Give it a Grow: Simple Projects to Nurture Food, Flowers and Wildlife in any Outdoor Space

by Martha Swales

The ultimate beginner’s guide to growing veg, fruit, flowers and nurturing wildlife in your garden, patio or window sill, pre-order your copy now!

‘A true joy to read’ - Yotam Ottolenghi

In this beautiful and practical guide, Martha Swales makes it easier than ever before to start growing your own slice of nature with her collection of fool-proof projects.

You don’t need expensive tools or equipment, Martha’s approach is all about getting outside, trying something new and watching the magic of nature take its course. With chapters on veg, fruit, herbs, flowers and wildlife, there are over 40 of Martha’s favourite projects to make the most of your garden, patio or balcony (plus bonus recipes for how to cook with your produce!)

Grow garlic greens on your windowsill (and use them to make tasty garlic flatbreads)Create a tower of tumbling strawberriesBuild a pond to bring wildlife to your gardenMake a bulb lasagne for a changing display of flowers throughout springComplete with beautiful illustrations, this is the perfect book for anyone who wants to get more out of their outside space, to enjoy the taste of their own produce, or to simply feel more connected to nature – why don’t you give it a grow?

‘Everything this book is celebrating just makes life better - for you and the world around you’ - Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall

Genres: Gardening, Nonfiction, Nature, Plants

320 pages, Hardcover

Published August 26, 2025

Reviews

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely book. As someone with a new garden and no idea what I’m doing this has given me some great advice. The illustrations throughout are lovely and there is the odd recipe thrown in too. I immediately want to plant EVERYTHING

[Mariella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book over 2 days. It is filled with such awesome little projects to experiment with growing and thankfully it's written without assumption of any prior gardening knowledge. It ultimately an encouraging, bright read about building confidence and wonder to whatever outdoor space you have... whether it's a balcony, a windowsill or a tired tiny London lawn. I can't wait to get started even though it's winter :)

[Jeanine]

As someone who has killed many plants, this book has me feeling confident that I could plant a garden and some plants would survive

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic little reference book which I will refer to constantly. As someone who is now in my second year of vegetable growing I found it particularly useful and packed with lots of lovely tips and tricks. I particularly enjoyed the projects and recipes, which I will definitely be making. I devoured this book over two days and I do hope Martha writes another one I will be on it immediately.

[Sara Bainbridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and will find it so useful for all the gardening 'recipes'! I can imagine coming back to it every year to try something new. Martha writes in such a friendly and helpful way. I also think more than one person will find this useful as a gift if they're just getting started with gardening!

[Minh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having followed Mar on Instagram it was a pleasure to dive into her book and thought process, a lovely starter book for an aspiring gardener and a reminder to just get out there and grow something (anything!).

[Arabella Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written book. Can't wait to start my own growing projects in my London garden. The projects look easy to follow and perfect for beginnners.

[Emma Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book, would have preferred a colour version with photos too.

[Jaime · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gardening suddenly seems a lot less daunting! 😊

[Anna Leckey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, easy read and lots of lovely projects!

[Kitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It’s not so much of a gardening “how to” (even though it is) as a gardeners journey with tips along the way. Give it a read!

[Leonie Faulkner · Rating 4 out of 5]

listened to audiobook and it was really inspiring