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

In this panoramic survey, designer Penick (The Water-Saving Garden) sheds light on horticultural practices unique to Texas. Featuring exquisite photographs by Kenny Braun, the collection showcases 27 gardens across the state, including a desert oasis in Marfa, a sanctuary for native prairie plants in Plano, and a certified organic farm in the Rio Grande Valley. The author highlights gardeners who have persevered in a climate known for extreme heat, drought, floods, and hurricanes. For example, she explains how one Houston homeowner adapted her garden to the flood-prone region by removing paving and incorporating deep-rooted native plants to help “the garden soak up water like a sponge when it rains.” Penick also details the challenges she herself has navigated in her Central Texas garden, like sloping land, dry shade, and hungry deer. Throughout, she offers creative projects to try at home, such as planting a pocket prairie, recycling concrete paving, and growing native pollinator plants. Penick aptly captures the passionate determination of Texas gardeners, who “hit the ground running in February and March, feverishly pruning and planting and watching spring swiftly unfold,” while Braun’s photos illuminate these vibrant outdoor spaces. It’s a captivating tour of thriving Texas green spaces. Photos. (Oct.)