Gardens of Texas - by Pam Penick (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A gardening expert shows how Texans--and the gardens they nurture--thrive, despite the challenging climate, all while showcasing the gardens with stunning photography.

Gardens of Texas is a photo-rich exploration of gardens across this vast state, including conversations with the intrepid garden-makers who nurture them. Readers will learn how Texans are adapting to climate extremes through hardy plant choices, rainwater harvesting, native lawns, and other responsive design strategies. Popular gardening blogger and author Pam Penick takes readers on a tour of 27 vibrant Texas gardens and shares the owners' innovative thinking and true-grit determination. With over 600 enchanting photographs plus plant recommendations and practical takeaways from every garden, Gardens of Texas offers gardeners empowerment and inspiration.

Review Quotes

"A captivating tour of thriving Texas green spaces." --Publishers Weekly

"Gardens of Texas highlights the range of the Lone Star State's garden landscapes...Penick brings 27 uniquely Texas gardens to life through in-depth conversations with their makers, informing readers how these landscapes adapt to heat, drought, cold snaps, and the changing climate." --Austin Home

"This gorgeous book shows that by embracing sustainable landscape design concepts, Texas gardeners can create beautiful, uniquely Texan spaces that are as good for our soul as they are for our environment."--Jay White, Publisher of Texas Gardener

"Gardens of Texas isn't just a collection of pretty pictures; it's a thoughtful exploration of nature's artistry. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or new to the wonders of Texas landscapes, this book provides an accurate, engaging, and inspiring look at a world where nature and design meet in perfect harmony. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art and science of gardening, offering both a deep dive into native plant life and a window into the soul of Texas."
--Nick McCullough, horticulturist, designer, and author of American Roots

"A must-have book about the beauty of nature and how to live in harmony with our environment."
--John Dromgoole, Founder of The Natural Gardener and Texas organic gardening expert

"Compelling storytelling, gorgeous photos, great gardens, and super-practical design tips show the way for anyone interested in creating their own home landscape that meets the challenges of climate change while making space for beauty and joy."
--Leslie Bennett, Founder of Pine House Edible Gardens and co-author of Garden Wonderland and The Beautiful Edible Garden

"Every page enriches our connection to garden love."
--Linda Lehmusvirta, Producer of Central Texas Gardener, Austin PBS

"From the great big state of Texas comes a great big-hearted garden book for our times. Gardens of Texas will leave any gardener, new or experienced, in an enchanted, inspired Lone Star garden state of mind."
--Jennifer Jewell, creator of Cultivating Place and author of Under Western Skies, The Earth in Her Hands, and What We Sow

"Gardening in Texas is not for the faint of heart. Penick introduces us to gardeners who, with a little Texas grit and gumption, are working with--not against or in spite of--their environment to create beautiful, resilient gardens that conserve water and support wildlife."

--Lee Clippard, Executive Director of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

About the Author

Pam Penick has been thinking and writing about Texas gardens--as well as gardens, parks, and natural places around the world--for nearly two decades at her award-winning website, Digging. As a garden designer during a multi-year drought, she helped Texas homeowners transform their yards into waterwise, wildlife-friendly gardens. She's the author of Lawn Gone! Low-Maintenance, Sustainable, Attractive Alternatives for Your Yard (2013) and The Water-Saving Garden: How to Grow a Gorgeous Garden with a Lot Less Water (2016), and her work has appeared in numerous publications including Better Homes & Gardens, Fine Gardening, and The American Gardener. As the founder and host of Garden Spark, a speaker series about garden design and ecology, she fosters conversations and learning in the Austin gardening community. For more information, visit penick.net.