At a Glance
- Monty Don’s book covers all aspects of gardening with an organic focus.
- Jessica Sowards’ guide is ideal for beginners and comes in an affordable paperback.
- Erin Benzakein’s book focuses on cut flowers with inspiring photographs.
- Why it matters: Readers can choose the right guide based on skill level and interests.
Gardening enthusiasts can now pick from a curated list of 2026’s top books, each praised for its unique focus and practical advice.
Monty Don’s Complete Gardener
Monty Don offers a practical, imaginative guide that walks readers through every gardening aspect, highlighting recent changes in his own practices.
The book includes seasonal photographs and an emphasis on organic methods and wildlife-friendly spaces.
Some reviewers noted the photos could be higher quality.
Jessica Sowards for First-Time Gardeners
Jessica Sowards delivers a beginner-friendly paperback that covers vegetable basics, seasonal planning, and organic techniques.
The book features illustrations and is priced accessibly, though some bindings fall apart over time.
Erin Benzakein’s Cut Flower Garden
Erin Benzakein presents a floral-focused guide with step-by-step instructions and beautiful photos of her own arrangements.
It’s great for those wanting to grow, harvest, and arrange flowers, though a few reviews feel it lacks depth.

| Book | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Monty Don’s Complete Gardener | Seasonal photos, organic focus, wildlife spaces | Photo quality |
| Jessica Sowards First-Time Gardener | Affordable, illustrations, beginner focus | Binding issues |
| Erin Benzakein Cut Flower Garden | Step-by-step, inspiring photos, hardcover | Not very instructional |
The table summarizes each book’s strengths and weaknesses, helping readers decide which guide aligns with their gardening goals.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Monty Don’s book for a comprehensive, organic approach.
- Jessica Sowards’ guide is budget-friendly and ideal for novices.
- Erin Benzakein’s book excels in floral design but may feel shallow.
With these options, gardeners of all levels can find a book that fits their style and expertise.

