My top gardening book picks:

Square Foot Gardening by Mel Bartholomew (published 1981)

What I love: This book is very informative both if you are just beginning to use the Square Foot Gardening Method (SFGM) and if you have been using it and want more tips. I prefer this older 80's version of the book because it has more information and that fits my learning style. The newer version (see below) is good if you want the basics without the added details.

Format:

Covers: This was the book I started with and it answered almost all of my gardening questions. From seed starting, amazing soil mixes for your beds (we use the one from this book), transplanting, growing seasons, and crop rotation. It even includes sections on the common garden vegetables and growing, harvesting, pests and common problems. This is my #1 Favorite Gardening Book.

I especially loved that it takes you through each step of the process of SFGM. Mel also engineered some creative (budget friendly) solutions to growing vertical crops and using the most of your garden space.

Best for: Those who want a deeper level of information on the process of Square Foot Gardening.

Author: Mel Bartholomew popularized the phrase "square foot gardening" in this book originally published in 1981. This book was also a companion to the PBS television series he stared in at this time.

All New Square Foot Gardening by Mel Bartholomew (published 2006)

The Veggie Gardener's Answer Book by Barbara W. Ellis

The words below the title say, "Solutions to Every Problem You'll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You'll Ever Ask." Obviously this book doesn't cover every question you will have, but it really does come close.

What I love: This book is simple, clearly stated and to the point. Its a small pocket sized quick-reference format and great to keep on hand as you garden.

Format: Question and Answer format answering basic and complex gardening questions.

Covers: Starting seeds, seed sowing, crop rotation, composting and organic pest control. The author lists more than 20 common garden vegetables and tips for success, planting, care through the season, and gathering the harvest.

Best for: Those who want a quick read and reference to keep on hand when issues arise.

Author: Veteran horticulturist and gardener Barbara W. Ellis

Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening

Beautiful pictures this is truly an Encyclopedia for Organic Gardening.

What I love: This book is simple, clearly stated and to the point. Its a small pocket sized quick-reference format and great to keep on hand as you garden.

Format: Four main sections which give you a great overview of starting an organic garden.

Covers: The beginning of Organic gardening, basics of soil care, watering, weed control, plant health, raising plants, lawn care, woody plants, garden flowers, container gardening, gardening for wildlife, use of greenhouses, and covers, growing fruit, herbs and vegetables.

Best for: Those who want an overview of Organic Gardening and a focus on growing fruits, herbs and vegetables (this section is well worth all the information it provides).

Author: Anna Krueger