Books Based on YouTube Videos

(by Judy Hudgins)

Since we aren't in the garden all the time, one way to gain a bit of gardening expertise, learn something new, or just inspire us to get into the garden, YouTube videos are an excellent source. And because some 'Tubers' have gained enough popularity and have the expertise, there are books written by them which are worth reading.

Please note:

While I do mention a couple of British and Welsh gardeners, I have found their information to work well in our part of the world also. Don't shy away from reading and watching gardening in other parts of the country or the world. There is still valuable tips and suggestions we can use in our own gardens.

The first author and YouTuber is Charles Dowding, the father of no-dig gardening! 

These are books which both beginning and experienced gardeners. As I am wanting to turn my garden into a no-dig garden, both of these are giving me a lot of tips and techniques. Dowding combines both no-dig so you don't disturb the soil biology and intensive planting to help keep down weeds. Eventually, the goal is less work and more productivity for the gardener. 

While Gaston County Library doesn't currently have any print copies of the books, their link on the Libby app does seem to have several e-books. 

A second U.K. gardener who has been filming videos for years, is from Wales, Huw Richards (and he's not bad to look at either!)

For those of us who like to garden as frugally as possible and/or don't have hundreds or thousands of dollars to put into our gardens, this book is a great read. Loads of ideas on how to garden in a low or zero-cost way, including bartering or trading to get what is needed. 

I am excited to learn he has a new book coming out in May, 2024, on becoming a self-sufficient food gardener. 

Since I am wanting to become a year-round vegetable gardener and to become more self-sufficient with my garden, I am looking forward to reading this book. (I have it on pre-order...lol)

Growing Food for Free is available at the Gaston County Library. That book, and a couple of others are also available on Libby. 

On our side of the ocean, is a fellow Zone 7 gardener (I think he is still zone 7 even though we have moved to Zone 8a). Gary Pilarchik of The Rusted Garden has videos on everything from starting seeds to growing in containers and in-ground. They are filled with loads of suggestions for low-cost methods for maximum harvest. 

His first book is a great book for beginners. It is also a good reference book for more experienced gardeners. 

His newest book I am currently reading. I loved the book blurb "out with the lawn and in with the food" which is my goal for my own yard. Well, food and flowers.

The first book is available at the Gaston County Library and both are available on Libby as e-books. 

Not all the gardeners I follow are male. One really great YouTuber, who not only covers gardening and homestead, but also cooking and preserving, is Jessica Sowards of Roots and Refuge. 

The first book is a great beginner gardening book and a great reference for more experienced gardeners. It is available in book form at the library and on Libby. 

The homesteading book covers everything from gardening to keeping chickens, bees and cows. 

Both books, as of the posting of this story, is available on Kindle Unlimited to read for free. 

For now, this covers most of the nonfiction books I bought and/or have mentioned in the past. On a rainy day, grab a drink and read or watch some gardening!