When it comes to books about growing herbs it is difficult to surpass the three listed below.

The range of encyclopedias produced by the Royal Horticultural Society constitute the ultimate in authoritative informational books on all aspects of gardening.  The RHS Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses by Deni Brown (ISBN-10: 1405300590; ISBN-13: 978-1405300599)  is no exception to this rule.  Whether you’re looking for guidance on propagation, cultivation or harvesting you’re almost sure to find what you need here.  In addition the book describes the practical uses and history of herbs from around the world, not only referring to their beneficial properties but also including warning symbols to highlight potentially toxic or harmful herbs. Click on the book image above to purchase from Amazon.co.uk, or click here to buy from Amazon.com.

Also published in collaboration with the RHS is Jekka McVicar’s marvellous guide, Jekka’s Complete Herb Book, with its 304 pages of dependable advice (ISBN-10: 1856267415; ISBN-13: 978-1856267410).  Over 350 varieties of herbs are described and there are more than 200 recipes. This excellent reference book brings together all aspects of an individual herb with its history and folklore, species to grow and cosmetic, medicinal and culinary uses. Click on the book image above to purchase from Amazon.co.uk, or click here to buy from Amazon.com.

Finally in our selection here is Herb Garden Design by Ethne Clarke (ISBN-10: 0711220115; ISBN-13: 978-0711220119).  Don’t be fooled into thinking that this is only for the designer of large sophisticated herb gardens.  It supplies advice on the many and varied ways in which herbs can be grown in gardens of all types and sizes.  If you’re serious about growing herbs in your garden you shouldn’t miss digesting the contents of this book whether you’re setting out to start from nothing or reviving an existing plot. Click on the book image above to purchase from Amazon.co.uk, or click here to buy from Amazon.com.