesitantly circling back around to my original business idea and somehow in tandem and miraculously stumbled upon the Floret online workshop which was in it’s final week of registration and everything started making sense. I was terrified to invest in myself! Once in the course and having Simon’s book under my belt I was able to not only see my vision but I could feel it in every fiber of my being. Start with Why very simply, moved me. It propelled me into journaling all things business. It lit me up and got me excited about my future. Start with Why helped give me clarity and the gumption to begin designing a life that’s in alignment with my heart.

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  139. Abigail Baldwin on

    “The Crossroads of Should and Must” by Elle Luna changed my life – the way I view it and how I live it. It’s a beautiful, engaging, and reflective read. It helped me understand where some of the core beliefs I’ve formed about myself, others, and the world came from, and how this can guide me along a path that feels energizing and true to my heart if I intentionally following my ‘musts’ rather than my ‘shoulds.’ For example, I went into social work because I felt like I ‘should’ do that – focus on suicide prevention to honor loved ones lost to suicide. I felt like the culture we live in required it from me, if I were to be a “good grieved.” I realized that following ‘shoulds’ caused me to feel depleted. I finally started thinking about what my ‘musts’ are. What energizing me? What am I truly passionate about – when all of the noise is drowned out? What did I spend my time doing as a child? I realized what I’ve been missing these last few years – a life filled with nature, creativity, and of course… flowers. So I signed up for the upcoming Floret course and checked the box on a huge action step in following my “musts.” :)

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  140. Megan K on

    Okay I hate to be that person who doesn’t go with a flower book but……..Harry Potter…1-7. It got me through my childhood when my parents got a divorce. It was my getaway back in 3rd garde-high school. Highlight of my childhood for sure was those books! I would still love to learn more about gardening and flowers of course!

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  141. GEORGINA GLEASON on

    I am new in my love for planting flowers, so all your recommendations are a great source of inspiration.

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  142. Jodi Liberty on

    Its hard to narrow it down to just one book so I’ll pick a favorite gardening-related book. Great Garden Companions: A Companion-Planting System for a Beautiful, Chemical-Free Vegetable Garden by Sally Cunningham is probably my favorite gardening related book. I’ve actually purchased this book twice. The first one was pretty much destroyed after many years of use and having it out in the garden with me getting wet, full of dirt, being buried under plant material and my beloved yellow lab, Lilly Belle, (who was highly skilled at pulling weeds I might add) carrying it around for me in her mouth. This book was such an excellent reference and filled with a ton of amazing information that it was, and still is, indispensable to me. After the first book was wrecked beyond use, I couldn’t live without it and had to get another copy. As I said, it is filled with so much great information that she presents in such a way that is so easy to understand that even the newest gardener can follow right along. She tells great stories and has wonderful anecdotes. There are lots of lovely and helpful photographs and illustrations. And the tips, tricks, and ideas really work. I am in charge of the certified organic vegetable program at the production/retail greenhouse where I work and I reference and teach her methods to all of my customers that wish to remain chemical-free.

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  143. Lena on

    I read everything that appears in my hands. Last year somebody sent me a book “Cozy. The art of arranging yourself in the world” by Isabel Gillies. For as long as I remember my self, I have always been looking for a way to find peace, balance, and harmony with the world around me. This book taught me to look inside and see it in my heart. It has many examples and stories to see “cozy” in very simple things: clothes, postcards, pencils, walks, alone time, etc. Oftentimes now, I just stop and look, I always find what I need – it just comes from within.

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  144. Meagan Miller on

    My first ever gardening book as a young girl was “The Secret Garden”, and in it were a series of very old pressed flower stamps. I cherished this book, the thought of having my own secret garden filled me with wonder, and the old stamps were like my secret treasures. (I’m from NZ so can’t enter the competition, but thought to share anyway :)

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  145. Holly Sanders on

    I adore books of all kinds, but for gardening, I’m a big Jerry Baker fan. I love his Flower Garden Problem Solver book as reference. I planned on having a cutting garden for many years before I had yards. Flowers are the first things I planted each house I’ve lived in. I’e enjoyed your blog and Dahlia books as well, since I have a huge plot of Dahlias now, some of my favorites. Thank you!

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  146. Claudia Bennett on

    I don’t know how I can pick just one favorite. I love so many books. One that comes to mind is Tasha Tudor’s Garden I love her illustrations and old-fashioned wisdom. After reading other’s comments here my reading list has grown to the stage of “impossible to ever read them all.”

    Thank you for your continuous generosity.

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  147. Diane Moser on

    Gaia’s Garden, A Guide to Home-Scale Permaculture by Toby Hemenway – I think it’s important to mimic nature when we design outdoor spaces. Nature has regenerative ecosytems. It’s better for the planet and reduces waste in all aspects including the amount of effort needed to maintain it.

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  148. Michelle Gagne on

    I love the book “Grow Something Different to Eat” by Matthew Bigs. I know it’s not a flower book, but much like growing unique and different flowers, I love to grow unique and different food. I am always trying to get my two kids to eat more fruits and veggies and this is a fun way to do it.

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  149. Anna Mae Hartness on

    I love the Elliot homestead books. She is a resident here in Washington state so I feel her information really applies to me for my area. I own Welcome to the farm and Family Table (One of my favorite cook books!) I absolutely love these two books, they are great resources in homesteading and cooking, along with they contain such amazing stories.

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  150. Kristin Cooper on

    My current favorite book is The Choice by Dr. Edith Eger. I read her book while going through my divorce and it was the best thing I could’ve done for myself at the time. So many life lessons and wisdom in those pages. I believe everyone should read this book, over and over again. Also, thank you for all the inspriation and amazing work you do!

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  151. Mel Himelright on

    My Favorite Book ever is More with less both the cookbook which is a treasure grove of recipes that are simple and natural and the idea book of how to actively walk it out. I am inspired every time I open them.

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  152. Natasha Holland on

    July and Winter: Growing food in the Sierra by Gary Romano. This book has lots of information on growing in a short season, high altitude in the Sierras and use of microclimates in the garden. I took a farm infrastructure course through the community College and was able to spend 2 days at his farm. It was such a great learning experience.

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  153. Leslie on

    I have many favorite books across many genres and subject interests, but if I had to chose one book it would be The Bible to have that anthology of poetry, prose, history, love letters and wisdom.

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  154. Sonya on

    All of these books sound wonderful! I love Martha Stewart’s Gardening: Month by Month. I misplaced my copy when we moved 2 years ago, but it has always been a favorite and an excellent resource. The photography is beautiful and it’s filled with a little bit of everything from gardening , pruning, drying flowers, recipes, etc. I don’t have any of the others yet, but they’re all on my list now. 🍃💜🍃

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  155. Kari on

    I first discovered ‘Cut Flower Garden’ while in line at my favorite nursery near my home on Bainbridge Island. I had always dreamed of planting a cottage garden full of flowers to simply nurture and admire as well as cut and bring inside. I bought it on the spot! This book was just want I needed to learn how to bring my love of gardening together with making a cottage garden a reality. And helped me get started and gain the confidence to ‘dig’ in, design and organize my available spaces. Along with hours of hard work and a great tan 😊, and by following the guidance in this wonderful book over the past two years, my cottage garden exploded this past spring and summer. It grew beautifully in stark contrast to a scary time in our world. The book sits on my coffee table- a bit dog eared now- but always close at hand when I take time to sit, read, dream and plan.

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  156. dxiña on

    What We Talk About When We Talk About Love: Stories by Raymond Carver… seemingly simple short stories that resonate so deeply like a long lost memory or forgotten sadness.

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  157. Sylvia on

    There are lots of books I love on growing & arranging flowers, but there are fewer books on the subject of dried flowers, which I love, so “The Complete Book of Everlastings” by Mark & Terry Silber is a favorite of mine. It IS a complete book, with information on growing, harvesting in the wild, & designing. One of the best things about the book is the hard to find information on when to pick the blooms, which can make the difference in whether or not the bloom dries successfully.

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  158. Marsha on

    So many wonderful books to explore! A trip to the library and/or bookstore is my most favorite. I enjoy a memoir, the Stillmeadow books by Gladys Taber document the simple day to day routine of life. They are a lovely escape from the hecticness of our world.

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  159. Gail Shevlin on

    I can relate to your love of reading books, libraries, and book stores. I am an avid reader and especially gardening books.I would enjoy reading your selected books! Happy holidays

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  160. Carolyn Kelly on

    The History of Love, by Nicole Kraus is heartbreakingly real, beautifully written and unique, weaving a few stories together, beginning with Leo, a lonely Holocaust survivor.

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  161. Emily Fuller on

    The Intelligent Gardener: Growing Nutrient-Dense Food by Steve Solomon
    The deep dive of soil health in this book is a lot to take in! It gives me so much to strive for and work on.

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  162. Megan on

    The beautiful images in Planting: A New Perspective by Piet Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury inspire me every time I read it. I am trying to find that balance in my own garden- the mix of grasses and natives but also cut flowers and plants.

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  163. Jennifer Sutherland on

    Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas Tallamy has inspired me to incorporate more native plants into our urban yard. I also return to Margaret Wray’s A Way To Garden every so often. I bought Cut Flower Garden before I knew who you were. Only later when a friend introduced me to the rabbit hole of dahlias and suggested you as resource, did I realize you had been one of my initial gurus from afar! Thank you for the ongoing inspiration!

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  164. Amanda on

    I love Braiding Sweet Grass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. It speaks to my soul!

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  165. Meggen on

    My favorite go to gardening book is The Essential Gardner, by Derek Fell. As a kid I went with my mom to a few different gardening/rose clubs & this was the reference book I learned the most from. I still consider myself a beginner gardener & always do my research on the plants I add to my landscape.

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  166. Heather on

    Impossible to choose just one book! Like you I have always been a voracious reader, even as a little girl. One of my favorites is The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. I feel like is a sweet book with gentle illustrations and contains lessons that are relevant, regardless of how much time passes. When I can’t find the time to sit with a book (my preference) I will listen to an audible one!

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  167. Elizabeth Walters on

    I own a number of the titles above – all of which I have enjoyed and been helped by. My favorite book (overall), however, is The Secret Garden, a novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The first time I read it- when I was a child- I could not put it down. I was absorbed into the magic and mystery of the secret garden and how the children uncovered it and took care of what they found there. It is a deep and beautiful story of rebirth, discovery, and healing. All wrapped up in a walled, secret garden. I have read it more than a few times over the years, and it gets better each time.

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  168. Leslie on

    My favorite “landscape garden book” is The Undaunted Garden by Lauren Springer Ogden

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  169. Danielle Clark on

    My father gave me Neil Sperry’s Complete Guide to Texas Gardening after I purchased my first home in Dallas and started planning different types of beds – vegetables, roses, flowers, vines. I still use it as my primary reference even though I now own a house in Houston and am a much more avid gardener by adding butterfly, bird and pollinator gardening to my list.

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  170. Katie Bigler on

    I have to say Erin, your books totally provided me the inspiration I needed to become a flower farmer. I read them cover to cover . . . love the pictures, and explanations. Thank you so much for publishing “Cut Flower Garden”!

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  171. Kelsey on

    Southwest Gardening by Rosalie Doolittle – it was my great grandmothers gardening book. There are still handwritten notes in the margins 💕💕💕

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  172. Connie Klingaman on

    My favorite plant book is Flower Confidential by Amy Stewart, it’s a behind the scenes look at the cut flower industry. It’s all rather mind boggling. She also wrote “The Drunken Botanist” about the history of plants used to make alcohol. I have to say though, it’s quite difficult to narrow it down to one favorite plant book, about as hard as having a favorite flower!

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  173. Kartini Maxson on

    10 years ago a dear friend gifted me with the book “One Thousand Gifts,” by Ann Voskamp. I often compare myself and how I feel about my life circumstances based on how I see everyone else’s. As I read this book, I was able to see beauty in the life I had and learned how I could live life more fully for myself, my family, and those around me. It was so transformation for me, that I felt impressed to share this book with other women in my life. To this day, 10 years later, I’m still counting blessings-far beyond One Thousand.

    Thank you for the gift of what you all do here! And for your spirit of generosity and giving through your giveaways and scholarships.

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  174. Brandon on

    I have really enjoyed “Making the most of shade” by Larry Hodgson, because it gave me good ideas to make the most of the shady areas of my yard.

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  175. Brandy Henderson on

    The Secret Life of Bee’s is definitely one that tops my list of favorites. I read it many years ago and find myself thinking of it quite often. It was a book I couldn’t put down. It had me all in my feelers and going thru every emotion right from the beginning. A story of loss, love, hope…..and so much more really. It’s easy to read and not too long. I highly recommend it 😊

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  176. Jessica Forbes on

    Thank you for this list, I don’t have any of these books yet, but hope to! I’m attempting to expand my gardening to include a flower business but the book I credit with even being able to consider that possibility is Carol Deppe’s The Resilient Gardner: Food Production and Self-reliance in Uncertain Times. Living for the past 10 years in the Pacific Northwest I was able to model my homestead style garden off of this book to enjoy year round food staples. Her idea of efficient gardening, get more output with less input, allowed me to have the space and know-how to to organize a large successful flower plot this year. Now I just need to learn more about how to share my glorious flowers with the world!

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  177. Erica Cole on

    Thank you for sharing the wealth of information you’ve learned on your gardening journey. You’ve helped me so much to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a gardener.
    I love reading memoirs and learning about people’s lives and perspectives. One of my favorites is, “The Hiding Place,” by Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch woman who built a secret room in her house to hide Jews during WWII.

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  178. CATHY R KAMPSTRA on

    First of all you are so inspiring ………I equally love Gardening and Cookbooks. My collection of books is nearing 1000 and I recently inherited a Landscape Designers Collection 300 + Beautiful Flower, Herb and Garden Design Books
    One of my favorite cookbooks is VEGETABLE LOVE by BARBARAKAFKA with CHRISTOPHER STYLER.
    As a family calibration we are growing microgreens, vegetables, herbs and flowers………………….in hopes of opening a business this spring.

    never to many books

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  179. Renee Kirkendall on

    I love Floret’s Cut Flower Garden. I am working on adding to my collection of books and love the knowledge I am gaining. It is cold in Michigan now and I am missing working in the garden, but reading and learn during the cold winter days helps.

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  180. Becca Hickin on

    Oh I love reading. I used to have more time to do it and love a good romance novel but now being a mum to a 9 month old I don’t get too much time. I recently brought ‘ cut flower garden’ and absolutely love it and keep going back over it for tips and reminders. Another I’ve recently purchased for inspiration on drying flowers is ‘Everlastings’ by bex partridge it’s a lovely read. Very informative and beautiful images.

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  181. Stacy Womack on

    Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. I’m just getting started with flower farming and this book has been so interesting and helpful.

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  182. Christine Barton on

    There are many floral books that I love and have been most helpful. That being said, Strength Finder 2.0 and The Lean Farm are the 2 that are at the top of our list. I was first to take Strength Finder, and then my husband, and then our daughter that is in college. Really helped set the stage for us to know how to work better as a team, and family. The Lean Farm, has been a continual guide, as we rework our 1890 homestead into a flourishing flower farm and small venue site. My husband now listens to most of his books while doing stuff around the farm. I still enjoy hardcover, and flipping pages, taking notes, and using a book mark. I think there is just something cool about having books stacked, and on the book shelf.

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  183. Sandy G on

    I don’t really have a favorite book, but I do have several authors that I love reading their books. They are James Patterson, John Grisham. Steven King and Jonathan Kellerman, to name a few. I just really enjoy crime stories. I’m pretty sure that, should I win one of these collections, that there will be at least one of them that would become a favorite gardening book. Thank you for doing this!

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  184. Patt Thomas on

    One of my all time favorite is Gardening in Georgia, month by month. Another is Cut Flower Garden, what a great book! Always look forward
    to Spring time, and planting new things.

    Reply
  185. Nabers Cabaniss Johnson on

    The New Flower Arranging from your Garden, by English flower arranger Sheila Macqueen, is my favorite book on flower arranging. It covers what a flower arranger should grow in her garden, and how to condition and arrange her flowers. While my edition is from 1995, it is a classic, and every time I pick it up, I am inspired by the photographs of her beautiful arrangements, as well as the information on what to grow and how to use different plant materials. While the author was English, she notes, for example, the beauty of the berries of Virginia Poke Weed or Phytolacca americana in a flower arrangement.

    Reply
  186. Bridget Gregus on

    My favorite book is A Year of Flowers. I don’t own it , but I check it out from my local library

    Reply
  187. Michelle G. on

    Hands down, Cut Flower Garden. I could not put it down. It truly inspired my to explore my passion for cut flowers. My garden is growing, cannot wait until spring.

    Reply
  188. Cate Armstrong on

    It is very hard to narrow down a favorite book! I have several series I absolutely love. If I had to list them in order, it’s be the Atlantis Grail series by Vera Nazarian, Harry Potter, and Outlander. I have a hard time giving books away after I’ve read them 🤣. I am attached, especially to the ones that are favorites. I like these series so much because of the adventure. I would love to add more books, especially garden books! I don’t have many, but I cherish the few I have. Thank you!

    Reply
  189. Tonya Gray on

    Cut Flower Garden is definitely a favorite. I also love Wildflowers of the Tallgrass Prairie by Runkel (and really any flower guide by Runkel)

    Reply
  190. Becky on

    My favorite flower book is your “Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias: A Guide to Growing and Arranging Magnificent Blooms”. I actually received it as an early Christmas gift from my mother, so I can stop checking it out of the library. Not only do I love all the photos, but I especially like the details on growing, storing, and propagating dahlias. I am just getting started and need all of the help I can get!

    Reply
  191. Terri Thornton on

    December 4th
    My favorite books to read are actually about the enviroment and understanding the wonderful planet we live on. I couldn’t grow flowers if I didn’t have a viable planet to work in and I am troubled by the direction that we are going. Some of my favorites are Underland by Robert Macfarland, Emily Dickinson’s Gardening Life by Marta McDowell, anything by Cullina or Douglas W. Tallamy – just to name a few. I also have many of the books you have listed for practical advice as well as your books. Can’t have too many books as far as I am concerned!

    Reply
  192. Leah Travers on

    My very first and favorite flower book (and I’m NOT just saying this,) is your “Cut Flower Garden.” My copy is dog-eared, full of post-its and bookmarks and when I’m in the house, it’s always within arm’s reach. My second fav garden book is “Cool Flowers,” by Lisa Mason Ziegler. It’s also dogeared and full of post-its. Favorite non-flower related books otherwise: Well, my Mom was a children’s librarian so any singular book hardly stood a chance…it was whatever either I or we, were reading.

    Reply
  193. Elizabeth Kay on

    I haven’t finished the book yet but I am really enjoying Dahlia Breeding for the Farmer-Florist and the Home Gardener: A Step by Step Guide to Hybridizing New Dahlia Varieties from Seed by Kristine Albrecht. Gardening is a creative outlet for myself and I love learning about how to hybridize dahlias!

    Reply
  194. Ashley Marie Laabs on

    My favorite (non-gardening) book has got to be Jonathon Livingston Seagull. It opened my mind in so many ways in such a smoothly written story form.

    Reply
  195. Krista Jeanne on

    I am not sure I could pick a favorite book. I love so many. I mostly read nonfiction, but my sentimental favorites are probably the Wizard of Oz and Anne of Green Gables.

    Reply
  196. Kasey Connors on

    My favorite gardening book is, The Vegetable Gardeners Bible, it has helped me so much. Plus it has been helpful when I lived in central IN and now in NW MT. I think that is the best part of the book!
    My favorite book otherwise, this is difficult because I didn’t have a favorite book growing up and just recently started having a love for reading. I always remember the book, Pat the Bunny, from my childhood and made sure my kids had it. Oh the Places You Will Go in Utero, was my favorite during pregnancy.
    I think my favorite book would be, Lilac Girls, because it was so engulfing, I truly felt like I was in the 1940s. This book also sparked an interest in history for me. Plus I love the details in it and knowing that the author spent so much time making sure it was accurate. I have much respect for someone researching and taking pride in respecting the past and it’s truth.

    Reply
  197. Tamara M on

    My favorite book is Maiden Voyage by Tania Aebi
    My dad and I bought when I was a teenager in a boating store of all places! I have been an avid reader my whole life. I was a teenager and went to get some boating equipment with him
    As we all know being a teenager has its own challenges but this book is about a young woman who’s father gives her a sailboat and she sails around the world solo! Her trials tribulations and relationships! I have read so many times – it’s moved many times with me! I am now 52 and and when I need a little boost in my courage , I read it again. I went through health issues two years ago and brought it out again.

    Reply
  198. Laura Wheeler on

    A Year in Flowers is such an inspiring book. I love using ingredients from garden to make lovely seasonal arrangements during every month of the year.

    Reply
  199. Kendra Utt on

    My favorite book is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Its funny and charming, while dealing with the everyday troubles of living during war time.

    Reply
  200. Rebecca Watford on

    One of my favorite books has always been “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter.
    – love the mischievous little rabbit with the blue jacket. He certainly enjoys a green garden!

    Reply
  201. Colleen Lanier on

    I love reading books. One of my favorite older gardening books is “Two Gardeners, A Friendship in Letters. The book is not only an interesting garden perspective between Katharine S. White and Elizabeth Lawrence but also a wonderful example of letter writing which is fading away quickly.

    Reply
  202. Christie on

    One of my favorites is The Forest Feast by Erin Gleeson. It’s a beautiful yummy book.

    Reply
  203. Yvonne Pegram on

    Discovering Dahlias has been a great book for me I am enjoying it and all of the lovely dahlia varieties. I plan to read cover to cover this winter. It has helped me to discover dahlias. I ordered mow for next season. The othe book that has helped me was Cool Flowers I reference it often along with your book for the dahlias. Thank you so much.

    Reply
  204. Christine Pops on

    Your book, Florets Cut Flower Garden is my favorite garden book! I was struggling growing flowers from seed and this was a game changer!

    Reply
  205. Josephine A Blasi on

    I was so excited 2 of your personal favorites in my own personal collection. One of my daughters and I both follow you and coincidentally, she had bought for me over the years as gifts the same 2 books I see in your collection. We both are flower lovers turned florists turned flower farmers in the making. The 2 books are by Frances Palmer and Martha Stewart. Great minds do think alike.

    Reply
  206. Jessica Missel on

    When I moved almost 3 years ago, I winnowed down my book collection to the essentials, but it has slowly been growing again. Books are a source of knowledge, inspiration, provide an adventure and good friends!

    Reply
  207. Kat on

    I love Eliot Coleman’s books, because his focus is not merely on the end solution but the process and experimentation he took to get to that solution. He values prototyping and data as much as I do!

    Reply
  208. Katrina Rosa on

    My current favorite book: Dying To Be Me by Anita Moorjani. She nearly died of cancer, experienced a near death experience and then recovered. She shares that she learned from her NDE that the source of suffering is fear. I realized I have been existing in fear – fear of death, fear of life.

    My madre, also had cancer. She died 3 months ago after living with cancer in JOY. I was her full time care-giver for 2 years. Lost and disoriented, not knowing what else to do, I began planting her favorite flower – tulips. More than 1,000 bulbs later, inspired by Madre and also Moorjani’s book I decided to consciously release fear. I am becoming flower farmer and will share the joy of blooms with my community.

    Reply
  209. Beverly Gingerich on

    My favorite book is ‘The Blue Castle’ by L. M. Montgomery, published in 1926. I love it because of the twists and major surprise in it, and it’s the sweetest love story ever.
    P.S. My 20-year old son has been growing flowers for several years, mainly for his own pleasure–and mine, :) but this fall, he purchased dozens of packets of seeds for next year with hopes of selling fresh-cut bouquets.

    Reply
  210. Stephanie on

    I love A short history of nearly everything by Bill Bryson. It speaks to my geeky side and makes concepts like quantum physics accessible to the average person. It really makes you appreciate all the wonder in the world of science.

    Reply
  211. Zaneta Colon on

    I never knew I could fall so much in love with growing cut flowers until I was introduced to floret and gardening through garden answer! I ordered The Cut Flower Garden book, by you, as soon as I heard about it! It’s my favorite and I am hooked! I built myself four garden beds, and began growing cut flowers! I don’t think I will ever not grow cut flowers. 😊 I am a nurse and I love my job, but some days I dream about being a flower farmer! Ha ha

    Reply
  212. Elaine Tatro on

    I absolutely share your appreciation for almost anything that Sarah Raven has ever written. She played a major role on defining cut-flower growing as a viable lifestyle and business concept. Can’t wait to read the “Fire- Starter Sessions”!

    Reply
  213. Hilda Shelton on

    Clive Barker’s trilogy, “the Abarat” are my favorite books. It is an Alice in Wonderland type of fantasy. I was fortunate enough to meet Clive Barker and he drew a whole page just for me and my husband. He was so nice. He had the most patches and holes in his pants I had ever seen. I love his creative mind, often creating dark horror stories. I love his artwork too.

    Reply
  214. Carol L deSousa on

    The first book I ever read about flower gardening was The Flower Farmer: An Organic Grower’s Guide to Raising and Selling Cut Flowers, 2nd edition, by Lynn Byczynski I could not put it down.

    The second book I read that I could not put down was The Cut Flower Garden by you. These two books alone made me get so excited to begin a flower farming venture!

    Reply
  215. Kathleen on

    One of my favorites for growing things is “The Joy of Gardening” by Dick Raymond. Taught me so much as I was just starting my gardening adventures—over 40 years ago!

    Reply
  216. Heidi on

    I would have to say one of a two book set I found at a thrift store I thiiink the titles are 10,000garden questions answered .They are basically an encyclopedia for anything garden , for commonly asked questions , and they’re cute taboot .

    Reply
  217. Mila Carney on

    I’m in my very first winter after harvesting seed! I know very little and have 1 book. So while it might be my favorite by default, it’s fantastically beautiful! It’s yours, and I love it!

    Reply
  218. Terri Shamroukh on

    So tough to choose, but I will pick Graham Stuart Thomas’ Cuttings from my Garden Notebooks. Thomas was a talented gardener, artist and writer. As I read this book I felt the warmth, generosity and expertise of Thomas as he discussed almost every aspect of gardening from climate and weather to soil and then plants. His sketches are also wonderful.

    Reply
  219. Sue C. on

    A Year of Roses by Stephen Scanniello

    Reply
  220. Heather on

    My favorite book is “Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life: The Plants and Places That Inspired the Classic Children’s Tales”
    by Marta McDowell because I love to learn about the history of gardeners throughout the years.

    Reply
  221. Sarah McGrath on

    I love “The Intelligent Gardener: Growing Nutrient-Dense Food” by Steve Solomon and “The Book of Delights” by Ross Gay.

    Reply
  222. Debbie’s e Shaw on

    As a beginner gardener, I used to watch Monty Don’s show to find out how do make all of this magic happen! Fell in love with him, his garden and then his book of gardening.

    Reply
  223. Joanne Crouch on

    My first gardening reference book was Sunset Western Gardens. It’s not as spectacular as most other books but as a go to for quick reference it stays on my shelf.

    Reply
  224. Laura on

    I am a newbie gardener and my favorite book is The Complete Gardener. I became inspired to start organic gardening in my small 1/4 acre yard after reading Monte Don’s book. I’ve had some wonderful successes and epic failures over my two years of gardening, and this book has been my constant companion. I’ve learned how to grow plants from seed, compost and prepare soil for planting. I have ordered my first batch of dahlias for planting this spring and have reserved one of my raised beds so I can try my hand with cut flowers. In the meantime, I will be going to the library armed with your list of favorite books!

    Reply
  225. claire champagne on

    I love gardening and have been for over 50 years. My favorite book is The new Organic Grower by Eliot Coleman. I have learnt so much from his books.

    Reply
  226. Holly Marsh on

    Cut Flower Garden
    Grow, Harvest & Arrange Stunning Seasonal Blooms by Erin Benzakein with Julie Chai
    This book starts out with giving you the basics on everything a newbie flower farmer needs to know from planning, getting started, digging in, essential techniques to Erin’s favorite tools. It then guides you through the seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter, as Erin says, “Awakening to new possibilities of the four seasons.” Each seasonal section instructs you through tasks that you will do and enriches your knowledge of flowers that bloom in that season, and ends with seasonal flower projects to entice you. The seasonal format helped me as a new flower farmer understand the seasonality of the farming cycle. The in-depth detail about each type of flower from how to grow it, vase life tricks, and Erin’s favorite varieties makes this a cherished resource. This book is like an encyclopedia of flower knowledge from A to Z with photographs that are not only gorgeous but educational. This book kick-started my flower farming journey and gave me the knowledge I needed to get started. But it also inspired me to dream about the possibilities of what my farm could become.

    Reply
  227. Audrey on

    In addition to Cut Flower Garden, I love Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Zeigler! It has taught me a lot about hardy annuals, succession planting and seed starting. Because of her amazing information I will get flowers much earlier than usual this spring and I can’t wait!

    Reply
  228. Elisha Ross on

    The land gardeners would be up there as my favourite book. Lots of practical advice with dreamy photography to boot.

    Reply
  229. Debbie on

    I love reading about gardens and love flowers. They both bring peace, hope, calm, joy, natural beauty, fragrance, and touch the soul. I am currently reading In Kiltumper A year in an Irish garden. Both husband and wife write month by month. It is a vicarious trip to Ireland. Blessings to all flower growers big and small for what you give to our earth and fellow humans.

    Reply
  230. Vonda on

    Honestly my favorite gardening book is Discovering Dahlias from you! I just love everything about it. It is such a beautiful book and has been so helpful in so many ways with growing my dahlias! It was one of my favorite gifts ever! I love your other books as well. They are all so beautiful and informative and am always picking them up to look things up. Thank you for sharing your love of growing beautiful blooms and gardening with all of us!

    Reply
  231. Sarah on

    Edit to my last comment. Cut Flower Garden, I meant to write, by Erin of course!

    Reply
  232. Sarah on

    My new favorite book is Cut Flower! It is helping my plan my first ever cut flower garden for 2022, so inspiring!!

    Reply
  233. Sarah Bankowski on

    So I am very very new to the cut flower farming world. I only have two books but they both have been very helpful so far. Lisa Mason Ziegler’s books : Cool Flowers and Vegetables Love Flowers. I have asked for Florets, Cut Flower Garden for Christmas so hopefully Santa comes through for me.

    Reply
  234. Sarah on

    My favorite gardening book is Gardening in Fort Worth by the Fort Worth Garden Club. It has really helped me with getting a functional compost pile and correcting my soil for growing flowers and food. The book was published by our local botanical garden.

    My favorite book overall is Moon Called by Patricia Briggs. Its an urban fantasy adventure about a Native American shape shifter in the modern world with vampires, were wolves, and witches.

    Reply
  235. Margaret on

    My favorite book for a while has been The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society a historical novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. It came out at a period where I was really into historical novels and I love it more each time I read it. Per usual the book is better than movie!

    Reply
  236. Dara Friedman on

    One of my favorite fiction books is The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman. I love it because it is a beautiful story that is sad and yet full of joy. In the story Lilian, the main character, works through the grief of losing her husband while learning to build a garden one small step at a time. As her gardening skills grow so do her friendships with the most hilarious cast of characters and her relationships with her beautiful daughters. This story shows that even in darkness the sun will find a way to shine if you let it and that sun along with lots of love and nurturing will lead to abundant growth.

    Reply
  237. Kris Dahl on

    Out of the many gardening books that I love, I want to focus on a few old treasures. First includes Ruth Stout’s “How to Have a Green Thumb Without an Aching Back” (1961), “No Work Garden” (1971), and while not a book, the very rare, very special, and now almost impossible to find, 1976 16 mm film, “Ruth Stout’s Garden”. I love Ruth Stout’s early works not only for her character and influence on carefree au natural gardening, but also because she was ahead of her time with organic no-till, healthy soil building through her no work, labor-saving, soil improving, continuous and permanent mulching, and intensive gardening techniques. Second, I’d like to mention “Square Foot Gardening” (1981) by Mel Bartholomew for his introduction to soil mixing and space saving techniques. There are lots of more contemporary books I love ranging on topics from Herbs in the Landscape and Edible Flowers to Compostng and Permaculture, but for good reason, perhaps due to my early exposure, I find both Ruth Stout’s and Mel Bartholomew’s gardening techniques to be timeless.

    Reply
  238. Tonya on

    I love books so much! It was difficult to pick just one!
    I am choosing- The Soul-Sourced Entrepreneur: An
    Unconventional Success Plan for the Highly Creative, Secretly Sensitive, & Wildly Ambitious .
    It’s such an easy to digest guide to business and business books are usually a tough sell for me!

    Reply
  239. Regina on

    Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney is one of my favorite books. I go back to it again and again. It’s such a lovely, inspiring story about following your dreams, and in Miss Rumphius’s case, doing something to make the world more beautiful by spreading joy with flowers.

    “It was the wind,” she said as she knelt in delight. “It was the wind that brought the seeds from my garden here! And the birds must have helped!”

    Enjoy this sweet book yourself and find out more about the real Miss Rumphius through this link: https://www.newenglandhistoricalsociety.com/how-real-miss-rumphius-decorated-maine-lupines/

    Reply
  240. Sheila Graham on

    I have a Southern Living Gardener’s Guide that I use all the time, especially when I was a beginner gardener. It has a pictoral guide with descriptions of of each plant and is also sorted by perennial, annual, trees, shrubs, herbs, etc. It has details about planting every type of plant with pictures. I found it very helpful when I first planted bare root roses. And it has details about pruning. Actually, it has everything you need to know as a Southern Gardener. This is my go-to book and dream guide for winter browsing.

    Reply
  241. Nattalie Hoch on

    The First 90 Days is a book I have recommended for new leaders. It’s timeless lessons about getting a fast start in a new role have always resonated.
    However the most recent book I’ve gifted is Cut Flower Garden. It was so inspiring as I started growing my own cut flowers during my layoff (yes a Covid related layoff) as gardening became my part of my therapy.

    Reply
  242. Carol Sackeyfio on

    Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants. By Robin Wall Kimmeter
    One of the few books I have read more than once.
    She does an amazing storytelling job of combining the objective science enriched by ancient knowledge! Her images are captivating and she relates them to everyday life and science. This book brings me a real passion for my outdoor environment and a deep connection to the places I spend the most of my time. I look at my garden in a more holistic space! I have given this book out the most!

    Reply
  243. Rosanne on

    I love books written by Elisabeth Elliot.

    Reply
  244. Michelle T. on

    The Bible because it tells of Gods great love for me and everyone else. It helps me live my best life for Him!

    Reply
  245. Molly Myers on

    Anything by George McDonald. Irish romantic writer from 19th century. Princess and Curdie and the Princess and the Goblin are timeless fantasies this momma needs at the end of the day! haha

    Reply
  246. Ari Daly on

    My favorite books are Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi and Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson. Both are beautiful, emotional stories!

    Reply
  247. Rick Weiler on

    Love the book ‘One Hundred Flowers’ by Harold Feinstein! I randomly picked the book up in a small bookstore while visiting family in Arizona. Almost immediately, I was inspired to explore the art of macro photography, specifically flowers. So much beauty can be found in that small wonderful world that I historically have simply passed by.

    Heck, after writing this, I am going to jump into the back yard and find a flower to capture!

    Reply
  248. Ashley Burwinkel on

    Goodness, one favorite? There’s so many I love for so many different reasons! One that always sticks out in my mind is Palomino, by Danielle Steele. I know it’s cheesy because it’s a romantic novel but it also has perseverance to overcome any obstacle in life. It’s just so beautifully written and I will continue to read this every so often in the mix of many new books.

    Reply
  249. Ali Newsom on

    Romantic Roses by Pierre-Joseph Redoute the illustrations are beautiful and for Reading The Language of Flowers, so well written I could picture her arrangements in my head…. Such a joy to look at all the wonderful flower/garden books while we wait for winter to pass

    Reply
  250. Mindy A on

    My favorite book is the Bible. I know this may sound cliché but God speaks to me through it and it truly guides every area of my life. Because of this book I can know the Maker of Heaven and Earth.

    Reply
  251. Molly Towell on

    There are SO MANY wonderfful books out there!! I don’t know if I could pick a favorite, so I will list my most recent read: Flowers by Carolyne Roehm. The photography of flowers was amazing and I was introduced to some new varieties of flowers I

    Reply
  252. Breanne P on

    My favorite book is The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. As a high school Floral Arts teacher, I love making connections to the flowers we learn about and to the reasons why they are used. Everything my students create in class has a purpose and meaning behind it. Additionally, I make sure to teach them about different cultures and backgrounds and how flowers tie into their celebrations and traditions. I love that there is more to it than just something pretty, even though I enjoy the beauty of a simple bouquet myself.

    Reply
  253. Kathy Tanaka on

    I love all things u teach💜 Your books r amazing and so detailed and beautiful. I know your suggestions for books would be the best. Thanks for doing what u do and letting us come along for the ride. 🌸

    Reply
  254. Hannah M. on

    My favorite flower book is Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers by Jessica Roux. I love it because I think there is something beautiful about sending messages through flowers. I use it anytime I buy/arrange flowers for family and friends, even thought they don’t care about the message I am sending with the flowers! The language of flowers is dying out it seems, but I love this book because it taught me something new and gave me new ideas when arranging flowers.
    My all-time favorite book is And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. I love it because I enjoy mysteries and solving puzzles. The book has a twist ending that I was able to predict. Christie writes in a wonderful way that’s easy to understand, so I love almost all of her books, but And Then There Were None is my favorite!

    Reply
  255. Stargirl on

    It’s so hard to choose! I turn to Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler frequently. In Bloom by Clare Nolan has such good planning ideas for a small flower garden. Cultivated by Christin Geall was a lovely read, as was On Flowers by Amy Merrick. I learn something new every time I page through a book on flowers.

    Reply
  256. Samone on

    My favorite book is a narrative poem by Christina Rossetti called, ‘Goblin Market.’ I have this small version of the book that fits in my grandmother’s tupperware pickle jar (that I would grab in case of a fire). It’s a children’s tale but it’s a great adult read as well. It can be interpreted in so many different ways, which is what I love about it.

    Reply
  257. Paige Kennedy on

    One of my all-time favorite flower books is Paper To Petal by Rebecca Thuss and Patrick Farrell. It is a beautifully illustrated tutorial on how to make paper flowers; realistic, beautiful paper flowers. My grandmother loved flowers but her assisted living facility didn’t allow live plants or flowers. This book taught me how to make a lovely bouquet with her favorite flowers and allowed her to proudly display them in her room. I now make them as special gifts or add a couple to gift wrapping to make it extra special. The step-by-step instructions and detail are spot on!

    Reply
  258. Suzanne Raley on

    My all time favorite flower book is “Discovering Dahlias”. I began oooing and aaahhhing over the beautiful dahlia blooms gardeners were posting on instagram and I instantly fell in love with dahlias, even though I had no knowledge of this flower. One search on instagram led to another that led me to the floret account and it is my favorite instagram account to follow. I instantly ordered her “Discovering Dahlias” book and I have learned so so much. Now I plan on beginning a small dahlia garden to see if they can thrive in Mississippi. I could not even take the first step toward this without Erin’s “Discovering Dahlias” book. I also applied for the scholarship to her online course, but sadly I was not chosen. I will continue to soak up any and all information that I possibly can from her instagram account and her website. Thanks Erin for always being so so generous by sharing all that you have learned over the years about cut flower gardening and especially growing dahlias. God bless Floret and Erin’s family. :)
    Suzanne Raley

    Reply
  259. Bill Ward on

    Hard one! I would have to say the Unsettling of America by Wendell Berry. Berry’s work inspired me to take a deeper look at not only national and international issues related to farming and agriculture, but my community and local food systems as well. I keep a copy in my office as reminder and conversation starter.

    Reply
  260. Jennifer Arndt on

    Your cut flower book is my favorite!!! My oldest daughter and I love strolling through our garden in the summer, learning flower names and dreaming up arrangements and our plans for the next season. I homeschool my kiddos and one of the largest parts of “arts” that we do is getting my kids into the garden and creating an arrangement full of color & textures! We splash little arrangements all throughout the house, such life it brings!

    Reply
  261. Traysa Zimmerman on

    I love the Gardening Month by Month by Ian Spence. Just ordered your Cut Flower book for myself & the Life in the studio for my oldest for Christmas! She’s trying to find all her groove in many creative outlets! Can’t wait to read with my kids!! So excited! Thank you for sharing!! I just found your page in Instagram❤️ Hope you have a blessed holidays!

    Reply
  262. Mindy Sotelo on

    So hard to choose my single favorite book. I feel like there are some books that fit the different seasons of our lives. I’m gonna say my favorite is Happiness is a Warm Puppy by Charles Schulz. The book is about enjoying the little things. This book is appropriate for all ages. My daughter and I read it and then will take turns saying happiness is…..x and we go through all kinds of things we are grateful for. When life gets hectic I always go back to this book and remember that happiness is all the little and big things we experience throughout our everyday lives. :) Two other books that I absolutely loved and recommended to everyone was, The Choice by Edith Eger and The Guaymas Chronicles by David Stuart. Both are memoirs and so beautiful and thought provoking. Happy reading and gardening!!

    Reply
  263. Sandy Gruber on

    This is hard. I have one of the Floret books and would really like another one!! I think it will be a Christmas gift to me.
    I checked out Lisa Mason Ziegler’s book, Vegetables Love Flowers, last year from the library and just purchased a copy for myself. I love gardening and I am always looking for ways to grow my veggies amongst the flowers, as it was this year. It used to be just a few marigolds planted here and there in my vegetable garden. So at the moment, Lisa’s book is my favorite.

    Reply
  264. Desi on

    First off, I have really loved your book, The Cut Flower Garden! It has been very inspiring and informative and has lead me to try many flowers that I had not considered before. I recommend it to all of my gardener friends. Another new treasure that I acquired recently is The Soul of Vermont by Richard W. Brown. It is filled with essays and photographs depicting country life in Vermont’s rural North Kingdom. The photos and essays are both fantastic and it leaves me dreaming of living a simple life in the country every time I pick it up!

    Reply
  265. Amanda Ehrichs on

    My daughter aspires to be a flower farmer (she is 10) and I have been trying to read books to help her start growing flowers this coming spring. So far The Flower Farmer by Lynn Byczynski has been my favorite read. It was so full of practical, easy to understand advice. We got a copy from the library but it is what we are giving our daughter for her Christmas present this year!

    Reply
  266. Sharon S on

    Lassoing The Sun. A journey that started out visiting all the National Parks in the U.S. and became so much more. Thanks for the great giveaway. Good luck everyone!

    Reply
  267. Treasure Winger on

    This seems impossible to pick a favorite book! My little collection is growing and they are all treasures to me. If I’d have to choose I must say that it would be Grow and Gather by Grace Alexander. This book almost felt romantic to me and it transported me to her place, her experience and her love for flowers. I have already read it twice. I just love it so much!

    Reply
  268. Tina on

    My favorite recent book is Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers! Thanks for hosting such a great giveaway :)

    Reply
  269. Cassie Schumacher on

    Earlier this year I read, “This Organic Life”, and I found it so thought-provoking. It has quickly become one of my favorites—to think about growing my own food but also sustainability and loving frugally. It was a great read.

    Reply
  270. Rhonda Leach on

    I absolutely love the book In Bloom! I moved to Maine from Texas–this is my seventh Christmas–and I began to garden again the way we did growing up in ND. I began reading the book in the cold of winter and it became my therapy…and then I found you! We have a little loft we rent to friends and family and as they look out to the sea they also have the wonder of seeing our beautiful flowers and the rolling back yards of our little village. They have access to the gardens when they respite with us…and it makes their stay much sweeter.

    Reply
  271. Cris Carlisle on

    Would LOVE to curl up with these books this winter as I am endeavoring on starting my own flower farm this coming Spring! You can never have too many books and references! Making my first seed order this week! Excited and nervous all at the same time 😊

    Reply
  272. Allison Jensen on

    I love Snowflakes in Photographs By W.A Bentley. They are a collection of the first pictures of snowflakes that were taken. It’s interesting to see all of the unique designs. I now enjoy watching the snowfall even more, especially when a flake lands on my window in such a way that I can see the intricate details of it.

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  273. Erin Wise on

    I love Monty Don’s- Down to Earth: Gardening Wisdom. His writing style is conversational, educational, and inspiring. It doesn’t hurt to have beautiful photos of his garden to look at as well. I love how functional and beautiful his gardens are- I am continuously striving for that balance in my own garden!

    Reply
  274. Sarah Wilkinson on

    It’s not gardening, but always reminds me of all there is to discover and explore: The Search for Delicious. It’s a kids book I first read in fourth grade about another kids voyage to find the true definition of delicious and all the ways it could be defined. Thank you for all of the book recommendations! I’m putting some on my holiday wish list now!

    Reply
  275. Eva on

    I love “Grow More Food” from the folks at Seattle Urban Farm Co and basically anything by Nikki Jabour! Of course, the Floret books are up there too :)

    Reply
  276. Christina Serrano on

    Nothing brings more excitement than the anticipation of opening a new book! One of my favorites for garden inspiration is The Gardens of Arne Maynard. You can get lost in its pages!

    Reply
  277. Jeanne Reimonn on

    I am enjoying The Pottery Gardener and The Flower Yard, both by Arthur Parkinson. He was featured on Gardener’s World and is a protégé of Sarah Raven. He has some excellent tips on growing fabulous flowers in pots as well as raising chickens. Also David Culp’s book The Layered Garden is full of good ideas.

    Reply
  278. Sharon Orlando on

    Sarah Raven’s “The Cutting Garden” is my first favorite (in the days before Floret!). I love the photographs of flowers organized by color and season. It’s a classic, especially for a beginning flower gardener that grows for cutting. I must love it… I found three copies in my house!

    Reply
  279. Claire on

    My favorite book is Patti Smith’s Just Kids for the beautiful language and how she weaves compelling stories of her life.

    Reply
  280. Yvonne L. on

    Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a beautiful, thought evoking book. Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge and the teaching of plants – Robin Wall Kimmerer is a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, she embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers.

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  281. Cindy on

    In the gardening category, Taylor’s Master Guide to Gardening is a comprehensive, beautifully illustrated reference. The Garden Planner by John Walker is organized in a handy flip format ideal for visualizing plant combinations. Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life by Marta McDowell is full of photos and sketches and ties together how her love of gardening and nature influenced her writings. In the non- gardening category anything by Kate Morton or Carlos Ruiz Zafon.

    Reply
  282. davia mcnamara on

    My favorite non farming book is yes I can by Sammy Davis jr. it always inspires me! I’m so new to farming that every book I have picked up has been a favorite of mine but not to sound cliché-your books are ones I open often. Full of so much knowledge but the images always inspire me to keep going

    Reply
  283. Matthew Watson on

    The Dancing Wu Li Masters by Gary Zukav is one of my favorite books! A beautiful (and accessible!) explanation of how science, philosophy, and the magic of the universe intersect. All too often views and beliefs polarize us and this book presents a philosophical framework that offers a place for both spirituality and science. Definitely a must-read for anyone who likes to ponder their place in the universe!

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  284. Martina B. on

    I find myself turning to The Well Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy Disabato-Aust. Its helped me more times than I can count!

    Reply
  285. Anne Koons on

    The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca was one of the most fascinating books I have recently read. It is not a gardening book in the true sense ,but it is a true story of cell propagation and the profound effect those cells have had in science and immunology, for example in the development of the polio vaccine. Henrietta was a young black woman who died of ovarian cancer. Cells of that cancer were harvested without her or her family’s knowledge. This story traces the family’s growing awareness of the contribution her cells have made.

    Reply
  286. Meggie on

    All books are favorites. I love to have a book in my hand rather than the technical devises but I suppose my favorite would be the Discovering Dahlias by Erin I love to keep my hands busy and in the cold winter months this book has beautiful bright pictures that I turn every page in amazement and it gives me a dream of what could be possible in my garden when the weather warms up

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  287. Maureen on

    For many years, I have loved Tasha Tudor’s Garden as inspiration for beautiful garden and spaces. Maybe not practical, but lovely.

    Reply
  288. Stephanie Newton on

    I love books and it’s so hard to pick just one favorite! One book I love that was given to me by my Aunt is Soul Gardening, cultivating the good life by Terry Hershey… fantastic book demonstrating life is a garden and beauty is everywhere.

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  289. Monica on

    It’s hard to choose a favorite! I enjoy so many different types of books. I love the Harry Potter series. Books about peoples lives – I recently read a book about the life of JFK, I found it so interesting! And so many books about life that inspire me to do better!

    Reply
  290. Courtney Powers on

    Oh man. Favorite book is HARD! I’m going to have to go with the Harry Potter series… they were my first big chapter books that I devoured and I can read them over and over and still feel that same feeling as when you first start reading “big” books. I actually wrote a book report on the 4th one in 6th grade and it was 40 pages 🤣

    Reply
  291. Leslie Serrano on

    I would have to default to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice as an adult and I am very fond of the Harry Potter Series as well. The latest impressionable book I read was World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil. I have never read anything with such insight into someone’s perspective. It was amazing and also wonderfully illustrated.

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  292. Emily Cornwell on

    It’s so hard to choose a favorite, but the book I return to the most often is Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen. I think it’s charming and hilarious!
    For the gardeners reading this, I just finished Founding Gardeners by Andrea Wulf. For me, it was a delightful combination of some of my passions – gardening, American native plantings, and history. Andrea’s notes and bibliography are impressive. I would recommend for winter reading.

    Reply
  293. Ellen on

    The Flower Farmer by Lynn Byzinski is fantastic. I have also read it multiple times, and it is still relevant. An excellent reference and inspiration, this book led me to grow more flowers and start my own farm.

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  294. Jennifer Smith on

    My favorite book is the Bible, our personal love letter from God. I am a King James version reader myself. Reading this book shows us where love comes from in our lives and explains how this beautiful world and all things in it are created by him for us. When I see sadness in the world I read again and again to reflect on how God made this amazingly beautiful planet, including each flower. Thank you for your recommendations !!

    Reply
  295. Janine on

    I would have to say my favorite gardening book has been The Prime Gardener by Barbara Damrosch as it gave me a good start into gardening many years ago along with my Grandfather’s tips growing up. I am starting to grow more cutting flowers and a friend recommended Floret’s Farm Discovering Dahlias book. I love it! Thank you for sharing the list above.

    Reply
  296. Amri on

    Thanks for the recommendations! While I have a ton of more serious favorites…. I always keep the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy as my escape from the real world and it gets my #1 spot :D

    Reply
  297. Mary Arnold on

    I ordered several of your recommendations for Christmas presents. My favorite author is Jane Austin and Pride & Prejudice is my favorite.
    Our daughter sent me some dahlia tubers for Mother’s Day & I am hooked. Your Discovering Dahlias is a wonderful book!
    I have enjoyed reading through all of the favorites people entered and have added so many to my book list.

    Reply
  298. Lizz Frost Yocum on

    Island of the Blue Dolphins has never left me. It’s about a strong, self-sufficient young woman who knows herself, her culture and the natural environment she depends upon.

    Reply
  299. Michelle Sumners on

    Just getting into flower gardening, but fave book this month is jill winger the Prairie homestead. Great recipes plus half the book is on gardening and farm animal care

    Reply
  300. Mcalah on

    Wow! Erin & team, this is such a valuable resource for a new gardener like myself. One of my biggest regrets in life is that I did not grow up an avid reader, so it is something I am continuing to work on. I find being interested in what you are reading makes all the difference and I myself, as Erin does, truly enjoy reading to learn! My favorite book of all time has to be The Lace Reader. The book was given to me by my godmother whom I adore and takes places not far from my home town! It is a book rich with mystery and loss but also hope and healing, an old wise tale laced into its pages. That book will always feel so special to me!

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  301. Maggie on

    Life In The Studio by Frances Palmer is truly a favorite of mine. I love that Frances respects the art she creates and doesn’t let the trial and error deter her. Although being creative can seem self indulgent, Frances, like Erin, generously shares guidance and hope to thousands of people like me dreaming of a life outside the cubicle!

    Reply
  302. Cessie on

    The Bible! It starts with God creating everything so beautifully, and centering the epic opener in a garden. And he gives us the charge to be good stewards of what He created. Best garden book ever ;)

    Reply
  303. Stina on

    My current favorite book is “Cool Flowers” by Lisa Mason Ziegler. I’m so inspired by her techniques and have already incorporated a lot of “cool flowers” into my flower farming plan for the next season. It’s exciting and fills up the winter days with even more planning and working.

    Reply
  304. Lorin Hernandez on

    My favorite book is a vintage Texas native perennials book that was my grandmother’s.

    Reply
  305. VJ on

    Your very first book!

    Reply
  306. Caron on

    I currently have 40 garden books including 3 Floret & the new Sarah Raven, “A Year full of flowers” plus stacks of magazines Garden Gate, Gardners World, Garden Answers, etc…definitely addicted so I’ve been donating mags to hospitals, library, etc to free up room. It’s hard to pick a favorite but I do like Container Gardening throughout the Year, Malcolm Hillier, 1995, published in US & UK. It has great ideas & pictures especially if you’re short on space and maybe only have a deck or balcony. When stationed in Omaha, my 8×8 deck was so packed with pots and barely fit a small table/chairs. Every winter all the pots got dragged into the garage until spring.

    Reply
  307. Ashley Blatnick on

    My favorite book, is one that opened the world of reading to me. Love comes softly by janette oake. I was in jr high when I read it. I liked reading as a kid but that book really opened my eyes to the world. It wasn’t a kiddie chapter book. It had meaning, and history and a realness. It let my mind wander and imagine.
    Reading is still a favorite pastime of mine. I seek knowledge and wisdom now more than fictional stories, But there is still something about a bookstore or the pages of a book that stirs my soul.

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  308. Keli on

    I’ve gotten into wreath making so I really love the Wreath Recipe book!

    Reply
  309. Juniper on

    I don’t have a favorite gardening book yet, but my favorite book PERIOD is The Count of Monte Cristo. The storytelling and scale is incredible, I’ve read it many times and it just draws me in again and again. If I had to pull a life lesson from it, it would be something around the value of persistence and a single focus, but really, it’s just great fiction!

    Reply
  310. Jen Sacklin on

    My favorite gardening book of all time is The Layered Garden by David Culp. Of the books you list in this post, I just got Monty Don’s The Complete Gardener and I’m halfway through and love it already!

    Reply
  311. trudeen renault on

    I love reading Mary Cicely Barker’s Flower Fairy books to my daughters and now my grandchildren! After story time, we go out and putter around the garden looking for fairies…just think of how many fairies are out in your flower fields!

    Reply
  312. Nadia on

    Wow thank you I will be referring to this list of books for myself and gift ideas 💡

    Reply
  313. C. Perez on

    I love true stories of survival and my favorite is All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein. It is the story of a young girl who lived through occupied Poland and spent World War II in labor camps. While reading this, you can see God’s hand directing her path to survival and also see the love each person in the camps had for the others, helping to encourage them through the darkest of days.
    While the topic is heavy, it is truly the most inspiring story I have ever read.

    Reply
  314. Amy Prince on

    By the time December rolls around I am pining for the spring. Gardening books fill the long days of winter with the promise of what is to come. When I received “Cut Flower Garden”, by Erin Benzakein, I was inspired! It fueled my passion and helped me to hone my skill and love of growing flowers. I am thankful for those who share their knowledge in such a beautiful way!

    Reply
  315. Whitney on

    It changes frequently but my current favorite is the Autobiography of Santa Clause!

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  316. Stephanie Marsh on

    My favorite Gardening/Learning book is Martha Stewart’s Gardening Month by Month. I have used this book for nearly 30 years and bring it out still, at least once per year. I also love the Smith & Hawkins line of gardening books and Rodale’s organic gardening books. I have many newer published gardening books, but these are the ones I reach for year after year. Of course my favorite Dahlia book is Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias.

    Reply
  317. Laura Black on

    I love garden books and find them very inspiring, but it is hard to choose just one. I have found one author in particular to be very helpful for my area-central Florida-and that is Pamela Crawford. I think her first book was Easy Gardens for South Florida, folowed by Best Garden Color for Florida. These books were the result of careful research and observation she did on her property, and a list of plants she had found to be very successful. The plants are photographed and their characteristics are described in detail, along with recommendations like companion plants. She has books on planting containers, and i see she has some now which i haven’t read. The ones i have seen are beautiful and very well done.

    Reply
  318. Carrie Juchau on

    My favorite book is “Carrots Love Tomatoes” by Louise Riotte. As a specialty crop grower, I use this more than any other book for companion planting guidance. The integration of herbs and flowers increases every year as I learn more about how they impact beneficial insects and deter unwanted insects. And it just makes me happy to be in the garden to see all the colors and smell all the wonderful aromas.

    Reply
  319. Katelyn on

    My favorite book is Down to Earth by Monty Don. He speaks plainly and simply. The book is like a condensed version of The Complete Gardener but briefer and each chapter ends with a short summation of the points he makes, which is really helpful. His writing always inspires me with new ideas about how to garden and I am always left feeling empowered. I always learn something new every time I read it.

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  320. Tammy on

    I read a lot as well. I’ll find books about my current project and learn what I can. I love books. I guess I get that from my parents reading often. A book I found in my local library years ago sparked my interest. Perfect Plant Perfect Place by Roy Lancaster. It gave great information about so many different flowers, how, when and where to plant and lots of information about the importance of your soil. It gave step by step instructions and had great photos of the plants and “how to’s”. Found the great amount of information very helpful in learning about a wide variety of flowers! I would very much love to read your collection! I’m always looking to soak up more information about what I love to do…gardening as well as the business side of things! God Bless and thank you for sharing your gifts to the world!

    Reply
  321. Sarah on

    My favorite book is often times the book I’m currently reading, or have just finished. In this case, it is now the book ‘If Women Rose Rooted’. Such a beautiful weaving of memoir and folklore and a heartfelt cry to women to take up for the earth.

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  322. Monique Thomsen on

    I love Patina Farm by Brooke Gianetti. Her home and gardens are so amazing and tranquil looking. Her nook gives me so much inspiration and I love her rose arbors all over.

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  323. jody carter on

    Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Zeigler is my current favorite flower book. It was a mother’s day gift a few years back from my daughter. I reference the book often while in the garden. It has helped me discover the season extension possibilities in the garden. I am a florist by occupation but my heart dreams of making a living off of my hands in the dirt. For now, my garden is a slice of heaven on earth, my own little Eden.
    Thank you for the opportunity to enter.

    Reply
  324. Jessa on

    My favorite book of all time is To Kill a Mockingbird. Every time I read it I feel a connection to a different theme. I also enjoyed reading it with my students as they grappled with developing their own thoughts in regards to justice – courage – gender roles – racial prejudice.

    My favorite leadership book is Good to Great. I am fascinated with HOW different leaders work to find greatness, as outlined through studying several successful businesses (warning – the book is twenty years old).

    Reply
  325. Dawn on

    The greatest book ever written. The Bible. I can’t read any book twice. But I hope reading the Bible never grows old.

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  326. Suzette on

    I love to read. My favorite fiction book is “This Tender Land” by William Kent Krueger. As for gardening books – I would have to say that your “Cut Flower Garden” has become my favorite. It is a beautiful book and I love the way it is laid out. Thank you for your hard work in putting it together.

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  327. Ali Papp Chesney on

    One of my favs is Gaia’s Garden! One of the first given to me about permaculture and working with nature in the garden.

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  328. Michelle H on

    Hmm. That’s so hard to pick just one! I find I refer to the two different books often: Vegetable Gardener’s Bible by Edward C. Smith and Fruit Gardener’s Bible by Lewis Hill. They both have a great amount of information that I need for growing and harvesting fruits and vegetables.

    Reply
  329. Rose L. on

    Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – I love reading and was really fortunate to have a daughter that inherited that love as well. Although my son was not all that interested in books, he would listen if I read to him. When the Potter series was becoming popular, my kids were young but my daughter was old enough to read it, so each night at bedtime she and I would take urns reading the story while my son listened. We all fell in love with the characters and read the whole series. I cherish and miss those moments now that my kiddos are grown. It isn’t possible for me to think about that first book in the series without being reminded of those precious nights.

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  330. Elizabeth Betlejewski on

    One of my favorite books is An Island Garden by Celia Thaxter. Celia grew up in the 1800s and lived part of her life on a small island off the NH coast where she grew a cutting garden. Her book discusses the challenges of growing some old flowers varieties on a weather beaten island, even dealing with slug control in the midnights hours.

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  331. Madison Post on

    Our Daily Bread: The Essential Norman Borlaug by Noel Vietmeyer is a biography on an extremely important man who used intense selective breeding of wheat to completely revolutionize the crop and save a number of countries from mass starvation back in the 1960s-80s. It goes against today’s trends on the big push for organic farming, since Borlaug used manufactured fertilizers to help maximize crop yields, and is exactly why I believe people need to read it. It makes people consider all sides to the fertilizer argument…It’s pretty easy to be against fertilizer when you go to bed every night on a full belly.
    I am definitely in favor of doing things as naturally as possible in the garden, but reading these sorts of books gives light to all sides of the argument when faced with difficult topics like how to feed the world.

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  332. Lisa Smith on

    Derek Jarman’s Garden. This is not a conventional how-to book. It is a beautiful book that combines pictures of Jarman’s garden at Prospect Cottage in Dungeness (a forlorn and unlikely place for a garden) with excerpts from his writing. It’s an artist’s garden; he was also very sick for most of the garden’s life and so there is a real poignancy in the pictures of him tending it. For me, this book is about real gardening from the heart; the externalization of someone’s internal life–their soul ,if you will–and the ways a true garden and a life are inextricable.

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  333. Kim on

    My favorite book is Easy Answers for Great Gardens by Marianne Binetti. Local gardner with great tips and a down to earthWashington sense of humor

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  334. Pamela S. Young on

    I have never bought a gardening book until I got your Year in Flowers and Cut Flower Garden. I love them! I have grown in-door plants for years and have done pretty good with them. I’ve tried in-door flowers with not as much luck. I have a large flower bed and an area all around my house to landscape, and these books are great! I love your site and follow you to get my daily dose of beauty. Those flower shots sometimes just make my day!

    Reply
  335. meagan eldridge on

    To be honest, my favorite gardening book I own is A year in flowers. I received it as a gift when I was working as a florist and it is what really got me thinking about starting my own cutting garden. That tiny little seed of a dream turned into a micro flower farm and I can never imagine doing anything else! You are such an inspiration!

    Reply
  336. Christie on

    My favorite gardening book is The Way We Garden Now by Katherine Whiteside. It makes gardening projects so do able- the way I make my beds is because of this book !! The easy way is the best way !! Great ideas throughout and simplified way of going things is the entire point of the book!!!

    Reply
  337. Catherine Tilley on

    I have been reading “Cultivated, The Elements of Floral Style” by Christin Geall. It is beautifully written with breath-taking photographs. Geall weaves together art, music, history, literature and her own experiences and memories in a way that renders an enticing muse for the reader. I know this book will always be kept close at hand to fill my mind, heart and senses just as my flower garden does each time I step beyond its gate.

    Reply
  338. Deanna Boettcher on

    Oh so many favorite books I have – but if I must choose one, I would say Rosalyn Creasy’s Edible Landscaping! She really masters the art of landscaping with edibles. ..and she’s a beautiful photographer too.

    Reply
  339. Erin Ardoin on

    One if my favorites is Gather and Grow, a gardeners guide to a year of cuts cut flowers. By Grace Alexander. It mixes the best combination of beauty, creativity and the nuts and bolts of gardening flowers. It just speaks to me in a way I didn’t expect.

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  340. elizabeth on

    one of my favorites = Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner. i don’t think you will be disappointed

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  341. Tracey Johnson on

    I don’t have a favorite gardening book yet. I am very intrigued by those listed in the blog, but also in the comments. I’ve been planting flowers for years, but only now, at 64, and after discovering Floret and some other resources, actually GARDENING. My granddaughter has helped too. This spring and summer, Cora (almost 7 y/o) has been my near constant companion in the yard and planting. I feel the need to learn more, to keep the love of working in the earth stick with her.

    Reply
  342. Neva Leigh on

    My favorite book is My Antonia by Willa Cather. Written in 1918 it is a classic story about immigrants – the joy, the sorrow. Willa Cather is a beautiful writer and this is a tender story of the friendship between Jim Burden and Antonia. A portrait of a simpler time in middle America.

    Everyone who loves great writing should not miss The Country of the Pointed Firs written in1896 by Sarah Orne Jewett. It is a story about three months in a small town in Maine- all the lovable and eccentric characters who live there. Her short stories are excellent also!

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  343. Sally Dahlby on

    Gardening Without Work
    Though Ruth Stout is no longer with us, her book has stood the test of time, making it possible for those of us who struggle to “work hard”, to succeed at gardening ( flowers or veggies).
    Her attitude is delightful!

    Reply
  344. Daisy on

    My all time favorite book that I cannot get rid of and always have fun reading is Sybil Leek’s Astrological Guide To Successful Everyday living. I found it at a garage sale as a young teen and always loved reading about every zodiac sign in detail. It’s pretty much a guide to every area of the Zodiac signs life, even what to gift certain signs and how to befriend signs. Its an interesting fun book to read to myself and to friends especially when some of Sybil Leek’s statements seem pretty accurate on certain signs 😄

    Reply
  345. Sarah Adams Marr Dumas on

    My favorite book is Monty and Sarah Don The Jewel Garden. I love it because it is the story of rising to success from a tragic loss. The jewel garden is a perfect metaphor for this because it was created from the muddy fields of the Don’s garden and the jewel garden is gorgeous! Just stunning. Something like the lotus rising from the mud to great beauty. Very inspirational, hopeful and wonderful.

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  346. Leslie Johnson on

    I have a true passion for books. I love reading and learning and growing. I am still figuring out what I want to be when I grow up, and books encourage my constantly growing interests. It’s so hard to say what my favorite book could possibly be…but if forced to say so, I would choose the Bible. It is full of love and passion, wisdom and knowledge. It’s full of broken people like me who allow themselves to become a part of a story larger than their own. I am so captured by the truths found within. I have discovered the answer to every problem I have ever had on these sacred pages. In reading the Bible, I have also met my very best friend and experienced daily beauty from my most treasured relationship. Absolutely the best book ever!

    Reply
  347. Emily Harper on

    Oh, how to pick just one! My current favorite relating the human experience to the world of plants as a symbiosis would be Robin Wall-Kimmerer’s “Braiding Sweetgrass”… She writes so eloquently about not just Native traditions, but the natural human relationship between us, plants, and the so-called “inanimate” world. It moved me to tears!

    A great flower book I think would fit well in this blog post would be “Cultivated: The Elements of Floral Style” by Christin Geall. Its got gorgeous photos of course, but the text draws you in (I read it cover-to-cover and couldn’t put it down!) but she addresses so many of the beginner moments when it comes to floral design work. I found this book SO valuable in my first wedding season this past year.

    I would be over the moon to have any of the books in your list! What a great collection.

    Reply
  348. Melisa on

    My favorite book is The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan. That book jumpstarted my passion to learn more about nature and our inextricable relationship with the natural world. I read it during my formative years in college, and it helped steer me away from joining the medical industrial complex, and shifted my focus towards sustainable food systems instead. Michael Pollan’s fluid storytelling and captivating insights made the read both enjoyable and extraordinarily educational.

    Similarly, I have been enthralled with each book by Erin Benzakien. In addition to the beautiful storytelling and richly informative explanations, Floret’s books are filled with striking photographs that deserve to be framed. I have a copy of each release so far and can hardly wait for the next.

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  349. Jen Nathanson on

    It’s hard to choose between these two, so I am going with both. Together they encompass the 2 hobbies that bring me the most joy outside of my work. The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan and The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. Cooking, recipes, environmental sustainability and flowers – all leading to bringing others happiness!! Both books allowed me to learn more about some of my favorite things as well as take risks with what I cook, garden, grow and share. I love the idea of meaning behind flowers and using flowers to cope and spread a message.

    Reply
  350. Claire Painter on

    I am a type A, go-getter, list maker, big dreamer who loves flowers and gardening, and who also loves books. Just as it is difficult for me to choose a favorite flower, I find it nearly impossible to choose one favorite book. Considering this is a flower & gardening platform, I will share one of my favorites in this genre.

    A Gentle Plea For Chaos by Mirabel Osler

    There are many reasons to love this book. It’s beautifully written and so entertaining, but the primary reason it’s one of my favorites is because it has inspired me to lean into the chaos of the growing garden, specifically the cottage garden. I don’t have to fight it all time. I may allow it to grow and take shape and spill over. It’s refreshing to let go and just enjoy the beauty. The cottage garden is the perfect contrast to the cut flower garden; two amazing methods of gardening that require different ways of tending and maintaining.

    I desire for my life to be filled with flowers and I have set goals to get there, but I have so so so much to learn. A flower library kit would be a huge blessing. Thank you Floret for sharing you knowledge and expertise! I’m inspired by you & your flowers!

    Reply
  351. Debbie Coury on

    The Well-Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith. It was on the recommended reading list of a class I recently took and quickly became a book that I recommended to family and friends. It reminded me in so many ways how tending to our gardens can bring joy even when we may be feeling down and even heal traumatized minds.

    Reply
  352. Laura Walker on

    The Hummingbirds’ Gift by Sy Montgomery is a recent favorite for me as I love sharing my garden with these magical creatures. It’s a sweet story by the author in the quest to help these fascinating birds and I personally have designed my flower garden to help them survive. In return they trust me and I am able to experience their friendship and beauty in the garden.

    Reply
  353. Karen Seger on

    It is really hard to pick one! To Kill a Mockingbird would have to be the one. I have read it several times.

    Reply
  354. Kira on

    One of my favorite gardening books of all time is Reader’s Digest’s The Practical Gardener: Successful Gardening. It’s a little older now, at this point, but is still full of wonderful ideas for beautiful gardens! It covers everything from soil testing to pruning and how to recognize and buy the best plants or start and plant the best seedlings you can. It’s wonderful and full of the most beautiful drawings and pictures and even step by step instructions (with pictures) for certain techniques! This is such a great resource for any type of gardener and mine is a smudged, much loved, if a bit worn, kind of dirty, but reliable friend! The best kind for us who love to garden, am I right?

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  355. Mary Hofacker on

    I really like landscape design books. To build beautiful gardens with paths with a garden rooms along the way. I am a collector and reader of many books.

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  356. Kathy Macheras on

    How can I choose a favorite?!? I’m no good at that, but up near the top are the Lord of the Ring series and the Harry Potter series. They are just so good at taking me away to a whole different world.

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  357. KB on

    Down to Earth by Monty Don is such a treat, especially in the winter when there are no new Gardner’s World programs to watch. It’s so informative and soothing.

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  358. Stephanie Costello on

    So many many books to choose from. I still love the act of curling up with a book, turning the pages, making some notes, placing a book mark in the page and coming back to it later.

    Reply
  359. Susan Walden on

    Being a retired teacher, I have too many favorite books! For gardening, my go to book is Sunset Western Garden. It has all the answers to basic gardening questions. If I need further information my bookshelf is full of specific books on types of flowers, soils, specific species, and garden construction. If I have to pick a favorite book, it would be “Where the Red Fern Grows”. This book has a special place in my heart about growing up, understanding life, and dogs. I read it many times to my fifth grade class and could never get through the book without showing emotion. You could hear a pin drop in my room at the end of the book. You and never too old to read it. It has a special place in my heart!

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  360. Kirsten Butler on

    If I can only list one My first favorite book is The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton. I would sit and look at the illustrations for hours. She captured the change of seasons so well. I guess it’s kind of silly to say, as a grown woman, it’s still my favorite book. But it holds so many great memories for me as a child. I read it over and over again. And it is that much more special as I re-read it and share it with my children! 😊

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  361. Rachael Rendell on

    Reader’s Digest – Garden Encyclopedia – Plant & Flowers. I have lots of pretty flower books that I grab inspiration from, but this book is my go to when planning a new garden bed. Information is easy to read and is categorise in colour/size/shape/environment. It also opens my eyes up to what is out there to choose from, instead of just what the local nursery has on offer and allows me to create something amazing as I have the knowledge to just go for it!

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  362. Jojo Genden on

    One of my favorite books of all time is “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight…it’s the story of Nike and its founder. He is a gifted writer and getting an insight into what it took to build such a global giant of business was very inspiring to a budding entrepreneur such as myself. I cried, laughed, and cheered…I felt the story was unique because it didn’t seem to hide the ugly parts or sensationalize the blitzy success parts – it just told the truth.

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  363. Lisa S Peterson on

    My favorite book is a series.
    It is “All Creatures Great and Small ” by James Harriet.
    I love his true veterinary adventures and his self-deprecating humor.
    I also have loved and bought all of Erin’s books.
    My favorite of her series is her book Discovering Dahlias.

    Reply
  364. Jessica Toloczko on

    My favorite book is Floret’s Cut Flower Garden because it is stunning and it was my first flower book purchase. I have learned so much from this book and am excited to implement so much more of what I learned in the next growing season.

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  365. Jody Hamilton on

    I actually have not read any of these books but plan to very soon. Thank you for the suggestions. I am a Master Gardener and have many gardening books and have gifted several gardening books to my adult children and spouses. I have followed you on the Magnolia network and have learned so much from watching. I would love to win your books.

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  366. Debbie Raggio on

    I love books as well. I wish I had more time to read them cover to cover. I purchased Florets Cut Flower Garden book recently and have enjoyed the beautiful photography and helpful gardening info. Thanks so much for all the hard work that went into this book !

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  367. Barbara Nelson on

    My favorite book is Successful Gardening on the Northern Prairie. It is a great reference book for those of us in northwestern Minnesota with our alkaline and clay soil.

    Reply
  368. Julie My eftkr on

    My professional interest as a Forester has always been in native plant communities . Current favorites include Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Kimmerer. Guiding people to see that we are part of the earth

    My second favorite, The Sun is a Compass which is a GREAT book about following your heart and realizing each day life is a gift

    My garden library 📚 s very small.. thank you for broadening my horizons with your suggestions

    But I will add, I have been tuning into bbc Gardeners World
    And have learned quite a bit from Monty Din

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  369. Lindsay M on

    My favorite non-farming book is Cannery Row by John Steinbeck. He just captures the American psyche so perfectly. My most inspirational farming book is The Resilient Farm and Homestead. It was very helpful when starting our small farm. Would I be pandering if I said the Floret books have changed everything for me in terms of incorporating cut flowers into our business? :)

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  370. Samantha Brooks on

    Your very own Cut Flower Garden! I am in my third year of flower farming and reference it many times a year!

    Reply
  371. Tiffany Lewis on

    The Bible is my favorite. Its a life guide book and full of every kind of stories.
    (Second favorite is probably the Harry Potter series. Never gets old. My oldest kid is about to turn 11. Hehe)

    Reply
  372. Jenny on

    If you want to free yourself from the dependency of constantly following recipes in the kitchen, try SALT FAT ACID HEAT by Samin Nosrat. It’s very well written and gives you the why behind making food taste good, which then leads to culinary creatively and freedom in the kitchen! Heaven!

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  373. Emily Woodland on

    This time of year, I love reading the first four books of the New Testament. It gives me such peace and reminds me how I want to pattern my life after Christ.

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  374. Jane Tucker on

    I have the first edition of Monty Don’s “The Complete Gardener” and I am studying hedgerows and hedge laying. I am looking at property and hope to move to a farmstead/homestead within two years. (And, I understand loving books and libraries…I worked in my college’s library during the school year and my hometown library in the summers!)

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  375. Lisa on

    My fav book this month is Kristine Hannah’s The Four Winds. Not many fiction books about the great depression that hold my attention the way this one did. Kristine grows with each book she writes.

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  376. Marilee Shiner on

    I love the classic books by Jane Austin. The way she describes people and how what they are thinking that drives them to do things fascinates me.

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  377. Hannah on

    A favorite was Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose, who was taken prisoner during WW2 and chronicled how God worked through her trials.

    Reply
  378. Angela Francis on

    Lisa Mason Ziegler’s Book, Cool Flowers really helped me to expand my flower farm potential. The book is a quick read, packed full of useful flower information. I also enjoyed her book, Vegetables Love Flowers which helped me expand my garden harvest.

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  379. Lynn Weeks on

    We are a family of confirmed bibliophiles – our family (myself, my children and my grandkids!) firmly believes you can never have too many books! We have even turned our “living room” into a library! My beloved oldest granddaughter, who would be so blessed to receive these books, writes regarding her favorite book: “That would be a very hard question if it weren’t for the Bible. 😊 No other story brings so much life and hope to its readers. Otherwise I might say The Chronicles of Narnia, Heidi, Anne of Green Gables, Little Women. . . really because the authors read the Bible and accepted Jesus themselves and brought those truths into their books.” I’m entering on her behalf as she lives in Canada. Thanks so much for the opportunity.

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  380. Beth Schultz on

    The 400 Best Garden Plants by Elvin McDonald is a good resource for researching and adding new varieties to the garden.

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  381. DEVONNA HALL on

    My current favorite is The Art of Outdoor Living – Gardens for Entertaining Family and Friends, by Scott Shrader. It’s my current favorite because we just bought a new house and I’m looking for ideas to plan my gardening spaces. And Erin’s Cut Flower Garden is in there too because now I have space for a cutting garden!

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  382. Joan B. on

    Small Plot, Bid Harvest by Lucy Halsall is a resource for fruit and vegetable gardeners with limited space. I garden in a community plot so I’m always looking for ways to utilize space. Hailstones and Halibut Bones by Mary O’Neill is a children’s book filled with beautifully written poems about colors. Colors across the spectrum are tied to tastes, smells, feelings and experiences. As an art teacher, I appreciate how color is woven through our daily lives in a multitude of ways. I sometimes read this in class to my students.

    Reply
  383. K on

    I really can’t say what my favorite book is beside the Bible but I did like “The treasure principle” by Randy Alcorn. It just really helps my eternal perspective

    Reply
  384. Pamela Klemencic on

    I honestly don’t have a favorite flower or gardening book, YET! I am retiring after having a career and raising children and can’t wait to find my favorite gardening book. (And also start Floret Workshop)
    I am so excited about my new chapter!!!
    Thank you for the inspiration!!!!

    Reply
  385. Melissa on

    My favorite book is Martha’s Vineyard: Isle of Dreams, by Susan Branch. I can’t say it changed my life – I had to do that myself. But it gave me hope, and it helped me feel like I was not alone.

    Reply
  386. Jess R. on

    Right now I am reading How The Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss with my little boy every night. It’s our Christmas favorite!

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  387. Kathryn on

    This is such an amazing list. I have a few of these (including the Floret books) but definitely need more to fill the winter months before I can get back out in the garden next spring.

    My favorite book is Pride and Prejudice which sounds cliche but I’ve read it at least 20 times. The character development Jane Austen achieves in this story is phenomenal and I feel like I know the characters so well – it’s like an old friend.

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  388. maureen sullivan on

    I am sure everyone is thinking of gardening/flower farming books. I am going outside the box. I love all of Erin’s books dearly ;but if asked what my favorite book is I always have an answer at the ready. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The themes sadly continue to resonate even in the 21st century. Women are not heard, they are placed in gender specific roles, BIPOC individuals are still abused and marginalized and people with disabilities face incredible challenges. Yet still there is a voice that rises up to protect and represent despite the animosity and anger. Everything changes but nothing changes… Flowers are simple beauty that I can go back to, look forward to, cherish. They are things of beauty in an often ugly world.

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  389. Leann Moylan on

    I’m just beginning my flower-planting adventure, but my garden-go-to is The New Organic Grower by Eliot Coleman. I had the good fortune to meet him several years ago at an organic growers conference! I’ve adopted many of his methods for soil blocking, making compost & growing in high tunnels! I now have a long list of books to wish through, for future flower planting! Thank you for the inspiration!

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  390. Tonya on

    My favorite book is the Floret Workshop guide book. I cannot wait to get the updated version that will be arriving soon! It is full of such wonderful information. A Year in Flowers is another favorite. It seems I want to read anything having to do with flowers! It has become this insatiable interest that is wonderful to learn and wonderful to share with others.

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  391. Eliska Lynch on

    Gardening in New Orleans- this 1952 book was a publication of The New Orleans Garden Society and is still an invaluable resource today for those of us in south Louisiana. Growing plants in semi- tropical climatic conditions needs a garden manual all of its own.

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  392. Cindi Mackanic on

    I love reading the book lists of others–such inspiration! Speaking of which, Cut Flower Garden inspired a beautiful fall bouquet and just yesterday a lovely winter Christmas bouquet–all from my yard! Thank you Erin–Floret Farms. 2 other current favorites: Finding Freedom (Erin French of The Lost Kitchen) and The Family Kitchen Garden.

    Reply
  393. Rachel Doroski on

    Discovering Dahlias. Dahlias are my mom’s favorite flower and it brings her so much joy to grow them and arrange them in her house. I gave her this book and she was so excited. Dahlias will always make me smile because they make her smile.

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  394. Josine Gouwens on

    Thank you for inspiring me every time Erin! Recently I divided dahlia tubers for the first time in my life with the help of your video. Exciting to see if they will come up next year. And now you gave a whole stack of books for my Christmas wish list. In short: you feed my creativity with your beautiful photos and knowledge. And about creativity is also one of my favorite books: the Artist’s way by Julia Cameron.

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  395. Joey Cainong on

    Gardening in upstate New York, Zone 4, is so different from what I’m used to in the tropics. The deer has been a huge challenge for me. The book, Deer Resistant Native Plants for the Northeast, is helping me manage this challenge. Of course, I will always try to plant the “pretty” flowers – just have to keep the deer away.

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  396. Marilynne Booher on

    Small Plot Big Harvest by Lucy Chamberlain is a step by step guide to growing in small spaces! It was the first book to really help me maximize my space and in turn maximize my yield! I currently live in the city so it’s been a great tool for utilizing my smaller spaces to grow!

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  397. Alyssa K. on

    My first introduction to intentional gardening was A Year Of Flowers, and it is one of my most favorite books now. It covers so many flower types and I so appreciate the attitude of being creative and using what is on hand instead of striving for a perfect flower garden.

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  398. Andie Fritts on

    My favorite garden book is “The First Time Gardener: Growing Vegetables” by Jessica Sowards. It’s such a good beginner book with tons of information and encouragement, not to mention the photos are gorgeous!

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  399. LynG on

    In all honesty, my absolute favorite book is the Floret Workshop Course Book!
    It is the most comprehensive set of educational “how to’s” and valuable resources for the flower gardener for business or home.
    I know I can open that book and find almost any answer I need for my flower business.
    As a Floret Alumni, I buy an updated book each year and literally pour myself into the beautiful pictures, descriptions, resources and educational materials all over again. Love it!

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  400. Lisa Wilson on

    There are so many like yours and Elliot Coleman but right now I am reading ” Finding the Mother Tree” by Suzanne Simand

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  401. Babette DeLong on

    A new fav of mine is “The Healing Power of Flowers” by Claire Bowen and E’va N’emeth. How can a flower, something so beautiful, not be healing?

    Reply
  402. Terry Sessions on

    My most cherished gardening book once belonged to my Dad. It is full of detailed pictures and information. I’m not sure if it’s still in print but it’s definitely a favorite of mine to browse through each season.
    The Complete Book of Garden Magic by
    Roy E. Biles

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  403. Jennifer on

    Hands down, Charlotte’s Web, by E B White!

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  404. Anne on

    My favorite book that I reread every year almost is Shadow of the Moon by M. M. Kaye. Historical, romance, hard to beat.
    Favorite gardening book, man I have so many, but if I had to pick 2 I guess I’d choose In Bloom by Claire Nolan and Floret Farms Cut Flower Garden. I love to read and am always looking for new gardening books that I don’t have.

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  405. Katie Ollier on

    The Flower Farmer is always my staple! I go back to it the most!

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  406. Michael Forrey on

    Discovering Dahlias has quickly become my go-to book after it was gifted to me by a dear friend. It has proven so valuable in the development of my growing dahlia garden!

    Reply
  407. Angie Jean Koebler on

    Living in the north, I recently discovered Elliot Coleman and his Winter Harvest Handbook. It’s a cozy way to spend the winter, inspiring great garden planning ideas before late winter seed purchases.

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  408. Emily on

    Floret’s cut flower gardening book. I revisit this so often for ideas, how tos, and inspiration.

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  409. Zhanna Agarkov on

    Square Foot Gardening New Way to Garden in Less Space with Less Work, the book that ignited my passion for gardening and over the years cultivated the flower farmer in me. Thank you for sharing your favorite book list. I already checked out several books in the library.

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  410. Lisa L. on

    Floret’s Cut Flower Garden is so helpful and beautiful pictures too. Love dreaming up my many plans in the winter!! Thank you for being so inspiring!

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  411. Kim James on

    I love Lisa’s “Cool Flowers” book. It was so helpful! Love everything you do Erin, keep it up!

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  412. Jodi Sparkman on

    My life-long favorite book is Girl of the Limberlost written by Gene Stratton Porter in 1909. I likely first read it around age 8 and it will forever be part of my world view. It’s set in the swamp of Indiana and tells the story of Elnora a strong, girl raised by her bitter and unavailable mother in the deep woods. Elnora charts her own destiny by collecting and selling moths and butterfly collections to pay for high school and with her grace insight and big heart finds true friends, creates a career championing the natural world, overcomes her mothers despair and finds love in this timeless book. The characters are unforgettable, humorous and complex, the descriptions of the woods and swamps are entrancing and the romance is swoon-worthy. The book is also a snapshot in time, written at the turn of the century, by a female (!) author during the revivalist/naturalist movement in America.

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  413. kayla on

    Tough question! As far as fiction goes, The Nevernight Chronicle would probably be my favorite series.
    For nonfiction though, Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden would be the most influential, because it opened my eyes to just how magical flowers can be! Since then I’ve been reading a lot of gardening books and there have been some real winners but I reference Cut Flower Garden quite often, so I think it has to be my favorite :)

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  414. A. G. on

    Well, I’m going to be honest here and say my FAVORITE book on flowers is Floret’s Cut Flower Garden!😂 It basically has everything a beginner needs to know and I’ve learned a lot from that book! (Also I’ve found a lot of new favorite flower varieties and new must-grows!)

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  415. Sarah Zaniewski on

    One book I go back to year after year is “Carrots Love Tomatoes: Secrets of Companion Planting for Successful Gardening” by Louise Riotte. Not only does it keep me mindful when planning my garden it has helped me bring in more beneficial insects/pollinators, build and maintain a healthy biome in garden, increase my yields, and grow happier/healthier veggies. Who knew how beneficial radishes were to the entire health of a garden or that onions and beans don’t play well together!? It is a simple, down-and-dirty, book that has extremely helpful information with huge benefits to our growing spaces. I think I learn something new every year I go back to it!

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  416. Nancy Rabinowitz on

    One of my favorite flower books is “Backyard Bouquets” by Georgeanne Brennan. It is a great guide to choosing flowers to grow for, and designing garden bouquets.

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  417. Heidi Lemon on

    My favorite gardening book so far was The Forgotten Skills of Self-Sufficiency used by the Mormon Pioneers. While my flower growing knowledge is still budding, my vegetable garden growing and food preservation experience was even less until I picked up this book! I learned some very helpful things that helped me produce a great vegetable garden this summer, even in abnormal heat and drought!

    I look forward to reading my first Floret book this Christmas (I did tell my husband many, many times, so it should be under the tree, right?! :)

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  418. Nanette on

    Thank you for all these great recommendations. I want to read them all! I have to say, my favorite is The Flower Farmer by Lynn Byczynski. It was one of the first books on flowers I read. It not only was full of information but made me realize how much I needed to learn and experience. Which led me to Floret and all the generous information Erin an her crew offer. Still learning and getting inspired. Thanks!

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  419. sandy on

    I can’t believe that I didn’t mention Cultivated by Christin Geall. I love this book. I met with a group of fellow floral designers over Zoom last year and we worked our way through the book. It’s rich with information, beautiful writing, and gorgeous photographs.

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  420. Tracy Hung on

    One of my favorite books is ‘Calm my Anxious Heart’ by Linda Dillow. It reminds me to be content in my circumstances and to ‘bloom wherever I am planted’. I find it very encouraging. I am also enjoying going through the Floret books with my children as they gain an interest in gardening.

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  421. Amy Droz on

    Those all look fantastic! One of my favorite set of books are The Flower Fairie books by Cicely Mary Barker. When I was a kid my mom gave me the book that her mom had given her in the 1970s and since then I have collected several different editions and also decorated my little girls room with artwork from the books. The drawings and poems are just so sweet and the details of the flowers are amazing, I believe she went to Kew Gardens to study them when doing her illustrations.

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  422. sandy on

    Now I want to read all of those! Thank you for the great recommendations. I have always enjoyed Ann Lovejoy’s garden writing. I like her book, The Border in Bloom. I also love the book Roots, Shoots, Buckets, and Boots by Sharon Lovejoy (I’m pretty sure the two women are not related!). It has sweet illustrations and wonderful ideas for gardening and enjoying nature with children.

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  423. Janine Peak on

    My favorite go to book has always been Reader’s Digest 1001 Hints & Tips For Your Garden.
    The reason I love this book, it’s Contents is A to Z.
    Everything from flowers to gardens, landscaping, pest, prunings etc. It’s is easy to look up anything and read. Also, it’s a wonderful teaching tool.

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  424. Jan Trent on

    The Flower Farmer’s Year By Georgie Newbery. This was the second flower farming book I read which is probably part of why I’ve loved it – it became my flower Bible right away. I like the way it’s organized, her writing style, the pictures and the information provided. It’s a classic in my opinion. ( plus since she’s British her repertoire of “common” flowers is a little different, so the flowers she includes just add some freshness to what I see available in my area.) And thank you for providing your resource list…I too have started a book collection and I love seeing your recommendations to add to my library. (These will nicely complement my Floret books, particularly since you recommended them.) Thanks again!

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  425. Elizabeth S on

    My favorite book right now is The Life Giving Home by Sally and Sarah Clarkson! It’s about creating a cozy home and traditions that your family will treasure, while at the same time building relationships with them! I find it very inspiring!

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  426. Kyra on

    OMG! What a great post! BRB updating my Christmas list. My very favorite book in the world is “Meditations from the Mat” by Rolf Gates. It truly changed my life. The pages are daily reflections from a former alcoholic Marine turned yoga and meditation teacher who just has a wonderful point of view. I credit this book with deepening my relationship to myself through a consistent yoga practice and allowing me to celebrate 4 years of sobriety and freedom from addiction this Christmas Day! Without my sobriety journey, I would not have the life I live today with a beautiful home, fiancé, and 10 month old baby boy. Recently I also started a small floral design business from my kitchen table and Instagram and I am so grateful to have the time and mental clarity to pursue the work that makes my heart happy.

    For anyone that happens to be reading and struggles with alcohol or drug dependency… you are not alone, sobriety is a beautiful journey and gift, and you are WORTH the work. <3

    Reply
  427. Hope on

    As a lifetime lover of books, I have really hard time choosing. One of my all time favorites is a children’s book called The Little Blue Truck.

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  428. Anne R Phernetton on

    What a wonderful Blog Post, Erin. So much great info there, and some of your favorites are mine, too. My all-time favorite book is Mother Goose nursery rhymes. I still have my very own copy of this book (not just dog-eared, but dog chewed, too!) from when I was a little girl and so many of my family members read it to me – before I could read, I would tell them if they were reading it right or not because I had it memorized! I have given many, many of these to our great nieces and nephews. I love the book because it provides an opportunity for quality time with a young child on your lap, and gives that child a wonderful start to the world of reading.

    God Bless you, your family and your team for everything you pour into your flower farm and for caring so much about others that you continue to share your knowledge and life experiences with all of us.

    Reply
  429. Martha Bryan on

    Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life, by Barbara Kingsolver. Entertaining, thought provoking, inspiring, made me want to grow everything myself and eat local even more than I already did. Such a good book.

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  430. Teri Lucas on

    My first favorite gardening book was Mary Engelbreight’s outdoor companion. It was the first book where I saw how my garden could be a fun, cozy and relaxing space as well as beautiful.

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  431. Rosa Veldkamp on

    My favourite book? That’s like asking who my favourite child is!!😉😅

    Current favourites . . . anything written by Sarah Addison Allen, The Mitford series by Jan Karon, The Rangers Apprentice series by John Flannagan, anything by Eliot Coleman, all of Erin’s books, love Joel Salatin . . . well the list goes on . . . 😅😂😂

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  432. Susan Bolgiano on

    The Hummingbirds’ Gift by Sy Montgomery is my favorite book. We have a large vegetable garden whose bounty we eat year ’round. I have planted perennials interspersed with the vegetables. While working in the garden there is nothing so wonderful as having these small colorful birds taking nectar from Monarda or other flowers I have planted. I’ve had them hover near me, curious as to what I am doing. My flowers, both perennials and annuals, attract other birds too. It’s vital for all gardeners to be aware of how much flowers mean to our natural world. Thank you for offering to share these books.

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  433. Michelle Schuberg on

    It’s kinda hard to choose. Right now I am using Lisa Mason-Zieglers book Cool Flowers. She tells how to grow all the flowers my grandmother used to grow. I am trying to apply this practice on my own farm!

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  434. Amanda on

    My favorite books are children’s books. Brown Bear What Do You See by Bill Martin, The Hungry Catapillar by Eric Carle. Magical times reading to my three daughters and now I am creating special memories reading to my three grandsons. The wonder in their eyes as they snuggle up with you reading……….

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  435. Becky Whittenburg on

    My favorite book is The Ultimate Garden Planner by Peter McHoy. It is full of beautiful gardens that have inspired me wherever I’ve lived. I received it as a gift in the late 1990s and I simply love it.

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  436. colleen taylor on

    Our three favorite books since moving to Oregon from Santa Barbara are “Planting the Oudolf Gardens” by Rory Dusoir, “Gardening in the Pacific Northwest” by Bonnie & Campion, and although its not about gardening per se, “Medicinal Herbs” by the lovely Rosemary Gladstar. Natural plantings with natives, plants & flowers that “heal” and all the gorgeous flowers from Erin’s garden-WOW!

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  437. Antonia on

    My favorite book is Watership Down. I read this recently after my brother wouldn’t stop talking about it. It is surprisingly an incredible epic about rabbits that emphasizes the importance of home, safety, perseverance and daring that all takes place in the beautiful setting of the English Downs as seen by rabbits. It is a delightful book, and one that will remain with me for a long time.

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  438. Amanda on

    I don’t have any flower/gardening books yet but thanks to this post I will be heading to the library soon to check them all out! But, my favorite book of all time is All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. It’s my favorite because it is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story that takes place during WWII and gives a realistic point of view of how life would have been like for the characters. It is such a stunning story.

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  439. Marie Boone on

    My favorite book this year is the Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah. It’s about two sisters during WWII.

    Reply
  440. Jennifer L Hammill on

    When I stumbled upon Alan Bloom’s book, Perennials for your Garden, nearly 40 years, I was filled with so many emotions. I had never seen English style perennial beds before. I couldn’t believe the beauty of it– and how different it was from the style of gardening that I had always known. And while it was new and eye-opening, I also felt like I was returning to something that perhaps I had known in a previous life, for my love for it and attachment to it was instantaneous. It turned out to be the perfect first book on gardening for me, since it limited the numbers of perennials that it introduced— I think too many would have been overwhelming— and had plenty of “eye candy” to offer for inspiration. Still to this day, my life is filled with pleasure in working in and planning borders– although that style continually evolves!

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  441. Darien on

    Hands-down, my #1 all-time favorite book is…the Bible-God’s Word. It is the ultimate guidebook for all of life. There are no questions it can’t answer, and no problems that it’s principles can’t solve. It was written for mankind by the Creator of the entire universe Who loves us more than we can imagine. Without this Book, my life would be an empty, meaningless mess, but through it’s wisdom and directions applied to my daily life, I have a life of purpose worth living for my Saviour Who gave His all for me. And that includes using His gift of flowers to enrich and beautify the lives of others, so that they might find in Jesus Christ everything they need. For HE IS what MY LIFE is ALL ABOUT!

    “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Isaiah 40:8

    And a great THANK YOU to Erin and her team for their inspiration to pursue the dreams that God has given to me.

    Reply
  442. Brenna Kennedy on

    My favorite book is Discovering Dahlias. It’s the only one I’ve read! But it’s sparked a passion! My copy is well used already and I’ve learned so much in my first year of growing Dahlias. So much beauty has come into my life and soul all from that book. The next book I’m going for is Monty Don’s. I’ve got to get a few more techniques and tips under my belt and this looks like it. …..then I’m going to dig more into design and I can’t wait

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  443. Fernanda Longo on

    My favorite book is Botany in a Day by Thomas J. Elpel, was the first book I got when I arrived to US and was just the “click” I needed to start a passion with Flowers and Herbs. I’ve learned a lot with it since I was clueless about any plants, so there is a special place in my heart for it.

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  444. Beth D on

    My favorite is The Great Railway Bazaar: By Train Through Asia by Paul Theroux, because it’s all about the journey and what goes wrong and right along the way. It’s a joy to read.

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  445. Sherrie Holland on

    My two favorite books are Little Women and the Secret Garden. Both are just beautifully written and I can picture myself as a character in either one as I sit and them over and over. If I may add the movie the secret garden has the most beautiful Garden that I have ever seen in a movie.

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  446. Kim on

    When my husband and I first married I was gifted the book Better Homes and Garden Step by Step Landscaping. As a young married couple I loved the do-it-yourself information and photographs that the book contains. And it has been my favorite go to book in each of the different places we have lived over the past 30 years!

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  447. Jessica Flinders on

    My favorite book always and forever is The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I am a nurse practitioner and helping people is a passion for me. My other passions are all things flower garden and all things British. When I look back over my life for the springboard of these obsessive passions, it is always this book. I recently read it aloud bit by bit to my always patient, tolerant husband and it was just as wonderful as it was the first time I read it as a young girl and then re read so many times until I had children with whom I could repeat the experience. Another passion that must be mentioned is of course reading. And there you have it, me in a book ;)

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  448. Christi Christian on

    My favorite gardening book is a collection from the National Gardening Club. A set of 20+ encyclopedia type books ranging from Big Book of Flowers to Gardening for Wildlife and Recipes from the Garden, and even a book full of tips submitted by club members. I lost my set last year when we lost our home in a wildfire, but was able to find another set on eBay. It was one of the first things I replaced.

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  449. Melissa on

    My absolute favorite book is the Bible! It is where everything began. The creation of beauty and growth and love. I can’t wrap my head around the creation of it all….flowers and varieties and colors….Amazing!

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  450. Betty Szudy on

    I think my favorite garden book is the Sunset Garden Book that was originally published many years ago. I, too was/am a library fan for the last 65 years as is my son (now 41). The Sunset book introduced me to the world of plants and I still refer to it (the newer version) with pictures—for inspiration and new plant ideas. I also love the three Floret books.

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  451. Megin Mannheimer on

    I love the new book, What Happened to you, by Dr Bruce Perry and Oprah … it’s an incredible resource on understanding how trauma affects the brain and behavior – psychology and flowers are my two favorite subjects!

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  452. Megan E on

    My to-read list just got exponentially longer! Choosing favorite books is incredibly hard, but I went with my first gut impressions :-)

    My favorite gardening book right now is The Foodscape Revolution because I’m trying to design a traditional kitchen garden mixed in with an abundance of flowers in our front yard/landscaping. A close second is Discovering Dahlias – I grew up super close to Triple Wren Farms (before they were there there was also a dahila farm in the area – my sister got her wedding flowers there 29 years ago) – and I’ve always wanted to grow dahlias. I’m hoping that I’ll be able to grow enough this year that I can take bouquets down to the local seniors’ home all summer.

    For novels, it’s a book called Obasan by Joy Kogawa, a Canadian poet. It’s a heartbreaking book, but her lyrical way with words (she’s also a poet) makes it hauntingly beautiful. I read it for the first time my first year of university and it’s stuck with me for almost 20 years.

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  453. Beth Preuss on

    My favorite flower design book is Sensational Bouquets by Christian Tortu. I have an autographed copy that was passed on to me by my mom. She and my father had met him in his shop in Paris in 2001. His beautifully philosophical approach to flower arranging in harmony with nature is such a delight and inspiration!

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  454. Stacy Young on

    My favorite book is DISCOVERING DAHLIAS , I’ve learned a lot of new information on Dahlias and hope to grow some beautiful new color dahlias next year😊

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  455. Lisa Myers on

    Any of these books would be wonderful to receive and read. I have your book, “Cut Flower Garden”, which was amazing and because you shared so many tips, I was able to start on my new journey as a flower grower (along with my small apple orchard). The book and what you shared inspired me so much, that I have signed up for the workshop this year too! Thank you Erin, for always sharing your tips, tricks, and amazing ways to live, love and grow with flowers. It always brings a smile me and to others.

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  456. Elsa Jacobs on

    Mans Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl is witness to resounding perseverance through intense persecution and the ability to continue on for the hope of a dream. Most precious, all time favorite read.

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  457. Laura on

    My favorite book is Little Women. I love to cozy up on the couch with tea and enter their world; they become my family for a moment. The abundant love that covered all strifes is so inspiring.

    As for flower books, gosh I have too many to pick just one!

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  458. Angela L. on

    I love A Year in Flowers because it covers everything you need to know in a quick, concise, easy to understand way, without being overwhelming in information, or terms that “regular people” can’t understand. I am looking forward to using it as a quick reference for this coming growing season!

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  459. Sharon Miller on

    Currently – Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. We really need to bridge the gap after spring bulb season while we wait for summer bounty. This book is very thorough and we are excited for our cool hardy annuals. Thank you for the book list. Can’t wait to check them out!!

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  460. Zoe on

    Gardening by Martha Stewart because it is a lovely book but mostly because of the sentimental attachment. My brother bought me a copy for my birthday when it was released- and called in a favor to have it inscribed to me and signed by Martha. My brother is a keeper too!

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  461. Kim Klonowski on

    The Little Book. Time travel, history, great characters, and a love story. What’s not to love?

    Reply
  462. Pat Preib on

    Coming from a family of readers and having recently retired from teaching, books have been at the center of my life since I can remember. There are so many books that I love and reread when I’m feeling low or restless for adventure. They’re mostly novels, but more recently, I find myself reading books about flowers, growing them, arranging them, the floral business and even university extension websites for more information.

    My obsession with all things floral started when, standing in my modest garden one gorgeous afternoon, I was again struck by the dilemma of whether to cut the flowers and bring them indoors or to enjoy their knock-you-out-at-the-knees beauty outdoors. Then–eureka! Why not grow some beds just for cutting flowers to bring indoors?! I was enthralled by the idea and had no idea what the first steps were. Lo and behold, the answers were awaiting me a few days later when I popped into a local housewares shop and a book caught my eye. It was Cut Flower Garden by a gal named Erin Something Unpronounceable. (My name is also unpronounceable.) I bought it on the spot and read the entire book over the next couple of days, entranced by the photos and inspired to the marrow to get serious about growing flowers. I am currently in the midst of launching a small cut flower business because of the joy that sharing flowers brings to me and others. And, of course, I own the entire Floret library now.

    Gratitude hardly covers what I feel I owe to Floret and the other floral farmers and designers who so generously share what they know with newbies like me. Every day brings new possibilities, challenges and beauty. In a world as fractious as ours, sharing flowers brings peace, community and purpose. Thank you!

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  463. Megan on

    One of my favorites (there are too many to count 😅) is the Book Thief. It has an incredible, artistic writing style that paints images with the words, but also an impressive use of formatting and type to help tell the story. The story is poignant, humanizing, and really struck a chord that people are generally, inherently good and having compassion is the greatest act towards being a good person.

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  464. Teresa Gill on

    My favorite book is the Dahlia book that Erin wrote!

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  465. Candace Andrie on

    Gardening by Martha Stewart
    One of my first books on gardening, that inspired me to more creative gardeninh

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  466. Samantha on

    My favorite book in the last many years is “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo, what an incredible work! And my favorite garden book is “Cut Flower Garden” because it’s just sooo dang helpful as a reference and stunning to look at. I feel so lucky that today we have so many incredible books to read, by so many talented people ❤️

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  467. Judy Kellogg on

    I don’t have a flower garden book, but have been experimenting growing perennials and annuals for the last few years and I am totally addicted. I found you Floret and have learned SO much just from your webinars and newsletters. Thank you!I wake up dreaming about what to grow next. The gardening book I do have and love is about growing organic veggies and flowers together. “Great Garden Companions A companion planting system for beautiful chemical free vegetable gardens” by Sally Jean Cunningham I love it! And the idea of mixing veggies and flowers.

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  468. Judy Kellogg on

    I don’t have a flower garden book, but have been experimenting growing perennials and annuals for the last few years and I am totally addicted. I found you Floret and have learned SO much just from your webinars and newsletters. Thank you!I wake up dreaming about what to grow next. The gardening book I do have and love is about growing organic veggies and flowers together. “Great Garden Companions A companion planting system for beautiful chemical free vegetable gardens” I love it! And the idea of mixing veggies and flowers.

    Reply
  469. Rosie Macalister on

    You have given me a new book list to pursue and add a select few to my collection. Thank you Floret, always an inspiration !!

    Reply
  470. PJ on

    For children, Tops and Bottoms by Janet Stevens, a fun book about root vegetables and vegetables that are above ground, for adults, I continue to reference Theme Gardens by Barbara Damrosch. I particularly enjoy her ideas for butterfly and hummingbird gardens.

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  471. Sierra Delgado on

    “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” by Barbara Kingsolver. It’s an awesome year-round journal style book that focuses on farm life and gardening.

    There are lovely recipes and so many wonderful stories woven throughout! This book is non-fiction but the author is celebrated for her many fiction stories as well. I LOVE that she invited her husband and daughters to contribute their own stories to this book since their farming was most definitely a family adventure.

    It’s incredibly heartwarming and inspiring!

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  472. Margaret on

    I don’t think I could choose a favorite book! The last book I read was with my 5 year old daughter, called “Luna Loves Art.” It’s a children’s book about a field trip to an art gallery and takes a surprisingly tear-jerking turn when it shows how art can allow people to feel and express their emotions in ways they weren’t capable of before.

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  473. Karen J Holland on

    I credit your “Discovering Dahlias” book on getting me hooked, which is good and not so good, on Dahlia’s and ordering way more than I could possibly use over the years. But…it’s also a silver lining because I’m able to give away bouquets all summer/fall and it’s such a great surprise. I can’t imagine a life without flowers and every year I’m adding more and more Dahlia’s. Of course I’m growing lots of other cut flowers but they are the crown jewels. Thank you for your passion and sharing your knowledge. It’s contagious!!

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  474. Kathy Compton on

    One of my favorites is Arranging Flowers by Martha Stewart. I love to try arranging flowers and found some great ideas in her book…I need all the help and creative ideas I can find.

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  475. Keressa Golden on

    My very first and only flower/gardening book I have at the moment, is Floret Farms Cut Flower Garden book and I love it!!! It’s given me soo much knowledge on how to grow my own flowers. Now my fingers are just itching to get in the dirt. Can’t wait for Spring!! 🌱🌻

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  476. Aimee Taylor on

    My favorite (one of many!) is Taxonomy of Vascular Plants by George Lawrence. It was a reference book in a college course I took that opened my eyes to the wonder of flowers.

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  477. Kim M on

    A couple of my favorite books are Gardentopia by Jan Johnsen for beautiful ideas on Gardena me backyard layouts, any of the Pottery Barn Spaces books for beautiful decorating indoors and out, and of course Cut Flower Granden by Erin Benzakein for getting me started on growing my own flowers.

    Reply
  478. Loren O. on

    The Harvester by Gene Stratton-Porter will always have a special place in my heart and shines in my mind when thinking of nature as well as love. Given to me by my grandmother who has had an overflowing garden every year of my life, no matter what. The strongest woman I know!

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  479. Brenda Barrone on

    Cut Flower Garden is one of my favorites because it was the inspiration for our cut flower business.

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  480. Barb F on

    Looking forward to these new favorites. Erin’s Dahlia book was a great help starting dahlia growing.

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  481. Michelle Dealy on

    I have had a love of growing things from a very young age and I love to read books to learn how to do anything new. The Vegetable Gardners Bible by Edward C. Smith and Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden are my two favorite books to refer back to constantly as I continue to grow new varieties.

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  482. Alejandra on

    Picking a favorite book ia like picking favorite child or flower! But as a farmer my life is consumed with soil books right now so I’ll share my favorite soil book. “Teaming with microbes” by Jeff Lowenfels. I call it a gatway book for anyone intersted in what happens beneath our feet! I’ve re read it several times, it’s easy to follow even if you’re not sciency and it’s so eye opening! It’s what startes my soil journey!

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  483. Maria Parker on

    I don’t have a favorite yet. I just placed ‘The Complete Gardener’ and ‘Five Marys Ranch Raised Cookbook’ on my library hold list. I can’t wait to read them.

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  484. Kaylee Coles on

    I’ve loved books my whole life (when I was a kid my parents had to take away the book I was reading if I got in trouble because I just didn’t really care about anything else). I grew up to major in English, not that anybody was surprised. I don’t have a favorite book since there are so many great ones, but I do really love “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.”

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  485. Matias on

    Lots of great books to choose from. The Hobbit by Tolkien is one of my favorites. I also love Monty Don and all his wisdom on plants, trees, veg and flowers. Love watching Monty on Gardeners World tv show. For me The Hobbit opened up a world of magic, love, mystery and a world to explore. Monty opened up a world of plants and diversity that I could not have imagined possible. Thank you Erin and team for all you do!

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  486. Karol Tortorelli on

    I’ve lived through a reading addiction phase mostly classic or romance, now it is collecting plants. How about favorite author? Margery Allingham or Ngaio Marsh, especially on Audible. I enjoy their characters and mystery stories. This will be my first year with a cut flower garden. I am slowly building a flower book library.

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  487. Mallory DeVries on

    My favorite book of al time is The Secret Garden. I re-read it every few years and it hits different each time.

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  488. Andrea on

    So many good books to choose from! A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle is a fiction favorite along with Redeeming Love by Francine River. Favorite nonfiction I would choose Resisting Happiness by Matthew Kelly or For the Love by Jen Hatmaker.

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  489. Jane Abernethy on

    I have two favorite books with uncomplicated but timeless themes, both rooted in the word “give.” The first book, “The Tale of Despereaux,” by Kate DiCamillo, is a story about the power of forgiveness, not only for the one being forgiven, but for the one bestowing the forgiveness. (Read the book—it’s better than the movie!) The second book, “Boxes for Katje,” by Candace Fleming, is based on the true story of the author’s mother. It teaches us that we all have something to give and can make a difference in someone’s life, no matter how big or small, or how expensive or simple the gift—or how young or old the giver is. The two books demonstrate that our actions can have a ripple effect and the ability to touch so many more people than we may have imagined.

    While these books are both classified as children’s books, they are infinitely relevant to readers of all ages. For me, they have messages that ground me as a human being, inspire me to do good for others, and remind me to be gracious and compassionate. Enjoy!

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  490. Racquel Pleasants on

    I start books and have a hard time finishing them. Except for this one, Astoria by Peter Stark. I have read and reread that book along with audible as it goes through so much history and struggle of claiming/discovering the PNW. Growing up on the NW side of Oregon and now living in the SE corner of Washington, this story is a reminder of what others went through, in and near my location(s). It’s a humbling reminder that where I live and where I grew up is a huge privilege and something to not be taken for granted. This history was not taught in general history classes, some of these events were discussed in my college history classes of the PNW, but to have it all right here in this book, is priceless. And listening to the author reflect on this piece of history while driving hwy 97 through the sagebrush lands, it was like I was teleported back in time (except I was in the luxury of my car and not out in the elements with minimal protection) & I could envision what the overland travelers had to go through and where the Native Americans hid for their next ambush or pow wow.

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  491. Connie Haas on

    For me a couple trips to England and listening to the quiet wisdom and experience of Monty Don has just solidified the gardener that has been developing in me for many years. I come from a gardening family….great grand parents who were homesteaders and grew fruit and berries for their livelihood. They taught me the foundational garden steps as a child and my heart is to share this love of all growing things worh my children and grand children.
    Thank you Erin for other recommends that I will definitely seek out. So grateful for this community of growers and potter’s. God bless and strengthen and teach us as we go!

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  492. Sarah on

    As many others have said, whatever I’m reading at the time! So currently it’s Tell the Bee’s That I am Gone, by Diana Gabaldon.

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  493. Levi Sallee on

    My favorite would have to be Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling. Perhaps not the best book in the series, but this first novel opened up an entire world of fascination and wonder that still makes me smile, even today!

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  494. Diane on

    I have so many books on my favorites list! But the book I read over and over is Home Below Hells Canyon by Grace Jordan.

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  495. Michelle S on

    One of my recent favorite genres of books have been coffee table books, especially flower and gardening books. The colors and textures make me so happy while paging through. I can’t pick just one, there are too many that make my heart sing!

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  496. Susan C. Roberts on

    So many favorite books – but as I live in Mississippi for general gardening Month by Month gardening in the South by Don Hastings was a go to for many years. As I came to love dahlias my of course and discovered Floret I’ve worn out my Discovering Dahlias book and I love the Year in flowers as well as Cut Flower Garden as well!!
    When I was younger, my mother bought the Square Foot Gardening book by Mel Bartholomew and it gave me grand ideas for a way to garden in small spaces – there are several new versions now.
    I can’t wait to find some of the books you have recommended! There are never too many books- just not enough time to read!!
    Thank you for inspiring us all!!!

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  497. Kathy Willis on

    Oh…Charlotte’s Web and Understood Betsy. And of course Little Women. Though I’m an avid reader, the books I read as a child impacted me the most.

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  498. Sara Groeneweg on

    I love some of these books so much!! Going to add a few to my Christmas list. Thank you for sharing.

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  499. Yvonne Grady on

    I too have always been an avid reader all my life. I read anything I could get my hands on, the library was like a candy store for me. After all my chores you could find me up in a tree reading weather permitting, other wise I could be curled up in some corner allowing my imagination to soar. I found it to be a wonderful way to explore the world and learn.

    One of the books that I love is, The Shack by WM. Paul Young. While it is a fictional story it also is a deeply moving story for me that reached into my soul asking, Why does God allow all of the unspeakable pain in our world? The answers I received and the insights were a true revelation for me. I now look at things differently in life! I have shared this book with all my friends as it is so insightful, it will make you laugh cry and perhaps repent..

    Another one of my favorite books is, Carrots Love Tomatoes by Louise Riotte. It is about companion planting for a successful gardening. It is chock full of wonderful information. It is my go to source every planting season, for a successful bountiful harvest. Louise also included several layout plans for different needs according to your gardens needs. I highly recommend this book!

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  500. Catherine Constant on

    My favorite book is Proverbs in the Bible. It speaks to what I want to become. I desire to be successful as a woman, wife, entrepreneur, and gardener. I love your book too, Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden. When I discovered it on Amazon, I felt so satisfied by the picture of you holding the dahlias. I do not like to cut my flowers because I have a limited amount in my urban English-style cottage garden. However, for the next growing season, you have encouraged me to grow more zinnias and experiment with dahlias so I can cut them and bring the floral arrangements indoors. Thank you for writing it. I also enjoy your Instagram posts too!
    Catherine Constant

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  501. Sarah on

    I can never say enough good things about Brené Brown’s Daring Greatly… but Cultivated: The Elements of Floral Style by Christin Geall has hands down been my favorite floral book to read so far. I adore how she weaves little history lessons into the pages of extremely interesting and helpful information. It’s rare that I read a floral book and come out feeling like I learned a ton, but I definitely did with this book.

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  502. Nina Knapp Jebens on

    I love Louise Riotte’s Book Carrots Love Tomatoes. It details companion planting to strengthen growth and thus reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers! It’s fantastic.

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  503. Christy Taylor on

    Florets Discovering Dahlias is now one of my favorite books. Although I have all the others plus many many more, this one just grabbed me. For a few years now I have wanted to start my own flower farm but was soooo overwhelmed by all the choices. After spending much time with this book ( and my love of dahlias) it has made me change my direction a bit to just specialize i in this beautiful flower group. Thanks for all you do and and great inspiration.

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  504. Julie C on

    Oh my gosh. One?

    I can barely pick one for each genre.

    But here goes……for gardening I would have to say Cut Flower Garden, because it got me into growing…wait for it…a cut flower garden. I had done other types of gardening in the past, but never a cutting garden. I was (kinda still am) going through a difficult time in my life after suddenly and unexpectedly loosing the person closest to me, and this book was just the right book at just the right time. Getting outside, working with my hands, growing something beautiful that I could bring inside, create with and share with others was basically like therapy for me. And the clear, concise, detailed directions made it all possible for me to do, since at the time I didn’t have the energy to research each step individually. Following the steps and instructions resulted in an abundance of flowers that continues to bring a bit of sunshine with each bloom.

    And I have to agree with your love for libraries. My mom would take me once a week after school when I was growing up, and I could never get enough. I still use the library to this day. I always have a book at the house, and have gotten into listening to audio books on my drives. If you anyone here hasn’t listened to Tom Hanks read The Dutch House, do your a big favor and check this one out.

    Thanks for the list, it will keep me busy for a while. And I would love, love, love to win your starter kit. Thanks for all you do for the flower community.

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  505. Carolyn on

    Mary Oliver’s New and Selected Poems is forever a favorite. The words through which she shares her experience of the natural world are so moving and inspiring.

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  506. Rebekah on

    My favorite flower farming book so far has been Discovering Dahlias. Discovering Dahlias really opened my eyes to how many shapes, sizes and colors Dahlias can be! My Favorite none flower farming book is probably Tramp for the Lord by Corrie Ten Boom. Tramp for the Lord was really inspiring and taught me so much!

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  507. Jen Barrow on

    I am currently obsessed with Foraged Flora by Louesa Roebuck and Sarah Lonsdale. The moody images give me endless inspiration and the feel of the book’s fabric cover brings an unexpected calm.

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  508. Karyn Tori on

    Favorite all time book would be hard to pick… I recently received Sarah Raven’s A Year Full of Flowers and have loved soaking up her inspiring photos and enthusiasm!

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  509. Sarah on

    My favorite book of all time is The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, The Hobbit is a close second.

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  510. Kelli Davis on

    My favorite book is, “The Giver.” It reminds me of what is important in life. I read it shortly after losing my mom to cancer and it helped reiterate to me that great loss comes because of great love and that is SO worth it!

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  511. Aimee Enriquez on

    Whiskey in a Teacup by Reese Witherspoon
    She’s a great story teller and so funny.

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  512. Jocelyn on

    Discovering Dahlia’s has been my favorite for 2021!!! I was a first time dahlia grower this year and WOW did I get hooked. I’m obsessed and plan on doubling our rows next year :) Thank you for inspiring me to dive into the flower growing world. Life was a much happier and more colorful place with flowers this year. <3 Another all time favorite is Circe by Madelyn Miller.

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  513. Melissa Hoang on

    My favorite book is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. I fell in love with historical fiction reading this inspiring story of two sisters and their heroic journeys. Set in France during the German occupation of WWII, this is a story about the strength and perseverance of women in the most terrifying of circumstances.

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  514. Beth on

    I cannot tell you how many times I have read again and again Floret’s Cut Flower Garden- I learn something new every time! I also love watching Monty Don on Gardeners World- I have always wanted one of his books

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  515. Kaitlyn McDonald on

    On Flowers by Amy Merrick is my favorite flower book. She blends together all the aspects of being a florist: the flowers, where to find inspiration, the people you meet on the job. The book itself is inspiration, and beautifully written. She perfectly balances the tone of her advice: the only thing she pushes is ‘grow where your planted’, everything else is a rule meant to be broken, or an apparent constraint that will push you towards creativity (for instance living in the city, or only being able to afford grocery flowers).

    You don’t need perfect conditions in order to create something beautiful.

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  516. Maren on

    I love Floret’s Discovering Dahlias. Beautiful pictures.

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  517. Katherine Smith on

    I Lost My Love in Bagdad by the late Michael Hastings. Very much unrelated to gardening and cut flowers. I’ve just discovered growing flowers for myself this past year and like you said in your docu-series, it changed me and I literally can’t wait for this coming growing season.

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  518. Daina on

    When reading your story, I thought about the library my dad had. It was two corner bookshelves, and I would sit in his chair pouring over the encyclopedias. I loved it! I have my own bookshelf organized by various topics. A favorite fiction book of mine is the Twilight series. I love the story and the romance! I was also inspired by the author’s story for writing it. A current nonfiction favorite is DK’s “Flora: Inside the Secret World of Plants”. It has amazing photography of plants and flowers, and so many fun and interesting botanical facts. I recommend it!

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  519. Karen Rigney on

    “The 36 Hour Day” by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins is currently my favorite book. It is holding my boat steady, while my world rocks and rolls. It is my go to when I need advice.

    Newly diagnosed with an unknown dementia type, my husband needs me and we stay close to home, more and more.

    I spend my days sorting seeds, taking cuttings from my garden; I am propagating whatever I can for next year; cooking, sewing and often checking in with my new reference book.

    It is a Godsend, thank goodness I only need the first few chapters at this time.

    Reply
  520. Emily B on

    My favorite book is “The Faithful Gardener” by Clarissa Pinkola Estès. It’s my favorite because the language and storytelling are so gorgeous and hopeful. I read it at the start of every winter and it makes me weep with its beauty every time.

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  521. Esther Heaper on

    My favorite book is Little House in the Big Woods!
    My mom would read it to me as a kid before I could read. My kids are now reading it to me! I love to hear these stories.

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  522. Heather Apgar on

    I love the Hiding Place by Corrie tenBoom which is a true story about a lady in Holland and her family helping hide Jews and get them to safety during the Holocaust. She survived a concentration camp a traveled the world telling her story. I love stories where people, especially women, overcome insurmountable hardship to see great rewards for their efforts!

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  523. Jane Park on

    My favorite book is Ruth Page’s Gardening Journal. She provided the foundation to be a competent gardener. Ruth hooked me into gardening over 30 years ago. Today, I’m still loving the arts and science of gardening.

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  524. Peggy Gentile on

    I recently, rather reluctantly, relocated to North Carolina from NJ. While not my dream destination, I’ve been quieting myself and trying to make this…home. I joined the community garden which has been a godsend! What is it about people who enjoy getting their hands dirty!?! The people here have been a huge support and a wealth of knowledge. Adjusting to life…and gardening in the south has been an adventure.
    My favorite book and resource during the transition was recommended by a garden member and native North Carolinian.
    Carolinas Garden Handbook – All you need to know to plan, plant & maintain a Carolinas garden, by Toby Bost & Bob Polomski.
    Wonderful photography (why I love your books!!) with clearly presented and clearly organized information. Highly recommend it!

    Reply
  525. Emilie on

    I have some favorites from my adult life, but I still always come back to Miss Rumphius–my favorite childhood book that made me dream of living in Maine. It stuck with me throughout my life and I finally decided to move here a few years ago! :)

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  526. Laurie on

    Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati. Historical fiction and a lifelong love story that offers a little sweet escapism into the past. I’ve read it over and over again.

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  527. JoCarol Cohen on

    I too love the library as a child and read every Frog and Toad book many times. A recent favorite was Blood, Butter, Bones by Gabrielle Hamilton as it helped me fall deeper in love with cooking.

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  528. Amanda Ward on

    One of my recent favorites has been Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall! It’s a gorgeous story about marriage, lifelong friendship across differences, and faith. 10/10 recommend.

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  529. Erin on

    Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. Mans search for Meaning. And I currently cant check out enough library books on gardening

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  530. Pam Poisson on

    Thank for this wonderful list!
    My favorite go to gardening book is Ask Ciscoe by Ciscoe Morris.
    It’s pretty basic, but that’s usually all I need. I like that he is from the PNW and knows what works here.
    This is one of the same reasons I’m drawn to Erin’s books.
    Although I’ve never cuddled up with Ask Ciscoe like I do with Erin’s books, he is always at hand.

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  531. Katie on

    I really enjoyed the book Mindset by Carol Dweck. It’s very eye opening regarding the importance of having a growth mindset in life and work.

    Reply
  532. Lani Rossmann on

    It is impossible for me to pick just one favorite book! But, one of my recent favorites is the Flower Color Guide by Darroch and Michael Putnam. I love to create flower watercolors and this book, although geared more toward flower selection and arrangement, is a wonderful resource for artists as well.

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  533. Jaime on

    I wasn’t going to choose a book about gardening, but I simply could not narrow down my favorite book to a top five, much less an absolute favorite, and narrowing the subject at least got me down to two.

    First is VERSAILLES, by Jean-Marie Perouse de Montclos. While it is not a gardening book at all, and the writing is a rather scholarly dive into the history of Versailles from hunting lodge to chateau, it’s the photographs that drew me in. They are just stunning. When I was at Versailles with a high school group trip many (many!) years ago, I was SO eager to see the gardens as I’d been dreaming about them since I was five and first saw the photo book my sister bought when she was there. And then, they walked us past all of the gardens after the chateau tour, to the Hamlet, and then to the bus to leave. I was devastated. Though I’ve told myself that I’ll go back one day to see the gardens, that was long ago, and I’ve chosen to travel to other places I’ve never been before. The photographs in this book don’t make up for not seeing the gardens in person, but they are a wonderful substitute.

    The second is VISIONS OF PARADISE by Marina Schinz. I picked this up buried in the corner of a used bookshop while in college. The text gives historical context and basic design standards of a variety of garden styles (Italian, English, herb, rose, landscape, etc.), but again, it was the photos that grabbed me. I’ve had this book since Clinton was president and I can’t begin to guess how many times I’ve picked it up and flipped through the pages, pausing to daydream about the locations within.

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  534. Jordan on

    Thank you for sharing so much amazing information! I’ve followed for a while and have learned so much and been thoroughly inspired by you! My favorite book is Water for Elephants (and always, Harry Potter). 💕

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  535. Hannah on

    Wow, a favourite book, that is so difficult! from a gardening perspective I really like Rachel de Thames Top 100 star plants, and also Gardens of Plenty by Marilyn Abbot about potager gardens. And Paradise and Plenty by Mary Keen some beautiful photos in all of these. Enjoyed the Duncton Wood books when I was younger, and The Language of Flowers by I think the last name is Diffenbauch – a fictional story. So many great books out there.

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  536. Sarah on

    My hands down favorite books are The Nightingale, The Hiding Place, and Cut Flower Garden🙂🥰 The author of the Nightingale paints a vivid picture of what women went through during WW2. I love seeing the faith experience of Corrie Ten Boom and all she has to go through in her autobiography, The Hiding Place. And Erin, if it wasn’t for me randomly buying your book, Cut Flower Garden on a whim because of the gorgeous photos then I wouldn’t be a flower farmer now! 💕

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  537. Ela Nicolaides on

    I totally relate to that love of books that teach and inspire. Ours were spilling over our available bookshelf space, so, not having the excuse of “this is my livelihood,” I’ve declared a moratorium on buying new gardening (and cookery) books. Painful but necessary! So I offer a slightly quirky choice that I’ve just been given by my daughter, who somehow found it unused at a charity-run second-hand bookstore (which allowed her to skirt the ban!): “A Gardener’s Journal: a ten year chronicle of your garden” published by Lee Valley. A big heavy tome, which gives you space to record all aspects of your gardening over a ten-year period. I’m starting my garden more or less from scratch, so this will be a beautiful way to record its progress. Plus, I’m an ambitious, adventurous gardener, but not an organised one, and I’m looking forward to the help this gives me to be more mindful in my activities and to be able to refer back to the learning gained from each season’s experiments.

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  538. Rhonda Luse on

    I’m so excited about this giveaway! All those books look so amazing! One of my favorite books is Heidi. I read this aloud to my children several times as they grew up. Such a sweet story!

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  539. Kharizma McAnulty on

    Also this blog post is getting bookmarked! I need most of these recommended reads!! I might need to build another bookshelf or two.
    Thank you Erin for sharing your favorites! I already bought TWO!

    Reply
  540. Rachel on

    I love the Hiding Place by Cori Ten Boom. In World War 2 she hid Jews fleeing from Nazi Germany and ends up in a concentration camp because of it. It shows what sacrificial love and bravery look like in the midst of great danger. It’s so good.

    Reply
  541. carmen snouffer on

    My favorite book is the daily devotional ,Jesus Always -Embracing Joy in His Presence ,by Sarah Young. Being encouraged to look for and find joy and embrace joy, in spite of all the challenges of the last year has really helped me keep my eyes looking up and stay positive !

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  542. Chantal S. on

    My favorite book is The Great Good Thing, a lovely young reader chapter book. I also have fond memories of my dad reading The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to me so that book is definitely at the top of the list.

    Thanks for sharing joy through books and flowers 📚🌸

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  543. Donna Adams on

    Very hard to pick one book but I will hoping to win your collection 😁. Where the Crawdads Sing. Thank you for all your inspiration and I love your series on Magnolia network.

    Reply
  544. Carolyn on

    My favorite book is Braiding Sweetgrass. It’s a magical book that combines indigenous knowledge of botany and classical western knowledge of botany. Robin Wall Kimmer writes with such delight, it’s impossible to not fall in love with nature as you read.

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  545. Kristin on

    I hate picking a favorite book! But probably my childhood favorite was The Chronicles of Narnia. Now I love sharing then with my kids. I loved the adventure, the conflict of good and evil and choosing to do what’s right on difficult circumstances, and so much more.

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  546. Jackie Holman on

    My favourite book is Gardens at First light. It has beautiful photos and is super inspirational.

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  547. Kharizma McAnulty on

    ONE?! Are you kidding me?? Ok.
    Since this is a garden blog I will steer in that direction.
    ONE?!
    I want to say “The Lavender Lover’s Handbook” by Sarah Bader because lavender changed me on a molecular level and this woman’s farm gave me dreams to follow.
    I want to give a shout out to “Evolutionary Herbalism” by Sanjah Popham because this man holds a key to life and his teachings are profound and well…evolutionary.
    ONE YOU SAY?!
    Fine. It’s this one…
    “Magical Gardens: Cultivating Soil and Spirit” by Patricia Monaghan.
    I found this book at a library sale over 20 years ago. I have turned the pages of this book so many times I am on my third copy. I have given it away and recommended it more than any other garden book. It captures the essence of a gardener’s soul. It allows dreams of the garden to develop like the seasons; a seed, a sprout, the riot of color and the letting go. Yes, this well my be my favorite one of all.

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  548. Chris Bouchard on

    The Vegetable Gardener’s Bible is a favorite gardening book… picking a favorite “just reading” book is hard as I’ve been a voracious reader since I began way back in 1st grade. Although I’d probably say any Nancy Drew book as the start to my lifelong love and inspiration for our farm’s name, Red Gate Farm.

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  549. Lisa craddock on

    The Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato Aust, followed by The Garden Primer by Barbara Damrosch. These have been my go-tos for years. Before I REALLY started gardening actually. I’m loving all of the suggestions in the blog and plan to check some of them out! Thank you!

    Reply
  550. Melissa on

    My favorite book is The Hobbit, I know totally strange and out there lol. But it was my most memorable book reading it as a child.

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  551. Stephanie on

    My favorite Book would have to be Little Women. My Grandmother and I were about half way through the book when she passed away in a car accident. I still have the page marked where we stopped.

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  552. Esmer Garcia on

    Floret farm’s Cut Flower Garden😍 📖..I started following you in Instagram and just had to get your book…just love the whole story about how your love for gardening started….I even brought some sweet pea seeds and planted them in my garden. Really enjoyed your book and still do, love everything about it….and it just so nice to take the time and appreciate and see the beauty of God’s creation. 💐

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  553. Kaye Hall on

    Margaret Moseley’s A Garden to Remember by Martha Tate

    A gorgeous garden 80 years in the making!

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  554. Tori on

    Salt, fat, acid, heat by Samin Nosrat. I know it’s a cook book but it reads like story. Also her scientific explanation of how and why certain things work is so enlightening and the illustrations are charming.

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  555. Rochelle on

    I have always loved the book Little Women ❤️ I love imagining I live in those days and appreciate the simpler seasons of life. I also love that it has been made into movies 🤣

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  556. Amy Albano on

    This is a hard one, but I think my favorite is Discovering Dahlias! The layout is absolutely beautiful and it has been an excellent tool for a first time dahlia grower! The instructions and advice have been invaluable! Not to forget the pictures!!! I could look at them all day and dream of future garden plots! Just love it!

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  557. Jacilyn on

    Don’t panic by albertagirlacres.

    Such a practical book for cut flower beginners!

    Reply
  558. Erin Robinson on

    So many favorite books it’s hard to pick just one! A classic that I cherish (and at the top of my favorites list) is The Secret Garden. I remember reading it as a child and feeling like I was in another world. Rereading as an adult is so endearing and inspiring.

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  559. Sarah Nutter on

    Cut Flower Garden!

    I sent a copy to my mom in Canada when we couldn’t be together during the pandemic border closings. We would plan our flower gardens together over FaceTime using this book. It kept us connected. 💛

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  560. Denise Kerley on

    The secret life of bees by Sue Monk Kid I love it because it is based around gardening with bees and has a wonderful story

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  561. Morgan Gilbert on

    Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden is on my birthday/Christmas wish list. My fingers are crossed that I will get to start reading it soon!

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  562. Loree Cain on

    Cut Flower Garden is beautiful and inspirational, and spurs me to start my flower business dream! Right now it’s still a hobby, but I have hopes to get there, and keep this book by my bedside to serve as that nudge into something new!

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  563. Tonya on

    Florets farm Cut flower garden.
    I saw this bookon online and ordered. Ive been gardener for years but I didnt know anything about cut flowers farming until I came across this book. I was totally in awww over her photos and easy to understand, great knowlege of flowers. It has changed my goals in life.

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  564. Darrella Cavenaugh on

    I received your A Year in Flowers a few months ago. I’m a bit obsessed with Florets. Ha! But seriously, it brings me joy to see the beautiful flowers, the creations of the arrangements and the possibilities. I’ve also learned the names of flowers I never knew, and of those I never knew existed. Thank you for the work you and your team have put into this book and others. Its a blessing I’ll pass down to my grandchildren. God bless!!

    Reply
  565. Fred LaValley on

    “A More Beautiful Question” by Warren Berger. I listened to this on Audible, and then bought a hard copy to actually read because the content is so rich. It challenges you to think critically and creatively, and to ask questions. It is an inspiration and challenge to be inquisitive and curious, and then to pursue an answer AFTER you’ve pursued the best question. This is relevant for me with my wife and children (don’t kids usually have the best questions?), at work, church, with neighbors, and even meeting the stranger while shopping. Questions are the door to exploring the world.

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  566. Courtney on

    Cut Flower Garden :) I may not have started playing out my garden dreams yet, but this book is so inspirational and helps me prep!!

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  567. Joyce B Johannes on

    It’s hard to narrow down a favorite book but I think I will have to say Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. Her characters and their relationships and her descriptions of plant and animal life are brilliant and mesmerizing. I can read her books over and over! Love this post by the way…thanks so much for inviting all of us into your world of favorite books!

    Reply
  568. Jean H on

    All the books 😊
    This time of year I check out the King Arthur Flour Baking Companion from my local library. There is a recipe using leftover cranberry sauce for a coffee cake that is delish.

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  569. Kelly Ferguson on

    I’ve enjoyed The Layered Garden by David Culp followed closely by your collection. :)

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  570. Mandy Herron on

    This guide is so helpful as I build my floral book collection. Erin, your helpful “Discovering Dahlias” book has started a major obsession for me! I am hoping to start growing my collection of dahlias as I grow my floral business.

    On the business side of things, one of the easiest reads that is often inspiring and helpful was “Rework,” by 37 signals. I read it in college and I got it done in a few hours—so simple and straightforward.

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  571. Stephie McCumbee on

    My favorite book is Cut Flower Garden. It was a gift from my husband and my first and only garden book.

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  572. Shu Jean on

    When choosing a favourite book, this quote comes to mind: “I could no sooner choose a favorite star in the heavens” (from the movie Ever After). For this assignment, I will choose my newest favourite, The Scholomance series by Naomi Novik. The writing and the cliffhangers! I am anxiously waiting for the 3rd book.

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  573. Kaylyn on

    Discovering Dahlias is my favorite book because it helped guide me to all the resources here at floret. Now I feel that growing a successful flower garden is possible. My grandfather used to have a large vegetable garden and after moving into his house I want to honor him with creating a garden of my own in the same space.

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  574. Lauren on

    I have really enjoyed The Complete Gardener by Monty Don. I like how it shows different tasks in different seasons (although our winters are a bit harsher) and other how to’s. Also, not a book per se, but I love looking through the Whole Seed Catalog from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds in the off season and dreaming of varieties I could grow and reading the seed stories.

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  575. Amy Beaupre on

    My parents had The Self-Sufficient Gardener by John Seymour. I remember looking through it as a child. It is filled with great illustrations. The book is now mine and still love to look through it.

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  576. PeggyGierhan on

    and I shall have some peace there by Margaret Roach, I love reading how gardening has changed people’s lives

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  577. Taryn on

    I don’t know how to pick a favorite book! There are too many. Shaye Elliott’s books always make my heart sing, though. Whether she’s romanticizing the beauty of the cottage garden or preaching on the realities of farm life her language is so poetic that I find myself entirely consumed!

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  578. Savannah Dorris on

    I’ve read and referenced Cut Flower Garden so many times, it is my favorite flower book. Where the Crawdads Sing is my favorite fiction!

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  579. Gerri on

    I have no answer to the question! I love to read and always have but one favorite? A book that changed my life?? People have. I would sweat this, since I’m not obeying the rules but with close to 3000 entries, it would have been a long shot to win! Thanks for the great list of books.

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  580. Gretchen Zagzebski on

    Frances Palmer’s book is food for the creative soul! Not to mention her secret ingredient (orange juice) in her pie crust has changed my baking world forever!

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  581. Jessica on

    One of our favorites is Seed to Seed because it has really helped us to better understand how we can get more plants every year!

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  582. Jill Brennan on

    One of my favorite books is Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher (or any book by her) she has such a way of creating characters and stories that you can escape to. I have read this a few times and will be restarting it again today for a little classic escape.

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  583. Jessica on

    One of my favorite gardening books is The Winter Harvest Handbook by Eliot Coleman. It opened my eyes to gardening in winter and how to do it.

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  584. Kayleen on

    One of my favorites is Shauna Niequist’s Bread and Wine. I love books that combine everyday life and food :)

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  585. Trudy on

    My most practical home gardening book has been the Four Season Harvest by Elliott Coleman. We have produce all year around now in zone 6. Winter gardening is so easy too- with low hoop covers, it’s well worth the effort towards the end of summer to let your produce wait for your daily harvest all winter (no weeding, no canning or freezing just there in the garden “refrigerator”). Bonus winter greens taste way better and the bugs are gone!

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  586. Catie on

    My favorite book is Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver! This book completely changed the way I think about life and they way I interact with the earth. I’ve made a lot of changes in my habits and gardening since reading it!

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  587. Carol Bonsignore, Local Roots Floral on

    Erin, like you I am obsessed with flower and gardening books and have all 3 of your wonderful books in my library. One of my favorites is a children’s story, Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney. I love this story because it depicts an independent, strong female character who travel the world spreading lupine seed. I so want to be a Miss Rumphius!

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  588. Sandi Keene on

    I love Sara Midda’s South of France : A Sketchbook. It a small book with charming tiny sketches lovingly watercolored. The book is filled with travel memories, art, and my personal favorite, color swatching. It’s inspiring and delightful. Always a joy to peruse. It will fit in your purse.

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  589. Kelly Ann Myers on

    My favorite book is Carolyne Roehm’s “Preaentations” . Her books are so beautiful!!!! I love all of them!

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  590. Melissa on

    Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry- a fantastic adventure and a truly American story.

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  591. Chris Allen on

    My favorite book is Pride and Prejudice. It has definitely stood the test of time and gives me pleasure when I reread it.

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  592. Nicole Crumbley on

    Before there was Erin & Floret there was the great Monty Don! I love everything he does from his books to his wonderful gardening shows. And no surprise my favorite book The Complete Gardner is also on your favorites list.

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  593. Joelle Cole on

    My favorite book is The Maggie B. My mom read it to me when I was little and I’ve read it to my children. The story is so sweet and shows a love between a brother and a sister. And the pictures are spectacular!

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  594. Heather on

    I have so many well loved books. One of my most often used is a church book of recipes my moms church put together, but I also love the Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines recently.

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  595. Stephanie Mills on

    Flower, vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver, was a game changer for me. It made me look at food and where it all comes from so differently.

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  596. Kristen on

    The Strengths Finder book is a stellar recommendation. It teaches you to further develop and lean into your strengths, rather than trying to be the best at everything. I loved taking the quiz that comes with it, reading about my own strengths, and some great ways to put those talents to work. This book has been enormously helpful.

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  597. Susan Armstrong on

    A Woman’s Hardy Garden
    Helena Ely

    I had recommendations for this book when i began my cutting flowers garden and found that although written a long time ago her use of readily available elements made me begin with a back to basics approach which gave me a great foundation for success in growing and designing my gardens.

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  598. Dedra Gourdin on

    Most of the time when I read, it will be either a book on farming/gardening/flowers or an inspiring biography. With the weather turning cold next week and outdoor farm tasks winding down, I am eager to dive into my winter book list. I was excited to have some additional recommendations on one of my favorite subjects to add to the list!
    My favorite farming/gardening books have been those by Eliot Coleman. These are the books that got me excited about farming initially, and also started me down the road to getting the education I needed to be successful in this venture. Although he grew vegetables, and I grow mainly flowers, his focus on organic methods opened my eyes to a better way of farming that works with nature rather than fighting against it.
    Since one of Coleman’s books has already been highlighted in your post, I will also include here a favorite biography. The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown is an excellent read!

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  599. Brenda Embry on

    I’m a book junkie now, but the first book I ever read was Shepherd of the Hills by Harold Bell Wright. It was written in 1907 but the story captured me and I read it over and over as teenager.

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  600. Brandie Hatch on

    My favorite book is a Dog’s Purpose. Though it makes me cry any time I read it, I find that it truly hits home to all the ways a dog can show its love for life and people.

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  601. Anne Halvey on

    I worked in an Antiquarian and Used Book Store for several years and was exposed to many different gardening books. I liked reading the essays of Colette’ called Flowers and Fruit. I also liked Childe Hassam’s Impressionistic depiction of the flowers and garden of an artist colony in Maine. There were so many beautiful books I could go on and on and on.

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  602. Jessica Jones on

    Milk Street Tuesday Nights by Christopher Kimball is my favorite cookbook! I’ve cooked nearly every recipe. They’re delicious and very flavorful.

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  603. Pammy Barnes on

    The Marvellous Fluffy Squishy Itty Bitty – By Beatrice Alemagna
    It’s pink, it’s fluffy and it’s itty bitty. A magical story with beautiful illustrations. I love it! And there’s a flower shop in there too xx

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  604. Jenny Miller on

    The American Meadow Garden by John Greenlee and A Hole is to Dig by Ruth Kraus. ✨

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  605. Amanda Renner on

    I recently had my second child, and she has come to love a book called Thelma the unicorn. I love the book because of the joy it brings her, and also the message behind the book. The take away for me is self acceptance even in a world where we are expected to be everything but ourselves.

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  606. Janine Wheeler on

    Reflecting on a favorite book, I realized that Simple Abundance – A Daybook of Comfort and Joy by Sarah Ban Breathnach is it! I have owned this book for over 20 years and yet I’m reading it again on a daily basis. It has been especially reflective during these trying times.

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  607. Willow Leach on

    Picking a favorite book to a book lover is like picking a favorite flower…almost impossible! Siddhartha is a favorite that I try to reread every year and I find new parts that ring true depending on what is going on in my life at that time. Any book that you get drawn to over and over (especially reference books!) are always valuable in life.

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  608. Darline Mitchell on

    This is a difficult question, one favorite among so many and to choose only one. I would have to choose a children’s book. The one my grand blessings ask me read to them when they are snuggled on my lap. Today I choose Moose The Messy by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat.

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  609. Laura Luque on

    While fiction, I think my favorites are the Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien, my mind loves to travel and there are so many beautiful places to go in his books. Sorry if I’ve posted before, I couldn’t find it and my comment so I don’t think I sent one yet, and what I started was still in the box so I wanted to make sure I entered.

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  610. Anya Turner on

    I love the Book of Flowers – a collection of paintings by Pierre Joseph Redoute – it’s a garden on paper. I also love the New York in Bloom, Paris in Bloom and London in Bloom by Georgianna Lane.

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  611. Isabel Bonilla on

    I’ve already added some of these to my wish list. One of my favorite books from my home library is The Gossler Guide to the Best Hardy Shrubs. It’s my go to book when I want to research a shrub, and they include notes on growth rate, etc

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  612. Kelly Cantwell Brown on

    This is so hard! I have so many gardening books, and I rotate through them over and over again. My recent acquisitions to the library are “Windcliff” by Daniel J. Hinkley. He’s so inspiring, and “Organic Gardening” by Charles Dowding. Digging the No-Dig method! Do catalogues count? David Austin’s Rose catalogue is next to my bed. But, your book, “Cut Flower Garden” unleashed something in me. It reminded me of my obsession with growing plants; almost seeming to give me permission, reinforcing I wasn’t wasting my time, so I jumped back in and haven’t looked back. It’s awesome!

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  613. Andrea Garro on

    I am so passionate about this one and only life and I have found that books are my way of maximizing those experiences and joys by opening up its cover and finding inspiration, emotion, travel or respect for the authors message and creativity. My favorite book wow this is tough! My answer in this moment is Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. When I read this book I had just moved cross county with newborn twins. I moved to a city where I did not know a single soul and no family support. In a moment where life seemed to be simply too much I was inspired by Elizabeth’s paralleled breakdown and how it lead to her rebirth. She followed her desires with vulnerability that inspired me to always face the light and to live in my authenticity. I love all books. The books I bring into my home become a part of me. I find comfort and endless inspiration from my books. All of these books you have recommended would be such a special addition to my library. I would cherish and reference each one and refer to them when planning my garden in my vineyard in Vista, California. 🌸🌼💐🪴🌱🍇 🙏🏻

    Reply
  614. Brynn Moore on

    My new favorite book to read and keep open on the table is the Popol Vuh. I like to read through sections and learn more about the culture of my ancestors while enjoying the art, language, and history. A book in the fiction genre that I think makes a great accompaniment to this book is the book Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia!

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  615. Michal on

    I wish I had just one favorite book, but instead it is a favorite author. Barbara Michaels. Many years ago my mom introduced her to me and I fall into her books time and time again. I get so enthralled I often “surface” confused when the real life weather doesn’t match what is going on in the story. Just talked myself into anther marathon reading adventure!

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  616. Gabriela Garza on

    My all favorite book is hands down the Floret Cut Flower Garden! I love this book for its beautiful photography, variety of blooms, education, and inspiration that I can bring to my own garden!

    Reply
  617. Sue Rosenfield on

    I don’t have many gardening books but my favorite so far is Floret Farms Discovering Dahlias for the gorgeous colors and photos and easy to read information. If I am a lucky winner I’d love to win or eventually get Life In the Studio by Francis Palmer. it sounds like the life I want to live.

    Reply
  618. Jenny Collins on

    My favorite and first gardening book is your Discovering Dahlias. I’ve had a veggie garden for the 30 years I’ve been married. I’ve grown dahlias for about 15 years and love every stage. Their beauty brings much joy. I’ve never read much about them but have learned on my own over the years. When I bought your dahlia book and read every page- oh my, I learned so much. I never even knew you could grow dahlia seeds. Thanks to you I’m excited to try planting my seeds this next year. Thank you for sharing your gift with flowers in a beautiful but down to earth way!

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  619. Laura Minthorne-Brown on

    Great timing to come across this blog as I was just going through my favorite farming and gardening books on the shelf this afternoon while prepping for the Floret workshop! Home libraries are some of my favorite libraries, I love how they open conversations and give you clues about the interests and dreams of the people they belong to. What you find there might surprise you. My favorite book ever since I was a kid is The Black Stallion. The themes of freedom, resilience and victory seem to inspire me at any phase of my life.

    Reply
  620. Eve Julianna Weinberg-Poultney on

    I have so many favorites, Floret Farms Cut Flower Garden is one of my favs! Also, another favorite is Holistic Orchard. Oh, it’s hard to pick just one! I hope I am your contest winner. 🌸

    Reply
  621. Cindy Jensen on

    My favorite book is Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. I’m not sure why, but reading Jane Austen in a zombie story just makes me happy.

    Reply
  622. Vida Wu on

    Wow, it’s so hard to pick a favorite book, but I’ve always been fascinated by antique botanical, insect and other natural history engravings, so Albertus Seba’s Cabinet of Natural Curiosities comes to mind. I have been an avid gardener for about 4 years now (and an orchid enthusiast for long before I had my own yard). One of the things I love doing in my garden is observing wildlife especially all the amazing creatures that I never noticed before. I enjoy creating my own “cabinet of curiosities” by photographing butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, spiders interacting with my flowers. Gardening makes you appreciate all the wonders of nature and I’m awed that I can find that right in my own suburban backyard.

    Reply
  623. Valerie Calvo on

    Next to my Bible, Bird Songs is my favorite book. It is a compilation of 200+ North American birds, the region they live in and their habits. The best part is that you can push a button and hear the song they sing, any time you want! It makes the outdoors and gardening even more enjoyable as I listen and try to identify their happy melodies. I first learned many of the botanical names of flowers by pouring over books in the winter, awaiting Spring.

    Reply
  624. Angelina Vdov on

    My ultimate, favourite novel I have ever read, is hands down… Lavender mornings by Jude Deveraux. It was the book that first inspired me to look at a garden differently and to becoming obsessed with them. After the book that’s when I started studying the different types of plants!

    Reply
  625. Heidi on

    Recently I have really enjoyed books by Kristin Hannah, The Four Winds and The Nightingale. I loved reading Gone With the Wind years ago. So many good books out there and not enough time!

    Reply
  626. Cindy Inman on

    My current favorite is First, We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson. It’s a book about anxiety and it’s helped me get through a lot.

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  627. Sandy Amdor on

    Ishmael, The Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver, Freedom by Erin French and of course I’ve ordered all of Erin’s Books but mostly I’m diving into the Dahlia book because I want to be successful at growing them because they are so beautiful.

    Reply
  628. Casey Gooding on

    My favorite book I read this past year is “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” because now finally at the age of 42 I know it’s okay to need alone time and allowing myself to accept that is actually what makes me reenergize. No longer do I fight my true quietness. Now, I take care of my introverted soul and find peace in my new career as a backyard farmer. Working alone with nature, flowers, and delicious produce gives me joy among the best company.

    Reply
  629. Amber Uhlhorn on

    Being asked to pick a favorite book is like being asked to pick a favorite child! I have a favorite author, Guy Gavriel Kay. If I have to pick one, I’ll say The Lions of Al-Rassan. I love his books because they have twists you can’t predict and little vignette side stories about characters who only enter the main story briefly.

    I learned about your farm through your Discovering Dahlias book. I moved this past year onto property with enough sun to actually grow dahlias, which I’ve always loved. I enjoyed the book so much that I bought your other two books. Thank you for passing on your knowledge. They are all beautiful and very informative.

    Reply
  630. Megan Payment on

    One of my favorite books is Lark Rise to Candleford by Flora Thompson. It takes me back to another time and place, which is such a fun part of reading in general.

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  631. Kristin on

    The book I return to again and again is Madeline L’Engle’s “The Irrational Season.” It carries me through the year, providing me with inspiration and hope.

    Reply
  632. Debra Bryner on

    Growing up I was fascinated with reading biographies. I remember when I was about 10 spending an entire afternoon reading about Helen Keller. I still love reading about people and the lives they lead. As a teacher I was always in used book stores or at book sales to find books to share with my students. When I retired I was able to share books with each of my students and 3 other classes. Now, my favorite book is not a biography, but in 2020 when I was in a local bookstore I asked if they could recommend a book they enjoyed and I was handed “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy. I bought it and ended up reading it twice that first day and many times after. I love this book! It may look like a children’s book but it has life lessons expressed in a way that anyone can relate to. It is an easy read with great simplistic illustrations. I have given it to many friends and family members to read.

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  633. Lynn L Emerson on

    I am thankful for your list of books. I enjoy flowers although I live in the woods and can’t grow many of them (Rhodies do well in my year–so does moss!). I love color and express it currently express this through my jewelry making. Now that I am retired, I am looking forward to trying flower arranging, and seeing what I can grow at home. As a retired teacher, I have too many favorite books. I’ll tell you about two of them for this season. They are both children’s books. The first is called Winter is the Warmest Season by Lauren Stringer. It starts out with the statement “Winter is the warmest season.” The pages go on to explain why the child (protagonist) thinks so. It is a delightful point of view book. For the holiday season, one of my favorite books to share with children is A Wish for Wings that Work: An Opus Christmas Story by Berkeley Breathed. Poor Opus! As a penguin, he yearns to fly! He can’t. Opus’s only wish is that he could fly. I will tell you that Opus does fly at the end of the book but he learns a lesson, too. I’ll let you read the story to find out the lesson.

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  634. Courtney Dutton on

    Pride & Prejudice is my favorite book. I first read it in 8th grade as a 14 year old girl. I have since read it so many times, I have it almost memorized. It is my favorite book to pick up when I’m not sure what I want to read next. It’s like a hug from an old friend— comforting, familiar.

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  635. Hannah Whitney on

    The truth for me is that I’m actually not great at reading, which sounds weird to say! I often have a hard time getting through books maybe because I’m always trying to fit in too much other stuff. I wish I could blame it on being a new mom but that would be a lie! Haha. However I can say that my most favorite semi-recent purchase is “This Immeasurable Place”, the most wonderful cookbook (but much more) from the women of Hells Backbone Grill. If you have not heard of it, please put it on your bucket list and visit them in Boulder, Utah in addition to checking out their books!

    Reply
  636. Tricia Torrens-Burton on

    My favorite book right now is a daily devotional that my dad used for almost 40 years. It’s called Living Light. He died last year and I have loved using it daily this year, especially when he has highlighted text. (Highlights have been goosebump-inducing!)

    I don’t have a favorite non-religious book. How can one choose!? I read Francis Palmer’s Life in the Studio cover to cover. Joanna Gaines’ Home Body is a treat too.

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  637. Madison on

    My favorite book/ series has got to be the Gallagher Girls series by Amy Carter. I have yet to find a book or series that I have so vigorously recommended to women in my life. I read it when I was young, but it is so inspirational for a young woman’s mind and really piqued my curiosity. I love self help books though, most notably Think like a Monk and Blue Zones of Happiness. My favorite floral book I have gotten within the past 6 months is Foraged Flora with beautiful photography throughout, focusing on artistic elements to portray the organic finds.

    Reply
  638. Sarina Lagor on

    One of my favorite quotes from my grandfather is “every book becomes a favorite.” I really try to hold onto that reminder to be mindful, and dive into each and every book I read when I read it.

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  639. Em Swan on

    My favorite book is The Phantom Tollbooth. I read it with my son but it is exceedingly fun for any adult. I have always liked children’s books of any type for the imaginative creativity and art work, too.

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  640. Alice H Siebecker on

    I would have to say due to living in the northern Rockies at elevation, one of my favorite books is The Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust. I use perennials in flower arrangements and I refer to her book often for care and upkeep. Keep your books coming – I love them!

    Reply
  641. Amanda Reynolds on

    The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas is my all time favorite book. It is an epic slow burn that fully demonstrates how the power of tenacity and persistence can be used to gain success in any area of life. It‘s the only book i’ve read where I felt that I had taken a journey and become changed by the end.

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  642. Tiffany Valle on

    My favorite book is “The Little Prince” by Antoine De St Exupery. It is a children’s book that is also amazing and nostalgic for adults. I give this book to every baby born in the family and as Graduation gifts. It has touched me so profoundly. In the book there is a rose who is vain and superficial and the Little Prince strives to care for her. It’s full of so many beautiful lessons and wonderful quotes; here are two of my favorites…

    “ Well, I must endure the presence of a few caterpillars if I wish to become acquainted with the butterflies.”

    And

    “If empty…One couldn’t die for you. Of course, an ordinary passerby would think my rose looked just like you. But my rose, all on her own, is more important than all of you together, since she’s the one I’ve watered. Since she’s the one I put under glass, since she’s the one I sheltered behind the screen. Since she’s the one for whom I killed the caterpillars (except the two or three butterflies). Since she’s the one I listened to when she complained, or when she boasted, or even sometimes when she said nothing at all. Since she’s my rose!”

    I wish everyone luck. I will definitely be looking into these books. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  643. Carly on

    Does a cookbook count?! Much like your love of flowers I have a love of cooking. Ina Garten is my go to whenever I am seeking comfort in the form of delicious food. Not only are her recipes simple and require few ingredients but they are downright delicious! Plus her beautiful photos can’t help but make you want to run to get into the kitchen to whip up a little magic!

    Reply
  644. Diana on

    Eckhart Tolle’s “A New Earth” was a very influential book in my life and opened my eyes to new ways of thinking

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  645. Valerie on

    A favorite especially now is discovering dahlias because I’ve been using it to decide what tubers to buy for the spring. I’ve gardened in varying amounts for 20 years and never grew dahlias, mostly because I didn’t realize how many different kinds there are. Mind blown! And so grateful for the beautiful book. The table I sleep next to is covered in books. My husband just shakes his head when I bring home more. I figure there are worse habits to have. <3

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  646. Savannah on

    Anne of Green Gables has always been my favorite!! Nothing is better when she say Dianne is her bosom friend and describes what it is! It makes you think of your friends and if they classify as a blossom friend! The wide eyed innocence she has in this book is so wonderful when the world I live in is losing or lost its innocence!!!

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  647. Susan on

    Loved The House In the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. It was unique and heart warming!

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  648. Jess Amick on

    My favorite book is The Little Prince. I have loved this book since I was 5 years old. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.” It speaks to being imaginative, open-minded, and aware of and sensitive to the mystery and beauty of the world. Family, friends, connectedness, and being mindful and present in your life.

    Reply
  649. Lidia Jo on

    My current favorite read is Pacific Northwest foraging by Douglas Deur. It’s absolutely amazing the amount of edibles that are readily available to us. We have forgotten about these natural resources with generations past and modern conveniences.

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  650. Lidia Jo on

    My current favorite read is Pacific Northwest foraging by Douglas Deur. It’s absolutely amazing the amount of edibles that are readily available to us. We have forgotten about these natural resources with generations past and modern conveniences.

    Reply
  651. Jodena on

    Like others have said, my favorite is the one I’m currently reading. Right now I’m reading the latest book in the outlanders series. I love a good bookstore too even though they are dangerous for me to go into😂

    Reply
  652. Lidia Jo on

    Wow, what an amazing list! Thanks for sharing, I now have 5 books waiting for me at the library. Can’t wait to check them out and e idea which I can’t live without.

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  653. Taylor Paddock on

    My favorite book currently actually takes place partially on a flower farm!! It is called The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland, I love absolutely everything about it. If you haven’t read it yet Erin, you would love it! It emphasizes the beauty and importance of native Australian flowers throughout the book, as well as the stories that flowers can tell and how they are their own language. The way it’s written is truly artistic, creative, and deeply moving. It follows Alice, a sensitive, curious soul, and gives a different perspective and look at domestic violence and generational trauma. A masterpiece, truly. Reading it was the first time I had heard of a flower farm and I fell in love.

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  654. Michelle Brooks on

    Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingall Wilder. Hands down my favorite. I loved it because it was “true” stories of how she lived her life. Must have read this series 100 time

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  655. Kerry Maloney on

    A single favorite of anything is something I simply cannot identify. I would prefer if I could, to modify the question somewhat and answer that my current favorite book is The Paper Garden by Molly Peacock. It is an absolutely captivating biography of the 18th century botanical artist and collage maker, Mary Delany, whose astonishingly beautiful and accurate cut-paper flowers are now housed in the British Museum. There is so much to appreciate in this intelligent examination of a woman’s life: love, friendship, art, flexibility and the power of noticing things in their minute detail. I was entranced by the discovery of Mary and her work, and by the way Molly Peacock presents such moving meditations on creativity and the beauty that is life. A richly rewarding read…and the pictures! Truly mesmerizing to any lover of flowers.

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  656. Vaofua Mauigoa on

    My favorite book is The Sculptor in the Sky by Teal Swan. I’m into spirituality/esoteric knowledge and this is an amazing book because it answered so many questions that I had about how the universe worked. I love it so much! This book will shift your mindset big time.

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  657. Shelly Lehto on

    I love to read, currently I’m reading “Gardening When it Counts” by Steve Solomon, I also love “Seed to Seed” by Suzanne Ashworth. I am mostly a vegetable gardener but after finding Floret I am planning a cutting flower garden. Fiction, I love “Star Girl” and the “Book Thief”. I volunteer in my local grade school library and always recommend those two fiction books to my older kids.

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  658. Sue Olson on

    Quick as a cricket – a favorite children’s book by Audrey Woods . As a mom of three adult boys who all enjoyed the book, i now give it as a gift at baby showers or as a new baby gift. Classic for our family !

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  659. Debbie on

    I always loved “The Pilot’s Wife” by Anita Shreve. Even though I last read it years ago, I can still remember her description of the wife’s shaking hand as she drank coffee and received word of the accident.

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  660. Liz Volger on

    One of my favorites is Under the Tuscan Sun. Much better than the movie!

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  661. Jenny S-R on

    I’m not sure there is just one favorite book so I’m going to share a few :). Favorite kids book “Say Something” by Peter Reynolds – a fabulous message for kids and adults. Favorite early reader book (series) – The Dragon Masters series. Great for the whole family. Favorite book from college “Youth in Revolt” because it was the first book that made me laugh out loud multiple times when reading. Favorite current book “Orphan X” – an entertaining book series that is written fabulously. The literature quality of a classic with the entertainment level of a just for fun read.

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  662. Carrie Proulx on

    My goodness, it’s liking picking a favorite child! Exodus has always been a favorite , cookbooks keep things interesting but lately your books have knocked the doors of gardening wide open and I’ve really enjoyed the last couple years more than ever. I know it’s just a beginning!

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  663. Alicia Bustamante on

    One of my favorite books is by Jenny Lawson called Furiously Happy!! Such a funny and relatable read for everyone!! I literally would die laughing at this book.

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  664. Megan on

    My favorite book is The boy, the mole, the fox and the horse. By Charlie Mackesy. It is beautiful book for children and adults! My favorite flower growing book so far is yours! I love the Cut Flower Garden book!

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  665. Sarah S on

    I’m not sure how to pick my favorite book as I have always loved to read, but I have a favorite author to share- Barbara Kingsolver. She writes mostly fiction with a biology background, which is my field of study, but also weaves a page turning narrative within each body of work that I have read.

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  666. Adriana Sparks on

    I don’t like sounding cliche on this one, but my favorite book is my Bible. As a Christian woman married to her high school sweetheart with two kids.. the pages are tattered and torn from years of walking through beautiful and trying seasons. Tear filled pages, sticky finger prints from little ones.. It’s carried with me and a constant reminder to always keep striving to love one another. My garden is how I can show people I love them by sharing something that i toiled over to grow, to pick and arrange and share out of a place of love. I often attach twine to a note on my bouquets that says “something beautiful is always in bloom”.

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  667. Jennifer H. on

    As a child I read and re-read A Little Princess, by Frances Hodgkin Burnett. I loved everything about that story. As an adult I fell in love with the book, A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. It was so beautifully written and the characters felt like old friends by the end of the book.

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  668. Connie Anderson on

    Right now I’m reading Make Something Good Today by Erin and Ben Napier. I’m enjoying it!

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  669. Charlotte Snoberger on

    My favorite of all time books is Les Miserables. I read it in high school and it really stuck with me. The utter generosity and love of some of the characters for people who were completely undeserving. The insight into the life and perspectives of certain groups of people. This book changed how I looked at the world and my brain still references it. It taught me to look past people’s surfaces and to really love them, to try to see deeply where people are coming from and how that can affect their actions. And now I need to go read it again! I feel like this book is just as influential to me today as it was 20 years ago when I first read it.

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  670. Amy Claborn on

    I have to say Cut Flower Garden! I am a nurse and it has been such a tough year and a half! Your books and blog post helped me get through and forget a lot of the hard stuff and focus on something wonderful! I planted my first big flower garden and am planning an even bigger one for next year! I can’t wait to by seeds!

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  671. Jaime Mayo on

    Gosh, how do you pick a favorite?! I tend to be one of those wishy-washy people that doesn’t have a favorite anything–or perhaps to play to my strengths as you mentioned, I am one of those people who LOVE EVERYTHING and everyone. :) I see the good in all and recognize that there is a time and a season for all things. For flowers, I really love Seasonal Flower Arranging by Ariella Chezar. For novels, I really love The Clan of the Cave Bear books. For fantasy, I’m really loving Brandon Sanderson books right now. For nonfiction, I really love 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I’m currently listening to Freakonomics and thoroughly enjoying it! :)

    Reply
  672. Jinger Lamanna on

    It’s so hard to chose a favorite. This past year though, I have to say YOUR book, Cut Flower Garden, has been my favorite. Not only are the pictures beautiful, but it was so easy to follow the step by step instructions and it got me going on my dream of having my own cut flower garden. I got so many compliments and questions on how my flower garden was so amazing and I had to tell everyone I learned it all from your book!!

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  673. Adriana on

    My favorite book is my personal Bible. It is a constant reminder to me that my life is about purpose. In the every day no matter how big, small or significant the task is, it all matters, is important and a part of something beyond us.

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  674. Elaine Madansky on

    The Lean Farm by Ben Hartman is among my favorite farming books. Hartman’s focus is on how to gain the greatest efficiency in everything that’s done on a farm. A lot of time is wasted in the work that farmers do and finding ways to gain efficiencies helps farmers achieve the elusive work-life balance that farmers are always seeking in their lives!

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  675. Melanie on

    My all time favorite is Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier. I accident stumbled upon the movie one time and was hooked which led me to reading the book. The characters are all amazing, chilling. There is nothing like an old, gothic mystery to reel me in.

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  676. Anita R Roberson on

    I really enjoyed The Market Gardener: A Successful Grower’s Handbook for Small-Scale Organic Farming by Jean-Martin Fortier because I was fortune to hear Mr. Fortier speak and he served as one of my initial farmer inspiration stories as a small farmer and cut-flower grower. He was able to show how hard work and dedication on a small property can lead to big rewards.

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  677. Katie H. on

    I have an eclectic taste in books and love a bunch of different genres and authors, so I honestly don’t know if I have an absolute favorite! But one book that really captured my imagination when I was younger was The Secret Garden. I loved how the garden not only came back to life but that it also changed the characters. I would pretend that doors would lead me into my own secret garden as a girl, and I’ve had an affinity for ivy covered walls ever since! It’s probably one of the reasons why I love the Children’s Garden at Longwood Gardens so much!!

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  678. Kelly Kays on

    “The Supper of the Lamb” by Robert Farrar Capon is an incredibly unique cookbook that is also not a cookbook at all. Charming and inspiring and a complete joy! “Cultivated; the elements of floral style” by Christin Geall is a great resource with breathtaking floral photography. Cheers!

    Reply
  679. Gretchen on

    I can’t think of a favorite book as an adult, but growing up I read Jane Eyre at least 5 or 6 times. I like Jane’s strength of character, and how she grows and matures through the circumstances and difficulties in her life. I used to read all the time and loved going to the library and used book stores. A few years ago I went back to school and didn’t have time to read for pleasure. I recently got a new job and have felt very overwhelmed, but watching Growing Floret and reading your posts has inspired me to start reading again and reminded me how much I used to love gardening. I’ve started slowly but am really enjoying it. As soon as I read your post this morning, I went on my library’s website to look for some of the books you recommend. I can’t wait to read them.

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  680. Brandy on

    For fiction, I love “P.S I Love You” bawled my eyes out! Also the “Twilight” series (please no judgement ha ha). I love the mental escape. I am in the mental health business so self-help books are my go to and my all time favorite is “The Body Keeps the Score” heavy but amazing information and so helpful for anyone’s healing journey with trauma. For gardening, only because of nostalgia, “Great Green Book of Garden Secrets” by Jerry Baker. I used to look through this book as a kid that my mom had and take in all of the pictures.

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  681. Noor Hakim on

    My favorite book is Heartless by Marissa Meyer. I’ve always been a voracious reader but university really knocked the desire to read right out of me. Heartless was what brought me back from my hiatus. It also has an extra special place in my heart now – my best friend was going through an incredibly difficult part of her life. In order for me to have an excuse to always call and make sure she’s ok, I suggested we read this book together! I’m happy to say she’s doing so much better, and our little book club is still going strong!

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  682. Debbie Klein on

    Jim Harrison’s The Road Home. He paints the stories of generations with words. It feels like a long walk with my grandpa.

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  683. Beth O’Neil on

    This past summer I found a treasure trove of historical fiction books written by Marie Benedict: Carnegie’s Maid, The Only Woman in the Room, The Other Einstein, and The Personal Librarian. What really speaks to me in these books is the innate power that women have to be and do all that we can be; the power to be our true selves that we, on occasion give away, don’t claim, or simply don’t always know we have.

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  684. Lisa Rawle on

    I would LOVE to win this! I made a list of these books as I read your descriptions and I am eager to get my nose in one!

    Reply
  685. Nerida Grady on

    I too have quite the gardening related book collection, and it all started with my mum’s Reading Digest books! She would regularly purchase them for herself, even though she’s not a gardener, and I secretly knew they were for me. I still have every single one and I adore them to this day. But, my most favourite book is by my favourite horticulturist Monty Don, The Complete Gardener. I love his enthusiasm for all things gardening, and that enthusiasm is evident in his books. I feel like he’s talking to me directly when I read it, and his advice is practical, easy to understand and achieve at home in my own garden. I just love it ❤️

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  686. Marcia Koenig on

    One of my favorite books was All the Light We Cannot See, and most other historical fiction I do also love all cookbooks and gardening books, so far have 2 of 3 from you.

    Reply
  687. Alisia on

    Hello,
    My favorite book is The Secret Garden by Francis Hodgson Burnett. I love the beautiful pictures Ms. Burnett paints with her words. The wonderful things that can happen to us if we would just spend time in a garden. A few years ago when I lived in a tiny trailer park there was no room for flowers. And one of the ways I found to fill my empty flower soul was to read this amazing book and imagine myself in a garden able make things come alive.
    It has only been recently that I found Ms. Erin and Floret. I am so grateful I did. To be able to learn all about the blooms I grew up with and love is very precious for me.
    Have a lovely rest of your day!
    Alisia

    Reply
  688. Daniel on

    My favorite book is The Holistic Orchard by Michael Phillips. It’s a book about growing food which is something I love doing, but I also found myself laughing almost every page at the playfulness with which it is written. Thanks for sharing all these titles!

    Reply
  689. Laura Buller on

    My favorite book is the Secret Garden by Frances Hodges Burnette. I love this book because of the description of the revival.and regrowth of the hidden garden. The garden is a restorative place in the story and in life.

    Reply
  690. Ashley L. on

    What a good question!! My absolute favorite book is called “Homeless Bird”, a heart wrenching story about a girl’s life in India as she “comes of age” and her continual pressing on throughout the challenges in her life to find hope, happiness, and love. Since it was written for youngsters, it’s a quick read!

    Reply
  691. Amber on

    My favorite book….usually whatever I am currently reading. Haha. I am reading Prayer in the Night and it’s so good and encouraging that even though someone always has it worse it doesn’t mean I shouldn’t allow myself space to mourn or grieve the various trials of my days.

    Reply
  692. Amanda Goodreau on

    I think my favorite book is… Well if it’s fiction, it’s When Crickets Cry, by Charles Martin and non fiction… I think I have to go with The Book of Pie, by Erin Jeanne McDowell. I WILL learn make a perfect flaky crispy pie crust.

    Reply
  693. Kerri on

    I am not a reader by any means, but getting into flower farming has sparked my interest in reading significantly. I have enjoyed many of the above books including Erin’s. I just started Georgie Newbury’s book from Common Farm Flowers. Her accent and no frills approach have me smiling throughout the book. I also enjoyed The Glass Castle on audio that I read along with high senior’s English class.

    Reply
  694. Sarah Sikes on

    Not quite a gardening book, but I have always found an attachment to The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. I have read the novel cover to cover several times and I reminded every time that everyone has a different approach to how they interact in society. It is refreshing to take a step back and view the world from a perspective so different from your own.

    Reply
  695. Megan Levinn on

    Oh gosh, it’s hard to pick just one favorite book! Harry Potter and the Giver are usually at the top of my lists. I would say these top my lists for the character growth and the standing up for the underdog aspects of the novels. I also enjoy the idea of magic and love flowers because it’s real life magic coming alive :)

    Reply
  696. Laura Regnier on

    Picking just one is hard to do but my favorite book in all seasons is my Bible. It is the one that you can read and reread and always find something new. ❤️

    Reply
  697. Jessica Antonyuk on

    I love books as well!! I’m rereading Uncle Toms Cabin, as well as all the new seed catalogs as they come in!

    Reply
  698. Katrina on

    My first favorites are Harry Potter! I love nostalgically rereading them.

    I also feel obligated to recommend Nature’s Best Hope by Doug Tallamy for any gardener who loves birds, butterflies, or bees. TLDR: native plants are critical to supporting beautiful lives of all shapes and sizes.

    Reply
  699. Cassy on

    If we’re talking gardening books, then I’d have to go with Monty Don’s “The Complete Gardener”. Such a wealth of knowledge, it’s incredible! And if we are talking non-gardening, I would say “Cry, the beloved country”. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful and left such an impression on me.

    Reply
  700. Patricia Reyes on

    ‘The Garden Awakening’ is one of my favorite gardening books.

    People laugh at how I describe my connection with my gardens. This is the first time I found someone describe it the same way I do. I have always allowed the garden to guide me in how to tend to it; where to place paths; where to plant a particular plant. I often am told that my hobby is gardening – I do not understand their comment. My connection to my land and me tending to it is no different than I drinking water to exits. Many neighbors walk by my property and dislike that I have replaced the lawn with California Natives, which go dormant during the summer. While their front yards are green with grass, my yard dies back and sleeps for 3 months. While my garden is green and has blooms, the frost has browned their lawns. ‘The Garden Awakening’ endorses my perception, and has given me the courage to keep educating people in the wonders of native plants.

    Reply
  701. Katie on

    Current favorite book would have to be The Lightkeeper’s Daughters. The unfolding of Elizabeth and Morgan’s connection is absolutely beautifully written, and I just love how the narrator switches between characters and time periods. Any story with a bit of mystery is sure to have me up until 3:00am. That’s what coffee is for, right? :)

    Reply
  702. Christina K. on

    Too many good books to choose from! In this season of life I have really enjoyed “Cool Flowers” by Lisa Mason Ziegler. It has helped me to embrace my cooler climate and has opened my eyes to the many different ways to grow flowers

    Reply
  703. kim on

    “The Curve of Time” by M. Wylie Blanchet – a memoir of a young widow and her 5 children’s summer adventures on the B.C. coast in the late 1920’s and 30’s.

    “An Island Garden” by Celia Thaxter with gorgeous impressionist paintings by Childe Hassam

    Reply
  704. Jen on

    The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman. Sometimes it feels more like a memory than a story.

    Reply
  705. Jessie on

    I’ve been reading through Vegetables Love Flowers, by Lisa Mason Ziegler. Lots of practical advice for those of us who love flowers but also need to feed our families (with 4 kids and one on the way, it’s becoming a financial necessity to grow as many of our own vegetable as possible!). Her writing is inspiring and practical; I highly recommend it!

    Reply
  706. Charlotte Litton on

    I just found Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedia of Crafts, it’s jam packed with fun. Thanks for the amazing giveaway.

    Reply
  707. Jacqueline on

    I love The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. Awesome World War II book … amazing!

    Reply
  708. Lee Ann Shenefiel on

    The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov. A Russian classic novel in which the Devil wreaks some mischief on a Soviet Moscow that, of course, doesn’t believe (since Soviet Russia was officially atheist). The story goes back and forth between 1930s Moscow and ancient Jerusalem. It’s an intellectually delicious piece, which touches on some indelible literary themes including the corruption of empire, history repeating itself, and the enduring qualities of art. It also produces my favorite line in literature: “Cowardice is the most terrible of human vices.”

    Reply
  709. Lindsay Kahle on

    So far it’s been the flower farmer by Lynn byczinski.. it has the most applicable info

    Reply
  710. Kim Haste on

    My favorite book is Discovering Dahlias by Erin and the Floret team.. Sounds corny, huh? I promise I am not pandering. I have read this book cover to cover. I have highlighted and dog eared. It’s my favorite book because it has opened my mind and eyes to a world I didn’t know existed. Before Growing Floret aired, I had no idea what a flower farmer was or that growing flowers was an amazing industry.
    I am so excited to start my first ever flower garden this spring owing solely to you wonderful folks at Floret. Using my book and my new yearly planner (which, by the way, is beautiful) I am scrounging around friends and family to put together everything I can make work for Erin’s suggested lists. I am reading what the library has to offer and have visited all of the used book stores and thrift shops looking for flower gardening books.
    I am ready and waiting for those first seed offerings in January. I am just praying my thumb turns out to be green.
    Kim H.

    Reply
  711. anne heinold on

    Your book Cut flowers gardening is so inspiring, with so many ideas.

    Reply
  712. Bethaney Cotten on

    There are so many books I love, but a book I go back to, over and over, my comfort-food of an book, is Anne of Green Gables. Such lush descriptions of PEI, a love of nature, and an appreciation for the messy complexity of life.
    Unoriginal, I know, but there are a reason classics become classics!

    Reply
  713. Joshua McAllister on

    I have read a lot of books over the years. Asking me to pick just one has left me a little stumped. The ones that immediately comes to mind is Fahrenheit 451. It is one of those books that can predict the future of our society. It is one of the books that just makes you think. Others that I love are To Kill a Mockingbird and The Book Thief.

    Reply
  714. Shannon on

    “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton, I read this book in middle school and read it once a year for many years following. It touched my heart.

    Reply
  715. Rose Melanie Simard on

    I am not very original and will not make you discover a new book because my favorite is your book the cut flower garden. I do not own it yet but I’ve borrowed it so many time from one of my gardener friend. I just love looking at the pictures and there is so much growing information that helps me with my own garden

    Reply
  716. Kristina Warren on

    Have you been able to visit our little town in Northern California? Had no idea she had a cook book but now I do! Looks like there is a lot of great reading material on your list and very excited to check some of them out. Just wanted to say thank you for being an inspiration for following my dreams and heading into my second year with my small flower farm that has brought much joy to my life and our small community.

    Reply
  717. Lee on

    My recent favorite has been Cut Flower Garden. I’d already planted most of my community garden plot this year when my wife bought me the book, and it got me dreaming and planning about our plot for next year!

    Reply
  718. Ti on

    Girl of the Limberlost. Wonderful story of nature… uplifting and takes one back in time and to the wonderful country.

    Reply
  719. Katelyn Berry on

    Discovering Dahlias. I’m just getting back into the gardening work and dahlias stole my heart this year! I’ve just cracked your book and have taken notes in your face books and why I’ll need to slowly add them to my (soon to be) collection!!

    Reply
  720. Carrie Anderson on

    The Road by Cormac McCarthy. The language is exquisite and nothing said goes to waste.

    Reply
  721. Carolyn on

    How to o choose a favorite book!? The Bible is the best for sure and my favorite to read to kids from my childhood is The Phantom Tollbooth. It’s a complete play on words and so clever. I am giddy thinking about all these books!! Thank you for the giveaway!

    Reply
  722. Nicola G Whaley on

    My favorite book that gave me the gardening bug and appreciation for all living things was “The Secret Garden”, I loved how that took me right to that special place every time I picked it up!

    Reply
  723. Ti on

    Love the dahlias which I had for the first time this year! Penhill Watermelon was all twisty and lovely!!!
    thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  724. Janet on

    To kill a mockingbird bird
    I read it during my very impressionable teen years, I fell in love with the characters, Atticus, little finch, boo Radley, and all the rest. For me it was just like being there. The Story was well told about loss, love and injustice.

    Reply
  725. Pam Smedley on

    Floret Farm’s Cut Glower Gardent is my most dog-earred book on gardenting. I have read and reread this entire book. I find it is accessible for gardeners at my entry level and each time I revisit it, I am able to expand on my experiences with all the knowledge Erin shares in this book. I know my granddaughter will cherish this book someday, with my notes in it, remembering the flowers we grew and cut out back!

    This is now my third time round, expanding my thoughts about what I will grow this coming year. I’ve written notes and underlined important parts throughout the book. I share this book and love the feedback I get when my gardening friends thank me for sharing such a useful book.

    *And Erin, thank you so much for sharing your favorites. I’m looking forward to checking them out. I can’t believe I didn’t know about the Monty book!

    Reply
  726. Mia Kania on

    I love all of Wendell Berry’s novels because he writes about farming and his love of nature is profound. He is the only writer whose books I reread, and find something new to ponder each time. I would recommend Homecoming or Jayber Crow as a start into his world. Such fine writing.

    Reply
  727. Tammy Spear on

    What a wonderful giveaway!! Thank you! My favorite books are To Kill a Mockingbird and The Alchemist. I also love the You are a Badass books – all. of. them. by Jen Sincero. :)

    Reply
  728. Emily on

    My favorite garden-related book is The Resilient Gardener by Carol Deppe. She doesn’t teach “how to grow a vegetable garden”. This is “how to actually feed yourself from your garden” and how to go about thinking about it in a way that allows you to adapt your garden plans to your own local situation. It’s garden philosophy but in a very practical sense.

    Reply
  729. Amy Elsemore on

    I have several gardening books that I enjoy, but honestly your book, A Year in Flowers, is my favorite! I think what attracts me the most are the beautiful photos. It has introduced me to many flowers I had not seen or considered growing in the past. I also love all the easy to follow instructions for arranging flowers and the tips and tricks to make it all happen. The bonus is that I don’t live too far from Skagit so I feel connected because we are “neighbors”. If you can grow it, then surely I should be able to.

    Reply
  730. Anna Jackson on

    Your Cut Flower Garden book is my favorite! It has really sparked my joy of cut flowers and inspired me to try growing my own. Right now I’m trying to learn as much as I can and enjoying every bit of the process! ❤️ Thanks for sharing so many resources.

    Reply
  731. Lindsey Casper on

    Am I allowed to say the Cut Flower Garden by Floret? Absolutely love it. Been highlighting and scribbling notes in there since I got it. I also recently read Seed to Dust by Marc Hamer. It is good for the soul to read a few chapters a day to put perspective on life and all things beautiful, both in life and in death. He has an enchanting way of writing. I was living and seeing his garden through him and his hands. It’s a treasure.

    Reply
  732. Terry Numa on

    My favorite books are a series by Jan Karon, The Mitford Series. I am a children’s librarian and I grew up in a family owned flower shop. This is one of my favorite children’s books , If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson.

    Reply
  733. Katie on

    My husband and I collect vintage books and my collection of vintage gardening books has expanded exponentially since I knew I wanted to start my farm. One of my favorite go-to’s as a resource is The Practical Book of Outdoor Flowers by Richardson Wright. Written in 1924 – it has an amazing collection of advice and photographs that have helped me through designing and growing my own garden.

    Reply
  734. Nancy Fuller on

    One of my favorite books is ‘The Self-Sufficient Gardener’ by John Seymour. It was my first deep-dive into intensive gardening and once I opened the book I couldn’t put it down! The book is so detailed and the illustrations are as well. There is so much to learn from this lovely tome. The book explains how using a deep bed method the home gardener can grow more food with higher yields in a deep rich organic soil with less labor than traditional gardens. The author and his wife lived a self-sufficient life and provide first-hand experience in this guide. I go back to this book over and over and find that even after 30+ years, I can still learn from it. I get lost in this book every time I open it. It has paid for itself many, many times over! This book has the magical effect of stopping time for me and I have spent so many enjoyable hours studying it! The topics range from growing veggies, fruits and herbs, storing, canning, salting, drying, making cider, wine and jam, keeping bees and chickens, choosing and caring for tools, building healthy soil, increasing harvests, creating garden paths, building a greenhouse, understanding climate zones and micro/climates, controlling pests and disease, growing in every season and so much more! I never tire of this book and highly recommend it! It is a veritable encyclopedia of garden wisdom and I am so blessed to have it in my library!

    Reply
  735. Katie Bell on

    The Count of Monte Cristo. Can a story line and characters even get more deliciously complex and satisfying?

    Reply
  736. Sarah Roberts on

    Quiet by Susan Cain. I loved this book and it really resonated with me while working I. The corporate tech scene in an open office plan. Helped me understand that there were others quietly suffering in an extroverted environment, but also to see this part of myself as a strength and not a weakness.

    Reply
  737. Cindy on

    Thanks for the list. My favorite is by Tracy DiSabato-Aust:
    The Well-Tended Perennial Garden: The Essential Guide to Planting and Pruning Techniques, Third Edition

    Reply
  738. Darcie on

    The Little House On The Prarie series, by Laura Ingalls Wilder. As a young girl, I simply wanted to be Laura.

    Reply
  739. Kerri Santsaver on

    I think it would be A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I loved it from the first time I read it at 14 through adulthood. My books have always been my source of comfort, and I re-read them over and over. This one’s cover is falling off but I know I’ll keep reading it.

    Thanks for all the suggestions. I’m adding them to my winter reading list.

    Reply
  740. Robin Corwin on

    A good biography has always been my “go to” read. I always enjoyed fascinating stories about someone else’s life. Since starting gardening in my own it’s been a habit to go to blogs for information. Then I ordered myself the Discovering Dahlias book and I love being able to reference and make notes right within the pages of the text.
    This list of must haves helped me finish my Christmas list!

    Reply
  741. Lisa B on

    I always loved the Little House on the Prairie books when I was young…It was my first historical fiction book! I still love reading that genre.

    Reply
  742. Linda Knight on

    My favorite book about flowers is Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. There is so much valuable nuts & bolts practical how-to information packed into this little book. So well-organized, I reach for it all the time. It’s totally changed the way I garden and grow flowers.

    Reply
  743. Miranda Muller on

    I love anything by Philippa Gregory. I just love reading anything history related.

    Reply
  744. Leah on

    My favorite book is Pride and Prejudice. I love Jane Austen’s characters!

    Reply
  745. Christie on

    My favorite book (not brown nosing here) is The Cut Flower Garden by You! The reason it’s my favorite is because it has helped me to realize me long time dream of having my own cut flower garden! I have learned so much from it and use it as a constant reference. I never would have thought that I would grow flowers from seeds and become more brave to try new things every year. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and inspiring us!

    Reply
  746. Victoria Kabluyen on

    10X by Grant Cardone, multiplying your actions by 10X to push your limits and see what you really CAN do, it’s all about taking action- for someone that over analyzes, over thinks everything and becomes OCD just to perfect anything, the book reassures me that taking action beyond my limits is greater than striving for the impossible perfection.

    Reply
  747. Anna on

    Underneath The Scarlet Sky… a true story of two people who fell in love during WW2. The main character and I share the same name and there were many things about her that I recognized in myself. I won’t spoil it but it’ll leave you with the feeling that ……that even though life throws you challenges there’s only one option really… find the joy you can in each day, no matter how small and hold it close. And hold those you love close as long as you can.

    Reply
  748. Shannon O’Brien on

    I love love really anything that Monty Don does including his complete gardener book. He sees gardening as a long term goals of leaving something behind for the next generation. It’s almost this romantic way of thinking about gardening where you leave something beautiful behind. The pictures in the book are great just like your books :)

    Reply
  749. Theresa Marz on

    I have a new favorite- The Vanderbeekers of 141st St, its set in current times but the (large) family is wholesome and sweet. What makes it extra special is that i read it first with my two girls (who also adore it!) and loved it so much and loved each new book from the series even more. Reading at bedtime is the absolute best❤️

    Reply
  750. Mikhaila on

    My favourite book is “The Jewel Garden” by Monty and Sarah Don. It talks about how a garden helped them through the ups and downs of life. This book really showed me how gardening can have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Such a good read!

    Reply
  751. Terry A. on

    That’s a hard question, because there are different things I like about different books, but today I am going to go with God at Work, by Gene Edward Veith. It explores the doctrine of vocation, or our “calling.” God works through those vocations, whether it’s the mom changing a baby’s diaper, the farmer growing his/her crops, or any of the many callings a person may have. It’s comforting to know the mundane, the ordinary things that consume our time are of value, and the book has given me a new perspective on those daily activities that I do.

    Reply
  752. Charlotte Van Wormer on

    You can not ever have too many books! I have many of your favorites and will never part with any of them. I love your cut flower book and am anxious to read your new book about dahlias. Thank you for all the wisdom you share with us!

    Reply
  753. Alice G on

    So many good books in your list of favorites. My favorite books are books I read over and over with my children. “When the sun rose” by Barbara Helen Berger and “The Velveteen rabbit” by Margery Williams plus The Winnie the Pooh chapter books. I look back with nostalgia for the times of story and imagination with my little ones now all grown. In recent times, “Where the crawdads sing,” by Delia Owens and “Becoming,” by Michelle Obama. Perhaps all books about living, changing and becoming.

    Reply
  754. Karen B Walker on

    I credit my father for my life-long love of books. Each year I go through and pick my favorites from that year. Every now and then I make a list of the TopTen ever (which does change as I find new favorites.) But if I had to choose a favorite book it would Charlotte’s Web. I have a first edition of the book, bought for me by my father when it was first published. I cannot count the number of times I have read it. Having been an elementary school teacher for 37 years, I read it aloud over and over. The kids never tired of hearing it, and I never tired of reading it. My first edition copy now has a broken spine and one of my goals for 2022 is finding someone who can repair it.

    We recently purchased Discovering Dahlias, and are enjoying the fabulous photography, but more importantly, learning how to fix the mistakes of our first season of growing dahlias.

    Reply
  755. Marie on

    Winter Solstice, by Rosamunde Pilcher – an atmospheric, heartwarming, read-by-the-fire book for this time of year

    Reply
  756. Kelly Ferraro on

    My favorite book is Circe – about the “witch” in the Iliad, written from her perspective. Flowing words and a beautiful story from a woman’s perspective. Would love to add these gardening books too though!

    Reply
  757. Charlotte on

    Discovering Dahlias is my favorite book!!! :) Because it’s my first and only flower gardening book – I treasure it and read it often! :)

    Reply
  758. Candace L Northrop on

    As a retired kindergarten teacher, Thank You, Mr. Falker, by Patricia Polacco, is an all-time favorite book of mine. Thank you, Erin, for your generous spirit in sharing all that you love with all of us! Blessings to you, and best wishes for peace-filled holidays.

    Reply
  759. Nicole Acha on

    I just started my flower book collection. Starting of course with Cut Flower Garden and Discovering Dahlias. Another great book I ordered is Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. I live in zone 5b. This book has taught me so much about flowers that will tolerate our Michigan Winters. So excited to continue to read and grow!

    Reply
  760. Amalia Groh on

    One of my current favorite reads is “The Hate you Give” by Angie Thomas. But one has to listen to the audiobook to feel all of the emotions.

    Reply
  761. Alix Crittenden on

    Well I just got your book Cut Flower Garden and I LOVE it because it’s so beautiful and informative but a really good one I’ve worn out over the years (and which your post reminded me to revisit) is High Altitude Planting by Ann Barrett. I love this book, even though it’s super utilitarian and doesn’t have amazing photos, because I live above 6,000 feet and the information in this book is some that I can’t seem to find anywhere else! She talks about microclimates and gives great lists of Species and varieties that might work. It’s awesome.

    Reply
  762. Carmel Welch on

    I love books and it’s definitely a challenge to pick a favorite! But The Art of Gardening….design inspiration and innovative planting techniques from Chanticleer is full of creative and inspiring plantings with an artistic flair. I hope to see it in person someday!

    Reply
  763. Kathy M Oberle on

    Living in Colorado my entire adult life and digging in the dirt for over 45 years now, Sunset Magazine’s Western Garden is an encyclopedia of knowledge like The Joy of Cooking is for the kitchen. It’s been my go to for years although now with the wealth of the internet in my pocket as I play in my garden for hours a day, I don’t consult it as frequently. I also have and consult your Cut Flower Garden and accompanying journal along with countless other books. Gardening and reading are key elements on my top 3 all time favorite things to do list!

    Reply
  764. Christina Garcia on

    “The Samarai’s Garden” by Gail Tsukiyama because the two people who love each other in this book take care of each other in such a gentle way. I can imagine the peacefulness of the Samarai’s rock garden that he rearranges, tends and expands for his love.

    Reply
  765. Jenny on

    The Pacific Gardener by A.R.Willis. Gifted to me by my grandmother although well worn its handwritten note on the inside of the front cover makes it a keepsake. As an immigrant from Denmark it’s what she used as a guide to learn how to garden in this new space. I will always remember her creativity and gorgeous design of westcoast gardens.

    Reply
  766. Lisa Padden on

    I had the blessing of being a librarian when my children were young. It was a delight to pass my love of reading on to both of them. Through it all, my favorite book has been The Mists of Avalon. A huge Arthurian fan it was wonderful to find a telling of the legend from the perspective of the women in Arthur’s life.

    Reply
  767. Kelly Crowder on

    I grew up with my mom who is now 76 years old. Growing up she worked as a freelance landscaper and interior decorator. As I got older I found a lot interest in both fields. It wasn’t unusual on the weekends to go to nurseries like Heronswood or Christianson’s Nursery to purchase just the right plants. At night we would pour over landscaping books from the likes of The The American Woman’s Garden by Rosemary Verey and Ellen Samuels, Cultivated Pleasures/The Art of Romantic Gardening
    by Kim Freeman, Martha Stewart’s gardening books, Victoria Magazines and
    Tasha Tudor’s Garden, The Cottage Garden by Christopher Lloyd, just to name a few.

    Recently, we have poured over Grow and Gather by Grace Alexander, Farm to Table by Amanda Brooks and your wonderful books.

    Tasha Tudor’s Forever Christmas is one of my most treasured of all time as it represents peace and tranquillity.

    As mentioned above, my mom is 76, and I am 59 years old and we still have days where we will pour over the gardening books, as each book holds its own beauty and years of memories. Thank you for this wonderful chance to win some beautiful and wonderful books.

    Reply
  768. Judy Carranza on

    A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle is one of my favorite books. A favorite teacher read portions of the book after lunch each day. Erin’s books are also on my favorites list!

    Reply
  769. Belinda Olsen on

    One of my favorite books has been Leadership and self deception. It’s a really great book full of several lessons to treat people as people.

    Reply
  770. Judy Bales on

    I LOVE BOOKS! They are in every room in our home. We have many different collections but in the “growing realm” my favorite book is, “A Handful of Herbs”. It is a simple and lovely reference book for gardening, cooking, and decorating with herbs.

    Reply
  771. Melody Howell on

    My all time favorite book is also my favorite book when I was a child…. The Secret Garden.! It never gets old and I have my original copy my mother gave me when I was a little girl. The joy of pretending I would have my very own secret garden someday. Someday has not come…. yet! I believe it is coming. Until then books are the gardens of my mind.
    🌸🌺🌼

    Reply
  772. Kristen Lombardo on

    I love to read as well. Your books are my favorite flower books…and have inspired me to create a larger flower garden next year.

    Fiction…I just finished The People We Keep and loved it. Midnight at thr Blackbird Cafe was amazing.

    Reply
  773. Haley Wentz on

    The Secret Garden is easily my favorite book. My mom and grandmother read me this book when I was a little girl and is what initially sparked an interest in flowers. Later, my mom decided we needed to create a secret garden in our own back yard. We found an antique key at a garage sale one morning and got to work! We had big plans for this “secret” garden of ours. We only got so far, but I have sweet memories of digging in that dirt and waiting to see if anything would grow. I have since reread it muliple times and it always brings back sweet memories and inspires me to dream of and finish that garden!

    Reply
  774. Erin Cork Woolfolk on

    The complete collection of Beatrix Potter tales. I never read them as a child, but since having my own children I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the stories. I also find the illustrations completely captivating. I’m an artist, so beautiful illustrations are really important!

    Reply
  775. Laurie on

    So hard to choose—I love books on gardening, cooking and sewing or creating, but I think my favorite is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe because of the memories of reading it aloud to our kids. They loved the story and CS Lewis is such a great writer. I miss those times.

    Reply
  776. Mary Murray on

    Asking my favorite book is like asking which of the five senses I like best. My favorite book is usually which ever one I’m currently reading. Growing up it was Ella Enchanted and retellings of fairy tails. Now it’s The Glass throne and The Summoners series or any book that teaches me something new.

    Reply
  777. Christie Thomas on

    My all time favorite book would have to be “Where the Crawdads Sing”. It’s amazing and you can’t put it down! I’m jealous of all who get to read it for the first time. Nothing like a book that makes you think about getting to read it all the time! I too spent my childhood riding my bike to the library after school every day and now I volunteer in our library bookstore as my work and family schedule allows. All the proceeds from the sales go back to programs that rhe library provides to the public 💗 Your favorite books look amazing and I am LOVING all of your books! All so inspiring!

    Reply
  778. Malia Gomez on

    Educated- it’s a beautiful reminder of the value of an education!

    Reply
  779. Gwen Boulter on

    I have too many favorite books to list them all but Discovering Dahlias is on the list. And because of it there are a few shelves in my basement that are filled with tubers.

    Reply
  780. April Pratt on

    How do I even pick one book? Ha ha well I love so many but ……I am going with a fiction book, I hope that’s ok. I love non-fiction too…. but
    At Home in Mitford is my favorit book. Why you ask? Well, the love of life and food and flowers and simple living. I love the peace it brings after a very busy day working in my garden. But I do love the food talk and the flowers….Father Tim is an avid gardener in it. What more could you want. It like a beautiful spring day with trees singing in the wind and flowers scents mingling in the air….sigh I love spring!

    Reply
  781. Sarah T on

    I love to read. Right now I’m reading the Kent Chronicles series by John Jakes and it very good. My most precious “book” is a recipe book put together by my sister of my Great Grandmother and Grandmother’s recipes.

    Reply
  782. Meagan on

    So hard to pick a favorite book, I love so many. The Harry Potter Series is definitely one of my favorites. I re-read the entire series every couple of years.

    Reply
  783. Susan on

    The Shell Seekers by Rosamund Pilcher is a long time favorite. I’m looking forward to exploring the titles on your list.

    Reply
  784. Gordon on

    My favorite gardening book is the Western Garden Book. I try to replace mine every 5-10yrs depending on how torn up it has gotten over time. :-)

    Reply
  785. Sara B on

    I’m not sure I can even choose a favorite book! I’m an avid reader and love to venture into any new book. So much so that I don’t really read books more than once…there are so many new books to discover!! :) I definitely love The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah for a good historical fiction book. It was just a great read and one that has stuck with me.

    Reply
  786. Kathy Grube on

    I love the Discovering Dahlias — I received it for Christmas last order for the pre-order and was so excited when it arrived. I have read and learned so much this year. I love looking at the photos and choosing new additions for the garden. I have learned more about planting, clipping , gathering seeds and storage of tubers. It has been a go to book for me in this past year. Thank you for all of the work you put into this book.
    Kathy

    Reply
  787. Jessica Schneider on

    Thank you for sharing your favorites! My wishlist has certainly grown! Books and flowers are two of my favorite things and book about flowers – oh my! So my favorite book I own is yours – Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden!

    Reply
  788. Becky Pope on

    I love The Perfume Garden. I really enjoy historical fiction and this book has that along with the art of creating beautiful fragrances from the garden and nature.

    Reply
  789. LEA KELLY on

    It is SO difficult to narrow it down to one “favorite” book – so I will just narrow it down to a favorite for 2021! I have been in a book club for Women for more than 15 years and we have read more than 160 books together! This year in our book club we read the Autobiography called The Heavenly Man: The Remarkable True Story of Chinese Christian Brother Yun by Paul Hattaway, and Brother Yun. It is an incredible glimpse into a life and a world that seems so different from my own, but it has been incredibly thought provoking. The stories shared remind me of the fields of flowers that you share with the world from your farm – something growing and flourishing that causes AWE! Thank you!

    Reply
  790. Kara on

    I think this is one of the hardest and best questions you could ask of someone! My current favorite book is “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kemmerer – educational, insightful, beautiful.

    Reply
  791. heather anderson on

    Love all kinds of books! the ones on your list look fantastic! My favorite is the Holy Bible because it is a well of life giving water! Looking forward to checking out some on your list, they look beautiful. Thanks for the opportunity.

    Reply
  792. Carol Lieb on

    Discovering Dahias. – encouraging and easy to follow. Gorgeous photos.

    Reply
  793. Kate on

    Anne of Green Gables is a forever favorite – even as an adult Anne still feels like an older sister I can look up to!

    Reply
  794. Carol-Ann Torrie on

    My favourite book is another Monty Don book: The Senuous Garden. A book that is a beautiful delight in every way. But now I need to check out the one you recommend, too. I think its going to be on my wish list!

    Reply
  795. Claire on

    My favorite book is My Side of the Mountain that I read wayyyy back in 5th grade. It an adventure where a young boy goes out in the Adirondack mountains and survives by living in a tree and foraging. Still my favorite all these years later!

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  796. Alice W. on

    The Mists of Avalon sparked a lifelong interest in revisionist story telling, mythology, and folklore.

    Reply
  797. Betsy on

    The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai, because it broke my heart open and touched me in a beautiful way. I love a good character driven novel, of which the characters stay with me long after I’ve finished reading!

    Reply
  798. Diane Astarita on

    Hans Christian Andersen The Complete Fairy Tales & Stories because it’s full of magical stories of all lengths.

    Reply
  799. Dorie Von Thun Knott on

    So many favorites ! Cut flower garden is such a great go to! Learned so much from this book!

    Reply
  800. Barbara Burks on

    I love Allen Armatage’s book. Specialty Cut Flowers! Packed full of answers to so many of my questions about cut flowers. So grateful that I found this book. Can not express into words just how much his book has helped me in my new journey into the world of cut flowers.

    Reply
  801. Annette Z on

    That’s a tough one…probably To Kill A Mockingbird. Such a classic, and it still pulls at my heartstrings Everytime.

    Reply
  802. Ron Shaffer on

    My first flower book was Lynn Byczynski’s The Flower Farmer, and it has been a very good guide to get us started. I especially enjoyed all of the stories of other flower farmers throughout this book.

    Reply
  803. Erica V on

    I just love to pick up random books from gardeners telling the story of their garden… recent one I love and was recommended by Sue Goetz a landscape designer in the Tacoma areas is Foxgloves & Hedgehog days – Secrets in a Country Garden by Daniel Blajan. Just a heart warming treat to read 😊

    Also love the Diary of an Edwardian Lady by Edith Holden. Her watercolors of native flowers and fauna are fabulous!! ❤️🥰

    Reply
  804. Jeanne McCabe on

    My favorite book is actually a series, I just loved all the Harry Potter stories. I loved reading them with my kids as they were growing, it is such a creative world and a fun escape.

    Reply
  805. Ashley on

    My favorite book is The Giver by Lois Lowry. I like to re-read every year!

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  806. Glory on

    I live in southern Utah and I love the desert flora & color against the red rock. I must admit though, we lived in the Seattle area while raising our family and I dearly miss the dahlias i so easily grew there. Oh how my heart aches for them. I do have your books and I look through them and dream of days gone by. Your books are displayed for all to see and enjoy.

    Reply
  807. Angela Turley on

    Magnolia Table cookbooks volumes 1 and. 2. Delicious recipes!

    Reply
  808. Madelyn Stroud on

    My favorite book is”Eat a Peach” by David Chang. I go back to it over and over again. The honesty and courage but strength is inspiring and it makes me feel seen and less alone.

    Reply
  809. Heidi on

    Sooo many favorite books! I really love The Secret Life of Plants, The Power of Now, and of course I love all 3 of your books 😊

    Reply
  810. Kate Bode on

    During Covid I practically Begged my local library to put together a book bundle of floral related books. I needed to see the joy of arranging, the colors of nature and the hope of gardening. My favorite was Blooms by the Phaidon editors, (2019). The contemporary arrangements by well respected designers throughout the world was salve to my frazzled soul. Beauty…it makes my heart happy.

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  811. Laura on

    I have many “favorite” books, but of those I’ve read recently, Discovering Dahlias, which was gifted to me by my sister, who introduced me to Floret, for my 60th birthday a few months ago is my recent favorite. It has inspired me to dig in and learn more about growing flowers (I’ve loved flowers forever and have grown perennials for many years), and try my hand at growing some dahlias and other flowers and plants that I don’t experience with.

    Reply
  812. Vikki Sanders on

    Cut flower garden is my favorite gardening book so far. I have always wanted to grow flowers but just didn’t think I could. With encouragement from my family and this book, this year, I decided to try some dahlias and wow- such a joy! So many blooms for gifts and to brighten my home! I am looking forward to expanding my garden and my library too! Thank you for the list, i now how lots to add to my Christmas wish list!

    Reply
  813. Jessica on

    Favorite book to read over and over: Pride & Prejudice…Mr. Darcy everytime.

    Recent read that I just fell in love with: The Alchemist…the way the plot was less about the plot and more about finding your path really spoke to me.

    Reply
  814. Doralee on

    Discovering Dahlia’s is a favorite and I recommend it to so many of my flower loving friends. It opened up a new world of flowers to me and is just a beautiful book to look at!

    Reply
  815. Carol W on

    Carol Walker on Dec. 1st, 2021
    I would have to say Erin’s book, Cut Flower Garden. I encouraged me to plan and try to grow flowers for cutting.

    Reply
  816. Helen on

    It is so hard to choose a favorite book of all books, but I am picking two. The first is Doug Tallamy’s Nature’s Best Hope because his idea of a Homegrown National Park is truly nature’s best hope. He is inspiring and convincing when he talks about it being up to individuals in their own back yards to replace some of their lawns etc. plus he is funny! I am now reading his most recent book The Nature of Oaks and that may very well become my favorite Doug Tallamy book. Secondly I have to pick one of Tana Frenchs books The Searcher. A favorite because her writing is beautiful and reading it transported me to the Irish countryside. All of her books are favorites of mine!

    Reply
  817. Tracie on

    So many to choose from! The Hiding Place by Corrie TenBoom. Her courage and faith are so inspiring. I love reading memoirs and this one is particularly moving.

    Reply
  818. Mary on

    All time favorite books are the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I’ve read them so many times. So many good lessons to be learned. There’s good in this world worth fighting for, average people can make a difference everyday….so much good stuff in there can’t list it all. “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us”…good stuff!

    Reply
  819. Amanda Parks on

    A favorite book is an impossible question- A Tale of Two Cities? A Prayer for Owen Meany? A Wrinkle in Time? East of Eden? So many to choose from! Our current favorite Christmas picture book is The Clown of God.

    Reply
  820. Teri Hanekamp on

    For gardening books, I have two of Erin’s books, which have inspired me, and I also like books by Jerry Baker such as the Great Green Book of Garden Secrets because my parents gardened using Baker’s books. I remember them from childhood, and I have used his books myself many years later.
    One of my favorite all time books is Max Lucado’s In the Grip of Grace. It is a book that reminds us that with faith there is always hope and the possibility of new beginnings in our lives.

    Reply
  821. Clare Loxterkamp on

    My favorite book is The Elements of Style by Strunk and White. The foundation of society is built on language and communication. Grammar is the pillar stone.

    Reply
  822. Heather Champney on

    Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
    I love the way she explores and explains the inter connectivity of all living things and our obligation to be good stewards of what we have been gifted.

    Reply
  823. Judy O. on

    “Down the Garden Path” (copyright 1932?!) by Mr. Beverly Nichols…a great British gardener and storyteller! Laura from Garden Answer mentioned this book in one of her posts several years ago. It’s out of print, but luckily I found a used one online. Pure fun!

    Reply
  824. Erin E Stewart on

    About this time last year I discovered Floret. And quickly begin devouring any other flower book I could get my hands on. What a beautiful world I discovered! I love all the Floret books of course. But if I’m choosing favorite books of all time, Anne of Green Gables is right up there. And Anne would totally understand my newfound love for and fascination in flowers. ;-) I’m hoping my children can have the kind of idyllic childhood Anne enjoyed at Green Gables, surrounded by beauty and flowers!!

    Reply
  825. Mary on

    Cut Flower Garden is still my favorite! It is such a beautiful book & so easy for beginners like myself to understand. This is the book that inspired me to try my own backyard cut flower garden once I realized what a “do-able” project it is. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge!

    Reply
  826. Mandy C Carroll on

    Favorite book is “A wrinkle in time”. Always, always…love, hope, following the heart and persistence of the path.

    Reply
  827. McKinzie Lytle on

    My favorite fiction book is A Countess Below Stairs by Eva J. which is a Downton Abbey-esque story of a Russian countess who fled Russia to become a servant in an English estate during the revolution.

    But I’m in the middle of Teaming with Microbes by Jeff Lowenfels and Wayne Lewis and I’m loving it! It’s all about the soil food web and how it supports a healthy garden and I’m finding it so interesting! The nerdy side of me is truly delighted and it’s opened my eyes to al sorts of new ideas.

    Of course, I also have every Floret book published and they have pride of place on my shelf. My gardening books were in the last box I packed when I moved and the first one unpacked. 😅

    Reply
  828. Jennifer Solter-Jones on

    A recent gardening book I enjoy is the Garden Primer by Barbara Damrosch because it’s just so simple and straight forward information. A favorite fiction book of mine is The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfus because it is so completely unique and genuine and engrossing that it take me away to new worlds every time I pick it up.

    Reply
  829. Sarah Mulhaul on

    The Red Tent and Tribe. Very different books that both focus on connection.

    Reply
  830. Lizzy on

    My favorite would have to be Cut Flower Garden by Erin! A friend of mine had a copy and I skimmed it one day and the flower bug bit me and I got hooked,
    decided to purchase it for myself and now I’m following my dreams of having a successful cut flower business. Her book made me realize my dreams aren’t too far out of reach and I can achieve what I’m going for ✨

    Reply
  831. Michele on

    My favorite book is A Wrinkle in Time. A childhood classic that I keep returning to.

    Reply
  832. Tess Hackett on

    Some of my favorite books are written by Gene Stratton Porter. While they aren’t exactly gardening books they are works of fiction that have wonderful characters and introduced me to a love of nature and plants. The Harvester talks about a man determined to live a clean life and help ease the pain in life with the plants he gathers and harvests in the woods. (I won’t give away what happens to but it’s well worth reading.) Some of her other books I enjoy included Keeper of the Bees, Girl of the Limberlost, At the Foot of the Rainbow.
    I don’t have a lot of gardening books yet but I love books and your recommendations look like great books I will have to add to my wish list.

    Reply
  833. Tia on

    My favorite book is Encyclopedia of Country Living. I love all the topics that practical advise that it has to offer.

    Reply
  834. Pam Fowler on

    “We read to know we are not alone” *C.S. Lewis
    One of my favorite quotes.😉
    I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne every January to refocus my energy and thoughts on what I really want and what I’d like to achieve. The gentle reminder to also focus on gratitude is life changing 🤍

    Reply
  835. Kim on

    ‘Braiding Sweetgrass’ by Robin Wall Kimmerer has been on my nightstand since 2018! A book that has touched me deeply & have shared w/ all my friends.

    Reply
  836. Gail Boos on

    I love your Discovering Dahlias book. It’s beautiful to look at and has so much good information about dahlias! Thanks for the list of books to add to my wish list!

    Reply
  837. Kristi Hoffman on

    I’ve just started collecting flower books! I bought Robbie Honey’s ‘The Accidental Botanist’ this summer. EB’s book, ‘Discovering Dahlias’ was my second! Both beautiful and inspiring!! I’ll check out the recommendations listed!

    Reply
  838. Kat Hayes on

    If I had to narrow down my favorite books:

    Cookbooks – Six Seasons – great book highlighting seasonal produce in unique ways to make the produce the star! Tartine – I use their base recipes on a weekly basis to create baked goods for all occasions.

    Childhood books – Matilda, Ella Enchanted, and Fantastic Mr Fox. Now that I have children of my own, I’m overjoyed that my daughter has these as her favorites as well and we can read them together.

    Timeless classic, guilty pleasure – The Princess Bride. I’ve read it at least once a year for the past 20 years. It’s inconceivable how good it still is ;)

    Reply
  839. Amanda on

    Having a favorite book is so hard; there are so many! But one book I can always read is Pride and Prejudice. The banter is mesmerizing, characters are complex, and it transports you to another time!

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  840. Barbara F. on

    The Complete Gardener: A Practical, Imaginative Guide to Every Aspect of Gardening by Monty Don is one of my favorites. I love Monty and all his insights.

    Reply
  841. Dawn Hunt on

    Just browsing the comments is a gift!

    The book I have opened more often than any other in the last few years is Food Grown Right, In Your Backyard by Colin McCrate and Brad Halm, co-founders of Seattle Urban Farm. Well organized and easy to implement suggestions resulted in an impressive garden my first year. This is my go to reference as I add more vegetables.

    Reply
  842. Valérie on

    I’m so happy to find J-M Fortier’s “The Market Gardener” in the list because it’s also one of my favorite. So much of the knowledge can be transferred to flowers. The author is french Canadian like me, so it’s a bit of “home away from home” when I read it.

    Reply
  843. Stephanie G on

    Ooh, so hard to pick just one! I would say one of my favorites is The Name of the Wind because it is so engaging, detailed, and wonderfully written. Might be time to read it again!

    Reply
  844. Mo on

    Gosh so many to choose from…. I’ve just read ‘gardening for bumble bees’ by Dave Coulson nd loved it. Seed to Dust was a great gardening memoir by Marc Hammer ! I’m certainly checking a few of your selection out.
    Merry Christmas

    Reply
  845. Hannah Swank on

    The book that I will pick up every time I need some help figuring out what to do with my crazy kiddos is Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff. Her stories of traveling with her daughter to find out what parenting looks like in other parts of the world is inspiring and has helped me get my bearing as a mom of 3.

    Reply
  846. Jamie Wright on

    I love to read cookbooks and my favorite one that I have bought is a book called Classic Italian Cooking. My favorite garden book so far has been David Austin’s English Roses. I love food and flowers!

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  847. Yvette on

    My first gardening book was Larousse Gardening & Gardens. I’ve read it many times. Another book I’ve read cover to cover multiple times is Apples of Nortj America by Tom Burgord. A book I used a lot when I was gardening for others was The WellTended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabado Aust. I love books and have shelves too..

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  848. Judy on

    I have always loved to read and would have thought I died and gone to heaven if I could have checked out 100 books at once. My favorite books to read are by Maeve Binchy because characters in one book sometimes are part of later books.
    My favorite gardening g book is Kitchen Gardens by Mary Mason Campbell which you can only find used. It is my favorite because I love to cook and love nothing better to be able to use what I have grown in my cooking. Also there is a chapter on making floral arrangements from flowering herbs and edible flowrs.

    Reply
  849. Kathy Spampinato on

    Oh my that’s like asking who my favorite child is. I’ve been reading so much during the pandemic. I love a Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles.

    Reply
  850. Taylor Ferguson on

    I really love Great Garden Companions by Sally Jean Cunningham! I don’t think I can pick a favorite fiction book, maybe a top 10, but that would take a lot of deliberation lol.

    Reply
  851. Melissa on

    I first discovered Monty Don on Netflix and he inspired me to improve my home garden. The Complete Gardener has been indispensable to this project. This giveaway is pure gold!

    Reply
  852. Jenna R on

    My favorite horticulture book is Discovering Dahlias. I have learned so much from it in the short time I have owned it. I have loved dahlias for a long time and you have taught me even more about this amazing flower and how to start breeding on my own.

    Reply
  853. Cindy on

    East of Eden beautiful story of gardens, land, family, friendship and redemption

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  854. Betsy on

    Love your Dahlia and would love to send a copy to my father.

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  855. Cassandra on

    Outlander by Diana Gabaldon is my all time favorite book series. Your Cut Flower Garden book was my first book about flowers and has inspired me to read a few others. Thank you for sharing your library!

    Reply
  856. Teresa Naples on

    Such a great idea ! I’m hoping for one of Floret’s books for Christmas so it can become my favorite!

    Reply
  857. Liz Sallee Bauer on

    I was gifted your beautiful dahlia book last year. I can not even begin to tell you how much I loved it and became obsessed with dahlias. I’ve been going through cancer treatment so my gardening had to go on hold but I brought that book to every chemo treatment and I just devoured it. I have so many notes sticking out of that thing! Sitting in my infusion chair, little by little I found and ordered 150 of your recommended dahlias:) My elementary school kids planted them and then made stunning bouquets to give to people who brought meals to us when I was too sick. Thank you, it was exactly what my head needed:)

    Reply
  858. Samantha Denefe on

    How can I pick a favorite book!?

    Currently I’m reading Farming the Woods by Ken Mudge & Steve Gabriel. We bought 20 acres out on a woody mountain. I’m planning for a flower patch on the flat top and farming the woody part through the hill. I’m also on a permaculture kick and going through a stack I got at the library. I also discovered an author named Douglas Tallamy and really enjoyed his book The Nature of Oaks.

    Also I just went to our library website and reserved all the books on your list they have! Haha! It’ll be perfect to curl up with this December!

    Reply
  859. Wendy Whitfield on

    Frances Palmer, Life in the Studio is a favorite, I lover her living philosophy. She is so immersed in every aspect of her daily living. Of course the photos are amazing, she is definitely a star to follow.

    Reply
  860. Sandra Doane on

    Thank you for sharing your favorites Erin! I own several of your picks and now have more great ideas for my winter reading. I have been so inspired by The Complete Gardener by Monty Don. We have been composting for years, but this year we really improved our outcome following Monty’s instruction. We also started our own leaf mould. His environmental practices and advice have added to our gardens in a meaningful way.

    Reply
  861. Marie on

    I have been soaking up the feel goods from Ogden’s the heirloom garden- such inspiration in mapping out and planning a cottage style garden that will mature into something wild and beautiful with time. Thank you for this beautiful and generous giveaway!

    Reply
  862. Michele Perkins on

    My favorite gardening book is one of yours, Discovering Dahlias. It is full of great information about growing dahlias and the photography is outstanding. (I was finally successful this summer growing dahlias without those pesky earwigs.). Thanks so much.

    Reply
  863. Sara B on

    My favorite book is fiction. I read The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah and it has stuck with me. It’s so incredible in the way it depicts the fierce beauty of nature. Love that book!

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  864. Linda Burns on

    I just picked up your book, Discovering Dahlias, and I anticipate many delightful hours browsing and planning through these long, cold, wet and windy winter evenings.

    Joy! Joy! Joy!

    Reply
  865. Nicole Martineau on

    The Flower Hunter: Seasonal flowers inspired by nature and gathered from the garden. The books contains so much inspiration and beauty!

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  866. Lauran on

    Cut Flower Garden is one of my favorites. It was a generous gift from a flower-loving friend, who bought one for herself and knew how often I would reference it for inspiration. Thanks for all you do.

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  867. RA on

    I have Amy’s On Flowers and I have always loved it. Her style is similar to mine and similarly sentimental, which I love <3 I also like Debra Prinzing's books because she's such an inspiration to the industry- I am from western Washington and she's just such an icon of the local flower movement. Her books are also not pretentious at all, she just approaches writing and designing with a sweet voice.

    Happy reading!!

    Reply
  868. Carol Oberholtzer on

    The Flower Farmer by Lynn Byczynski is my favorite flower farming book… its packed with so much practical advice!

    Reply
  869. Kari on

    My favorite book of all time is Cabbage Moon by Jan Wahl (1965). It was read to me from a young age by my Nana & Papa. This beautifully illustrated story is about a man who steals the moon (a head of cabbage) from the sky and rides it home on his bicycle. As he is preparing to turn the moon into a batch of coleslaw, a stilt wearing princess and her sweet little dog rescue the moon and place it back into the sky where it can be admired and enjoyed by all. I cared for my grandparents for the last 10 years of their lives and lost them recently. Just looking at this book warms my heart and puts a smile on my face as I know they are watching down on me just like that cabbage moon.

    Reply
  870. Chelsey Mulligan on

    Backyard Homestead by Carleen Madigan and Mastering Pizza/Pasta by Marc Vetri and David Joachim are some of my favs!

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  871. Brynn on

    Honestly, your Cut Flower Garden book is my #1. It’s what got me into growing cut flowers and seeking special varieties to grow. I love the story, the photography, and wealth of information in one book! <3

    Reply
  872. Lindsay on

    “Island of the World” by Michael O’Brien

    Reply
  873. Julie F on

    I love flowers and flower arranging but I’ve actually only just gotten into gardening this past year or two of lock down but I’ve jumped straight in with both feet. Nearly every day around lunch time I had to go out and make the rounds of our little yard to check on all the veggies and flowers (even when there was little more than tiny shoots to look at). Your book A Year in Flowers is actually my first ever flower and gardening book! I got it as a Christmas gift last year and I’ve been loving it-especially the bit at the end that tells you when the best time is to cut various flower and their expected vase life. So helpful!

    Reply
  874. Jennifer on

    My favorite book is The flower Farmer by Lynn Byczynski . The reason why is because as I was reading and soaking it all in I could see the future for myself and I loved it🥰

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  875. Emily on

    Little Women, because every time I reread it, I am taken back to reading it for the first time with my mother.

    Reply
  876. Ruth K. on

    My favorite gardening book is The Practical Encyclopedia of Gardening in Dictionary Form edited by Norman Taylor 1942 edition. The book was a gift from my daughter for my birthday. I love old books as well as new ones. I have some plants from my grandmother, mother, my husband’s grandmother and mother etc. My gardens are my happy place.

    Reply
  877. Abby B. on

    Could never narrow it down to an all time favorite, but right now I am really enjoying Thuss and Farrells’ “Paper to Petal”. In the spring my go-to book will probably have changed back to a gardening manual, but right now, with all my plants sleeping, I enjoy looking at the beautiful crafted paper interpretations of flowers.

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  878. Karen C on

    I am very new to this adventure so I don’t have a favorite flower book. I first learned about your amazing work through a local cut flower farmer in my home state of New Hampshire. She attended one of your workshops before. I am a 5th grade teacher and have so many books that I absolutely love. One of my all time favorite is Oh the Places You’ll go by Dr. Seuss. I have asked for all of your books for Christmas and I cant wait to hopefully get more of these suggested books to inspire my new adventures and passion.

    Reply
  879. Eileen Smeby on

    A favorite book of mine is “Time Began in a Garden” by Emilie Barnes.

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  880. Sarah Thomas on

    Love this booklist and can’t wait to check some of them out! I love anything by Tasha Tudor and have enjoyed Cozy Minimalist by Myquillyn Smith. She’s inspired me to bring in foraged cuttings to decorate my home seasonally. I’m hoping to expand my gardens to have more floral options.

    Reply
  881. Erin on

    The Nightingale was an awesome book because it told a WWII story through the eyes of so many characters!

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  882. Heather Sixiengmay on

    I love the Oulander series for many reasons but the parts with the main character’s garden and using plants for her medical practices is enjoyable.

    Reply
  883. Rahshel desjarlais on

    Hands down my favorite book is your Discovering Dahlias book. It just so happens to be my 5year old daughter’s favorite as well. The photography is captivating, I love how it’s organized and the information is invaluable!

    Reply
  884. Melissa on

    One of my favorite books is the Garden Primer. It was given to me by my grandmother (Nan) when I was young and I’ve kept it ever since. :)

    Reply
  885. Leigh Ann Wisham on

    Cut Flower Garden will be at the top of my list! I have just retired from 28 years as a business owner and I’m ready to find my next chapter!

    Reply
  886. Sarah Laipply on

    My favorite book at the moment is Eternal by Lisa Scottoline. The story is fantastic and I couldn’t put it down.

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  887. Wanda Kent on

    One of my absolute favorite books of all time is A GENTLEMEN IN MOSCOW by Amor Towles. Every sentence is beautifully written and creates a magnificent story of Count Rostov and his life in Moscow while under house arrest in the Hotel Metropol. Once you immerse yourself in reading about his adversity and triumphs you don’t want the book to end. And when it does, you feel like you’ve known the Count all of your life and he’s family. I love this book and I wish there were a library full of literature like this!

    Reply
  888. Carey McCormick on

    I would have to say reading has been a passion of mine since 2nd grade when my teacher read Charlotte’s Web to our class. I read it so much to my girls as they were growing up my daughter named her puppy Charlotte. I love referring back to Martha Stewards Month by Month garden book. The step by step of what to do in your garden has proven to be very value in organizing my gardens. I truly love Tasha Tudors books, between her and Martha they make everything seem so easy to do.

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  889. Lori Jordan on

    I fell in love with dahlias years ago and bought two books to learn more: Encyclopedia of Dahlias by Bill McClaren and The gardener’s guide to growing dahlias by Garett Rowlands. I also recently bought all three of your books.

    Reply
  890. Sally Waritz on

    Your books are favorites! I love floral arrangements and growing roses.
    Frances Palmer, an unbelievable talent!!
    Another favorite is Paula Pyrke Decorating With Flowers.

    Reply
  891. Audrey Ravenek on

    Currently, my go to is “The Well Tended Perennial Garden” by Tracy DiSabato-Aust. The book gives all kinds of tips for care and maintenance of perennials along with a full guide to all kinds of perennials.

    Reply
  892. Barb H. on

    I think my favorite would be your “Cut Flower Garden”. It is so easy to look up things and it has opened my eyes to many new types of flowers and fillers.

    Reply
  893. Christine on

    One of my first and favorite gardening books is Pat Welsh’s Southern California Gardening : A month to month guide. This book was instrumental when I first started gardening over 20 years ago. It’s a must have for gardening in hot Mediterranean climates. I still use it to this day!

    Reply
  894. Michelle J Cloutier on

    Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay. I spent all day contemplating this question. I am a varocious reader, and become deeply attached to well rounded characters from favorite books. I also re-read my favorites, for many reasons, foremost that they are inspirational to me in one fashion or another. It was interesting for me to commit mentally to a “favorite.” Of all the books I’ve read, Shen Tai is by far the most interesting soul I’ve ever had the pleasure to encounter. He makes me strive to be a better human.

    Reply
  895. Jules on

    Gosh, how to even go about narrowing down favorite books in the attempt to pick just one?! It would be like trying to pick a favorite flower… Perhaps it would be possible to pick a favorite in every category, or favorites at different seasons or times in life, or a favorite for different purposes, but surely it would be impossible to pick just one all-time favorite!

    So I think I could pick a favorite book in every genre, and there have certainly been favorites in different stages of life. When I need a book for nostalgia’s sake or for inspiration or reassurance, I know what I would pick up. But I couldn’t possibly pick one ultimate favorite! So, to make it a bit easier on myself, I will simply say that my favorite recent read has been ‘The Moon Under Her Feet’ by Clysta Kintsler. It felt both like a deep remembering and reimagining to read it, and made me feel all different ways about being a woman.

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  896. Sarah Buchanan on

    Thank you for your list of book recommendations.
    One of my great loves in life is books and the other is gardening so I am looking forward to have many happy hours ahead reading combing both loves including your new additions.
    My favorite gardening book is “The Gardens of Levens” by Chris Crowder. In classic English style the book exhibits topiary gardening at its best. The gardens features tulips as well so its perfection for me and comes highly recommended.
    “The Land Gardeners Cut Flowers by Bridget Elworthy and Henrietta Courauld. This book serves more as a plant reference guide and is also highly recommended.

    Reply
  897. Christy on

    My favorite book currently is a collection of Mary Oliver’s poetry. I love how it reminds me to pay attention to the everyday moments of my life.

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  898. Tara on

    Currently loving all things related to the micro biome! Reading Fiber Fueled, and learning a lot. Thanks for doing this giveaway!

    Reply
  899. Abby on

    Discovering Dahlias has quickly become my favorite book! It has seen many areas of Virginia as I take it practically everywhere with me. I have reread it multiple times and it’s overflowing with bookmarks and post it notes! Hands down the best introduction to such an amazing flower.

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  900. Serina Wells, Petal & Rake on

    Wow. Between the post and all the fabulous stories in the comments, we now all have even longer reading lists! I just commented yesterday how I needed more books in my life! In Gardening: Plant Propagation by the American Horticultural Society. Invaluable reference book when your obsession to make more plants is real. In psychology: The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. When we learn how we relate to others, everyone wins. In Business: (One I recommended to every new entrepreneur I meet) Start with Why, Simon Sinek as mentioned in the post. Happy Reading!

    Reply
  901. Chelsea J on

    One of my favorite books for flower arranging is Everlastings, great ideas for dried flowers.

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  902. Barb on

    So many good books! I am in love with A Year in Flowers. My greenhouse inspiration is Greenhouse Gardeners Companion by Shane Smith

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  903. Ada Horne on

    Picking a favorite book is like picking a favorite flower! Pretty much impossible. Cur Flower Garden is probably my favorite flower-related book, though. Otherwise, Autobiography of Red is up there as a favorite.

    Reply
  904. Jenny Hines on

    I have loved books my whole life, especially old books, I collect them. I am a history buff and also love growing and homesteading books. Books enable you to go to another place, another time, another world. I have so many favorites, Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald are a few. The Wizard of Oz series by L. Frank Baum is one of my all time favorite series. One of my favorite biographies is by Robert C. V. Meyers and it is Teddy Roosevelt’s biography. Another all time favorite is about my paternal grandfather’s ship in World War II, Sweet Pea at War: A History of USS Portland by William Thomas Generous Jr. From his book I learned by grandfather’s ship is one of the most decorated in the History of the US Navy. A farmer, a Cherokee man was a hero, he enlisted after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, ans served 6 years. Another book I love, is Julia Child’s the Art of French Cooking. I have so many others, sewing, flower growing (including your three books), homesteading, animal care and more. Honestly, the only books I have met and haven’t liked would be my college Chemistry and Statistics books, lol.

    Reading is power and unlocks endless possibilities. Books give us the tools to realize our dreams.

    Reply
  905. E. Sunny Beamish on

    Unfortunately living in Canada doesn’t qualify me
    But I have received your latest book for Mother’s Day-and will be content .
    Thanks for sharing all your experience and beautiful flowers.

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  906. Ada Horne on

    Picking a favorite book is like picking a favorite flower! Pretty much impossible. Cur Flower Garden is probably my favorite flower-related book, though.

    Reply
  907. Ashley W on

    A favorite book (that it’s time to reread) is Free Play: Improvisation in Life and Art by Stephen Nachmanovitch. I read it during a college dance improvisation class, expecting to loathe the subject matter as a natural planner, and then I realized how many of the lessons were challenging but valuable time after time.

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  908. Mary E Silkowski on

    Eliot Coleman books are comprehensive and easy to read, as are the books by his wife, Barbara Damrosch. Their generosity in sharing what they have learned, and are learning, during their gardening careers is admirable and much appreciated. It’s just like what you are doing with your books, workshops and mini courses. Thank you!

    Reply
  909. Kay Maney on

    “Discovering Dahlias” is now one of my favorite gardening books… your step by step guide helped me so much in starting my first Dahlia garden…. I selected most of the plants from your book….I am looking forward to next season….lots of plans for bigger flower beds…Thanks Erin…you are such a great teacher…

    Reply
  910. Liisa Von Ende on

    Currently I am loving A Year Full of Flowers by Sarah Raven. It is full of inspiration and has been a constant reference as I plan next years garden. That, in addition to your most recent book have been on my coffee table since I received them 💛.

    Reply
  911. Kyenne Williams on

    Okay, my FAVORITE non-flower books are On Good Land by Michael Ableman (love his writing, descriptions and how he frames the discussion) with Alice Water (who is a light in my life…) AND Danielle La Porte’s The Fire Starter Sessions.

    GREAT selections. Thank you for offering these wonderful wide-ranging selections.

    Reply
  912. Jen on

    Flower Confidential piqued my interest in flowers and was a great introduction to the industry!

    Reply
  913. Brooke on

    The Harry Potter series. I know it’s not one book but it’s one story. I love the imagination of the whole world you’re brought into and the life lessons of the importance of family, friendship and love.

    Reply
  914. Melissa on

    I love books period. I really love books by Michael Pollan, floral design books by Judith Blacklock, and novels by Jojo Moyes. I love any book that can teach me something new or help me escape.

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  915. Andrea Miller on

    “My Antonia” by Willa Cather. Ms. Cather brilliantly captures the beauty of the open plains in this novel. When I read it I feel my soul is standing amoung the wheat and sunflowers, feeling the sun on my shoulders and breeze blowing across the field, endless blue skies and high wispy clouds.

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  916. Kerry Ellis-Besancon on

    My favorite book is The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher. It is my comfort book….I have read it dozens of times. When I am stressed or worried, I will often pull it out, open to a random page and loose myself in a lovely story about a family in England. I absolutely love it!

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  917. Aimee on

    I have really liked all the Floret books. The flowers for all reasons is beautiful. I also really loved “Seasons at the Farm: Year Round Celebrations at the Elliott Homestead. “

    Reply
  918. Mollie on

    Thank you for being such an inspiration and for sharing so much knowledge! I recently started a little flower business and I am happily growing and selling bouquets at a local fruit stand. Your book, Cut Flower Garden, is amazing and I have read it all the way through and I reference it all the time. I never get tired of flipping through the pages and seeing those gorgeous pictures and your creativity. I appreciate everything I have learned from your book and blog. Your other two books are on my Christmas list this year! I have also adored the book In Bloom. She grows such beautiful flower combinations for striking arrangements. I would love to grow my library with more of your favorites!

    Reply
  919. Kim J on

    I think my favorite gardening book to date is Floret Farms Discovering Dahlias. I was gifted several different tubers about 3 years ago with a brief verbal discussion about storing and how to plant. Off I went, thinking I grow lots of different plants including a wide variety of Gladiolus all with their own idiosyncrasies and growing conditions. I had some success with dahlias the first year, lost more than 3/4 of my tubers over winter so began researching on the internet of all places. I am surprised now that any survived. My growing and storage techniques have changed as I learned by experience and now have many surviving tubers and great growing plants. This year I joined a group and finally became aware of Florets. (And I live in the Skagit Valley) and picked up my first book -Discovering Dahlias and it immediately became my turn to, favorite. The book is easy to follow and the photos are fantastic!!! Can’t wait to pick ip the rest.

    Reply
  920. Leeanne Biance on

    Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler is a nice reference. It has inspired me to retry my hand at winter sowing which I have not done since my now adult children were young. I recently received Cut Flower Garden and I’m looking forward to learning and being inspired to grow new flower varieties in upstate NY -zone 5b.

    Reply
  921. Jennifer Boehm on

    I love to read and have so many books on wild flowers, gardening and flower farming. However one of the books I love the most is a fantastic local find by Eric Bergeson, Successful Gardening on the Northern Prairie. Living where I do, in such extreme climates in each season, that his book is such a great resource on what is hardy and thrives here from trees, shrubs and other perennial plants, including flowers. The knowledge he shared about soil types around here and fertilizer suggestions has helped my gardens thrive!

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  922. Diane on

    I love your Cut Flower Garden book, it introduced me to your wonderful farm and my new love of dahlias! (Also love Discovering Dahlias!). I want to get Five Mary’s Cookbook, I’ve been following them for a bit and love to watch life on a ranch!

    Reply
  923. J. Davis on

    Anne of Green Gables is one of my all time favorites. I read it the year I broke my arm and had to spend Christmas in the hospital. It has remained a favorite through the years. There are so many good books out there, it’s hard to narrow it down to one!

    Reply
  924. Kelley on

    Happy to see others chose children’s books as well! As an educator and mom, I love a good rhyming book with vibrant illustrations and a lesson to be learned. “The Circus Ship” by Chris VanDeussen is one of my faves. I am looking forward to getting some inspiration from some of your listed favorites during this off season!

    Reply
  925. April Taylor on

    I love David Culp’s The Layered Garden. I learned so much and love his sense of humor. The photography is gorgeous! Your book Discovering Dahlias I love as well – started me on my journey with planting them.

    Reply
  926. Michelle Buday on

    My favorite book growing up was ‘The Secret Garden’ by Frances Hodgkin Burnett. I would check it out of the library over and over. My teachers eventually caught on and made me get a new book! I have always loved gardening, plants and flowers! I still love that book and re-read I’d it once in a while!

    Reply
  927. Melissa Clark-Reynolds on

    My current fave is “English Song” also publishes as “English Pastoral” by James Rebanks. It made me fall in love with weeds, hedgerows and agrarian life all over again.

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  928. Wendy on

    I am a book worm. I love books and normally check out a stack of ten or so and read them in a few weeks. I love vintage books and have several on gardens and gardening. Some of my favorites are Tasha Tudors Garden, An Island Garden by Celia Thaxter with beautiful illustrations by Childe Hassam, Flower Book for Children by Thornton Burgess and several more. Recently I have had to go through some of my garden books and donate them to others. I gifted your Dahlia book to my son who has grown dahlias for several years. We both enjoy it!

    Reply
  929. Lauren Von D on

    Oh, so many books! “Summer at Castle Auburn” by Sharon Shinn is my annual read since I was young. My current favorite is “The Book on Pie” by Erin Jeanne McDowell.

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  930. Debbie on

    The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss aka Theodore Geisel. I grew up with his books, as did my children, and have maintained that everything you ever needed to know could be learned from Dr. Seuss (not to offend all those wonderful kindergarten teachers out there!). He was a true visionary who clearly saw the wrongs of the world that needed righting and believed the purity, innocence and queries of our children could make a difference. Published in 1971, I was already on the road to teenager-dom and sadly missed his message of environmental stewardship and sustainability, although these were things discussed with my children in their formative years.

    I happened upon the book this past summer, in the midst of heat domes and wildfires, and when I presented it to my 32-year-old son as a birthday gift, tears came to his eyes – and then mine. The experience affirms the work of all gardeners who are such dedicated custodians of our earth.

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  931. Veronica on

    My go-to gardening book is Cool Flower by Lisa Mason Ziegler

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  932. Tamara Stahlman on

    Life in the Studio by Francis Palmer lives by my nightstand. I have torn out many magazine articles about her flowers & her pottery….she has been my inspiration for years. I began gardening & making pottery in the 1980’s. At first for pleasure and then as a business while raising my young family. Then life got busy & I just made pottery for gifts & myself. We moved to the country & jumped in to growing vegetables & then flowers….thinking about making pots for the flowers…because of Franchise Palmer & her inspiration, I am once again making pottery! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

    Reply
  933. Amanda W on

    I don’t know how to pick a favorite book. But my favorite recent read is Native by Kaitlin Curtice. I plan to reread it again soon. I think we have so much to learn about how our whole lives relate to land, and gardening definitely helps that learning.

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  934. Jan W on

    I just love Martha Stewart gardening month by month every year. It was my mothers and I grabbed it for myself..what wonderful helpful things she has in the book

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  935. Shelly R Shangle on

    My favorite book is, Where the Crawdad Sings. It is inspiring and is a story about preserverance. This young girl also learns to live off from the land and puts her knowledge to great use as she grows older.

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  936. Diane on

    I can completely relate to your love of libraries and books since childhood. I am the same way. My favorite book that I’ve read this year is Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan, but really there’s too many to choose from.

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  937. Debbie Bigham on

    I love my gardening books. The color and variety helps me get thru our cold and long winter here in Michigan. Thanks for this opportunity.

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  938. Rhonda Lorenzen on

    One of my favorite books is Homer’s Odyssey by Gwen Cooper. I am not even a “cat person” and I fell in love with this inspirational book about a three-week-old abandoned blind kitten that Gwen adopted in 1997. Spanning 12 years, the memoir covers Cooper’s experiences with Homer (and her two other cats, Vashti and Scarlett) as she endured a see-sawing professional and personal life. Homer teaches that even the biggest obstacles are obtainable. **I laughed, I cried, it was better than cats**

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  939. Kayla V on

    This was so helpful, thanks for posting! I have two favorite books, at least in the design/nonfiction realm. The first is Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath. It’s a really great overview of creativity and why some ideas take off and others don’t. My other favorite is Joyful by Ingrid Lee, which has a lot of wonderful design tips to bring more joy and whimsy into your home.

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  940. Phyliss T Brassey on

    I became obsessed when I learned about Erin (from Shannon Ables) and even though I have only a patio for growing in pots, I am already thinking about Spring. My good friend Emily Levitt is a Master Gardener and has oodles of books I devour.
    We are so lucky to have Floret and now I’m trying to locate a cop of Sara Raven’s book.
    Happy Holiday Season to the entire team and special wishes for a Delicious, flower-filled 2022.

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  941. Sherri S. on

    I adore the 2 (cheating, naming 2, but one is a large lavishly illustated book and the other her biography) books about Mary Delaney, whose marvelous botanical collage are an inspiration. And she didn’t start making them until she was 72 years old! If anyone is not aware of her and her work, you must go check it out!

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  942. Joy C. on

    I have just began my journey of gardening over the last 2 years. When beginning, and with no experience in vegetable or flower gardening, I picked up 3 books to get started and learn about different plants, where, and how they like to grow. Seriously, I hardly knew a plant from a hole in the ground! I STILL regret agreeing to babysit a “locally famous” neighbors 4 prized houseplants for the winter while she was out of town 20 years ago. I did warn her that I was not the right person when she asked because I had a proven track record of killing houseplants somehow. But she insisted, ” I have faith in you! How hard can it be? It’s only for 4 months, they just need water when they are dry, and you’re the most responsible person I know!”. I think you can guess what happened – yes, all 4 of them to my horror. Then I had to experience her horror, she never spoke to me again, then told people at a party I was unable to attend, (because I knew she would be there and couldn’t look at her), “yes, she’s a nice person, but not as responsible as you’d think – just don’t let her take care of your plants when you’re out of town”! Which, of course, deeper confirmed my ineptness! I really did vow to myself never to touch another plant as long as I lived. Instead, for 18 years I would just stand in floral and garden departments breathing in and admiring every single thing I could see. I even had a local floral store owner ask me to stop dropping in to stand, smell, and look – it made her employees nervous. Even though she knows I’m not weird, and have ordered from her before, it didn’t matter that it was my weekly beauty and stress reliever walking home from work. Alas, I have gotten over all the trauma when realizing the very plants I would like to have and grow, is the very thing that would heal my previous social misgivings and bring confidence. So at a local used book sale I purchased 2 big beautiful books (with pictures!) “The Ultimate Gardening Book” by Carole McGlynn, and “The 20-Minute Gardener” Western Garden Book by Sunset Magazine. Then I came across another introductory book at the time “Vegetables Love Flowers” by Lisa Mason Ziegler. They were enough to make me think “I can do this, I just need to focus on a plan”. Then I came across your blog and web-site – and that’s what really changed what I thought and felt inside about gardening and flowers. Thank you. Even though I haven’t been able to get them yet, your “Cut Flower Garden”, and “A Year in Flowers” will hopefully be added to the other 3. – Very Best Regards, Joy

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  943. Samantha Bates on

    Oh goodness, this is a tough choice to make given I enjoy so many books, but right now the favorite that popped into mind is a childhood favorite that I go back to time to time to take me back. It is Roald Dahl’s, The BFG. I love the friendship and adventure.

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  944. Melissa on

    I love Gaia’s Garden by Tony Hemenway! It is full of practical ideas about implementing permaculture on a small scale. Whenever I start a new project on the homestead, I pull out the book and go over the information I need.

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  945. Catherine M King on

    Thank you Erin for so generously sharing your book resources! And what fun to read the comments – such a great idea! I do love Discovering Dahlias – thank you for that beautiful guide. I also love any book by poet Mary Oliver; her poetry always makes me stop and “smell the roses”. Right now I am imbibing Blue Horses c. 2014. A treasure on every page – she was a gardener of the whole natural world! And one more that I was reminded of in the Comments: A Language of Flowers, by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. Many themes – from the foster care system, healing wounds, motherhood, and how flowers can communicate and heal!

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  946. Heather Phillips on

    In Bloom by Clare Nolan is the book that is bringing me so much inspiration right now. As a beginning grower it is helping me to plan my small growing space, and is inspiring me to think about my future with plants and flowers in a different way.

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  947. Megan Blum on

    I always find great inspiration from your blog and work. Thank you so much for all you do. One of my favorite books of all time is Little Women. It is such a joy to read each and every time. I love learning through the lives of the March sisters. I feel like I grew up with them too. Now I have two young daughters and I keep coming back to Marmee’s wise words. I can’t wait to share this book with them in the future! My oldest daughter helped me plant our sunflower seeds this year, so I can’t wait to also pass on a love of growing beautiful things.

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  948. Vicky F on

    I love educational books that I can learn from, but my favorite book from when I was young is, The Crystal Cave, a young Merlin story. I’ve always to live in that secret cave!

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  949. Jerusha on

    I love and treasure books so it’s hard to pick a favorite. I’ve currently been loving ‘The Private World of Tasha Tudor’ by Richard Brown. Richard Brown follows Tasha Tudor through the four seasons of her life, art, garden. It’s all in her own words and filled with stories from her childhood and her perspective on life and making her own way in it. Highly recommend!

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  950. Brandi on

    Right now I am enjoying Discovering Dahlias. :)

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  951. Kristina Smith on

    I am enjoying the book North and South currently and just finished the Wingfeather saga by Andrew Peterson – a must read!

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  952. Paula on

    I have been gardening since the 80’s, and certainly collected a few books along the way. My ‘go to’ bible at the time was Rodale’s Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening – revised edition 1984. As much as I love that book (and I still have it- albeit the corners have been chewed up by beloved pets over the years), my all time favorite book is Garden Primer by Barbara Damrosch. Barbara and her husband Eliot Coleman are organic gardeners, and their show ‘Gardening Naturally’ (Discovery Channel, 1993-2003) led me down the path of organic alternatives to pesticides and fertilizers, and how to create a thriving ecosystem in the landscape. Barbara’s husband, Eliot, is also an author and has developed a series of tools for small scale gardeners at Johnny’s Selected Seeds. Barbara (and Eliot) inspired me to care about our planet and the impact I have on the earth – how to build a better, greener world. Because of them, I purchased my first book, the encyclopedia of OG. When Barbara wrote Garden Primer – that book replace the encyclopedia as my all time favorite book, and it has been my fave all these years.

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  953. Valerie on

    Love Ann Patchett’s The Dutch House but I’m in Toronto Canada so don’t qualify for the chance to win the fab book collection 🥲 I enjoy following your Instagram and the mini-courses, etc. Happy times growing flowers!

    Reply
  954. Wendy Lauman on

    Books? I am obsessed with books for sure! I always have 40 new books reserved at the library because that is the limit. So I use my husband’s card to reserve new books too even though he is not interested in flowers, cookbooks, or crafts.
    Some of my favorite books are Red Notice by Bill Browder, Wesley the Owl by Stacey O’Brien, Winterdance by Gary Poulsen, Fastest Things on Wings by Terry Masear, Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson, Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean, For All the Tea in China by Sarah Rose, and Endurance by Alfred Lansing my neighbor on Long Island where I grew up. Each book teaches me new things.
    Then there is fiction and children books with amazing illustrators.
    It would be a thrill to see more books – no such thing a too many books.

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  955. Nicki R on

    My favorite book is cool flowers. I love that it is helping me to extending my flower growing season.

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  956. Stephanie P on

    My favorite book is probably Anne of Green Gables. I love picturing all the flowers described!

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  957. Becky C. on

    Books bring me so much joy and inspiration that I honestly can’t pick a favorite.

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  958. Melissa A on

    I loved The Power by Naomi Alderman. I think about it all the time!
    Your Discovering Dahlias book is another favorite–it’s such an incredible resource throughout the year.

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  959. Crystal on

    Like you as a child I was always checking out books from the library. Riding my bicycle there was a favorite thing of mine, then going home to read them. One of my favorite books is Maya Angelou’s ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’. My favorite books now are on gardening.

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  960. Kylee on

    My long-standing favorite book is Gone With the Wind. Scarlet O’Hara is such a deeply flawed person (aren’t we all) and I think she is often misunderstood and disliked. What people don’t realize is she is a survivor of the utmost kind. No matter what comes her way she buckles down, puts herself back together, and does what needs to be done.

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  961. Kris on

    My favorite book that I read this year is The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah. I learned a lot about the dust bowl era and I was obsessed with the book.

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  962. Rachel B on

    My favorite book from the past is “The Bold & Brilliant Garden” by Sarah Raven. As a former landscape architect, I was inspired by her luscious, amazing color combinations and she helped me to think outside the box in my planting designs. I also loved the glorious, mass plantings of Piet Oudolf in “Landscapes in Landscapes.” Now, as I start to grow more of my own flowers for my new horticultural therapy business, I am excited by this list of amazing books you have shared! It has been great fun reading about other favorites in all the comments!

    Reply
  963. Nicole Moore on

    Years ago, I stumbled on a picture of a dahlia flower and thought what the heck is that. As I did some “digging” (🥴) I found floret and that’s where my book collection started. I’ve slowly started purchasing all the dahlia books you’ve recommended. My favorites would have to be Dahlia Breeding by Kristine Albrecht, the cut flower garden, and the discovering dahlias.
    I’d also like to mention that I started noticing people were doing hashtags of taking your online class years ago . So I clicked on one of the hashtags and messaged Marryn Mathis about if she recommended your online class. I took your class, (which I highly recommend as well) and am so glad I did. You all have been such an inspiration to me. I have finally had the opportunity to purchase some acreage and can’t wait for my dream to come true as a flower farmer.
    Thank you for the inspiration and also your encouraging words to just try and dig in.

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  964. Marina Michahoohoo on

    Love in the Time of Cholera by Garcia Marquez because everything about the book is perfect.
    Close second is The Master and Margherita by Bulgakov.

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  965. Julia Williams on

    I’ve always planted container flowers every summer, but have gone down the permaculture road these past few years in effort of becoming self sustainable as much as possible. The most recent book is The Family Garden Plan: Grow a Year’s Worth of Sustainable and Healthy Food by Melissa K Norris out of Washington state. I just discovered your story on Netflix a few months ago and fell in LOVE with dahlias. So I want to try my hand at growing some cut flowers for the local flower shop-which was completely inspired by your story. Thank you for all that you do for others and sharing your knowledge.

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  966. Angie on

    All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Exquisitely written, beautifully sad.

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  967. Deborah Gatz on

    When I was a kid, we lived a very short distance from the library, which became my second home. When I wasn’t at the library, scouring the shelves for books to read while I sat there in the children’s room, in the summer I would take books into the little hiding-spot-reading-room I had created in our huge forsythia bush. Hidden by the beautiful draping branches, holding a book in my little green “room”, I was in my happy place.
    I still love reading. That said, how on earth do you pick a favorite? Madeline took me to Paris, Ferdinand took me to Spain, Dickens/Austen/and the Bronte sisters took me to England from the wild moors to sophisticated Bath. But – in honor of flowers – I’d vote for The Secret Garden where the healing of hurts and relationships was possible due to the imagination of one plucky girl, the hard work of young children and the beauty of a garden brought back to life showing that old things can be made new.

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  968. Nichole Kean on

    Braiding Sweetgrass because this book gave me the words to explain how my soul feels when I’m in the dirt.

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  969. Jennifer C on

    Maybe not my forever favorite book, but I just finished Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss. It is so inspiring–I love hearing how so many successful people do what they do so well, what motivates them, and what their spirit animal is (a surprising number of sloths).

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  970. Andee Zeigler on

    Sarah Ravens book is always on my bedside table along with another favorite. I was gifted a copy of Marc Hamer’s book, “Seed to Dust: life, nature and a country garden” the chapters are the months of the year with beautiful short stories from a painter turned gardener. He speaks to the sorrows of a gardeners heart in fall and winter and the work and joys of spring. I read it year round, my companion to the ups and downs of loving life most in the garden.

    Reply
  971. Patricia Kozlik on

    My favorite read of all time is “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter” by Carson’s McCullers. I was quite young when I first read it. She was very young when she wrote it. By the end of the book her characters are just so beautifully described that you literally feel you know them. About 20 pages before the end, there is a twist that left me sobbing. A very moving book about human connections.

    Reply
  972. Dawn Orza on

    “Braiding Sweetgrass ” Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer is my absolute favorite book. I’ve read it 3 times and will read it again and again. I love it!

    Reply
  973. Nora Swalls on

    It is hard to pick one! I love sharing ideas on books so I want to go through all of these posts. I have to go with “For One More Day” by Mitch Albom. I am excited to add your books to my list.

    Reply
  974. Katie on

    My favorite book is a young adult book series— but I still reread it every few years. The Golden Compass and the whole rest of the series!

    Reply
  975. Kristine Moody on

    My favorite book is Enchantment by Orson Scott Card. It is a fantasy novel that traverses time yet is a timeless love story. It is so rich in description, character development, and plot that by the time the book ends you can only want more. But unfortunately it was not written as an epic fantasy series because it definitely should have been!

    Reply
  976. Trudy Cuoghi on

    Oh my, I can totally relate to this post! I remember waiting each week for the book-mobile to show up during summer vacations, then torturing my poor aby sister by making her sit through readings, or giving her reading assignments as a makebelieve teacher. Our mom was a teacher so I guess it was only natural; and she inspired us both to continue lifelong learning. Of course it would be impossible for me to chose one favorite book and one subject alone. I love all three of my Floret books, and several recommendations from the 2021 Workshop. Other flower farming reference books I would recommend include “The Market Gardener” by Jean-Martin Fortier, for basics of growing seasonally and under cover, plus growing for market advice. There is also the book that began my love of flower arranging, “Madderlake: Trade Secrets” by Bill Jarecki and Tom Pritchard. They were pioneers in the “wild and natural” school of flower arranging, utilizing branches, berries, veggies, and foraged materials. It is out of print but can still be found from used book sellers. More gardening books recommendations include – “Vegetable Gardening the Colonial Williamsburg Way” by Wesley Greene for traditional methods using hotbeds, cloches, and “wildcrafted” trellising constructed of windfall branches; for veggie gardeners, “Home Grown Pantry” by Barbara Pleasants which includes both growing and perserving methods; and last, but not least, books by Jerry Baker for old timer, homey garden remedies for flowers, veggies and their pests.

    Reply
  977. Bess Brownlee on

    Yay books! I have been loving both ‘A Year in Flowers’ and ‘On Flowers’ and return to them again and again! Beautiful work ladies!

    Reply
  978. Allie on

    I have a really old “Language of Flowers” victorian style book that I love and is a lot of fun to use for wedding work and to give bouquets that little something special.

    Also it’s hard to choose between The Hobbit and Dealing with Dragons by Patricia Wrede. I love fantasy novels that transport me away from reality.

    Reply
  979. Andee Zeigler on

    I was gifted a copy of Marc Hamer’s book, “Seed to Dust: life, nature and a country garden” the chapters are the months of the year with beautiful short stories from a painter turned gardener. He speaks to the sorrows of a gardeners heart in fall and winter and the work and joys of spring. I read it year round, my companion to the ups and downs of loving life most in the garden.

    Reply
  980. Penrhyn Olsen on

    The #1 Ladies Detective Agency series has been a favorite for years. A friend and I have been sending each other the latest books in this series featuring the remarkable wisdom of main character Precious Ramotswe (the #1 ladies detective!). It’s been a fun way for us to stay in touch.

    Reply
  981. Rachael on

    As an avid reader as well, and also spending MANY hours at the Mt. Vernon city library (where I’m wondering if you took your kids there Erin!) as a kid, it is so hard to choose a favorite. I think though, one of my all time favorite books is Swiss Family Robinson. I love their creativity, their determination to make an incredible island life, and the amazing adventures they go on. It inspires me to be creative and adventurous!

    Cheers from Skagit Valley :)

    Reply
  982. CHRISTINE PETERSEN on

    I found the American Horticultural Society A to Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants to be an invaluable reference when I was learning to garden. Even with the internet, I still use it to read about specific plants. I also love Landscaping with Daylilies: A Comprehensive Guide for the use of Daylilies in the Garden by Oliver Billingslea to be an excellent resource.

    Reply
  983. Ruth Ensor on

    My favorite book is The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. Very inspiring and touching.

    Reply
  984. Maddison Perzel on

    One of my favorite books is pilgrim at tinker creek! Sometimes you just need to get away into nature with her writing. Can’t wait to add these all to my list, thanks for sharing

    Reply
  985. cyd on

    how to choose? as a kid, i read “island of the blue dolphins” dozens of times. it is based on the true story of a girl left behind on an island when her tribe evacuates, leaving her to fend for herself for 18 years. i envied her solitude and self-sufficiency. only recently did i realize i acquired a similar life years ago when i began spending half the year at an alaskan cabin, accessible only by small boat, fishing/gathering and growing masses of flowers and vegetables. so i guess that book had a bigger impact on how my life turned out than any other.

    Reply
  986. Karen on

    I love Cut Flower Garden! It is so inspiring! It has lots of useful tips.

    Reply
  987. Elizabeth Castellanos on

    The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is my all time favorite book. I told an ex-boyfriend “I can’t give you anymore” and he responded “I have a book for you”.
    The book summed up our relationship.

    Reply
  988. Linda Freyberg on

    One of my favorite books is Love Does by Bob Goff. His follow up book is called Everybody Always. He is one of my favorite authors and I am always inspired by his stories and creative ways he makes a difference in the world. Definitely an inspiring read on both books.

    Reply
  989. Jack Wilkinson on

    My favorite book is the first time gardener by Jessica Sowards! (Roots and Refuge Farm) She is just the best at explaining every process down to the tiniest detail, and of course fantastic pictures!

    Reply
  990. Monica Kovaci on

    My current favorite is Vegetables Love Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. I love the easy going writing style, growing tips and of course the pictures. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to receive a collection of your favorite books.

    Reply
  991. Alyssa Johnson on

    My new favorite book is “Get out of your head” by Jennie Allen. I struggle to let go of powerful, defeating thoughts and the author provides encouraging messages and strategies to take those thoughts captive and conquer them.

    Reply
  992. Myla Diamond on

    I have many favorite books and one of them is Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman. It is a fun and informative book about an American mom raising her children in France.

    Reply
  993. Donna on

    I am an avid reader and love books of all kinds. I’ve been drawn the last few years to all things garden and homesteading. My newest book I am in love with is “Spirit of Place”. The pictures drew me in and I get lost in the dreaminess of them. I also love “Discovering Dahlias “ which I have loaned to a friend! So hopefully it makes it back home soon! I just recently ordered “A Year in Flowers “ and anxiously awaiting it’s arrival!

    Reply
  994. Kimberly Beaumont on

    I winter sow most of my annuals from seed so my favorite and most used garden book is The Gardener’s A-Z Guide to Growing from Seed to Bloom by Eileen Powell. I use this book to refer to hardiness and germination for the varieties I sow. I love gardening books, ( on line just doesn’t cut it), and this one has no pictures, (and I love the pictures) but the information it contains is invaluable to starting a large variety of seeds. I always find what I need in this book. Highly recommend for seed starting.

    Reply
  995. Norma Evans on

    I have so many favorite books! The first one that popped into my head was Chronicles of Narnia

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  996. Katie on

    Today my answer is Winds of War by Herman Wouk, but ask me another day and my answer will change!

    Reply
  997. Kaylin on

    My favorite book is “Kaffir Boy in America” by Mark Mathabane. I read it in English class 20 years ago and still think about it often. Such an inspiring story. I wasn’t a huge reader, but so loved it that I ordered an autographed copy of it along with two other books he wrote including “African Women,” another eye-opening read. They opened my young eyes to a whole other world. Today, I’m a big reader and collector of books so I understand the overflowing book shelves. The books seem to multiply overnight and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

    Reply
  998. Jeanne Cummings on

    One favorite from a lifetime of being a voracious reader is too hard. I love so many genres’ from classics, historical fiction, fiction, children’s, Christmas, gardening, cooking and on and on. My favorite author is Pat Conroy (Prince of Tides, The Great Santini etc. and all of his writing as he was such a wordsmith) and I tend to favor many Southern writers.
    I also grab new authors today and love a quick read as well…
    …my library overflows into every nook’ncranny …much like yours sounds…thanks for being able to follow your gardens as I no longer have a big garden yet still manage a lot of greenery/flowers on my little deck.

    Reply
  999. Elizabeth Zdrojewski on

    My current favorite flower book is Discovering Dahlias. Being a new gardener with dahlias, I found that this book was extremely helpful with any questions that I may have had. Also, a bonus with the book is all the beautiful dahlia pictures throughout it. This book is definitely a must have for any dahlia grower!

    Reply
  1000. Lisa LeMontangue on

    My favorite book? This must be the hardest question for anyone who loves to read! I have a number books on gardening numerous other topics that I refer to often (for fiction, I generally borrow books from the library). In searching for an answer, I looked at my bookshelves and asked myself which books I pull off the shelf most often. I’m sure everyone with find this amusing (or ridiculous), but the book I reach for most often (and actually enjoy using) is the dictionary! I adore the English language and tend to read slowly so that I can absorb every word, noticing the unique way each author uses punctuation and sentence structure to convey their thoughts. When I come across an unfamiliar word, I can often surmise its meaning based on context, but I love to look at the definition to get a deeper, more nuanced understanding of it. Yes, I can look up words on my phone in a pinch, but it’s just not the same as holding a dictionary in my hands. My co-workers and family find this quite entertaining–or perhaps annoying, I can’t be sure!

    Reply
  1001. Adrienne Hegedus on

    I find so much joy in your books, Erin! I also just read Suzanne Simard’s Finding the Mother Tree which was amazing and I would highly recommend it. On the flip side, Dave Grohl’s new memoir “The Storyteller” was awesome. And I am also thoroughly enjoying Celeste Barber’s memoir “Challenge Accepted”.
    I think I might have a book problem… it’s a good one to have!

    Reply
  1002. Emily on

    My favorite book has got to be Ira Wallace’s Grow Great Vegetables in Virginia. Her fantastic work and experience in the south, especially in Virginia and the Historic Monticello Gardens, shaped the beginning of my gardening. It always inspires me to be true to where I live and to believe in the important role in nature we play on this earth.

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  1003. Karen McKee on

    My current favorite book is Dahlia Breeding for the farmer-florist and the home gardener by Kristine Albrecht. I am a novice home dahlia gardener but Kristine explains things in such detail and so simply that I actually think some day I might be able to hybridize.

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  1004. Jasmin Williams on

    I love reading too, especially when the weather is bad and I can’t do anything outside. My sweet mother took me to the library every week growing up, so I felt obligated to finish each book I checked out. We have had to downsize quite a bit, but some books I just can’t give away! I especially love collecting books about Christmas, Chinese culture, and children’s books. I recently read a book called Heirs of Falcon Point by Traci Hunter Abramson and I highly recommend.

    Reply
  1005. Lydia Brubacher on

    Hello!! I’m so inspired by you and your flowers! Thank you so much for all the work you do to share your advice and glimpses of the flower farm!! I think I’d have to say my favorite book is the Bible. It is absolutely the best book just because it is God’s Word and shows me what He says and how to live. I love reading and I have all three of your books and like them very much! I am a very small scale flower farmer and it is very helpful to have sources to look into for help!

    Reply
  1006. Whitney Sweeny on

    My library has a section for local/regional authors. I recently discovered a set of books there By Carol J. Michel. She is a devoted gardener and also a blogger though I didn’t know that before her books. Her books are compilations of essays about gardening and gardening life. Everything from a letter to her favorite gardening shirt, to garden swear words, to a story about Beauty and the Vegetable Feast! She is so witty and fun and true to my experiences and thoughts as a gardener! It makes for wonderful reading! Start with Potted and Pruned and enjoy the fellowship through her pages!

    Reply
  1007. Helen Sullivan on

    Years ago I worked at the local library and was introduced to Tasha Tudor . Her books and illustrations made a big impression on me, mostly because she loved gardening with a passion and it showed in her floral paintings. She also lived simply and raised goats and gardened organically.. The private World of Tasha Tudor is the best!!

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  1008. Kate on

    My favorite book related to gardening is “The Seed Underground: A Growing Revolution to Save Food” by Janisse Ray. Her books are all brilliant, but this one tells an important story of why we need to work together to save and exchange seeds, especially on a local level. Read it and save seeds!

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  1009. Geneva Ivanovich on

    One of my favorite books is More Decorating With FLOWERS by Ronaldo Maia. I love to grab a cup of coffee or tea and look at the beautiful arrangements and look for inspiration. It’s also a coffee table size which is a plus!

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  1010. Janna Christensen on

    Oh, my favourite book? Well, if my favourite is decided by which book I spent the most time with this year, then #1 would have to be Discovering Dahlias, as I poured over every page choosing the most pleasing varieties to grow in my garden, and learning how to grow (fertilize, pinch, cut, dig, cure and store) these beauties. The second most favourite this year was Cut Flower Garden… I 100% spent the most time with these two books this year (and I’m not just sucking up).

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  1011. Susan Chappell on

    The first gardening books I bought when I became a homeowner years ago in the Pacific Northwest were the books by local author and gardener Ann Lovejoy. She wrote in a down-to-earth yet inspirational style about successfully growing a garden in our area and I bought every one of them.

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  1012. Linda Muir on

    Erin, Thank you for sharing these books. I was especially pleased to see ones on your list for personal growth as well as gardening & flower ones. I have so many favorites, but one I return to for personal reflection is called “Meditations from the Mat – Daily Reflections of the Path of Yoga” by Rolf Gates & Katrina Kenison. Each day has an essay and quote to reflect on. The quotes come from all areas music, sports, the arts, the Bible, yogis, famous people – ancient & contemporary, etc. The book is divided into sections following The Eight-Limb Path of Yoga. There are 365 reflections but no dates which allows me to explore a specific aspect of yoga, just open up to an essay, or follow it day by day.

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  1013. Jono on

    My favourite is discovering dahlias!!!!! It’s just coming into dahlia season here in Australia so it’s a book I’m referencing every day! Thank you so much for creating this thoughtful and beautiful book!

    Reply
  1014. Megan Bradford on

    Of course I love flower books! But this year’s best read was From Scratch. It worked through grief, motherhood, and cultural differences while also sprinkling in Italian culture and recipes. I absolutely loved it! Another great read this year was This Is How It Always Is. Also a beautifully written experience with parenthood!

    Reply
  1015. Jenn on

    My current favorite is that lovely Monty Don book, The Complete Gardener (if I won the giveaway I’d give my copy to my best gardening friend). I started watching Gardener’s World during lockdown after a friend donated a raised bed to me and I’ve been completely obsessed with all things gardening (and Monty Don, let’s be honest) ever since. It truly kept me sane during the last year and half but doesn’t feel like something I’ll give up as life slowly goes back to normal. It’s unlocked a true love for getting my hands in the dirt, and I feel like I’m carrying on the gardening tradition of my grandfather and aunt. This year I’m focusing more on flowers – and tomatoes, because a Southern woman has to grow tomatoes… I plan to spend the winter months learning and reading as much as I can.

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  1016. Terry on

    Impossible. Just one? What about one per genre? One per each year of my life? All time favorite? Fiction? Biography? Children’s book? Cookbook? Jeepers, just ONE?

    Okay…heavy exhale. Guess I will just go with my current favorite book, the one I have borrowed from the library half a dozen times or more. I am really enamored with Erica Tanov’s book entitled Design By Nature. I love this book because the author beautifully imparts her affinity for natural elements and illustrates how they influence and infuse her design aesthetic. Things like the way the water ripples and shimmers, cast shadows, the color and texture of bark. Beautiful vignettes, nothing overworked or slickly over styled, a primarily neutral-leaning palette, it all creates a mood that feels very quiet, grounded, clearly connected to the natural world. And who couldn’t use more of that, right?

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  1017. Lauren on

    During quarantine I read “Where the Crawdads Sing.” I absolutely loved the story and as a biology major loved how the author goes into detail with the description of nature.

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  1018. Mary Ellen Howard on

    I have so many favorites, it’s hard to pick one! I can say that one of my favorite authors is Elizabeth Berg — her trilogy “Durable Goods” “Joy School” and “True to Form” are some of my absolute favorites. For flower books, of course I LOVE “Discovering Dahlias” as they are my new obsession! I would love to read Monty Don’s book, as he is another favorite (I’m obsessed with Gardeners World!) Thank you, Erin, for inspiring and teaching so many of us with your incredible flower farm. I love how you freely give such wonderful, helpful information on growing beautiful flowers.

    Reply
  1019. Vanessa on

    Erin! You are amazing. Truly. Through “Growing Floret” on Magnolia Network, I found you and your work with flowers. Your story brought me tears of joy and I love that your mission is to “spread beauty” into the world. I always say to my friends to Shine Bright and you are shining brightly! Thank you for all that you do and for the courage to continue to show up everyday and be who you are and live what you love. You have made a difference in my life through inspiration and beauty— and I have started to grow flowers and found that I enjoy putting my hands in the soil.

    I, too, am an avid reader since I was a kid. I share some great business books in your library— “Start With Why” and “Blue Ocean Strategy”— and I will add some of yours to my list. I do need to start my flower growing collection since I began planting herbs and flowers this year. So, I really appreciate your library starter offer and invitation to learn to grow flowers.

    One non-fiction book that has moved me— because as a kid I loved a class in school teaching all about nature— is titled, “Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature” by Janine M. Benyus, which offers a way of looking through the lens of nature to create in regenerative ways that give back to nature. Whether we create products or business models, or organizational teams, as described in the book “Teeming: How Superorganisms Work Together to Build Infinite Wealth on a Finite Planet” by Dr. Tamsin Wooley-Barker, the practice of Biomimicry aligns us with the cycles of nature to thrive and flourish— just like flowers! Thank you again to you, your husband, Julie, and your awesome team!

    Reply
  1020. Rhonda Vagt on

    this week my favorite is Cool season flowers Lisa Mason Ziegler, I am in zone 4 and want flowers for Mothers day. this book is great for show how to plant early

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  1021. Whitney H on

    My favorite book… ooo gosh how to pick?!?! There’s Harry Potter, Dune, any Ottolenghi or Jane Austin. All are great books but when I think of gardening my favorite has to be Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. It was the first garden book I ever owned and the one that inspired me to garden in the first place. My first garden love was vegetables (or more importantly food), it was gardening veggies that lead me to flowers. In the book, she weaves a beautiful story that follows her and her family through a year of being self-sufficient and gardening organically. It is just beautifully done, interesting, and informing… in a way for me it was like a nostalgic farm romance novel where the stars are the veggies.

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  1022. Mercedes Castillo on

    My favorite book is The Mothers by Brit Bennett. Beautiful writing, interesting topic– all that you need to be immersed.

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  1023. Elizabeth on

    Thank you for sharing books that have impacted you! And there are so many interesting books in your list. I am especially interested in the Martha Stewart month by month gardening book. That sounds incredibly useful and she no doubt has some incredible strategies. I love Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. Like any book, it has more detail than any of the movies or musical renditions. I don’t know if it was his intention, but it is a good analogy of the spiritual principles of law and grace found in the Bible. It is a really thick book and worth the read.

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  1024. Delene Henderson on

    Floret Farm A Year In Flowers
    Gave me the inspiration to do more in my flower garden. Much more such an awesome guide!

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  1025. Nancy A. on

    The first chapter book my dad read to me was Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “The Secret Garden.” It was about courage, grace and the power of make believe, and yet, most importantly for me, the novel planted the idea about the magic and joy derived from the beauty of the garden and friendship. I have read it numerous times throughout my life. It has had a powerful influence on my garden journeys and the importance of sharing that joy and beauty with others. Mary Lennox, the protagonist, was transformed by the magic and mystery of the secret garden. May we all delight in and find comfort and strength from our gardens. My favorite book for a very long time.

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  1026. Lindsay kimmons on

    My favorite books are from the Harry Potter series. I know I know it seems silly considering there are so many wonderful literary masterpieces out there but it’s HP for me. These books (and movies) were such a huge part of my childhood and they always seem to take me right back to that place as soon as I open the cover. They will always be a form of comfort and inspiration for me. The same goes for flowers. I always remember gardening vegetables with my Papa Ed and picking wildflowers with my Nanny Shirley with excitement and hope at what each harvest would bring. I would always be amazed at what we could do with a little dirt, seed, water and love or what beauty we could produce with some flowering weeds. You would almost think it was magic.

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  1027. Rachel Sandoval on

    My favorite book is the Secret Garden- I first read it as a child but actually just re-read it this year and still love it!

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  1028. Kathryn on

    My favorite book is, “Anne of Green Gables.” Itspoetic and reminds me to dream and to be honest with myself!

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  1029. Rhonda VanNess on

    I also love books so choosing a favorite is very hard. Right now I’m really enjoying “Garden Inspirations” by Charlotte Moss.

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  1030. Linda Williams on

    My favorite garden book is Tomatomania. It includes a description of various varieties to peruse, tips on growing, and recipes! Almost everyone can grow some variety of tomato and get the satisfaction of eating the fruits of your labors!

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  1031. Bethany on

    My favorite is the cut flower garden. The picture are beautiful and I find it inspiring.

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  1032. Amélie Savoie-Saumure on

    I can’t say of all time, but my favorite read this year was Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker. I love this genre, it was so well down with the parallel story of this overwhelmed and overwhelming family with the development of our comprehension of schizophrenia. Super interesting, nothing like I’ve read before.

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  1033. Charlene Hubbard on

    I really enjoy Monty Don’s the Complete Gardener.
    It has a format that appeals to me. The photography is lovely.
    Each time I go through this book it makes my soul sing.

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  1034. Teresa Smith on

    My favorite is Floret Farms Discovering Dahlias because it has opened the world of growing beautiful dahlias to me. I just recently purchased it and am already making plans for next spring!

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  1035. Rebecca Fish on

    Hi! There’s one book that has always been my favorite since I was a child. It’s called Beauty by Robin McKinley. It’s written so vividly that the characters, colors and sounds literally dance from the pages. I hope my girls someday will enjoy the book as much as I still do.

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  1036. Phoebe Grealy on

    My favourite is The Third Plate by chef Dan Barber where he travels around the world looking at all the amazing ways people are growing food and bringing back extinct varieties of wheat, flowers, heirloom vegetables and also how soil makes a huge difference to a culture’s health and community.

    Can’t wait to read all the books mentioned!
    Phoebe

    Reply
  1037. Sheri Rossi on

    One of my favorite books (it’s impossible for me to definitively say there is ONE favorite) of all time is Emma. I feel like it covers a lot of emotions and moods so is pretty good whether you’re in the mood for a laugh or a cry. For gardening, I do love your book ‘Cut Flowers’. My sister gifted it to me for my anniversary a couple years back and it has sparked and motivated a lot of my gardening projects dinner.

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  1038. Katie Lila Broadbent on

    Big Magic-Elizabeth Gilbert
    This book lights a fire in me every time I open it.
    “A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, it’s a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life. living in this manner— continually and stubbornly bringing forth the jewels that are hidden within you— is a fine art, in and of itself.
    Because creative living is where big magic will always abide.”

    Well said EG. ❤️‍🔥

    Reply
  1039. Ed Meyer on

    Your Discovering Dahlias is my first flower book and a fav. Being new to dahlias it has some amazingly inspiring photographs and all the info I can handle as I get my bearings!

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  1040. Julie Finley on

    I’m really enjoying Discovering Dahlias, Cut Flower Garden (love your info and gorgeous photos!) and Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler. I learn and absorb more every time I open these great books!

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  1041. Kim Burrall on

    My favorite book is The Bible. What a joy it is to know the Creator of all that is beautiful.

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  1042. Linda W. on

    I’d have to say that Crockett’s Victory Garden would be my all time favorite book in honor of my Dad. I remember looking through his copy every spring/summer it as it was his go to reference with all of his notes in the margins, he was an avid gardener, as well as watching the series on public TV. I was just recently just gifted a copy for my birthday this past fall to add to my tiny collection. For flowers, the only books I have are Erin’s- Cut Flower Garden and Discovering Dahlias which I plowed through over and over this year as it way my first year growing a cut flower garden and I am hooked!!! I still can’t believe that I was able to grow such beauties and even used them at my son’s wedding… can’t wait for spring!!

    Reply
  1043. Nicole on

    It’s so hard to choose one, but if I had to, I would go with Lord of the Flies. I remember reading it at a young age and found it so profound. I loved all of the symbolism.

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  1044. Jessi Mau on

    Wow, just one favorite? I guess I have to share the book that teaches me something new each time I read it–“Til We Have Faces” by C.S. Lewis. It’s the ancient myth of Psyche and Cupid masterfully re-told through the eyes of Psyche’s older sister, Orual. This was the last novel Lewis wrote, after the death of his wife, and is much darker in it’s themes as a result. It reads like poetry and completely transports me to another place. The imagery of the middle ages, the deep emotions of grief and possessive love, the transition from a silent child to kingdom queen–no other book has yet to fill me with as much wonder as this one does.

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  1045. Elizabeth Ritter on

    Anne of Green Gables, by LM Montgomery for the vivid descriptions of apple trees in bloom, Lillies of the Valley hidden in the shady bends of forest brooks, and bouquets of fall leaves.

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  1046. Kayla Mock on

    One of my favorite books is The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett ! I love it because it was one of my favorites as a child, it’s a classic, and it’s sort of the story of how nature (the Moore and the Garden itself of course) heals and nurtures the souls of the characters in the book.

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  1047. Andrea on

    My favorite book is “Angle of Repose” by Wallace Stegner. What happens when an aging grandson looks back over his life and the lives of his grandparents (a dreamer and woman who loves him.) I’ve read it twice and listened to it once and I’m not done. I’ve never been so smitten by a book in my life.

    Reply
  1048. Agnieszka "zakatekpodlasem" on

    I have no experience in growing flowers, so I do not have any books on this subject. I started my preparation from a vegetable garden, so flowers grew in it, but those with additional tasks. I do not know the items listed here, but I will gladly meet and learn something new so that my discounts will delight with their beauty in the future. Until now, I have sown such simple flowers as marigolds, sunflowers and nasturtiums. I was guided by the principles of permakutura when establishing a garden, our fields are no dig. Books to which I gladly returned are “Permaculture” by Sepp Holzer and “Permaculture Gardens. To Touch the Earth” Monika Podsiadła / Andrzej Młynarczyk. From them I learned that it is worth planting flowers in a vegetable garden, how to combine plants to enjoy biodiversity in the garden. We have an apiary in the garden and we try to sow many species so that the bees can benefit from them. The first time I made bulb lasagnes with sapphires, tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. I would love to learn something new about flowers and each book is a wonderful gift 💚

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  1049. Gail on

    My favorite book, since high school, has been A Tale of Two Cities. However, it just may have been unseated by a new read; Hamnet. A book of historical fiction, this novel is beautifully written and artfully switches between two timelines. The story revolves around the family of Shakespeare yet it never truly names him in the story. History does show that Shakespeare had a son name Hamnet who died when he was 11. The author does an amazing job of crafting a story around historical facts. Nothing better than reading a good book! Except maybe creating a magnificent garden!

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  1050. Gayla Thompson on

    The Cutting Garden: Growing & Arranging Garden Flowers by Sarah Raven

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  1051. Kathy Blakeslee on

    I”m so new to growing flowers I’m reading everything I can get my hands on. So, I find it hard to pick…. Erin, your Cut Flower Garden book I’ve dog eared so many pages so, I would say that one is my go to book. :)

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  1052. Valerie M on

    My first favorite garden book was Better Homes and Gardens Garden Book copyright 1951. This was always intriguing as a little girl as it has beautiful pictures and is ring-bound which seemed cool. I still have my mother’s copy! Not as cool today but it piqued my interest in gardening for sure.

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  1053. Kathleen (Kathy) Wagner on

    Hi Erin and your Floret crew.

    I am a novice at growing flowers, but would love to try my hand at it. I’m approaching 60 yrs old and have begun to daydream about what I’d like to do in my retirement. Gardening and growing flowers has made the top of my list, especially after seeing your episodes on Magnolia Network. You are an inspiration.

    I’m an architect by training, so many of my favorite ‘go to books’ are focused on that subject. But for pleasure I really enjoy reading biographies or autobiography! My most recent read is Michelle Obama’s “Becoming”. I so enjoy learning about other peoples lives and how they see the world and what adversities they manage to overcome in their lives. It’s inspiring to me and humbling. And gives me the courage to face my own fears in life. It also makes me feel so grateful for the things I do have…my health, my children/family, my work, and my dear friends. Thank you, Erin, for sharing your Floret stories/life with all of us. You really are a trailblazer.

    -Kathy W. (from the Boston area)

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  1054. Dana on

    Where the Red Fern Grows is still my favorite….and I still cry every time I read it.

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  1055. Trista on

    My all time favorite books are the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. I love the way she writes and how she weaves so much history so seamlessly into her books. I can get lost in them again and again and discover new details each time. I am new to the gardening world and looking forward to checking our some of these new titles as I get started! Thank you for sharing your favorites.

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  1056. Heidi Biersner on

    Too many to pick one 😅 – my most recent favorites are The Prairie in Seed by Dave Williams because it has taught me how to identify and harvest native prairie seed in my home state to help grow and preserve the prairie; and Parenting by Paul David Tripp – gospel minded parenting principles that help me see my role as a parent in a different light.

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  1057. Kathy on

    I have most of Eliot Coleman’s Books – such amazing wisdom packed into each that has made my organic gardening journey exciting and fun. So I would have to say”The New Organic Grower” has influenced me the most.

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  1058. Kat on

    Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is poetry, education about sustainable farming, inspiration of how one person can make a real difference and memoir of a remarkable person, I think about it frequently as I work in and plan my gardens.

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  1059. Caitlin E on

    Isn’t that kind of like picking a favorite kid? Ha!
    I’d have to come back to any of the Calvin and Hobbes. I know they’re actually collections of comics, but I have such good memories of laying on my stomach and reading them until my back ached, and I can open up to any page and laugh.

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  1060. Kristin Lovig on

    The book that comes to mind is “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein. I was in grade school when one of my teachers read it to our class. What fun!! Who knew poetry could be fun?!?! It inspired a life-long appreciation for poetry and a good sense of humor. I actually read a few poems the other day, while stuck in my bedroom with covid. I had a few good giggles and it certainly improved my mood!

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  1061. Lynette on

    Goodness. How do you choose a favourite book (or child)? Here are some favourites from different genres: The Complete Gardener by Monty Don, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards, Story Genius by Lisa Cron, The Looneyspoons Collection by Janet and Greta Podleski, The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen, and Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder! Enjoy!!

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  1062. Shannon Wells on

    Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. She’s a botanist, so I align with her science side because I am a soil scientist. But she’s also native so she’s brought together traditional knowledge with her scientific knowledge and I find it fascinating and beautiful and inspiring. I can only dream to see plants and life the way she does.

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  1063. Jennifer Unruh on

    I love to read..I love information, I love down time with a book. There are so many favorites, of many kinds, for me. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis are a strong favorite. Imagine Heaven by John Burke has had a tremendous impact on me. I love laughing over James Herriott. And the list goes on. When I want to learn something new, I search for books. Erin’s books have had significant impact on my first flower farming year. I am planning the second year, now. :) So thankful for the information and inspiration shared!!

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  1064. Sarah Lacko on

    Oh man, when I was little I would get lost in Beatrix Potter, Secret Garden and Anna of Green Gables! The beauty, the adventure and nourishment of gardens captivated me. A long lover of books and now, as an adult, dog eared copies litter the greenhouse and office and book shelves of our home, yet never satiates the need of finding more beauty and inspiration in someone else’s story. Cheers to good books, all of them.

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  1065. Anna on

    My favorite book this year is “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer. I highly recommend it.

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  1066. Jenni on

    My favorite book is “The Sibley Guide to Birds”. As a young teenager I sacrificed $15 (about whole month’s worth of allowance and cleaning money) from my savings for a camera to purchase a used copy of this book. As an avid birdwatcher, I spent hours poring over it and studying birds I had seen in the mountains behind our house. A few years later I got a job and was able to afford more field guides as my time in the forest gave me curiosity about the butterflies, dragonflies, and eventually flowers that I observed along the way, but that well worn copy of Sibley’s still sits in a place of honor. It has traveled to many different states with me, I’m kind of surprised that it’s not falling apart yet.

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  1067. Becky Burton on

    Plant Propogation by American Horticultural Society—it is a fully illustrated guide to propagation of nearly any plant you can think of! Truly a treasure.

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  1068. Sue Sturgis on

    My book would have to be The Potted Herb written and illustrated by Abbie Zabar. It’s an old book from the 80s that I adored from the moment I picked it up and read the dedication ‘To all those who want a little garden in their lives’. I was about 19 when I found this book, in college, and having always lived in a city had big dreams of living in the country with expansive gardens. That always seemed to be out of the equation. However, I soon adopted the philosophy that a garden can be in any size. It can even be a little pot and it was this book that opened that door. Now more than 30 years later, I still love the illustrations and the way the recipes are written. Who couldn’t fall I love with a book that ends an herb butter recipe with: ‘serve it on Sunday morning muffins along with Champagne poured over apricot purée’? I wanted to live in that world and without any space for a proper garden, it was this book encouraged me that I still had access to it by simply potting up some herbs. This book has had such an impact on me that the title is on the top of the list for possible business names.

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  1069. Selene on

    Caste…continuing my AR journey

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  1070. Hannah Grace Puchuela on

    I just started into liking to read books & One of my first book and definitely favorite is Cut flower Garden by floret. I’m so amazed by the amount of flowers i could possibly grow, they’re beautiful.

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  1071. Arlene Mcconnell on

    So hard to chose when you love books, gardening and growing like learning! We never stop growing and learning! The older we get the more we want to learn!

    Living in Maine our seasons are very limited in Spring, Summer and Fall. We spend the most time planning for those seasons…have to say that Rodale’s illustrated Encyclopedia of Perennials by Ellen Phillips & C. Colston Burrell.

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  1072. Robin on

    Strength Finder sounds Perfect for My First Year selling My Flowers!

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  1073. Melinda on

    Living Seasonally by Joe Eck and Wayne Winterrowd. A beautifully written book full of inspiration for designing, planting, cooking, etc. Really a fabulous book to read!

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  1074. Robin Fortenberry on

    My current fav is Discovering Dahlias, all the great information and pictures have been pulled in. I am desperately searching my soul for the patience to grow such beauty.

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  1075. Cassandra Gelman on

    One of the first garden books I bought was The Well-Tended Perennial Garden by Tracy DiSabato-Aust. There is so much inspiration in that book. I haven’t read it lately but the ideas remain in my mindscape.

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  1076. Olivia Diaz on

    Discovering Dahlias spurred a new love for flowers for me. I want to know all the details since I’m a newbie and it has given me a great place to start, with confidence I’m doing it right.

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  1077. Jodi Ussher on

    I recently moved from a high rise at the foot of the Sierras to a beach in Florida, trading a convenient life for one to get messy in the earth! Raised-Bed Gardening for Beginners by Tammy Wylie, my first book, opened my eyes to possibilities of growing veggies on a manageable scale. My second book was Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden because you have to feed the spirit as well as the belly!