If sheltering in place has got you wanting to curl up with a good book and escape our current reality, we’re with you! In fact, the coronavirus pandemic has made e-Readers a hot commodity in recent weeks. Whether you’re interested in gardening, sustainability, or cooking on a plant-based diet, we’ve compiled a stellar list of the best books about plants. Just because your outdoor time may be limited, doesn’t mean you can’t embrace nature through the pages of a book.
The Central Park: Original Designs for New York’s Greatest Treasure by Cynthia S. Brenwall
Central Park is known as one of the world’s greatest urban treasures. With 840 acres of greenery, ponds, and even some wildlife, this city-centered oasis is truly a sight to see and marvel at. In her recent book, The Central Park: Original Designs for New York’s Greatest Treasure, Cynthia S. Brenwall chronicles the original designs for the park, presenting readers with incredibly intricate and colorful renderings that transplant you back in time. From detailed marble archways to elegant water features, this historical collection makes for the perfect coffee table book for the architecturally inclined or the horticulturist of your household. Above all, this beautiful book communicates the importance of maintaining natural spaces in urban environments.
Trees and Gardens of Balboa Park by Paul Sirois and Kathy Puplava
On the other side of the country, San Diego’s largest urban park has also received accolades since 1892 when philanthropist Kate Sessions began her mission to beautify what was formerly known as “City Park.” Rich with history and nods to Spanish architecture, this 1,200-acre sanctuary is also home to the famous San Diego Zoo, several museums, and picnic places galore.
But the real star of the show is the park’s abundant plant life. From cactus gardens to Japanese-inspired landscapes, canyons filled with palms, and a larger-than-life botanical house, Balboa Park is a must-see when visiting San Diego.
To really breathe in all that Balboa Park has to offer, pick up this guide to the Trees and Gardens of Balboa Park by local experts Paul Sirois and Kathy Puplava. The spiral-bound, travel-friendly book includes historical facts and helpful tips to identify rare, unique, and recognizable plant species throughout this picturesque city backdrop.
The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony
If you’ve got kids at home that are interested in plants or could use a lesson, The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony offers an uplifting and kid-friendly take on seeds, cycles, and the human experience. The story follows a single seed of a dandelion that’s afraid to leave their pack of fellow seeds but finds independence and adventure when they finally allow the wind to take them away.
Kiss the Ground by Josh Tickell
Curious about how your dinner plate came to be? Or how it impacted the environment in order to find your fork? Kiss the Ground tells all. By honing in on the important role of soil, Tickell reveals how readers can lead the charge in dealing with climate change, right from their very own gardens and kitchens.
We Made a Garden by Margery Fish
Feeling inspired to start a home garden? Let author Margery Fish be your green-thumbed guide. In her 160-page book, Fish illustrates how she and her husband grew their English country garden. Beginning as an uninspiring pile of rubble, the two fused their passion and know-how to eventually create a flourishing and flowery yard.
The Vegan Cannabis Cookbook by Eva Hammond
If you’re interested in eating and consuming plant-based treats, The Vegan Cannabis Cookbook is the perfect read for you. Whether you want to create vegan CBD gummies and brownies, or learn how cannabutter is made, this beginner’s guide to vegan-friendly cannabis cooking has all you need to get started.
A Woman’s Guide to Cannabis by Nikki Furrer
And for the ladies interested in how cannabis can make you feel better, look better, and sleep better, Nikki Furrer’s A Woman’s Guide to Cannabis is the un-intimidating and informative guide you need. From navigating the dispensary to finding the right dosage for stress-relief, Furrer’s wisdom goes a long way for new and seasoned cannabis users alike.
