Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State

(Hardback)

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Description

Gardening in the Lone Star State is a different challenge in every region. But through extreme heat or winter freeze, at arid deserts or humid flood-prone areas, Texas Gardens shows you how Texans-and the gardens they nurture-thrive.

With variations and growing extremes in climate per vast region, threats like fire ants, rattlesnakes, and thorn-heavy plants, cultivation and care of a lush, thriving garden in Texas is no small feat. Texas Gardens, a photograph-rich collection of explorations of Texas gardens and conversations with the brilliant gardeners behind them, readers will learn that, while such an endeavor is a considerable challenge, it is not impossible. Popular gardening blogger and author Pam Penick leads readers through 27 vibrant Texas gardens teeming with personality and holds in-depth conversations with the gardeners innovating through it all. With over 600 enchanting photographs and takeaways from every garden featured, Texas Gardens offers gardeners empowerment and inspiration.

Reviews

"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

Author Bio

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.