With winter maintaining its icy grip on our landscape, I thought it due time to highlight the books the Horticulture Department is reading. In honor of 2026 being the Year of the Arboretum here at Blithewold (it’s been 100 years since we were officially declared an arboretum), I asked my co-workers what their favorite tree-related books are. Here are their answers:

From the Gardens department –

Becca Christ recommends The Living Forest by Joan Maloof and photography by Robert Llewellyn. Becca says, “This book engages the reader with photography concerning all aspects of a forest from the detailed lichen to the various mammals and amphibians that make up the ecosystem. While visually stunning, the writing reminds the reader that trees are one part of a greater functioning ecosystem that supports countless individuals. I appreciate this book for the immersion into details of a forest and enjoying its beauty.”

Caitlin Ndoye recommends Wise Trees by Diane Cook and Len Jenshel. Caitlin says, “I will always be fascinated by the stories plants tell.  Whether it’s their specific pollinator relationships, their native habitats, distances traveled, or the lives they have led.  It helps me remember and appreciate them in ways I may not otherwise.  This book nourishes that curiosity. It is a stunning compilation of large, detailed photographs featuring around 50 different trees from all over the world, and their accompanying stories. The featured trees were selected for their great cultural and spiritual significance, which the photos so beautifully illustrate.  It serves as an enlightening reminder of the sacredness certain trees hold and their ancient and storied lives.”

As for myself, I recommend The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben. If you’ve ever wondered how trees interact with one another and their environment, this book is for you. Wohlleben opened my eyes to just how responsive trees are to the numerous factors that impact their lives. Their relationships to each other (both positive and negative) are simply amazing. From friendships to animosities, trees live vibrant and dynamic lives that I had barely understood before reading this book. If you have felt the power of the spirit of a tree when visiting it, I know you will love this book as much as I do.

From the Grounds department –

Erin Magee recommends Dwarf Conifers: A Complete Guide by H.J. Welch. Erin chose this book as she was inspired by the quantity of the conifers in our collection. She says, “I wanted to learn more about species and varieties.” An excellent choice for this purpose! From my own previous life working in plant nurseries, I know just how interested home owners are in conifers that will not overwhelm their landscape. This thoughtful selection will guide the reader to the right conifer for their home garden.

Dan Daley is highlighting a wonderful choice for children with The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. This classic tale tells of the relationship between a boy and tree as the boy grows up. It is a powerful illustration of all we take from nature without thought of giving back. Trees offer us joy, food, shelter and we take, take, take until there is nothing left. A beautiful reminder for children and adults to value and honor nature. May it inspire deep respect for trees in all of our hearts.

Dennis Taylor selected The Language of Trees: A Rewilding of Literature and Landscape by Katie Holten. He appreciates that this is not a tree book written by an arborist. In fact, it is a collection of stories about trees. If you enjoy reading literature, this is the tree book for you.

Dan Christina, Director of Horticulture, selected Feed Us with Trees by Elspeth Hay. Dan writes, “I was gifted this book for Christmas as having been a fan of Elspeth’s articles in the Provincetown Banner, and I was quickly absorbed by the thoughts, tone and message she wove throughout the book.  Winding through food security, land ownership, natural ecosystems, and the variety of uneaten food in the natural landscape, she makes a case for everyone to have some interest in the edible elements of trees and convinces (me at least) that it could be easy!”

What are you reading as