Since I live in a semi-alpine climate (Colorado's Rocky Mountains/plains interface), this book was useful for me in helping to identify certain plants that might grow well in my home garden. Some of them I knew about (columbine - our state flower) but many were new to me. I do wish there was more information about the water requirements/drought tolerability of the plants, as it's quite arid where I live.

I have read, and loved, several of the Kew Gardener’s Guides and this one on growing alpines is no exception. With gorgeous photos and illustrations, helpful how-tos and easy-to-follow information on popular alpines, this is a great book to have on hand when learning about alpines and their care!

I wasn’t exactly clear on what defined a plant as an alpine and was surprised to find our garden is home to many – seems I am rather fond of them! “A true alpine is defined as a plant growing above the treeline in the wild; this can be at high altitude, and also high latitude.” It was also reassuring to read the few that haven’t succeeded are not able to tolerate the harsh frosts we have.

If you are looking for a wonderful book, with beautiful illustrations and wisdom, I highly recommend this one, it’s five out of five on the enJOYment scale.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Quarto Publishing Group – White Lion through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Setting up a kitchen garden or a terrace garden in urban areas is considered the first step towards living a sustainable lifestyle. However, as you delve deeper into the world of growing your own crops or establishing your green landscape, you often come across a species of plants named alpine, mainly on random seed packets, and you wish to explore them further on your next 'alpine' trip. Kew Gardener's Guide to Growing Alpines’ by Matthew Jeffery elevates your dreamy landscape architecture to the next level by assisting you with a wide variety of alpines.
With photographs and illustrations of every plant species, this book initially resembles a botanical textbook. Yet, if you have ever tried your hand at gardening or struggled to germinate plant seeds, you will develop valuable insights for your gardening journey. Alpine plants differ in every aspect, from their growth patterns to their lifespan and how weather conditions determine their existence. These unique characteristics distinguish them from conventional gardening practices. Understanding how plants survive in extreme conditions, thrive, and what we can do to enhance their survival is the core focus of this book. Various techniques and methods for growing alpines and other mountain plants under different weather conditions are explored, offering new insights that can enrich your gardening experiences. The book's goal of explaining 'The Art and Science of Growing with Confidence' is aptly set and achieved. It ensures that with its help, you can successfully cultivate challenging alpine plants in your home garden.
Another way to utilize this book is as an encyclopedia to carry with you on hikes to high-altitude mountains. On these hikes, where trees are rare, alpines often captivate your curiosity. This book serves as a valuable resource when literature or internet connectivity is scarce, enhancing your quality time with nature. Adding some historical and background information about these plants would be a great enhancement to the book. The editing and design team's work is outstanding, clearly reflecting their dedication and aesthetic awareness.
For anyone looking to advance beyond beginner gardening or enhance their landscape architecture library, 'Kew Gardener's Guide to Growing Alpines by Matthew Jeffery' would be a valuable addition. I would rate this book four out of five stars.

If you’ve seen any of the Kew Gardener’s Guides, you will be familiar with the format of this book about Alpine gardening and plants. I find the Kew guide book series to be adorable and comforting.

Having all the information at your fingertips when you are starting a rock garden or attempting to grow alpines is not only handy but essential to success.

This book empowers and educates you, my favorite kind of book!

Oh what a stunning book for gardeners who want to grow alpine plants! That cover, the photos, the beautiful design, and incredibly helpful tips make this a must-have for anyone with or without a green thumb. I'm buying this for myself and friends and family!

Alpines are wonderful plants. This book is a love letter to their beauty with each page dedicated to facts about them, tips as to how to grow them, where they grow, and great step by step photos, illustrations and information.