From spring to summer, maintaining a garden is a very hands on and time consuming project. As the weather starts to turn, the weeds are less veracious and the garden pests diminish, I usually find myself with a little more time on my hands.

I start looking for my next good read to learn something new for the next year. Some books are about gardening, and some books are about learning how to raise pasture chickens (Pastured Poultry Profit$).

The First Time Gardener – Growing Vegetables – Jessica Sowards

Jess is such an inspiration for so many with her beautiful gardens and love for sharing. In her book, she walks you through the basics of gardening like you’re visiting a friend in their own garden. The book is a great resource and full of beautiful photography to get your inspired. If that’s not enough, you can also follow along on her pursuits in video form on YouTube with her channel Roots & Refuge Farm.

Modern Homestead Garden – Gary Pilarchik

Another YouTuber, Gary Pilarchik has a wonderful depth of knowledge and a constant curiosity to try different methods to teach people to grow their own food. In his book, he covers the basics from starting seeds all the way to harvesting the crops. I love how he includes information to give ideas, no matter the size of space you have for growing. You can also check out his channel The Rusted Garden.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle  – Barbara Kingsolver

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a great read if you’re looking to find your why. Barabara Kingsolver takes you on a journey through her family’s challenge to buy and grow all their food for the year locally. It shines light on the realities of our current food system and just how detrimental that can be. I left this book feeling inspired to grow even more of our families food in my own back yard and source locally whenever possible.